Get to Know Your Roof Warranty

, , ,

gallery-copper-roofUnderstanding your roof warranty is an important part of getting the best value and peace of mind for your roof investment. Take the time before the project begins to understand your warranty so you will be able to relax and enjoy your new roof knowing you made a good decision with your purchase.

What is a Roof Warranty?

A roof warranty covers the materials and work done on your roofing project. It isn’t insurance, so it won’t cover, for example, storm damage, but it should make sure that your investment in your new roof means a roof that looks and functions like the sales material promised, and that your roof installation was done correctly.

Different Warranties Depending on Type of Roofing Project

When you have roof work done, the roof warranty on your project will vary depending on the type, size and scope of the project and on which manufacturer provides your roofing materials. In general, a full new roof or a reroof will have a longer warranty for materials and workmanship than a limited repair job that does not replace your entire roof.

Whatever the project, before you settle on a final plan, your roofing contractor should explain your warranty to you so that you understand your protection and have a chance to ask questions.

Here are things you should know about roof warranties:

Roofing Materials: Roofing materials carry a warranty from the manufacturer. These warranties will vary by manufacturer, and generally by type of roofing material. Roofing materials warranties, in general, last from 10-30 years, depending on the type of materials. You will get a copy of this warranty with your roofing contract. The roofing manufacturer may also have more information on their website, such as contact information, forms for a claim and so on. You may also be able to purchase full system warranty coverage that includes most or all of your roof components, or buy “lifetime” coverage for extended protection.

Roof Installation: The contractor should follow the manufacturer’s installation specifications exactly so the product will perform as it was designed. The contractor warranty for a new roof or a replacement roof warranties that the work was carried out properly and without defects.

Because our work is top quality, Prestige is able to offer an exceptional warranty on our work to our residential roof installation clients. Generally, on a full new residential roof, our workmanship will usually be warrantied for a period of 5-10 years, depending on the project. (This warranty period may not apply to partial replacements or roof repairs)

Roof Repairs: Roof repairs can involve everything from replacing a few tiles to repairing a major section of your existing roof. Since the scope of work can vary widely, there’s no one warranty that will apply. It will depend on the individual project. Small projects may have no or a 1 year warranty. Most major repair work, however, would probably be warrantied for a longer period, perhaps 2-5 years. Very small projects, like replacing a few missing or broken tiles, may not carry a warranty.

Commercial Roofs: Commercial roofing projects can span many types, from flat roofing, using materials like PVC, TPO or KEE single ply roofing membranes, to tile, metal or other materials. The manufacturer’s warranty will apply to cover the roof materials. Commercial roof installation warranties generally start around 1-2 years, but as with all roofing installations, the warranty will vary depending on the type of roof.

Common Questions People Have about their Roof Warranty

Warranties can differ widely. You will likely have two warranties, one with your manufacturer and one with your roof installer. It’s good to know the major points of each and ask questions for any special situation you may be facing.

Below are answers to some typical questions we get from our customers.

Will the warranty cover every problem?

Warranties generally cover defects in the materials that cause them to malfunction or to age prematurely. The manufacturer may not cover roofing materials that are damaged, for example, by a tree falling on them. Be sure to understand what the warranty covers and doesn’t cover. Always carry the appropriate level of homeowner’s insurance to protect against the costs of accidental damage.

Are there any reasons my warranty would not be valid?

Roofing materials that were installed incorrectly may not be covered. Protect yourself by choosing a qualified, licensed roofer. A professional roofer always follows the installation requirements of the manufacturer to assure that your roof will perform as designed and your warranty will not be voided by shoddy workmanship. If you live in an area subject to extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, be sure you understand any carve-outs or exceptions the manufacturer may have in their warranty coverage.

Is the contractor warranty the same as the manufacturer warranty?

No, the manufacturer’s warranty will be responsible for defective roofing materials that fail during the warranty period, usually due to design or manufacturing flaws. Your contractor warranties that his work is sound and that the roof was installed correctly. During the warranty period, if your roof does not perform as it should (for example, it develops a leak without any apparent external cause of damage), your contractor should repair your roof under the warranty. If he finds the roof materials at fault, the manufacturer would provide replacement materials at no cost. Call your contractor first for any problems so he can help determine the best resolution for any problems.

What if I sell my home?

Most warranties are transferable to a new owner. Be sure to check with your warranty company for any paperwork requirements. There may be a limit on the number of times a warranty can be transferred.

/by

Take Action in Case of Hurricane Roof Damage

, , ,

A home showing roof damage from a fallen tree after a hurricane

Packed with extraordinary weather events, 2017 was a rough year, especially for homeowners in Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico, where three major hurricanes caused extensive damage to homes and properties. While a lot of the damage was done by flood waters, many homeowners are facing roof repairs as well.. Increasingly severe hurricanes, tornadoes, rain and hail storms like we’ve seen in the last few years can amount to a lot of roof damage, putting a strain on homeowners and service providers, from insurance carriers to roofing contractors, and leaving panicked homeowners wondering what to do.

Homeowners facing mainly roof repairs can take some comfort knowing things could have been worse. Many people lost their entire home in devastating flooding that accompanied the storms. But moderate to severe roof damage alone can keep you out of your home and be very costly, even more so if handled incorrectly. If you’re a property owner dealing with roof damage in the aftermath of a hurricane, severe tropical storm or similar event, it’s important to know what to do and how to prioritize to protect your property from further harm.

Handle Immediate Roof Concerns

Damaged home with tarp-covered roof after tornadoes hit

Returning to your home after a hurricane can be worrisome until you can get a good look and see the extent of the damage. Even if your roof looks good, if you can get up close, take a full walk around the house. Real damage will be obvious, but if there is even debris on the roof, you should plan to have a roofer do a full inspection in case there is hidden or minor damage that can lead to big problems later if not dealt with right away. Whatever the damage, be prepared to take control of the situation quickly to begin the process of recovery and repair. If your roof has suffered severe damage, but the home itself is relatively intact, you’ll want to find a professional roofer to stabilize the situation and schedule repairs.

Call your regular roofer first to see if they can prioritize you. They can do a quick inspection and help you come up with a plan. If you find you can’t get a roofer out right away, use a local tree service, construction or handyman service for handling the most urgent issues, like tree removal or adding a tarp. Be sure to check them out before hiring them. Removing these biggest hazards might tide you over while you wait for a roof repair appointment.

Meanwhile, take photos of your roof for insurance purposes, then tarp the damaged areas until repairs can begin. Firmly secure tarps up and over the ridges of your roof to prevent more water from entering your home. You can pay a roofing company to tarp your house and usually recoup the expense from your insurance company. Sometimes you can apply for tarp installation assistance from the Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA under its Operation Blue Roof program, which is free of charge to qualifying homeowners.

Builder And Client Inspecting Roof Damage Together

Moving quickly after a storm may help you to book a local roofer. However, if it turns out there’s a long waiting list with local roofing contractors, which happens quickly after storms, don’t be tempted to hire out-of-town “storm chasers” who might perform shoddy work or take your money and never complete the repairs. If your roof isn’t leaking or has only minimal damage, schedule your roofer farther out or wait a few weeks to book one. This allows demand, and prices, to go down and scammers to leave the area.

Tips on Filing Post-Hurricane Insurance Claims

It’s your responsibility to immediately file an insurance claim for roof damage. Dealing with your insurance company can be a real headache. Not only are their staff overwhelmed with work, the companies are already taking huge losses following a hurricane and probably trying to pay out as little as possible on claims. Especially if recovery from the storm is going to be a large project with multiple policies affected in your area, you may need help to get the attention and solution you need. In this situation, you can hire a public insurance adjuster to help you negotiate your claim. Remember, adjusters from your insurance company represent the company’s interests, not yours. A public adjuster is there to represent you and help level the playing field. They know what kind of documentation is required, understand what your insurance policy covers, and argues for a fair settlement that’s typically higher than what you’d receive on your own.

If you don’t have enough insurance, the right kind of insurance, or you have no insurance at all on your property, FEMA may be the best place to look for help.

Choosing a Hurricane Repair Roofing Contractor

When you’re ready to start repairs, it’s important to make sure you will have a sound roof that’s properly installed by trained and experienced professional roofers. This is especially important if you live in a storm-prone area, as a poorly installed roof is more easily damaged by high winds that sweep under loose or incorrectly installed tiles, or by leaks that form in improperly sloped or poorly drained areas where the water then pools and damages the roof, sometimes through many layers, resulting in water stains, mold, termites and other problems.

picture of the roof of a house

Shopping local for a professional roofer is essential, especially during the chaos of a post-storm recovery since many would-be roofers start to show up from out of town. A good place to start is a roofer you know and trust, or ask friends, neighbors or local businesses you trust. As you do your own search, review the roofer’s website. Check for history, licensing information and things like their gallery of work, testimonials, online reviews or news articles. Even if you’re in a hurry, always get a written quote and have the roofer explain the work to you in detail. Before signing any contract, read it carefully and ask important questions like: Are you licensed, bonded and insured? Can you give me references? How long have you been in business? What is your business’ physical address?

Never hire someone who knocks on your door offering to fix your roof. This is probably a scam artist or inexperienced roofer, since legitimate roofing contractors are going to be way too busy to solicit new business in this manner. You can also call FEMA at 800-621-3362 for a list of legitimate, pre-screened roofing contractors in your area.

Avoiding Scam Artists after the Storm

man knocking on a door scam artist

It’s unfortunate, but major disasters bring out con artists preying on vulnerable victims. Hurricanes are no different. Scammers flood areas with widespread damage peddling construction and insurance scams. Unqualified people or outright scam artists may pose as construction contractors, public insurance adjusters, insurance agents, emergency management or disaster relief personnel and more.

Protect yourself by always asking for credentials/photo identification, even if they’re wearing a shirt with a company or government logo. Roofing contractors and public insurance adjusters should be able to supply their license number, which is verifiable through state offices. Never give anyone cash upfront for any type of construction or insurance services or buy insurance after a disaster from someone claiming it covers pre-existing damages. If you suspect fraudulent activity report it to the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721.

About Prestige Roofing in Las Vegas

While there aren’t hurricanes in Las Vegas, the area is sometimes pounded by high desert winds, monsoon rains and even lightning strikes that can cause roof damage. Prestige Roofing can help keep your roof in good shape to better handle bad weather, and we can repair your roof in case of damage from wind and storms. We also build quality new roofs with material like tile, copper, CeDUR, shingle, flat or other roofing materials for your roof replacement or new roof project. Contact us for a free in-home or office estimate for any of your home or business roofing needs.

/by

Should I Clean My Roof?

, , , ,

Learn how to clean your roof properly with tips by professional roofing contractors.

Read more
/by

Only Hire a Professional Residential Roofer – Here’s Why

,

Need Roof Repair or a New Roof? Hire a Professional Roofer

Roofers on curved roof

The roof of your house protects what may be your biggest investment – your home. Not only do you take pride in your property, your roof protects your family, your pets, your belongings, even your favorite car. The good thing is, most roofs do their work quietly and without incident for years, even decades. But, even the toughest of roofs will eventually need some TLC.

How long does a roof last?

How long your roof lasts is partly related to what kind of roof you have. But the most important factor is the quality of the roofing installation. The best and most durable roofing materials in the world will still fail if installed incorrectly. Roof work done by untrained roofers may cause more damage than it repairs, and can be a very expensive lesson for consumers to learn.

roofing maintenance leaves in roof gutter

Installed and maintained correctly, roofs typically last from 20-80 years.  Here are some general guidelines:

  • Slate 75-100 years
  • Copper and Metal 50-100 years
  • Tile  50-70 years
  • Wood shakes 30-50 years
  • Asphalt tiles – 20-30 years
  • Flat roofing -20-30 years

But, remember, no matter how sturdy the roof material you choose may be, your roof will only be as good as your roof installation. Mistakes like miscalculating the proper slope of the roof that controls the effect of rain runoff, for example, can lead to costly repairs. Unqualified roofers may not secure flashing correctly, or not nail the roof components in the proper places, allowing tiles to loosen or fall off in wind. They may fail to provide correct ventilation, leading to moisture retention under the roof that weakens your roof over time and can damage your home. Misaligning tiles or incorrect shingle overhang are common mistake of do-it-yourself-ers and amateur roofers and allow the roof to fail in wind, rain, ice or snow events. Basically, proper roof installation is a meticulous process that must be done correctly from start to finish so  that your roof is able to carry out its main job – protect your home from damage – for a very long time.

Only a trained, professional roofer can provide the skill and quality processes that are needed to do this job correctly. It’s a small investment up front to save you potentially many thousands of dollars of damage and repairs down the road.

Here are some of the advantages of choosing only a professional roofer:

Professional Residential Roofers Provide Quality Workmanship and Materials

US2106xxxmbBrady-6482

Quality roofing requires the right materials, parts and tools to do the job right. Prestige Roofing has been providing residential roofing services in the Las Vegas area for more than two decades. We’ve developed a network of relationships with quality materials and parts suppliers and manufacturers. They provide us with the best roofing materials like sparkling copper panels, CeDur shakes and tiles in a broad range of materials, styles and colors, including reclaimed, naturally-aged and refurbished European ceramic tiles.

Ask About Roofing Company Insurance

Although an injury, error or accident is less likely to occur when a professional residential roofer is performing an inspection and/or repairs, a professional roofer maintains insurance coverage to protect themselves, their employees, and you and your home and property. A good residential roofer carries adequate insurance coverage so that any claims that do happen will be resolved fairly, quickly and professionally. Always ask your roofer for proof of insurance to avoid what can become a costly mistake if something does go wrong.

Pro Roofers Have Safety Training and Proper Equipment

Professional roofing companies invest in worker safety training, such as OSHA safety classes, and provide proper safety equipment to all workers to protect them from slips, falls or other accidents. When workers are aware of proper safety techniques, such as positioning and attaching themselves correctly to your roof and trained in proper tool use, the possibility of accidental damage and injury is greatly reduced. Even if you have homeowner’s insurance, avoid unnecessary worker injuries on your property by hiring professional roofers who have received safety training.

Ask for Tile Roofing Institute (TRI) Certified Installers

Tile Roofing Institute TRI Certified Installer logo

Tile roofing is the standard in Southern Nevada. It stands up well to the hot summer sun of the Southwest. Correctly installed, it will last many decades. Prestige Roofing’s commercial and residential tile roofers are certified by the Tile Roofing Institute (TRI). They have met the requirements set forth by TRI so that we know that every tile roof installation or repair we do is done correctly and to the highest standards.

Don’t Skip Regular Roof Inspection and Minor Repairs

Your professional residential roofer can provide regular inspections or perform minor repairs, such as after heavy rains, snow or wind, that can save you thousands of dollars. He is trained to look for minor issues such as loose or broken tiles, clogged rain gutters, loose flashing or other issues that, left unattended, can allow moisture, mold and rot that can cause expensive damage over time. Trust a professional roofer to care for your roof and you will be able to extend its life and save money in the long term.

Avoid Fly-by-Night Roofers after Weather Events

Sometimes, particularly after a big local weather event, amateur residential roofers flock to the area offering homeowners cheap roof repairs. While these offers may sound good, keep in mind that scammers abound and inexperienced roofing contractors from outside the area may not provide quality materials and professional work. Fly-by-night residential roofers are less likely to offer you a warranty, and may not be licensed or have adequate insurance coverage. Select a roofer who has a good track record in your community. These roofers will stand behind their work and do the job right.

Hire only Professional Residential Roofers to Care for Your Roof

Prestige Roofing new building on Bunkerhill in North Las Vegas

Besides providing you with peace of mind, replacing your home’s old roof can substantially increase its value. If you plan to put your home on the market, you may want to consider hiring a professional residential roofer to replace your aging roof. Even if you are staying put, enjoy the beauty and security of a new roof, or keep your current roof in good condition with regular care by a professional residential roofer. Give Prestige Roofing in Las Vegas a call if you have any questions about your roof or for a free inspection and estimate for your roofing project.

/by

How to Recognize Quality Roof Construction in Las Vegas

, ,

copper roof on upscale las vegas suburban homeWhile roofs are designed to last for a long time, they don’t last forever. Damaging rains, harsh winds and other extreme weather can put a strain on that sturdy, protective covering on top of your home, your roof.

But, how well-built is your roof?  What makes up quality roof construction for a roof that will last and be able to handle all but the most extreme weather events? And when is it time to contact a Las Vegas roofing company for an inspection, repair or even a re-roofing of your home? It helps to understand a little bit about how your roof works so you can be more prepared to watch out for problems.

Characteristics of Quality Roof Construction in Las Vegas

What makes a quality roof? Are the tiles or shingles what protect you?  What about the basic roof structure, or the sheathing underneath the tiles  – what role do they play? Ask any professional Las Vegas roofer and they will tell you that each component of the roofing system has a part in keeping the inside of your home safe and dry.

There are several components involved with your roofing system besides the top roof covering. If any part of the system fails, it can lead to damage of the other components and may compromise the house’s Layout and installation of roof rafters on a new commercial residential construciton project by framing contactorsbuilding envelope, which is the part of the house that prevents the outdoor weather from entering and the conditioned air inside your home from escaping outside.

Roof Structure

The roof structure is the part of the home that actually supports the layers of the roof. It consists of the trusses and rafters that span the home and provide support where it is needed to evenly support the weight of your roof. Because it is foundational to the roof, your roofer will pay close attention to the construction of the roof structure.

The Importance of Roof Pitch

The roof structure also has to have an adequate pitch (angle) so that the roof can shed off water, ice and snow. If the pitch is incorrect, the roof could send water in the wrong direction. The water can collect in valleys and roof joints, or collect in small standing pools along the roof. In time, the water will begin to rot the wood away and can cause the roof to collapse. Depending on the material used, different minimum roof pitches may apply. For example, minimum roof pitch for a shingle roof is 2/12, or 2 units of vertical rise for every 12 units horizontal (rise/run). In some regions, due to heavy snow, higher roof pitch is preferred. Minimum roof pitch for tile is a bit higher, at 3/12. One way to tell a quality roof installation from a poor one is how appropriate the roof pitch is for the home, type of roof covering and the local climate.

Sheathing

Also referred to as a roof deck, the sheathing is the material that is attached to the roof structure. It can Framing contractor installing roof sheeting over rafters on a new commercial residential construction projectconsist of plywood, metal sheeting, concrete, gypsum or composite materials based on the shingle materials that will be placed on top.

Basically, sheathing is the surface that will allow the other layers to be attached to your roof. It also keeps the rafters and trusses spaced out evenly across the house.

You will recognize quality roof construction and repair when the roofer takes the time to replace rotted sheathing and ensure all fasteners are in place.

Underlayment

Underlayment is the next layer that is applied to the roof. This lightweight layer provides extra protection to the sheathing and roof structure as it is designed to offer water-resistance and ultraviolet light resistance. The main purpose of the underlayment is to keep your roof safe if the top roof covering system fails. It gives you enough time to contact your Las Vegas roof contractor to fix the roof covering when you notice damaged or missing shingles or tiles.

Roof Covering

When it comes to Las Vegas homes, there are as many different roof coverings as there are lifestyles here. Along with some traditional asphalt and wood shingles, you will see many house styles that use Spanish tiles and even a few that use slate. Tile and slate are very durable materials, providing service for 50 or more  years, while shingles have to be replaced every 20-30 years. Metal roofing, such as zinc and copper, is a great, quality alternative roofing material due to its incredible beauty and versatility, as well as longevity of 50-100 years and highly weather resistant properties.

A quality roofer will explain the characteristics and pros and cons of roof materials to you. He will examine your home closely to make sure that it is appropriate for the roof covering you choose, including measuring the pitch of your roof. For example, tiles are very heavy and require a structure that can bear a heavy load.

Flashing

While many homeowners believe it is the roof covering that is the final element in creating a quality roof, there is one more important component that should not be overlooked. Roof flashing can be considered

Roofer working on house roof installing metal roof flashingas vital as all the other components of the roof system. Flashing are strips of sheet metal that are placed along the roof where there are joints and valleys. It is used to redirect water back onto the shingles if it gets behind the roof covering materials. It is a key component in the weatherproofing of your roof so that water does not get inside the envelope that keeps the interior of your home dry and free of water damage.

While installing roof flashing is considered one of the most tedious tasks in roofing, it can be a great indication for the quality of the roof installation. If the roofer skips this important step, doesn’t properly install step flashing, or uses roof flashing materials that aren’t appropriate, then you can have a roof that will begin to leak and decay. A roof inspector will recognize missing, loose or poorly installed flashing and can correct that for you to prevent against further damage.

All of These Components Are Vital for a Great Roof

If there is even one step overlooked or any improperly installation, your roof components can become exposed to the Las Vegas weather. Your roof may deteriorate faster than normal, and expose your home to the elements. Talk to your roofing contractor or inspector, and learn more about how your own roof works.  You will know how to keep it in good condition and how to spot problems, and your well-cared for roof will last many years into the future.

/by