Las Vegas Roof Repair and Prevention: Safeguarding Against Pest Damage

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Pests that Can Damage Your Roof

Rats are one kind of roof pest

Wild Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) at night. High speed photography image

Your roof plays a crucial role in safeguarding your Las Vegas home from the elements, including rain, snow, and sun. However, it faces threats beyond weather. Pest infestations can pose serious risks to your roof’s integrity over time. While natural wear and tear are factors, critters seeking refuge can contribute to roof damage. Depending on your location and the condition of your roof, various pests may appear, causing distinct harm that may leave your roof in need of repairs.

Common Roof Pests

Pigeons on a tile roof

Especially white pigeons sitting on a roof

Pigeons – Pigeons and other birds like to hang out on rooftops throughout Las Vegas. Pigeons, also known as rock doves, love to congregate on the roofs of homes and businesses. They may look innocent from the ground, but their droppings are acidic and can damage roof shingles and other components. Feathers and nesting materials can clog gutters, causing backups of rainwater which leads to roof damage, including mold and roof leaks that cause further structural damage. If you start to see birds hanging around your roof, you can help keep that to a minimum by removing bird feeders or other items that may be attracting them to your yard. If they continue to hang out, take more direct steps to discourage them.

Rats and Mice – Roof rats, Roof rats, Norway rats, and house mice are common attic inhabitants and roof pests. They are great at finding the smallest openings under roof shingles and through vents and other openings. They will chew holes in the weakest spots in your roof to gain access, leaving the interior exposed. They like to nest in attic insulation and will chew right through it, along with your electrical wiring and wooden rafters. If these pests stay too long, the homeowner may notice the smell of urine and other odors. Home fires can happen if a rodent chews through electrical wires, so it’s best to act fast to eliminate rodents. Once they invade, you will need the help of a pest control professional who can place traps in the places they frequent and clean up what they’ve left behind.

Bats – Bats seek refuge in roof rafters and dark crevices. Similar to rodents, these roof pests gain access through small openings. Guano left behind can corrode your home. However, bats are ecologically valuable and may be protected. Contact a pest control expert for guidance on bat management.

Termites and Carpenter Ants – These roof pests establish colonies within roofs and frames, causing significant structural damage. They bore through wood, leaving holes that expose your home to the elements. These insects prefer damaged or decaying wood due to dry rot, mold, or mildew. Older or leak-damaged roofs are especially susceptible. Making it important to maintain your roof.

Bees and Wasps – Bees and wasps may construct nests under eaves and gutters, and some species like carpenter bees chew wood to create nest space. Large nests can strain roofs, and the presence of stinging pests near your home can be risky for occupants.

Squirrels and Chipmunks – These adorable rodents are attracted to roofs and can cause roof damage similar to rats and mice once inside.

Raccoons – These masked creatures seek cozy spots for raising their young. If they find a weak spot in your roof, their strong claws can create a sizable hole for entry. Protect your home with regular roof maintenance. Woodpeckers – Woodpeckers target termite and ant larvae, pecking at rotted wood and causing significant damage.

Signs Pests May Be Damaging Your Roof

Contractor assessing roof damage for roof repair

Contractor on ladder with cell phone figuring out damage repair costs for customer.

Since damage may be happening out of view, the first signs of roof pests living in your roof may be the sound of scurrying feet, chewing, or flapping wings. Sounds from the attic should be investigated by your pest control provider as soon as possible so the culprit is identified and removed. Other signs you may notice include droppings, living or dead critters, and nests. Termite damage may go unnoticed early on, but holes in siding, walls, window frames, or other wood components may be signs of termites or carpenter ants. You may even spot the insects around the home.

How to Safeguard Against Roof Pests

Maintaining your roof’s well-being is vital in preventing pest infestations. Swiftly replace decaying wood and damaged shingles, and address leaks to prevent mold and weakening of rafters. Regular roof inspections, especially following storms, are crucial. Clear debris from roofs and gutters to thwart pests from finding hiding spots. Addressing Infestations and Repairs If an infestation occurs, engage pest control experts before seeking a thorough roof inspection. A qualified roofer can identify issues, like damaged shingles or leaky gutters, caused by pests. Early intervention minimizes minor damage escalation due to exposure.

Addressing Infestations and Roof Repairs

If you have experienced an infestation, following removal by your pest control company, have your roofer inspect your roof, including the underlayment and rafters that support the roof. A qualified roofer is the best person to identify issues with roof components and support structures such as shingle damage, roof tiles out of place, loose or leaky gutters, and so on. Even minor damage, if missed, will become worse with exposure to wind and rain over time. If you’ve caught the problem early, any roof repairs may be minimal.

Considering Roof Replacement

If the infestation was related to an older roof with significant signs of aging, such as water damage or leaks that have caused wood to rot and crumble, or shingles that have lost their coating and are no longer adequately protecting the home from rainwater, your roofer may suggest a roof replacement. An old roof is most subject to infestation as critters can more easily find weak areas to break through to find shelter.

And finally, regular inspection by your pest control pro and an annual preventive roof inspection and regular maintenance by your roofer will help make sure you don’t have problems with any unwelcome guests inside your roof.

Finding Qualified Roofing Services

Slate rooftop - quality roofing job To help avoid pests choosing your roof and attic as their new home, it’s best to keep your roof in good condition. Find a good professional roofer who can partner with you to keep your roof in top condition. A quick annual inspection will find early signs of damage or animal activity that can then be quickly remedied before it becomes a big problem. For roof care in Las Vegas, Prestige Roofing offers roof inspections, roof maintenance, and roof repair. If it’s time to replace your older roof, we offer a wide range of attractive options for re-roofing your home. For more information, give Prestige Roofing a call today at 702-646-7536.

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Finding the Perfect Roofer: A Guide to Choosing New Roof Tiles

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How to Choose New Roof Tiles for Your Roofing Project

Aerial view of a quality roofing installationReplacing your roof is a big project, so it’s important to have a plan and make the best choice for your new roof tiles. As a homeowner, it’s important to have some knowledge about the process of selecting roofing materials so you can ask the right questions and discuss options with your roofing professional.

Here are some things to consider before you decide on your new roof tiles while choosing a qualified roofer in your area:

Selecting your New Roof Tiles

Durability and Reliability of Roofing Materials

Your roof is key to protecting your entire home. Your new roof should be ready to take on that job for decades to come. Any new roof tiles you select should be both durable and reliable. There are various types of roofing. Some types of tiles are more durable than others. For example, slate tiles may last over 100 years, and clay or cement tiles around 50-100 years. The lifetime of asphalt roof tiles is 15-30 years.

Consider the lifespan of different tile materials, such as slate, clay, cement, or asphalt, and choose reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality tiles to ensure a quality roofing installation.
Another thing to check is the manufacturer’s warranty.

Architectural Style and Structure of Your Roofing Project

Tile Roof Installation

Your new roof tiles should complement the architectural style and structure of your home. The type of tiles you choose may depend on factors such as the framing required, the pitch of your roof, and the overall aesthetic appeal you’re aiming for with your roofing project. Consult with an experienced and reliable roofer who can guide you in selecting tiles that not only fit your home but also enhance its visual appeal.

To enhance the beauty of your home, match your roof tiles to the style of your home during your roofing project. A historic Colonial or Victorian home, for example, will look good with a slate roof. Clay tiles, new or reclaimed, will enhance the beauty of a Mediterranean-style home. The preferred choice for stucco homes, common in the Southwest, is generally concrete tiles, which are available in many different styles, textures, and colors.

Consider the roofing materials and styles most common in your neighborhood so that your home doesn’t look out of place. Match the style, color, and texture of the roof tiles to other features of your home. This will maintain a consistent look and help highlight your home’s best features.

Roof Tile Characteristics on Roofing Installations

Roof tiles have different characteristics to be considered in the selection process, depending on the roofing materials and other factors. It’s important to know how tiles perform under different conditions. Some of the characteristics you and your roofer may look for in the tiles you choose include fire resistance, wind resistance, thermal properties (how well they help maintain the temperature in your home in hot and cold weather), sound resistance, and moisture retention (do they absorb moisture and become heavier?). Tiles that are interlocking, for example, will better weatherproof your home. Your roof pitch may affect your choice of tiles as well.

Other questions you may have for your roofer about your choice of tiles include how easy they are to install and maintain, how your tiles change over time, or if you live by the coast, how they handle salt air. The characteristics of your new tiles will include how they are laid out, affecting the overall look of the finished roof. Discuss these characteristics with your roofing professional to make an informed decision.

Roofing Project Pricing

Price is a primary factor for most homeowners when choosing new roof tiles and quality roofing. You will want to find the best performing tiles for your budget. Four factors to consider when budgeting for your new roof are:

  1. What is the cost of the tiles?
  2. How does the choice of the tiles affect installation cost?
  3. How long will your tiles last (tiles that have to be replaced in 15 years, in the long run, will be more expensive than tiles that last 30, 50, or 100 years)?
  4. How much maintenance or possible repairs will this roof need over time, adding to the overall cost of the roof?

Other Considerations for Your Roofing Project

low pitch quality roof tile installation

Local Building Code

For every quality roofing installation, your roof will need to comply with any local building codes. You may also need to be in compliance with any HOA rules if you are part of a Homeowners’ Association. Your licensed roofer will help make sure you meet the local building requirements. Speak with them about this process and be sure to get copies for your records if there are any permits or other documentation involved.

Maintenance and Repair Needs for Various Types of Roofing


When choosing a roof, ask about what type of routine maintenance you should expect from your roofing experts. When possible, choose a roof that needs little care, as these roofs are usually sturdy, waterproof, and durable to begin with. With quality roofing, repairs should only be needed in case of storm damage, such as a falling tree.

The type of roofing materials you select for your roofing project is dependent on several factors. Don’t select roof tiles that will not handle the most severe weather conditions for your area. In hot zones, choose tiles that are not damaged by the UV rays of the sun. In rainy, windy, or stormy climates, be sure tiles will hold up to severe rainstorms and not break or move, allowing water to seep under the tiles. If you experience frequent freezes, tiles should be able to handle large temperature swings and ice buildup without warping or breaking, which can cause roof leaks.

Proper Roof Installation

Installation during a roofing project by roofing professionals

Key to the success of your new roof is correct, professional, quality installation. Unqualified roofers may not properly nail tiles in the pattern and places needed to ensure they stay in place regardless of the weather. A licensed, experienced roofer with a focus on workmanship quality and extensive roofing industry knowledge will have the necessary training and experience to ensure a proper installation. They will know how to install the underlayment and flashing and how to lay the tiles so they remain securely in place, protecting your home for decades to come. Regardless of the quality or price of your roof materials, the cost to correct the problems can be high if they are not installed correctly. Therefore, choosing a trustworthy and skilled contractor who prioritizes workmanship quality is crucial for the long-term performance and durability of your roof.

Roof Warranty

Your roof warranty will be a reflection of the quality of the materials and manufacturing. Select a reputable manufacturer and read the warranty before making your final decision. Your manufacturer will usually have a standard manufacturer warranty, covering the materials in case of factory defect. Your professional roofer may offer a craftsmanship warranty on the installation work they do for you. Extended warranties may be available for an extra cost to cover your complete roofing system for an extended period.

Choosing A Professional Roofer

Probably the most important choice you will make when selecting your new roof tiles is the roofer. Finding a good roofing contractor requires that you keep a few things in mind. Your roofer should be reliable and able to guide you through the entire process, installing the new tiles to your satisfaction. The knowledge and experience of a qualified roofer make all the difference between a successful roofing project and one filled with poor decisions, delays, and mistakes.

When choosing your roofer, be sure they are licensed and carry insurance. It’s important to know they have expertise in your type of project. You can check out their portfolio of local projects or ask for a few references from satisfied clients. . To avoid fly-by-night contractors, check that they have a local office in your area.

Most of all, meet with your roofer before you sign, and make sure they are someone you can work with, and that both of you have the same goals for your roofing project. A good roofer will explain their process, walk you through their contract, and answer your questions. They will also have expert recommendations for roofing materials from reputable manufacturers.

Las Vegas Roofer

Team photo of Prestige Roofing Professionals with Company - Over 25 Years of Roofing Industry Knowledge

Prestige Roofing has been installing roofs in Las Vegas for over 25 years. We have roofing industry knowledge through years of experience with concrete and clay tile roof installations, slate, shake roof shingles, and custom metal roofing, including copper and zinc. If you have a roofing project in Las Vegas and need help selecting the best roof tiles for your home, give us a call at 702-646-7536.

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Plan your Roofing Project

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What we cover in this post:

sturdy roof shingles

Looking at a roof replacement or a new roof for a building project? Planning for your roofing project should start early and include a number of factors that will help you manage within your budget and get the best results, an attractive new roof that will give your home many years of protection. Here are a few guidelines to help you plan your roofing project.

First Steps: Identify Quality Roofers and Gather Quotes

Once you know you will need a roof replacement due to an aging roof, storm, or other damage, home restoration, or building a new home, it’s important to have a plan. Set your budget early and determine how you will pay for the project. This will help you set realistic financial expectations. If you will need financing, many roofers work with home improvement financing companies, or you may have a lender at your bank or mortgage company who can help. Get a good idea of what you can afford and pay for, then begin your search for the right roofer.

 

Roofers generally work in the months when the weather is mildest, usually late spring, summer, and early fall. Overall, winter is a great time to contact and meet with potential roofers for a roof inspection and a quote for your project. This lets you get access to their spring or summer calendar and may help you avoid price increases that may come during the busier season.

Choosing your Roofer

construction workers shaking hands

Engineer contractor shaking hands at the breakdown house construction site working architecture planning in sunny weather day.

Select a minimum of two or three local roofers to meet with and discuss your project. Select roofers who are licensed (you can check license status online with your state), located locally with an actual facility, and have a good reputation. Check their reviews online. Ask your roofer candidates about their insurance coverage. You do not want to be liable if one of their workers has an accident, or if your home is damaged inadvertently during work.

 

Once you’ve qualified a few professionals, talk with them and narrow down the selection. Make sure you and your roofer communicate well since there are many details you will want to be able to discuss with them as the project goes forward. You should meet with them in person, get satisfactory answers to your questions and be able to reach them easily by phone, text, or email. A new roof is a big project and a significant investment, so it’s fine to keep looking for the right roofer.

Avoid Roofing Scam Artists


If a roofer has no local office address that you can drive by, he may be a fly-by-night contractor and is best avoided. If a roofer you are vetting quotes a very low price, it’s likely he is not a quality roofer. Even if he completes the work, he may skimp on training, safety, and labor costs. Materials may be low quality or not show up at all. If a roofer asks for his full fee upfront, avoid doing business with him. He may be a scam artist who takes the money and then disappears.

Understand your Roofing Quote

Roofing projects involve many elements. Your roofing quote should reflect that and contain detailed information. You should not just receive a dollar estimate, but a full written quote that details what the work will include. Your quote should contain information about these proposed items:

 

  • Type and quantity of materials and their cost (including brand)
  • Labor cost
  • Estimated start and completion dates
  • Method of installation and any special requirements
  • Total cost and payment requirements
  • Warranty details
  • Contact information, contractor license

 

You should not choose your roofer only by the lowest quote. Read all the details on the quote for a full picture of the project your roofer will deliver and choose the one that will give you the best result for your roof project budget.

Materials and Design Choices

red and tan roof

Before you buy, it’s important to get a clear understanding of your materials and design options. Different materials have different characteristics, lifespans, and costs. If you want a roof that will last a long time, concrete tiles or metal roofing are good choices, highly durable and hold up well to heat, cold, and wind. Asphalt tiles last 15-40 years, require minimal maintenance, and are an affordable choice. Be sure to understand any HOA requirements, and accommodate your home’s style and roof type, as well as your local climate and neighborhood aesthetics. For many roofing materials choices, there are many styles and colors available for you to choose from.

 

When selecting materials, don’t focus only on the cost. Quality materials made by reputable brands will last longer and generally require less repair and maintenance, giving you long-term value for the slightly higher price. Take time to do your research online and work with your roofer until you are comfortable with your choices.

Schedule the Work

roofer working on roof

Framing contractor installing roof sheeting over rafters on a new commercial residential construction project

Your project schedule may be affected by your roofer’s backlog of projects. This is one reason to plan many months ahead. Most projects must be completed in dry, warmer weather, which means only a few months of the year, and roofers’ capacity fills up quickly. Scheduling may also be affected by crew availability as teams may be committed to other projects, sometimes including emergency repair projects.

 

Another reason your project may be delayed is the availability of materials, especially with supply chain interruptions in recent years. Find out if there are any issues related to delivery when you are choosing your materials. That way, you can either adjust your timing expectations or choose something different that is not on backorder.

Contingency Planning

As a contingency, have a backup plan to relocate temporarily in case that becomes necessary. Your roofer will let you know if there’s any planned reason the home should be vacated. In most cases, work can be carried out without interrupting your use of the home.

 

Ask your roofer how they handle weather events. Do they have a tarp or other protection to lay over any exposed areas of the home in case of a rainstorm? Are they able to reschedule and complete the project after weather delays or will they have scheduling conflicts that may leave your project unfinished for longer than you expected? Knowing ahead of time how bad weather will impact your project will help you with planning your own schedule and with setting expectations with your roofer.

Prepare the Worksite

Help keep your project on track by preparing your home for the arrival of your roofing team. Trim back trees or tall bushes that overhang the roof so the work area is fully available. Be sure to remove items that are close to the outside of the house, such as lawn furniture or gardening tools, to allow roofers to move around, lay out their materials and equipment, and easily access the roof. Plan to keep pets inside as much as possible during the roofers’ work hours.

 

Your roofer should remove any debris from the worksite to keep it accessible and safe for you and your family. They may locate a dumpster at the site to contain the debris that will be hauled away at the end of the project.

Inspect your Roofer’s Work

palm tree in front of luxurious brick building

Congratulations! Your project has been completed. As a last step, schedule a roof inspection of the completed work with your roofer. Walk around the entire roof and look for anything that looks wrong such as loose, missing or out of place parts. Check that flashing, rain gutters and other roof elements are firmly and correctly placed so they will perform as required in the next rainstorm. The roof should slope smoothly in all directions to drain water away, with no areas where water can pool and cause damage to your home. Ask any questions you have, including maintenance requirements for your new roof. This is your chance to be sure the work has been done to your satisfaction, so take your time with your roof inspection.

Understand your Roof Warranty

Take time to read through and understand your roof warranty. Your roof materials will generally be warranted by the manufacturer for 10-30 years, longer for some materials. The warranty may stipulate that you perform proper roof maintenance, so read and understand those requirements as well.

 

Your contractor warranty may cover labor for 1 or more years after installation. Understand that coverage as it is different from your materials-only warranty.

 

A full roofing system warranty covers flashing and other accessories or decorative roof elements (not covered in your roof tiles or shingles warranty) and may or may not be included.

 

Inspect your warranty carefully so you know what is covered and what is not. Direct any questions to your roofer so that you are comfortable with your coverage.

Stay Organized

Getting a new roof doesn’t have to be stressful. Read and keep your quote, contract, and warranty on hand and you’ll be set in case any questions come up on your new roof. Best of all, you’ll feel great when the project is done and your home is protected with a quality new roof that looks great and will last for decades.

Prestige Roofing

exterior view of Prestige Roofing

Prestige Roofing has been providing quality roofing to homes and businesses in Southern Nevada for over 25 years. Our trained and experienced team members are here to help you with your roofing project. Give us a call for a free quote on your roofing project today.

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Wind Damage to Your Roof

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Prestige Roofing Prestige Roofing’s work ranges from service and repair work,  re-roofing  and new construction work, commercial and residential work. They have also done work for ultra-custom projects around the Las Vegas Valley.

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When is it Time to Replace Your Roof?

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Prestige Roofing Prestige Roofing’s work ranges from service and repair work,  re-roofing  and new construction work, commercial and residential work. They have also done work for ultra-custom projects around the Las Vegas Valley.

Read more
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