Tag Archive for: roof repair

How to Build a Roof: Roof Construction Made Easy

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roof construction in process

Building a safe and durable roof for a home or other building involves planning and carrying out a number of important steps. Each step is necessary to make sure the roof can do its job to safeguard the structure from wind, rain, snow, and ice, protect the building from water leaks, and even help reduce its flammability. A safe installation also involves proper preparation and handling of materials at the roof construction site.

Here is what we will cover:

How Do You Build a Roof?

Before You Start

Man knocking on the front door of a home on a sunny day.

Before your roof replacement project begins, there are a couple of important steps to take first. These are getting a thorough inspection of the existing roof and putting together a project plan.

Roof inspection: A roof inspection of your old roof will give your roofer some important information. The roofer will assess the design and structure of your roof, which will help them determine the right roofing materials and other components. It will also determine the techniques and tools that will be required, what type of remediation of existing problems might be needed, and other details. Your roofer will pay attention to details like drainage and openings so that they can plan to order the right components to make sure water runoff will be properly redirected away from your home. The roofer will also determine the type of building permits needed for the project.

As part of the inspection, your roofer may suggest a few things for you to do to prepare the site. For a residential roofing project, this might include trimming tree branches and bushes that overhang the roof and moving items in the yard that will impede work, such as tools or yard furniture close to the house.

Project plan: Your project plan is vital to a successful project. If you are building a new roof, you will choose a style of roof and work with an architect to complete the design the roofer will use to build it. There are many types of roof to choose from. If it’s a roof replacement, you will set a budget and select roofing materials. Your choice will also depend on the style of your home, the roof pitch, the climate in your area, and roof designs in your neighborhood, especially if there are homeowners’ association guidelines to be followed. Your roofer will go over roof material choices with you, which, in some cases, may also include roof fixtures, gutters, or other items that are needed. This is a good time to ask questions about durability and performance of the materials.

Your roofer will complete the project plan with the intended roof design and provide the total estimated cost of the job. Now that you have the plan, work can begin.

Steps to Build a Roof

Your materials have arrived and your project is now underway. There are three major stages to carry out to build your new roof.

Remove the Old Roof

professional roofers laying roofing tiles

The first step, removing the old roof, happens as follows:

  1. Remove loose debris like branches, nails, broken roof shingles, and other items on the old roof. This clears the way for workers to expedite the roof removal.
  2. Examine the roof for visibly damaged areas, such as moisture or rot that could endanger a roofer. Make any repairs needed to stabilize that area and make sure the roof deck is in good condition for construction of the new roof.
  3. Remove components such as flashing and drainage to ready the roof so tiles can come off.
  4. Remove the old roofing materials. They may come up individually, in sections, or be cut into pieces for removal, such as asphalt tiles.

With the roof removed, another close inspection is carried out to find any areas of the frame and underlying areas that need repair.

Once the preparation of the roof area is complete, it’s time to install the new roof.

Install the New Roof

roof construction project in las vegas

The new roof is built layer by layer, and the roof materials installed from the bottom roof edge upward.

  1. Install the underlayment. This usually consists of self-adhesive waterproof sheets that roll out and cover the roof deck to protect the structure from water and ice.
  2. Add a layer of tar paper that will help direct water that gets under the shingles to roll off the roof. It also helps to reduce flammability. This material is attached in sections and stapled to the underlayment.
    roofing tiles being installed by worker

    Construction workers Fixing roof tiles, with roofing tools, electric drills used on roofs in safety kits for safety.

  3. Install the roofing materials. If they are shingles, this starts at the bottom and the shingles are layered downward to direct water flow toward the ground. The shingles are attached using a nail gun. Metal roofing will be installed in sheets and attached with screws of the same material. This is the most time-consuming part of the project.
  4. Install the metal flashing around roof fixtures that overlay the edges of the new roof shingles, preventing water leaks. Reattach or install gutter systems, as needed. For metal roofs, add the edging or eaves to finish off the installation.view of roof shingles in residential roofing project
  5. Cap the roof ridge. These roof shingles run along the top ridge of the roof and are a different shape. They are attached with longer nails as they go through the initial layer of shingles.
  6. Check seals and clean up. The installer will do a final check for exposed or protruding nails, clean up debris, and make sure all components are installed properly.
  7. Inspection and Site Cleanup. The site supervisor will inspect the entire roof and make sure everything is securely and correctly installed. They will check that all roof openings, like vents and skylights, are properly sealed. Meanwhile, the entire property will be cleaned up of any stray nails and screws, roofing materials, tools, or other debris, so the property is left safe and in the condition it was before the project began.

Owner Inspection and Project Closure

residential roofing installation

Once the new roof is installed, the roofer will conduct a final inspection to ensure that the project was completed according to the plan and to your satisfaction. They will also explain the roof warranty and any upkeep that may be required.

The roof warranty will typically cover defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period of time. It is important to read the warranty carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.

The roof may also require some ongoing upkeep, such as cleaning and repairing any damage. It is important to follow the roofer’s recommendations for upkeep to ensure that your roof lasts for many years.

Prestige Roofing has been installing beautiful roofs in Las Vegas for over 25 years. If you are looking to replace your roof in the Las Vegas area, give us a call at 702-646-7536.

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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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Roofing and Sun Damage

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Does the Sun Damage Your Roof?

roofing and how the sun effects or damages it

Most of the time, we worry about storm damage to our roofs, but hot and persistent sun on a roof can also be a big issue, especially in areas with year-round sunshine and warm weather. Besides climate, the type of roof materials and how well it is constructed and maintained also play a big role in how well your roof holds up to the heat of the sun. Knowing how your roof is holding up on sunny days will also help ensure that your roof keeps protecting your home during the winter months when roof damage can result in leaks and mold that can damage your home.

Index

Signs of Roof Damage from the Sun

damaged roof in need of roofing repair

Ultraviolet radiation makes up about 10% of the rays we get from the sun. You can’t see UV radiation, but these rays can damage your roof. In the case of asphalt shingles, the most popular roofing material, UV radiation causes the protective coating on the shingles to break down. Asphalt shingles are a petroleum product that degrades with long-term sun exposure. The shingles dry out, fade, and warp. If not dealt with, the damage leads to the possibility of water getting into and under the roof, and then into the attic and home.

How do you know if your roof has been damaged by the sun? The best way is to have a roofer inspect your roof annually as part of routine maintenance. A roofer will recognize damage you may miss, and they’ll be able to check areas that are hard for a homeowner to access.
Here are things to look out for:

Lost Coating

Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that protect the shingles from the weather, including UV radiation, and also provide fire resistance. Over time, with exposure to UV radiation, heat, and other weather conditions, the coating breaks away, leaving the smooth surface of the shingle exposed and without protection from the weather.

Fading

Exposure to the sun causes some roof shingles or tiles to fade or bleach. The appearance of the roof degrades as the most exposed areas become lighter in color than shaded areas.

Warping

Shingles that have been dried out by the sun’s rays may warp and crack. The edges of the tiles begin to curl. When tiles can no longer lay flat on the roof, everything under them is exposed to the elements. Rain can flow into the openings. Wind may lift warped tiles and move or even blow them away, causing further damage. Warping can also create gaps around flashing, chimneys, or skylight enclosures, providing further opportunities for roof leaks.

Moisture

If moisture seeps into gaps created by warping and cracking, the moisture will be heated as the sun beats down, further warping the roof and resulting in the growth of mold under the roof’s surface. The roof rafters and other areas of the home may also be damaged.

Thermal Shock

Your roof is not only bombarded by UV radiation, but it also receives UV light rays that heat up the roof. As they warm, shingles expand. Then, when night comes, the roof cools, and the tiles contract. This cycle of expansion and contraction can cause thermal shock that causes the roof materials to begin to break down. The result will be cracked and broken shingles. This effect is also seen on plastic and metal components, such as brackets and flashing. Years of exposure to these cycles without repairs will lead to leaks, mold, and potential frame damage.

Quality Construction

If your roof is not properly installed, leaving loose shingles, gaps, or poor protection under the roof tiles, damage may be quicker and more severe. A poor roofer may fail to nail materials down correctly, causing them to warp and buckle. If flashing is not secured, damage occurs around that area, making roof failure in extreme temperatures more likely.

There are a lot of unlicensed contractors who may offer to build or repair a roof for less, but they don’t have the training and experience to do the work correctly. It’s important to use a licensed and insured roofer for any roof work. Professional roofers are trained in proper techniques, have the right tools, follow manufacturer guidelines and safety protocols, help you choose materials that best fit your locale and climate, and warranty their work and are insured.

Best Roofing Materials to Reduce Sun Damage

metal roof done by professional roofing contractors

For homeowners in sunny climates, there are good choices for roofs that are well-suited to handle the heat and UV radiation. Asphalt tiles are the most popular choice in America, but they are generally less well-suited to sunny areas. As asphalt roofs age, the tiles are subject to the damage we discussed above. With recent advances in roof tile materials, many higher-end shingles have good coatings that resist UV radiation longer and will hold up better. Be sure to check with your roofer for the best choice for your area.

There are other choices for roofing materials in hot climates that handle the sun well and also offer beauty and durability. Most of these have been used in some form for centuries, and many of them last for decades or longer, even in the toughest climates. Here are a few roof materials that work well in hot climates, like here in Las Vegas:

Cement Tiles

cement tiles on a roof

Cement tiles are extremely resilient to heat. While they are a heavy roofing material, they are also tough and durable, making them resistant to most weather conditions, including sun and heat. In addition, cement tiles absorb the heat of the sun, which helps keep it from going through into the home, so the interior stays cooler. Available in many colors and styles, these tiles will not generally show damage from the sun, so they will look good for a long time. Correctly installed, they can last for many decades.

Clay Tiles

clay tiles on a roof

Clay tiles, also known as terracotta tiles, are made from natural materials and have been used for centuries to protect homes in warm climates. They may be glazed or unglazed. Similar to concrete tiles, they are very dense and resistant to moisture and heat. They help regulate temperature inside the home year-round. They generally come in traditional colors. They are not quite as durable as cement tiles but create a beautiful, traditional look for the home.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is one of the best materials to reflect back UV rays and the heat of the sun. This makes a metal roof one of the most energy-efficient roofing choices. Properly installed, metal roofs, including zinc, copper, and steel, hold up well to the sun and provide many decades of service. They are also beautiful and add value to the home.

Cool Roofing

Cool roofing includes a number of roof types that emphasize energy efficiency and hold up well in the sun. Choices include solar roofing and green roofing. Cool roofing also includes painting roofs white or lighter colors. This allows the roof to reflect back the UV rays and heat of the sun. The roof absorbs fewer damaging rays, and the home stays cooler inside. Cool roofing technology is becoming more popular and widespread for its energy efficiency qualities.

Annual Roof Inspection

Whatever kind of roof you have, being proactive in caring for it will help your roof last longer and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Having your roofer do an annual inspection of your roof will catch small issues early and keep your roof in its best condition to handle all types of weather.

If you’ve noticed any roof damage or have an aging roof, be sure your roof will be ready for summer in Las Vegas. Give Prestige Roofing a call at 702-646-7536 for a free roof inspection.

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What Does a Roofer Do?

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Learn all about roofers and what being a roofing contractor really means.

Read more
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What to do if Your Roof is Leaking

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a leaking roof

You spot a stain or bulge on the ceiling. Maybe there’s a dripping sound, or you see water. You have a roof leak. What do you do now?

The best thing to do when you suspect your roof is leaking, is to take action right away to prevent further damage. This may save your roof, attic, ceiling and personal property, and acting quickly will save you money in the end. No matter your handyman skills, there are simple ways to reduce the risk of major damage, even before your roofer can get out to do repairs for you.

Locate the Source of the Leak

Open the closest ceiling panel and look into the attic space with a flashlight at the spot where the water is coming through. Trace the path of water. It likely is coming from a higher point in the rafters. You will see a dark line where water has been draining and spreading, or you may even see mold or rot if the problem has been developing for a while. Count the rafters from the top to where the leak is happening as this will help you and your roofer pinpoint the damage point on the roof.

If water is pooling in the attic and causing the ceiling to bulge or buckle, grab a screwdriver and poke a hole in your ceiling at the low point of the bulge. This will let water drip down and out to reduce pooling and the resulting damage to your ceiling and walls. Place a bucket on the floor to catch the dripping water. Take this time to move any personal possessions out of the way to avoid them being damaged.

Take pictures of the damage and as close to the source of the leak as you can see, both inside and outside the home. These will help your roofer, and can be used for insurance purposes, if that applies.

Stop the Water

roof home covered with a tarp waiting for the roofing company to fix after thunderstorm

Once you have gotten an idea where the leak is happening from inside and once any stormy weather has subsided, inspect your roof from the ground or from a ladder, if you are comfortable with using one. It’s best not to attempt to walk on your roof. Leave that to the trained professionals who also have safety equipment. You may see some damage, even from a distance, such as broken shingles or loose or broken metal flashing around vents and skylights that have created an opening for water to get under and into the roof layers.

As a temporary shield against more water damage, if possible, lay a tarp over the damaged area. Depending on the area of damage, the tarp should be at least 4-5 feet in length and 6mm thick so you can get good coverage and have a tarp that will not tear or blow away easily. The tarp should go up to the peak of the roof to prevent water from rolling down and under it. If the roof peak is not safely reachable, the tarp can be tucked under shingles to hold it in place and keep water away.

If you can’t place a tarp on your own, you can still use it to help stop damage on the interior. Lay it out in the attic under the leak if possible to protect your ceiling. Other things you will need are buckets, towels or whatever can help you capture, soak up or redirect water into a container and not let it flow onto your ceiling, carpet or floor.

If your roofer is not coming out right away, you may be able to get a local service to help you lay a tarp on the roof. Flood damage restoration companies usually offer this service.

Long Term Leaks

Swelling leaking of whitewash and plaster on ceiling of dwelling due to penetration of water from the top floor or roof, selective focus.

If your leak has been happening for a while, you will likely have damage to the insulation in your attic. You could also experience loss of heating and cooling through the area that has been weakened, increasing exposure to the outdoors. Mold and mildew may grow in the wet conditions. Mold is a serious health hazard. Over time, it can get into your HVAC system and spread throughout the house. Roof leaks can also be a fire hazard if electrical wires are in the vicinity. And of course, the damage will lead to weakened and rotting roof components, rafters, ceilings and drywall.

For these reasons, once you discover a roof leak, it’s important to get it cleaned up as soon as possible. The sooner you deal with the leak, the less it will cost for cleanup, repair and restoration of the damaged area.

Call your Roofer

Now that you’ve identified the roof problem and made adjustments to minimize further damage, call your roofer and schedule them to come out to inspect the damage and take care of anything that may be critical, such as a ceiling failure or electrical issue. Even if you think you can repair the damage yourself, at least get a roofer to inspect it. As an experienced pro, he will recognize problems that you may miss.

A professional roofer will give you a written plan and estimate of the repairs. He will also be sure to check over the entire roof for other problems so you can avoid further damage and expense due to leaks.

Check your Insurance

If your roof damage was due to a major storm, such as from high winds, your repairs may be covered by your homeowners’ insurance. Your agent may have suggestions on who to call to get help with temporary repairs. Of course, if there was no major storm and your roof damage is just because it is old or not maintained, that is probably not something that insurance will cover. Call your agent to find out if your policy will cover any of the leak repairs. Keep in mind, old roof shingles lose the grit that helps them repel water, making an aging roof something to address with a roofer before leaks happen. 

Hire a Professional Roofer

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

When making repairs to your roof, whether they are emergency repairs or scheduled ones, it’s important to hire a licensed professional roofer to help you. Be aware that, particularly following a major storm, a lot of “roofers” appear, ready to help. These may not be trained, licensed and established roofers and some may be scammers. Before hiring anyone to fix your roof, check their license status with your state, look at the BBB reports and check online reviews. Make sure anyone you hire is insured.

It’s always good to establish a relationship with a roofer before problems occur. Regular roof inspections are easy and either free or inexpensive. They may help you avoid that leak in the first place. If damage does occur, your roofer will be ready to help. Your roofer can estimate the condition of your roof and when to plan and budget for a roof replacement before your roof develops problems that can damage your home.

Prestige Roofing in Las Vegas has been serving Clark County for over 25 years. We offer free estimates, roof repairs, roof replacements and new roof construction to customers throughout the Las Vegas Valley.








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