Tag: low-slope-roofing

Flat Roofing Repairs v. Replacement: Making The Right Call
If you have a low-slope roof or flat roof, you need to make special considerations when you’re faced with a “repair or replace” dilemma.

Flat roofs have their pros and cons. They are often easy and much cheaper to install comparable to tile or cedar roofing. At the same time, they tend to be difficult to maintain and pricey to repair. Making the right call – whether to repair or replace – can be hard, so it’s a good idea to call an experienced roofing contractor for help.

Flat Roofing Repairs v. Replacement: Making The Right Call

A number of factors contribute to the inevitable degradation of a flat roof, including sun and shade exposure, the type of flat roof material, and the overall structural integrity of the house, itself. Flat roofs also demand intricate flashing at the points where they join the outer walls of the house, and if this flashing was not properly installed, it can break down quickly and cause leaks.

First, consider the average lifespans of materials commonly used in flat roofs:
- Modified Bitumen/Tarpaper/Asphalt BUR: 10 to 12 years
- PVC/TPO: 20 to 30 years
- EPDM synthetic rubber: 25 to 30 years
Thus, if you’re having problems with your tarpaper roof, it could just be that the material has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced. It typically isn’t worthwhile to repair a roof that is up for replacement or will be within the next three to five years.

It’s always a good idea to get an expert opinion when it comes to a “repair or replace” roofing dilemma. Having an experienced roofing contractor make a thorough inspection of your roof to diagnose its problems and make a recommendation makes the most sense, considering that most homeowners lack the detailed knowledge and technical expertise required to make an accurate diagnosis.

If you do choose to replace your flat roof, there are several things you can do to protect it. Applying a reflective coating will extend its life, as this will inhibit the effects of sun exposure. If you have tar paper or asphalt roof, you should apply roofing tar every few years to ensure your roof stays watertight.

Need a Reputable Flat Roofing Contractor?

If you’re looking for a contractor with flat roofing installation expertise, consider All Roofing Solutions, a family-owned & operated Delaware roofing contractor with over 15 years of experience. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania, and look forward to discussing your low-slope roofing repair project!

Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania for a free estimate!
September 3, 2015
Residential Roofing: 6 Common Types of Roofing Materials

Just as there are many styles of homes, a wide variety of roofing materials exist on the market today. Choosing the type of roofing material that is right for your home may be a difficult decision at first, but once you learn more about each type of material, your options will become more clearly defined. If you are unsure about the specific benefits and attributes of a certain roofing material, discuss the matter with your Delaware roofing contractor.

Types of Roofing Materials

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingle roofing is by far the most common type of roofing installed in the residential sector today. This type of roof has many advantages: it is economical, easy to maintain and suitable for steep-sloped roofs. Asphalt shingles are installed in one- or two-layer constructions, and are reinforced with fiberglass. Choosing an eye-catching color for your roof is easy with asphalt shingles; a wide selection of colors has something for everyone. Several grades of asphalt shingles exist, and most include a lifespan of 20 to nearly 50 years.

Wood Shake

Wood shakes are slightly thicker at the butt end than shingles, and are usually crafted from pine, cedar or redwood. Wood shake roofing lends an outdoorsy, warm and natural look to your home. Shakes are treated with chemicals to become fire-retardant, and may also be treated with preservatives to prevent mildew and rot. The average lifespan of a wood shake roof is between 8 and 25 years.

Slate

Slate roofing shingles are an example of a naturally occurring material. They are non-absorbent, variegated in color and sophisticated in style. Slate roofing can be more fragile than asphalt or wood shakes, requiring semi-yearly roof inspections. One of the benefits of a slate roof is its long lifespan. Depending on the type of slate you choose, your home may not need a new roof for 60 to 100 years!

Metal

Metal roofing, made of copper, steel or aluminum, is efficient, durable and environmentally sound. Recyclable materials can be fitted atop of an existing roof and last for upward of 50 years. Metal roofs are virtually maintenance free, and are resistant to mildew, fire, corrosion, wind, rain and hail.

Low Slope and Flat

Flat or low slope roofing does not have the same elegant style as wood shake or slate, but makes up for it by keeping your home dry. Flat and low slope roofing, constructed from roll asphalt or synthetic rubber materials, excels in the area of waterproofing. Multiple layers are designed to keep water out of your home. In addition, flat and low slope roofs have a lifespan of 10 to 30 years.

Tile

Clay or concrete, tile roofing is easy to maintain, fire-proof and durable. Tile roofs can be expensive, however, tricky to install or repair and heavy. Tile roofs offer one of the longest warranties in the roofing industry. Most tile manufacturers (both clay and concrete) will offer a minimum of a 50 year limited warranty on their products.

Contact All Roofing Solutions today to learn more about our types of roofing materials, our installation and roofing repair services and more. We have been serving Delaware and Southeastern Pennsylvania for more than 15 years, and look forward to partnering with you on your upcoming roof repair or installation project.

Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania.

May 31, 2012