Fort Worth Roofing Experts help homeowners and business owners alike with all roofing needs. We help find the best roofing contractor for the job needed, whether it is a repair job or a full blown roof replacement. We offer multiple 100% financing options and also can evaluate insurance damage claims.

Make sure the roofing system will meet the needs of the facility by answering the following questions:

• What type of system will provide the best long-term performance and energy efficiency?• How will weather conditions and climate affect the building and roof?• What is the desired service life of the roof?• Is resale value of the building important?• What type of system will incorporate the best drainage characteristics?• What type of maintenance program will be followed?• What are the expectations for the roof?• Are there environmental concerns?• Does the roof need to be wind- and fire-rated?

Once these questions have been answered, start the selection process based on location, physical characteristics, and building structure and type. Then choose quality products specifically engineered to be integrated and installed as a complete roofing system. To do this, form long-term relationships with manufacturers that are financially sound and have a reputation for commitment and experience in the marketplace. Check the track record of suppliers, as well as the quality controls they provide during installation.

Life-cycle costing analysis doesn't do any good if the facility executive chooses a manufacturer that is unable to demonstrate financial stability, experience and roofing system longevity.Successful roofing installations also depend on the expertise of a quality-focused, professional roofing contractor.

Many times, roofing is specified just to get the building covered and protected. Facility executives should realize that the majority of the cost is in labor. Slightly more material dollars up front may save many dollars on premature replacement costs.

It's also important to remember the role of the roof as the first line of defense against the elements. The roofing system is a key investment that helps to protect the interior environment of the building. Focusing on the lowest initial cost can leave facility executives with a system that is unproven and contributes to further difficulties during the life of the building.

Although the roof makes up less than 3 percent of the construction cost of a commercial building, it is among the most critical construction components, considering the consequences if it fails.

When the facility has as its basic purpose the protection of not only humans involved in daily commerce, but also valuable business assets that are critically important to the conduct of that commerce, the roof emerges as more than a cost component of the total building asset - it becomes an asset in and of itself.

The key to life-cycle cost is total system analysis. A roof is a system that requires a broad spectrum of elements working together. When a building owner chooses an asphalt roofing system for a given application, the system should be specified and installed as a whole. The performance of any roofing system can be optimized when all the components are selected based on how they integrate as part of a total roofing system.

A Whole System Approach

As with any investment, the ultimate value of the roof will be determined in large part by the investment term. In this case, the term is the realistic, anticipated life of the new roofing system. The best way to determine how long a roofing system is likely to last is to consider the documented performance of the system in similar applications and environments.

The value of a roof can actually increase if it survives its first few years without incident. A life-cycle curve often has a bump for premature mortality. If a roof survives past the time period of that bump, then the long-term outlook actually improves.

Calculating Life-Cycle Cost

A general formula for calculating the life-cycle cost of a roof is to subtract the estimated salvage cost of the new roof materials from the purchase price and then add the projected costs of maintenance, repair and replacement over the forecasted economic life of the roof. For this calculation, the value of today's dollar must be converted to a future value.

Energy efficiency has become a significant factor in determining a roof's life-cycle cost. Many facility executives are specifying metal-clad or coated modified bitumen membranes and flashings, other reflective membranes or additional insulation as energy-efficient options. A variety of aluminum or white acrylic coatings can be applied to smooth surfaces. Granule-surfaced modified bitumen membranes can be applied to enhance reflectivity. By improving the energy efficiency of the building with reflective membranes or additional insulation, facility executives can often reduce cooling costs.

Before problems occur, preventive maintenance should also be conducted to remove visible debris from the roof, clean drains and perform minor repairs. No matter how thorough the maintenance program is, however, it is necessary to make routine, semi-annual inspections to reduce long-term repair costs. At a minimum, facility executives should have their roofs inspected once in the spring and once in the fall.

The eventual tear-off and disposal of the roofing system is another necessary factor to be included in the life-cycle cost. Some systems require a more labor-intensive removal process, which can add to the total cost, while certain membrane types can be recycled, which may ultimately reduce the cost of the system.

The cost of a roof replacement project varies depending on where you live. A roof replacement costs less in the Midwest than it does in the Northeast. In places where the general cost of living is higher, roof replacements will cost more as well. If you live in the Midwest, you will need to replace your roof more often. High speed winds, tornadoes, blizzards, and ice storms will all wreck havoc on your roof. Temperature fluctuations can also damage roofs. In the desert the temperature can be over 100 degrees during the day and drop to 50 or 40 degrees at night. 20-year asphalt shingles in Arizona and New Mexico last on average only 15 years, due to sustained damage from temperature fluctuations. Homeowners in regions with mild weather can get away with more moderate roof repairs, putting off full replacements for longer periods of time.  

Roof replacement estimates may vary depending on all of these factors (location, materials, etc.). The final cost once the work is completed may be higher than the initial estimate, as your roof may have some unforeseen damage that will add to the final cost . Underneath the shingles, your roof could be rotted or have water damage. Replacing the roof support system can add thousands of dollars to the bill, depending on the extent of the damage. This is a good incentive to keep your roof properly maintained and have it replaced on time.  

When you're choosing your roofing contractor, ask for references. You'll definitely want to see examples of their work on local homes. When giving an estimate, a contractor will come to your house to inspect your roof. He'll come up with a number that factors in the cost of materials and labor, including the cost of stripping and throwing away the old shingles. The estimate should include the cost of removal and disposal of the old roofing material. If not, ask about this to avoid surprises. There is a chance that there will be some unforeseen costs in the project, so it is good to avoid as many of these as possible. After the visit, they will send you a written contract. A contract from a roofing company should include a description of what is to be done, as well as when it is to be done and a schedule for payment. Having it all in writing can protect the homeowner later on. Be sure to shop around before settling on a specific contractor, as prices can vary considerably.  

Once you've chosen your roofing materials and your contractor, it's time to set a date for the project. The actual work of replacing the roof can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the roof. You should plan to have someone at home while the work is being done. If they have any questions or discover any additional problems with your roof, it helps that you are home to discuss things with them.  

Before the workers arrive, it's good to remove any items that may get in the way of their ladders. Climbing on roofs can be dangerous, even for professionals, so it's best to stay out of their way. First, the roofers rip out all the old roofing shingles and replace any rotted or damaged wood in the roof. Next they lay a base, and then they lay the shingles. Roof work is noisy. Expect to hear a lot of hammering as well as people running around all over your roof. It's not really an invasive home repair. You won't have workmen coming inside your house. As long as you don't mind the noise, it's not much of a hassle.  

When the old shingles have been stripped, any un-shingled portions of the roof should be covered with a tarp overnight to protect your home in case of rain or overnight storms.  

Once your new roof is completed, make sure the workers have cleaned up all the debris that has fallen. When a roof is replaced, the workers usually toss the pieces of the old roof onto the ground or into a dump truck as they're working. Once the bulk of the old material is disposed of, responsible companies will clean up after themselves to ensure customer satisfaction. They usually have a magnetic broom that picks up all the nails and other materials that can be hazardous as well as unsightly. You may find a shingle or two in your yard afterwards, which is perfectly normal.  

When you have roof work done, you should never pay anything up front. You always pay after the job is completed. This is standard procedure. All reputable roofing companies operate this way.  

Excessive energy costs.. More and more homes today are being designed and built with energy efficiency in mind. From the building materials contractors use down to the appliances we choose for our homes, the green initiative is catching on with homeowners and builders alike. For those who live in homes older homes there are an abundance of light repair projects that can turn that older drafty home into a more modern model of efficiency. One important area of the house to look to for at first is your roof as it can provide you with good indicator if you are experiencing an increase in the cost heat and cool your home. If not properly ventilated warm air can build up in your attic causing your utility bills to rise excessively in the hot summer months when you are trying to keep the house cool, as well as in the winter when you and your family are trying to stay warm. A properly installed roof provides for ample ventilation and not having proper ventilation can lead to not only excessive energy costs but also premature roof failure. Often times what might be considered a small repair job can extend the life of your roof. Having a roofing specialist inspect the ventilation in your attic and roof can end up saving you lots of money down the road.

Blistering and/or peeling of outside paint. This is one of the easiest warning signs to spot. But all too often this sign goes on ignored or attributed to something other than what is most likely causing the problem. This blistering or peeling of outside paint is usually the result of excessive moisture or high humidity due to poor ventilation especially in the attic. Inadequate ventilation results in hot air being trapped and built up in the attic. This excess heat can not only cook or in essence bake the roofing shingles but it also cause bubbling, blistering and peeling of the exterior paint around the gables and eaves and even the siding. Having properly working attic fans as well as bathroom exhausts are vital to avoiding this issue in your home and as it pertains to your roof.

Water marks on the ceilings and/or interior mildew growth. Not all of the signs of the need for possible roof repair or replacement can be seen from outside your home. Some signs are closer than you may realize until it is nearly too late. Yes we're talking about roof leaks. Leaks are usually difficult to detect until it is nearly too late, and just as hard to pinpoint their origin. Roofing leaks may be a result of insufficient underlayment or deteriorating flashing which can repaired inexpensively. On the other hand they may possibly be the result of a much larger and widespread problem that could end up costing you your next vacation or year end bonus if you don't watch out! Unfortunately the origin of a leak is usually hard to detect as the water may run down the rafters or a chimney, or even into the drywall of your ceiling where it can collect and build up. This build up and trapping of water and moisture can lead to not only mold problems but also eventual cracks and leaks in your ceiling as the water deteriorates the sheet rock. Now you have an even bigger problem. If you start to see signs of water marks on the ceiling you should immediately call a roofing professional to inspect the problem before gets any worse. Having regular home inspections once a year is a smart way avoid undetected repair issues with your roof and the rest of your home. Its always better to address any repair issues before they are compounded by the passing of time.

Excessive energy costs.. More and more homes today are being designed and built with energy efficiency in mind. From the building materials contractors use down to the appliances we choose for our homes, the green initiative is catching on with homeowners and builders alike. For those who live in homes older homes there are an abundance of light repair projects that can turn that older drafty home into a more modern model of efficiency. One important area of the house to look to for at first is your roof as it can provide you with good indicator if you are experiencing an increase in the cost heat and cool your home. If not properly ventilated warm air can build up in your attic causing your utility bills to rise excessively in the hot summer months when you are trying to keep the house cool, as well as in the winter when you and your family are trying to stay warm. A properly installed roof provides for ample ventilation and not having proper ventilation can lead to not only excessive energy costs but also premature roof failure. Often times what might be considered a small repair job can extend the life of your roof. Having a roofing specialist inspect the ventilation in your attic and roof can end up saving you lots of money down the road.

So now that you know these important warning signs to spot you can avoid the pain and hassle of dealing with a potentially much larger and costly project than you may have the stomach for. You don't have to sacrifice that down payment on a new car or that family vacation you were planning to take, but only if you act now before it is too late. Remember, most roofing contractors offer a free inspection so it costs you nothing to at least have your roof looked at for potential problems that can usually be repaired for less than you may think. Just make sure you do your homework and get quotes from several different candidates as well as references. Also check to make sure any potential candidate is properly licensed and bonded, and that they offer a warranty or guarantee. By being proactive and finding the right contractor for the job you can avoid bigger problems down the road.

Have you taken a good look at your roof lately? I mean really taken a good up close look. Would you know how to tell when it is time have a roofing professional take a look at your roof? Or have you been purposely ignoring the obvious warning signs that you may need to have your roof examined simply because you fear the thought of what it will cost to repair or replace your roof, if indeed a problem is found? Whichever the case, you're not alone. In fact you are like so many other home owners who just don't have the time or money or patience for another home repair project, another expense, basically another headache to have to budget for. You may have been saving for a family trip, a new car, or even renovating one of the rooms in your home and think that you just can't afford right now. So you ignore the signs and you put it off in favor of the new car, the family trip, or the master bathroom renovation. But unfortunately roof repair is not something you want to put on the back burner, as it can end up costing you substantially more money down the road, if it's not already costing you more money now!

So you may be asking yourself how do I know if I indeed need to have my roof repaired or replaced, or if I just need to have it cleaned? Well you could always call a roofing contractor and request an inspection. Most roofing contractors offer free inspections and can even assist you with getting your homeowner's insurance to cover most if not all of the cost if it is a result of some kind of hail or storm damage. If you are still not convinced you should call a roofing specialist here are nine warning signs that will let you know that you surely need to have your roof repaired or even replaced. Most of these signs can be seen from the ground and by looking in your attic if accessible. If you choose to get on the roof itself and inspect please use caution as the granules of the roofing shingles could be loose and cause you to slip and possibly fall. So BE CAREFUL!

Dark stained or dirty-looking areas on your roof. One of the most likely causes of any dark or stained looking areas on your roof is a result fungi or algae growth which in turn causes the roof to appear abnormally black or dirty in certain areas. This problem often occurs in warm, humid climates such as the southeastern part of the country. This can be a problem for your roof as the algae or mold starts eat away at the shingle base causing them to loosen and decay. If you spot any dark areas on your roof and are apprehensive of climbing on your roof to get a better look then contact a trusted roofing contractor to inspect your roof and determine if the stains are indeed algae growth and to what extent. It is better to address potential mold growth before it spreads to other parts of the roof making this headache and the potential hit to your wallet even worse than you thought it may be.

Shingle and sheathing deterioration. Deterioration of the shingles, or even worse the sheathing of a roof, can be caused by a number of factors; one of which is mentioned previously. Mold and algae can eat away at the organic base of shingles causing them to decay. If this problem goes on undetected and reaches the sheathing panels then it may be too late as the sheathing is the connection between the shingles and the rafters of the roof. If this connection is weak then it makes your roof even more vulnerable to loss during potentially high winds during storms can eventually compromise the integrity of your roof. If your roof appears to be sagging in areas it could be a sign of a much larger problem called roof rot which could lead to the possible collapse of your roof. By having a roofing professional inspect your roof you could be avoiding additional repair costs to not only your roof but to the interior of your home.

Missing, buckled, cracked or curled shingles. All of these signs are usually indications that they may be near the end of their useful life. Due in part to time and prolonged exposure to the different elements Mother Nature may throw at them, the shingles on your unfortunately will not last forever. In fact the useful life of your typical asphalt/fiberglass shingle is 20-25 years depending on where you live in the country and the quality of the shingle manufacturer among other factors. Over time the granules that add color to and protect the shingle material from UV rays begins to fall off exposing the material to the elements. Over time this exposure causes the shingles to crack or curl upwards at the edges. Sometimes this cracking can eventually lead to shingles breaking into pieces and flying off the roof or buckling during storms with really high winds.

Shingle and sheathing deterioration. Deterioration of the shingles, or even worse the sheathing of a roof, can be caused by a number of factors; one of which is mentioned previously. Mold and algae can eat away at the organic base of shingles causing them to decay. If this problem goes on undetected and reaches the sheathing panels then it may be too late as the sheathing is the connection between the shingles and the rafters of the roof. If this connection is weak then it makes your roof even more vulnerable to loss during potentially high winds during storms can eventually compromise the integrity of your roof. If your roof appears to be sagging in areas it could be a sign of a much larger problem called roof rot which could lead to the possible collapse of your roof. By having a roofing professional inspect your roof you could be avoiding additional repair costs to not only your roof but to the interior of your home.

What are the expertise and financial strengths of the roofing contractor you are considering?

Roofing contractors need to be chosen with great care. The introduction of new roofing materials and application techniques within the past 10 years has led to many changes. A professional roofing contractor should be familiar with different types of roofing systems, to help you make the best decision for your facility, based on your budget.

Ask the contractor if his or her company is a member of a local, state, regional or national industry association. Contractors involved in professional associations generally are better informed on the latest developments and issues of their industry.

Insist the contractor supply you with copies of insurance certificates that verify workers' compensation and general liability coverages. Check that those coverages are in effect for the duration of your roofing job. If the contractor is not properly insured, your company, as the property owner, may be liable for accidents occurring on the property. Also check your state's licensing requirements and find out if the contractor is bonded by a surety company.

The installation of different roofing systems varies considerably. Education and training are the most important elements in the installation of roofing systems. Make sure the roofing contractor you choose has had detailed and ongoing training on the system being installed.

One rule of thumb is to find out if the contractor has installed at least 100,000 square feet of the system you want in the past 18 months. Also, make sure the contractor is approved by the manufacturer to install that specific system.

The quality of workmanship is crucial to good roof performance. The National Roofing Contractors Association offers a professional roofing selection guide. In addition, many manufacturers have approved contractor programs with specific qualifications that roofers must complete before approval.

What is warranted and by whom?

There are two basic categories of roofing warranties. The contractor's warranty typically covers workmanship. The manufacturer's warranty covers at least the materials, though many cover additional items. Even if the manufacturer's warranty is broad, it will not completely protect you if the roof is improperly installed.

Carefully read and understand any roofing warranty offered and watch for provisions that would void it. For example, it's nearly impossible to avoid all ponded water. Ponded water can be caused by a clogged roof drain or deflection of the roof deck in between the support columns. Proper roof maintenance can help assure that the warranty remains valid. Be aware of warranty language that voids the guarantee.

Most professional roofing contractors will offer periodic maintenance inspections throughout the year. These inspections help ensure your project complies with the standards specified in the warranty. A typical maintenance program consists of a detailed visual examination of the roof system, flashing, insulation and related components to identify any potential trouble areas.

More important than the warranty, however, is getting the right flexible-membrane roof on your building in the first place. If the roof is correctly designed and installed to meet your facility's needs, building codes and geographical considerations, and the warranty covers those needs, you probably will be enjoying the benefits of a flexible-membrane roof many years after the original warranty expires.

After the roof is installed, what after service and educational programs are available for the facilities management team?

Seminars offered by roofing industry associations like SPRI and manufacturers can be invaluable ways for the building's roofing team to expand their understanding of commercial roofing system types, installation processes and maintenance considerations. Specific courses are available to help building owners and facilities managers learn more about various roofing systems, materials and components; insulation and accessory products; elements of roof design; contractor selection; warranties and maintenance considerations.

Owners who view the roofing system as a one-time expense, and make specification decisions based solely on first costs, run the risk of incurring higher roof maintenance and repair expenditures. The bottom line: Selecting the wrong system is likely to cost a facility executive significantly more than if the right system had initially been selected.

Roof replacement estimates may vary depending on all of these factors (location, materials, etc.). The final cost once the work is completed may be higher than the initial estimate, as your roof may have some unforeseen damage that will add to the final cost . Underneath the shingles, your roof could be rotted or have water damage. Replacing the roof support system can add thousands of dollars to the bill, depending on the extent of the damage. This is a good incentive to keep your roof properly maintained and have it replaced on time.  

When you're choosing your roofing contractor, ask for references. You'll definitely want to see examples of their work on local homes. When giving an estimate, a contractor will come to your house to inspect your roof. He'll come up with a number that factors in the cost of materials and labor, including the cost of stripping and throwing away the old shingles. The estimate should include the cost of removal and disposal of the old roofing material. If not, ask about this to avoid surprises. There is a chance that there will be some unforeseen costs in the project, so it is good to avoid as many of these as possible. After the visit, they will send you a written contract. A contract from a roofing company should include a description of what is to be done, as well as when it is to be done and a schedule for payment. Having it all in writing can protect the homeowner later on. Be sure to shop around before settling on a specific contractor, as prices can vary considerably.  

Once you've chosen your roofing materials and your contractor, it's time to set a date for the project. The actual work of replacing the roof can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the size of the roof. You should plan to have someone at home while the work is being done. If they have any questions or discover any additional problems with your roof, it helps that you are home to discuss things with them.  

Before the workers arrive, it's good to remove any items that may get in the way of their ladders. Climbing on roofs can be dangerous, even for professionals, so it's best to stay out of their way. First, the roofers rip out all the old roofing shingles and replace any rotted or damaged wood in the roof. Next they lay a base, and then they lay the shingles. Roof work is noisy. Expect to hear a lot of hammering as well as people running around all over your roof. It's not really an invasive home repair. You won't have workmen coming inside your house. As long as you don't mind the noise, it's not much of a hassle.  

When the old shingles have been stripped, any un-shingled portions of the roof should be covered with a tarp overnight to protect your home in case of rain or overnight storms.  

Once your new roof is completed, make sure the workers have cleaned up all the debris that has fallen. When a roof is replaced, the workers usually toss the pieces of the old roof onto the ground or into a dump truck as they're working. Once the bulk of the old material is disposed of, responsible companies will clean up after themselves to ensure customer satisfaction. They usually have a magnetic broom that picks up all the nails and other materials that can be hazardous as well as unsightly. You may find a shingle or two in your yard afterwards, which is perfectly normal.  

When you have roof work done, you should never pay anything up front. You always pay after the job is completed. This is standard procedure. All reputable roofing companies operate this way.