Modern roofs are much more than coverings to keep out the elements; they are an investment and can be a costly expense if not well cared for. Roofs of the past let hot summer air and the winter cold into the uppermost regions of a facility or private home. As facility managers looks for ways to reduce overhead and maintenance costs, roofing is becoming a focal point for those who need to manage the health of their buildings as well as their energy costs.
Choose the Material for your Climate
There has been a marked increase in roofing manufacturers since 1970 till now there are about 500. New energy efficient roofs have taken the place of the old chemically based sheets of shingles. Not only do they save energy but they last anywhere from ten to forty years longer than their predecessors. With proper maintenance a new, energy efficient roof can protect a business for up to fifty years!
Not only do you have a wide variety of materials to choose from, there are many different roofing materials to serve different needs. Those in climates with long, hot summers might want to choose a new tile roof that draws hot air in at the eave level and expels it at the ridge, using hot air's natural cycle of rising to keep the building cool. Chemical roofs were once the norm but now roofs are more complex-cool roofs, metal roofs, even green roofs are becoming more common. Cool metal roofing would be more efficient for tropical climates and save up to forty percent on energy costs. Old asphalt roofs trapped heat whereas metal reflects it. These cool metal roofs can also reduce the temperature of a neighborhood by about twelve degrees!
How Modern Roofing Works
A roof that keeps hot air away from the building can save thousands on indoor climate control. The temperatures on a roof can reach 150-190 degrees and new energy saving materials can keep that heat away from the interior of the building. During the replacement cycle that all roofs have, replacing old school roofing with new energy saving materials and extras can save a significant amount of money. By keeping the hot air moving away from the roof, the air conditioning unit doesn't have to work as hard, extending its life and saving on maintenance costs.
Extras Will Save More than they Cost
Extras that can be added onto an existing roof, such as sky lights and vents, can also extend the life of a building. Tinted skylights will reflect harmful UV rays while making use of natural lighting while un-tinted skylights can allow in the warmth of the winter sun. Many facility managers are staggering both types of skylights and adding interior shields in order to take advantage of natural light in all seasons and solar warmth during the cold season.
Regular inspections, especially before or after severe weather incidents will extend the life of your roof while the cost of such inspections are actually investments in your roof's longevity and efficiency. Inspections can catch a few loose shingles or tiles before they turn into costly repairs.
Rialto Management Corp. manages properties in New York city. For more information about NYC building management or New York City building management please visit their website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Gilbert
The primary function of a roof is to provide protection from all the elements in any climate. The slope and rigidness of roof is used for shedding water and bearing any extra burden on it. But the types of roofs used on homes are nearly countless. They can be categorized by color, design, material and constricting structure. By design of construction roofs are of many types like hib, gable, shed and leon-to, etc. The types of roofs by shape used on homes are nearly endless. But mostly all these are traditional designs for roofs. Different designs for roofs are currently introduced by design professionals. They faced with opportunities to improve on existing building construction in the form of roof replacement and masonry restoration. Now, it is the duty of design professionals that how they can manage this opportunity to achieve sustainable design solutions.
But a great problem with the roofs after their construction is leakage, roofs require periodic repairing process. Repair process very widely depends upon the metal of roof. There are many resources on how to find and recover the leakage problem but most of the time, homeowners locate and face the same problem with them. So it is very necessary to repair the leaking roofs. But how we can solve and minimize this problem? Some times it is due to the use of construction material that is used in roofs. There are different materials are used for roof repairing that generate different results. Natural products like wood, iron, glass, LP gas are used as very important elements of construction material with some other products. For this purpose, there are many products like liquid rubber and roof leaks repair, very frequently used by the builders for construction. But it increases the expenditures and applying cost for building or repairing a house.
Every fiscal year marks inflation and the prices of having long term usage products changed in up direction. That’s why the prices of roofing material gradually increased with the passage of time. During 1997 the review of construction shows that near about $40 million spent for roof repair but cost included extensive amount of work and in 2002 great increments in prices is recorded. With proper maintenance and coating, a low slope roof can last significantly longer than its expected or predicted life. This will reduce the cost of the roof and reduce demand for raw materials like liquid roof, EPDM, EPDM coatings and liquid rubber, precious energy and other relevant roof repair resources. Liquid roof coatings can truly make "Sustainable Roofing" a reality and object of achieving sustainable improvements of the projects will be presented.
Roof Coatings are known as the price reducing techniques in roof repairing field. They surely minimize the actual cost and expenditures of roof repairing. Because it is a long term facility, that prevents the roof from leakage and damage after applying. Whenever you replace a previously snow or rain damaged roof, you must contact with the experienced person of this field. Because they are already aware from all these problems better than you and can solve this problem by applying liquid roof repair or liquid rubber in better way. That will give you satisfactory results in future and prevents from more expenditure for roof repairing.
But the sustainability of a building construction is mainly related to the use of the different materials in building components. The performance of those specific components may be different or same. Many builders’ experience points out that the weakest link is the interface between those various components of the building. For this purpose we need clear-cut criteria and methodologies to achieve the maximum perfect results of our objects in the field of construction. Many comparative analysis and standard test methods can help us to get the long term results.
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Liquid Rubber
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There are different types of roof problems, and it is best to be aware of them so you can avoid shortening the life span of the roof. Some typical roof problems are:
Not enough maintenance done. Failing to fix minor roof problems can lead to a bigger problems later on. Structural damage caused by any physical contact can also lead to more problems later on.
Climate and Weather. Extreme weather (hail, ice, snow, scorching heat) can expedite the deterioration of a roof. Strong winds can, of course, damage the roof as well.
Industrially polluted or salty air (as near the sea) and other atmospheric contaminants are also contributing factors.
Wrong design. A faulty design can lead to early problems. A weak or improperly attached roof can also collapse from weight.
Flashing problems. Flashings are used to make the roof watertight. Improper installation and weak flashing can make the roof leak and by the time it is discovered, water damage maybe extensive.
* How do I know if I need a new roof if I don't see any leaks?
Leaks are not the only reason for replacing a roof. Furthermore, if you wait until you begin seeing leaks, you may end up with more damage and a bigger problem than you had hoped. So, check your roof regularly for the following:
- Age of roof - Depending on the kind of roofing, a roof can last up to 20 years. If your roof is 15 years old, you should be watching for signs of needing repair.
- Missing or torn shingles - Damaged shingles expose the roof to water damage and rot. They also make it so that other shingles may be blown away in the wind. Old shingles may curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness. These weakened shingles are more likely to be blown away by wind gusts.
- Rusted or missing flashing - Flashing is the metal that surrounds chimneys, skylights and vent pipes. It is also often found in the valleys of the roof where the roof sections meet. If it is rusted, damaged or missing, it could cause leaks.
- Gutters - Check gutters, downspouts and splash pans for damage or decay. Look for broken pieces of paint and scraps of roofing. This may be a sign that your roof needs some attention.
- Inside Walls - Watch for discolored plasterboard or cracked paint and peeling wallpaper indoors. This could be a sign of a leaky roof.
* What kind of preventive maintenance should I do for my roof?
Since roofs are constantly exposed to the elements, most roof damage results from weather and pollutants in the atmosphere. To save yourself big repair costs or even having to replace your roof before its time, you should perform a general inspection on your roof at least twice a year, checking for mildew, mold, rust, trapped water, and possible damage, and make minor repairs if necessary. That is the best preventive maintenance you can do.
Also, be sure to keep your roof clean. Remove any debris that may accumulate on it and clean out the roof gutters regularly. Also, repair any weather damage as soon as it occurs.
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It is important to realize that the roof is determined as an armament of a house and thus replacing your roof could be expensive and difficult. When you need to replace your roof, contacting a roofing company providing residential and commercial roofing services would be the right option for you. However, the introduction of online media has made it easy for you to search for a cheap and competent roof contractor who can handle the project with ease. Initially, he has to inspect your roof thoroughly and determine the kind of roof to be replaced by keeping in mind the specifications of the roof that is to be removed. The online contractor will offer you the coziness what you exactly got from the previous roof.
The best course of action is to replace your roof when you find some signs of roof problems, like cracked or missing shingles, peeling wallpaper, or loose seams. It is important for every homeowner to perform roof replacement after two decades or so if he or she wants a roof that can last long and withstand harsh weather and situations. However, online roofing service is like the icing on the cake as it is cost-effective and save your money while providing longevity to your roof.
What are you looking for? Visit a roofing company online and select a competent contractor to replace the roof of your home. Surely, you will get the best roof replacement solution at competitive prices that will keep your home safe and strong.
About the Author
Roof101 offers professional roofing contractors, each specializing in different roofing aspects, including allRoof Replacement and roof installation types. We offer a wide variety of Roof Installation services for both flat and sloped roofs.
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But if you have roof windows or skylights, it is much harder to work out what type of blind to order and how to find what you are looking for at the right price.
To start with, how do I find out what make my roof window is, and how do I calculate the size?
Consider these issues:
A roof window or skylight blind will not “hang” like a blind on a vertical window. This means that the blind has to be constrained either by siderails, wires, or by tension
A “normal” vertical window is placed on the inside of the window and is generally placed over the outer dimensions of the window frame. Normal windows open outwards and are usually hinged at the side or at the top (or are sliding sash windows) so they hardly ever interfere with the screening products behind them. Most roof window / skylights are pivoted in the middle, so you cannot use the same criteria. The blinds for these windows have to sit inside the opening sash to allow them to be opened at will.
Many of the options open to you in terms of curtain fabrics will not be open to you with roof windows / skylights, because it is a niche market and is not worth the bigger producers’ time in producing for them.
What type of blinds are available for roof windows and skylights?
There are typically 5 types of blind available for roof windows on the market today.
Blackout blinds
As the title suggests, these blinds will shut out 100% of the daylight, some of the noise (i.e. traffic, rain) and some of the heat. They are typically made to fit a specific window and come in a cartridge format, with aluminium side rails. You should be able to move the blackout blind into any position and it stay there on a decent blind.
TIP! Don’t buy a blind with plastic side rails, the (higher) heat that comes through a roof window will surely buckle it and discolour it.
These are by far the biggest selling roof window blinds in the marketplace.
Pleated Blinds (also called Plissé Blinds)
Pleated blinds are fabric blinds that are formed into folded (concertina style) pleats and which run on a string or wire. Because they work on the same principle as they do in vertical windows, these are commonly made for roof windows by small producers quite cheaply. But beware, because their flimsy construction and typically low quality cloths tend to lead to short lifetimes.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds are definitely the cheapest of all the blinds for roof windows and skylights. Made very simply around a spring loaded barrel, these blinds rely on the tension of the barrel to stay tight inside the window.
They are typically held into place in the window by either wooden lists (side pieces) or by nailed in pegs/clips which secure the blind in typically 3 static positions.
Venetian Blinds
Good venetian blinds in roof windows are hard to come by, as they have to either run within a track or on a wire to function properly. Go for aluminium slats and definitely not plastic, for the roof window is typically subject to a lot more heat.
You should also be able to position the blind in any position and still manipulate the angle of the slat. Avoid a venetian blind which has a hanging down pole to adjust the slat angle – they just look stupid!
Awning Blinds
Awning blinds are very different, in that they sit outside the window and stop the heat/light/rain before it hits the window.
Generally available in a dark black mesh, they reduce the amount of heat hitting the window far more than any other blind, and are especially good where intense sunlight will overheat your attic room. Intense daylight can also discolour your carpet or flooring, so these are well worth considering in addition to any plans you may have for your blinds.
Where can I get my blinds from?
Well firstly you should consider that the purchase process for blinds for roof windows and skylights is unlike the process for buying vertical blinds, in that in general it is unnecessary to buy blinds and cut them to size or to have them made specially. This means they are an ideal internet purchase!
If you go to the local blind store and don’t have the make, size and type of your roof window you almost certainly will have to come home and find it, so be prepared!!
Here is a quick link to a good reference for how to find your window type and size – http://www.itzala.net/gb/shop/!cipc4.shop?cLnk=50114. There you can also see some easy installation guides which also apply to the leading brand manufacturers windows.
How much should I pay?
Well I guess the old adage “how long is a piece of string?” applies, but you should know that the major manufacturers charge top dollar, but they discount to resellers so you have to hunt around for the one giving the most discount (often on Ebay).
There are a few smaller manufacturers making blinds for the leading brands, but make sure you pick one with a well featured website with security that you can definitely trust.
In terms of colours, you will get most choice from the brand leading window manufacturer, but it appears that even with a wide range of choices, most of us prefer to have dark blue, beige or white blinds (I know I do…) so they are the ones you will get the cheapest.
Recommended site links
http://www.itzala.net - low cost but good quality supplier
http://www.contrio.net - supplier to the trade
http://www.velux.com/shop - the market leading brand
Questions? Contact mc@itzala.net
http://www.articlecity.com/
Everyone knows that roof stains are ugly, and detract from the value of your home. We know the stains allow heat to build up in the house, causing the airconditioner to run longer, making energy bills higher.
But, now, the insurance industry is concerned about the appearance of your roof!!
Your insurance company can inspect your home anytime, and frequently it is a driveby inspection. Condition of home is noted, how well painted, chipping paint AND ROOF CONDITION!
YES, Roof Condition.
Insurance Inspectors note the condition of the roof, and report it back to the insurance company who will may require that your clean the roof, or threaten cancellation of your policy! Of course, if they cancel you, the next insurance company may not insure your home for the same reason.
BUT WHY?
Insurance companies actions confirm for us that they believe roof stains will lead to further problems with the roof integrity, roof mold, and the eventual movement of that mold inside the home. All of these items are 'risks' for the insurance company, because they may result in a claim against the policy.
What to do? Clean your roof before an inspector sees it!
Home inspections can occur at any time, however the most frequent triggers include:
A Clean Roof makes contributes to neighborhood values, and good health.
Protect your family, roof, and insurance policy by including a Cleaner TODAY roof cleaner as part of annual maintenance.
You and your insurance company will appreciate it!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/roof-stains-cause-insurance-policy-problems-48608.html
If you're looking for "installing roof" information, you've come to the right place. The first thing to determine is: When does it make sense to do it yourself... and when could it be a big mistake? There are two important factors for your consideration...
Installing Roof Yourself? - Factor #1: Safety
Some projects are inherently more dangerous than others. The main risk factors are the slope, the height and the condition of the roof surface. Slopes up to 6:12 are relatively easy to walk on and work on. Anything above that is increasingly difficult to do safely.
One-story roofs are safer than those that are two stories or more. And roof surfaces which are solid and offer sure footing, are much safer than rotted roof decks and slippery roofing. Asphalt shingles are usually pretty safe to walk on compared to metal, tile or wood shakes.
Be especially wary if your roof has multiple risk factors. For example, if your roof is steep, slippery and two or three stories high, it could be a big mistake trying to roof it yourself. Any money you save, will quickly evaporate if you end up in the hospital and unable to work for months due to an injury.
Installing Roof Yourself? - Factor #2: Complexity
A simple hip or gable roof with a few pipes and vents is a project many homeowners could handle. But a complicated design with numerous valleys, skylights, chimneys and other fussy flashing details is much more challenging for a do-it-yourselfer. Even pros who do this work every day have trouble getting these things right.
But if you take the time to learn the details, there's no reason you can't do a good job. What you lack in experience, you can more than make up for in dedication to the task at hand.
If you're going to do-it-yourself, there's a lot more "installing roof" information you need to know. To make the job easier and help you avoid big mistakes, go to: http://www.roofingsecrets.com
John C Bishop is the author of "Roofing Secrets: How to Avoid Leaks and Save Thousands of Dollars!"
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_C._Bishop
When you are laying down metal on top of a house, what are you doing? Or how about laying shingles down on top of a house? You are taking more time letting the sunbeam down on your sweaty back than you would be with putting foam roof insulation on the roof.
When you use metal for your room chances are the sun is beaming down on top of it which in terms makes it more hot in your house and even more harder to cool it down, this could make your electricity sky rocket in price. If you are considering saving money, in the long run you will be saving money with foam roof insulation because this will help your house from getting too hot.
Have you heard of or had the problem with a couple of months after a shingled roof was installed it starter leaking? With foam room insulation it can last a long time before it start leaking. Foam roof insulation has a long lifetime of about fifty years or more to it before you will have to replace it again. If your foam roof insulation does start to leak, then it will be easy for you to find the leak and fix it on your foam room insulation, because you will always see the water.
Foam roof insulation will take no time to install, all you do Is use a certain type of gun that heats up the former then you put it on your roof. If you have the time and money put on a foam room it is highly recommended because you will end up saving money in the long run, not just on the roof but on your monthly electric bill that you have to pay as well. When you do get a foam room insulation put onto your house you will not regret it.
Written by Antony Scher. Find the latest information on Roof Bond as well as Roof Insulation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antony_Scher
