Blog from the Best Roofer in St. Louis

Commercial Roof Replacement: What to Expect

When your Missouri commercial building sustains damage or its roof ages to the point of requiring replacement, Shelby Roofing & Exteriors can help you. In this blog, we’ll consider the process of commercial roof replacement, including the planning phase, installation, and inspection.

Commercial Roof Replacement Timeline

The total commercial roofing replacement project takes about two weeks, but most of that consists of planning. The planning phase typically takes one week, during which time you collaborate with your roofer to plan important aspects of the job. Once work begins on the roof, the project moves quickly. An experienced commercial roofer installs a replacement roof in three to four days, barring weather or other delays.

Prepare Your Business

Meet with your contractor to gain an understanding of the scope of the project and prepare accordingly. Coordinate with your contractor to minimize business downtime. Let’s consider the scoping, waste planning, and safety considerations that go into a roofing job.

Scoping

Your commercial roofing professional evaluates the current roofing system and recommends the top replacement choices. Because manufacturers consistently improve materials, the ideal roof for your commercial building might differ from what you have now. The roofing contractor also helps you put together a timeline for the project, including any time you’ll to shut down business operations for the roofing work.

Debris and Waste Removal

Your roofing contractor needs access to your building’s dumpsters so the work crew knows where to stash the day’s trash. You will need to designate areas for debris collection so workers can drop roofing materials during the tear off process. Work with your contractor to schedule daily pickups by your waste management company or another contractor so debris doesn’t pile up and ruin your curb appeal.

Safety Review

When you hire an experienced commercial roofer like Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, you benefit from a safer process. Our Missouri business complies with all Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards. We use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall protection systems, plus adhere to stringent ladder usage guidelines.

Replace the Roof

Once you finish the planning phase, work moves quickly and efficiently. Your roofing service begins by removing the existing roofing materials. The foreman inspects the decking next; if it requires no repairs, work commences on the roof replacement.

The work crew installs the new roofing materials, including a layer of felt underlayment to protect the structure from moisture and rooftop insulation to reduce energy costs. Your commercial building’s new roof might consist of:

  • Metal panels
  • Single-ply membranes (TPO or EPDM)
  • Built-up roofing.
  • Consult with your roofer to choose which material best suits your building.

The roofing team seals the roof to prevent leaks. They use specialized tapes, adhesives, and caulk to seal seams and joints. The lead contractor inspects the flashing and the overall installation before allowing the work crew to apply sealant or other coating materials to waterproof the roof.

After the final clean-up of the job site, the roofer conducts a final inspection. When the roof passes inspection, the crew goes home, and you resume business as usual in a building with a spiffy new roof that enhances your curb appeal and impresses your customers.

Contact Us Today

When your Missouri business needs a replacement roof, call Shelby Roofing & Exteriors. Founded by Pat Shelby in 1983, we’ve provided top-notch commercial roofing services to Southern Illinois and Missouri ever since. Call us today.

Understanding Different Roof Vent Types and Their Impact on Your Roof’s Lifespan

There are several different kinds of roofing vents, but they all have the same purpose. They are meant to release heat from the attic. This may seem counterintuitive if you are trying to keep your house warm in winter, but not venting your attic carries some pricey consequences. 

Why Vent the Roof?

In winter, heat in your home rises until it reaches the attic. It builds and begins to cause melting of snow and ice from underneath the piles on your roof. Water forms and rolls down toward the gutters, but because it’s cold outside, it freezes and creates ice dams. Ice dams in turn cause a ton of shingle damage and eventually water damage to your roof. If your roof vents are doing their jobs correctly, the heat escapes quickly and ice dams can’t form. No ice dams mean no damage to your roof, and no damage to your roof means your roof lasts longer.

Types of Roof Vents

There are ridge vents, which sit on the top of a roof ridge and run the entire length of it. These are advantageous because the heat escapes from the top-most point of the roof, thereby preventing melting of any snow and ice down the slopes of the roof from the ridge. 

Soffit vents are installed underneath the overhang of your roof (i.e., where the soffits are). Heat that escapes this way helps protect the soffits and the overhanging structures of the roof. 

Box vents are just as they sound; box-shaped covers over vents in your roof. They have no moving parts or fans involved with removing the excess heat from your roof. They are installed higher up on the slope of a roof and release heat through an open vent port. The “box” prevents debris and wildlife from getting into the vents. They are the most common because they are the most cost -effective vent option, but not always the most efficient.

What Are the Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Roof?

Your roof protects you and your loved ones from external elements like rain, snow, and sunlight. No matter how well you take care of your roof, there comes a time when it requires replacement. You should, therefore, contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors for professional assistance when you notice signs of trouble. Our experts can help you determine if you should repair or replace your roof, depending on various factors like age and the damage to the structure. Below are the signs that your roof has reached its lifespan, and a replacement is ideal.

1. Curling or Buckling Shingles

Take a close look at your roof, and if you notice any curling or buckling shingles, it’s time for a replacement. Curling or buckling shingles can cause leaks in your home, damaging your property and destroying the structural integrity of your roof, and should be attended to immediately.

2. Damaged Flashing

Flashing refers to thin sheets of metal installed around roof penetrations and intersections to prevent water from seeping into your building. If you notice any signs of damage on your flashing, such as rust or cracks, it’s time to call Shelby Roofing & Exteriors experts for a new roof. Damaged flashing may result in water infiltration, causing harm to your roof and home.

3. Water Leaks in Your Home

 If you start to notice water leaks in your home, it’s a sign that your roof is failing and needs immediate attention. Signs of water leaks include stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paints, mold growth, and damp patches on floors or carpets.

4. High Energy Bills

Your roof works in collaboration with your HVAC systems to regulate indoor temperatures. Therefore, if you notice skyrocketing energy bills, you might need to replace your roof. A damaged or aged roof can significantly raise energy bills due to compromised insulation and increased heat loss or gain. Consequently, it will necessitate higher energy consumption to maintain indoor comfort levels.

5. Age of Your Roof

On average, a roof can last anywhere from 10-50 years, depending on the type of material used. Metal roofs, for instance, can last up to 50 years, while asphalt shingles can service you for between 15-30 years. If your roof is approaching its lifespan, you should start considering a replacement.

6. Frequent Repairs

While minor repairs are expected with any roof, frequent and recurring issues show that your roof needs replacement. If you continue to patch up the roof, it may cost more in the long run and can potentially put your home at risk.

Ignoring the above signs is easy until it causes a significant problem like water infiltration or structural damage. Contacting our roofing professionals to assess your roof’s condition and discuss the potential need for replacement can assist in preventing expensive repairs and guarantee continued protection of your home.

Understanding Different Roof Vent Types and Their Impact on Your Roof’s Lifespan

There are several different kinds of roofing vents, but they all have the same purpose. They are meant to release heat from the attic. This may seem counterintuitive if you are trying to keep your house warm in winter, but not venting your attic carries some pricey consequences. 

Why Vent the Roof?

In winter, heat in your home rises until it reaches the attic. It builds and begins to cause melting of snow and ice from underneath the piles on your roof. Water forms and rolls down toward the gutters, but because it’s cold outside, it freezes and creates ice dams. Ice dams in turn cause a ton of shingle damage and eventually water damage to your roof. If your roof vents are doing their jobs correctly, the heat escapes quickly and ice dams can’t form. No ice dams mean no damage to your roof, and no damage to your roof means your roof lasts longer.

Types of Roof Vents

There are ridge vents, which sit on the top of a roof ridge and run the entire length of it. These are advantageous because the heat escapes from the top-most point of the roof, thereby preventing melting of any snow and ice down the slopes of the roof from the ridge. 

Soffit vents are installed underneath the overhang of your roof (i.e., where the soffits are). Heat that escapes this way helps protect the soffits and the overhanging structures of the roof. 

Box vents are just as they sound; box-shaped covers over vents in your roof. They have no moving parts or fans involved with removing the excess heat from your roof. They are installed higher up on the slope of a roof and release heat through an open vent port. The “box” prevents debris and wildlife from getting into the vents. They are the most common because they are the most cost -effective vent option, but not always the most efficient.

Commercial Roofing Options: A Quick Comparison

If you’re a business owner looking to revamp your commercial property, one of the best things to do is install or repair your commercial roof. However, it’s important to know what the differences are between commercial roofing options and how to choose the best one. From Thermoplastic to metal to PVC, there are many types of commercial roofing depending on your industry. Here’s a quick rundown of the different types of commercial roofing options you can choose, and which is the best for your property depending on your industry.

TPO Roofing

TPO, or Thermoplastic Polyolefin, roofing is a popular option for commercial properties. This type of roofing is made up of single-ply membranes that are highly resistant to UV rays and chemicals. They are also known for their energy efficiency, making them a cost-effective choice for businesses looking to save on their utility bills.

In fact, Thermoplastic Polyolefin can reflect up to 78% of the sun’s heat, keeping your building cooler and reducing the strain on your HVAC system. This makes Thermoplastic Polyolefin roofing a great option for industries that require temperature control, such as restaurants or warehouses. Elevate is one of the leading providers of TPO roofing solutions.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, roofing is another popular choice for commercial properties. It is made up of synthetic rubber materials and is known for its durability and low maintenance. EPDM roofing is also highly resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and extreme weather conditions.

One major advantage of EPDM roofing is that it can be easily installed over existing roofs, as it is mechanically fastened as opposed to being adhered chemically like TPO roofing. This makes it a cost-effective option for businesses looking to upgrade their current roof without the need for complete replacement. EPDM is also known for absorbing heat, making it a suitable choice for industries that require insulation, such as hospitals or schools.

PVC Roofing

PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride, roofing is a single-ply membrane option that offers many of the same benefits as TPO and EPDM roofing. However, it also has some unique qualities that make it a popular choice for certain industries.

PVC roofing is highly durable and resistant to harsh materials such as fatty acids and animal fats, making it a great option for restaurants or food processing plants. Additionally, PVC is also highly resistant to fire and heat, making it a great choice for buildings that require extra fire protection.

Get Help Choosing Your Commercial Roofing System Today

At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we know it can be daunting to choose the right roofing system for your commercial property. That’s why we offer expert guidance and assistance in selecting the best option for your specific needs. Our team of commercial roofing contractors in Arnold, MO, has years of experience working with a variety of roofing materials and can help you make an informed decision that fits your budget and long-term goals! We’re also here to help with residential roofing, siding, gutters, soffit and fascia, and more. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you protect your property with a quality roofing system!

Understanding Different Roof Vent Types and Their Impact on Your Roof’s Lifespan

There are several different kinds of roofing vents, but they all have the same purpose. They are meant to release heat from the attic. This may seem counterintuitive if you are trying to keep your house warm in winter, but not venting your attic carries some pricey consequences. 

Why Vent the Roof?

In winter, heat in your home rises until it reaches the attic. It builds and begins to cause melting of snow and ice from underneath the piles on your roof. Water forms and rolls down toward the gutters, but because it’s cold outside, it freezes and creates ice dams. Ice dams in turn cause a ton of shingle damage and eventually water damage to your roof. If your roof vents are doing their jobs correctly, the heat escapes quickly and ice dams can’t form. No ice dams mean no damage to your roof, and no damage to your roof means your roof lasts longer.

Types of Roof Vents

There are ridge vents, which sit on the top of a roof ridge and run the entire length of it. These are advantageous because the heat escapes from the top-most point of the roof, thereby preventing melting of any snow and ice down the slopes of the roof from the ridge. 

Soffit vents are installed underneath the overhang of your roof (i.e., where the soffits are). Heat that escapes this way helps protect the soffits and the overhanging structures of the roof. 

Box vents are just as they sound; box-shaped covers over vents in your roof. They have no moving parts or fans involved with removing the excess heat from your roof. They are installed higher up on the slope of a roof and release heat through an open vent port. The “box” prevents debris and wildlife from getting into the vents. They are the most common because they are the most cost -effective vent option, but not always the most efficient.

What to Look for in a Commercial Roofing Contractor

As a business owner, your priority will always be to attract more customers and provide a safe place for your employees to work. What better way to do so than with a sturdy roof! If you need roof repairs or are planning on installing a new roof, it’s vital to get help from a professional commercial roofing contractor so you can ensure your business is structurally sound. But what should you look for? Here are some tips and tricks to help you know what questions to ask and what to look for in a commercial roofer.

Relevant Experience

It’s important to know that commercial roofing is different from residential roofing. A commercial roofer should have experience specifically in working with large-scale buildings, such as warehouses, office buildings, or shopping centers. Make sure to ask for examples of past projects they have worked on that are similar to yours.

Reviews

Whether you opt for word of mouth or online reviews, it’s crucial to do your research and see what other customers have to say about the commercial roofer you are considering. Look for positive reviews and feedback from satisfied clients, as well as any red flags or warning signs that may raise concerns. Make sure you get input from other business owners, not just homeowners, since business owners like yourself will have different priorities and needs for their roofing projects.

Proper Licensing and Insurance

A reputable commercial roofing contractor should be fully licensed and insured. This not only ensures that they have met the necessary legal requirements, but it also protects you from any liability in case of accidents or damages during the roofing process. Ask for proof of their license and insurance before hiring them.

Warranty

A professional commercial roofer should offer a warranty on their workmanship and materials used. This shows that they are confident in the quality of their work and can provide you with peace of mind knowing that any potential issues will be taken care of.

Communication and Timelines

Good communication is vital in any roofing project. You want a commercial roofer who will keep you updated throughout the process and respond promptly to any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, make sure to discuss timelines and get an estimated completion date for your project. Getting an accurate timeline and invoice is essential as a business owner since it will help you plan for your customers and employees during the roofing process.

Get Your Commercial Roofing Questions Answered

At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we’re here to provide commercial roofing in Arnold, MO, and beyond! Our team has the experience and expertise to handle any commercial roofing project, whether you own a brick and mortar store or a large-scale industrial facility. We can also provide emergency storm damage, gutter repairs, siding repairs, and more. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your commercial roofing questions answered!

25 Interesting Facts About Roofs That You Never Knew Before

Installing and maintaining a roof can seem like a daunting process. However, it’s fairly easy when you know what you’re up against. Many new property owners might not know the first thing about roofs, roofing maintenance, who to contact, and other facts about their roof. Fortunately, here is a list of 25 interesting facts about roofs you might not know to help get you started! These facts are not only interesting, but can also help you learn about the history of roofing, popular materials, and even brighten up your day and teach you a bit of knowledge about roofs.

25 Facts About Roofs

  1. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The average lifespan of a roof is between 20-25 years depending on the materials used and proper maintenance.
  2. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The oldest known roof was made using the skin of a woolly mammoth and was found in Siberia, dating back 42,000 years ago.
  3. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The most popular roofing material in the United States is asphalt shingles, accounting for nearly 80% of all roofs.
  4. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>In ancient Rome, rooftops were used as living spaces and gardens due to limited space on the ground.
  5. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The average cost to replace a roof is over $9,000.
  6. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Professional roofers recommend inspecting your roof at least twice a year, usually in the spring and fall.
  7. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The first asphalt shingles were created in 1901 by Henry Reynolds.
  8. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The word “roof” comes from the Old English word “hrof” which means “roof or covering”.
  9. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>A green roof, also known as a living roof, is a rooftop covered in plants and vegetation.
  10. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and energy efficiency.
  11. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The world’s largest green roof is located at The Expo 2023 Doha building covering 4,031 square meters!
  12. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>One of the most expensive roofing material is slate, which can cost up to $30 or more per square foot.
  13. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Over 5 million roofs are installed every year in the United States.
  14. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Almost a third of roofs are replaced due to leaking.
  15. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>While there are many roofing installations, roof replacements on existing homes make up 85% of the roofing market.
  16. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>A roof’s pitch is measured in inches per foot, with a 4/12 pitch being a moderate slope.
  17. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Wind can cause significant damage to roofs, with gusts over 60 mph being able to lift shingles.
  18. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Plastic composite tiles are now common and can last 50 years.
  19. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Professional roofers earn a median salary of over $40,000 per year.
  20. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>The roofing industry is expected to grow in the coming years due to increased construction and renovations.
  21. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>It’s important to properly maintain your roof to extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. This includes regularly cleaning gutters, trimming trees that could damage the roof, and inspecting for any potential issues such as missing shingles or cracks.
  22. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>In addition to its functional purpose, roofs also play a significant role in the aesthetics of a building. Different roofing materials and styles can greatly impact the overall look and feel of a structure.
  23. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Roofing technology has advanced greatly in recent years, with options such as solar panels, cool roofs, and energy-efficient materials becoming more popular.
  24. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Roofing renovations are one of the only home remodeling projects with a 100% return on investment, making it a smart financial decision for homeowners.
  25. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0″>Proper ventilation is crucial for a healthy roof, as it helps prevent moisture build-up and reduces the risk of mold or mildew growth.

Get Help for All Your Roofing Needs Now

At Shelby Roofing, we’re passionate about roofs, installation, maintenance, commercial, and residential projects! We’re provide trusted commercial and residential roofing in St. Louis, MO, and are excited to provide our customers with quality roofing services. We can help you choose the right roofing materials and style for your home or business, as well as provide regular maintenance and repairs to ensure your roof is always in top condition. Call us today, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for help with roofing, gutters, siding, soffit and fascia, and more!

What Are the Telltale Signs of Roof Damage?

The state of your roof should be cause for concern at the best of times. Even if your roof is brand new and in the best of health, you may still worry if it will stand up to a violent storm. If your home is an older one, your roof may not have been checked in years. Now is the perfect time to hire a local roof restoration service to give it a good looking over. Spotting potential signs of trouble can save you time, energy, and money. 

Cracked, Broken, or Missing Tiles

If you should notice that tiles are broken, cracked, or missing altogether, you need to take action. This is the exact sort of issue that can lead to wind, rain, snow, and ice getting into your home and causing damage. 

Mold or Algae Growth

Mold and algae can crop out between tears or breaks in your roof tiles. If left unchecked, this kind of growth can do a great deal of harm to your roof. This is the kind of issue that will usually require the aid of a professional roofing service to completely neutralize. 

Sags or Tears in Your Roof 

The most tell-tale sign of all will be sags, tears, or other kinds of breaks in your roof. If you spot any of these, the time to call a local roofing service is now. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors can come to your home to diagnose the issue and get it fixed in a timely and cost-effective fashion. Call us today for further details.

Different Brands of Roofing Shingles and Which Ones Are Built to Last

A roofing project is a significant investment in your home. With so many shingles options in the market today, it is crucial to look keenly at the choices and settle on a reliable brand. You want to be sure that the roofing shingles you choose will withstand harsh weather and enhance your home’s appeal long after installation. Understanding the features and craftsmanship of different roofing shingles brands may help you make an informed decision.

CertainTeed: Presidential Shake Shingles

The presidential shake shingles are a premium roofing option with a multi-layer design. It has a fiberglass base and a protective outer layer for durability. They can endure the impact of hail or large debris and withstand winds up to 110mph. These shingles have a Class A fire resistance rating and are certified to resist intense fires. Besides their durability, these shingles have a unique locking system and self-sealing adhesive strips that make them easy to install.

GAF: Timberline AS II Shingles

GAF is a leading manufacturer of roofing materials. Timberline Shingles is one of their flagship product lines. The company designs them for quality, durability and aesthetic styles. They have advanced protection shingle technology. Timberline shingles can withstand severe weather conditions such as heavy winds, rain and hail storms. They have a stain guard protection that helps resist the growth of blue-green algae.

Atlas Roofing Corporation: StormMaster Shake Shingles

Atlas offers more roofing shingles styles and colors than other manufacturers. The StormMaster shingles have a variety of colors that are resistant to algae streaks. They are also designed with a polymer blend for high resilience against damage by hail. They can resist cracks and splits. Whether the weather is hot or cold, these shingles do not warp or shrink.

Owens Corning: Duration FLEX Shingles

Besides producing roofing products, Owens Corning manufactures building insulation materials. The company designs Duration FLEX shingles with an SBS polymer-modified asphalt. This makes them flexible, tough and durable, especially under harsh storms.

Choosing the right brand of roofing shingles goes beyond beauty. It is about investing in a long-lasting roofing option. The brands mentioned above have proved their commitment to quality. They manufacture roofing shingles that stand the test of time. Whether you prioritize aesthetics, algae resistance or the ability to withstand harsh climates, these brands have options that suit your needs. Make an informed decision to ensure the safety of your home.