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What You Should Do When a Large Tree Falls on Your Roof

It’s an unusual incident, but a tree falling on your roof isn’t entirely unique. Wind damage and storm damage are guilty of dropping tree limbs and even whole trees on top of roofs. When it’s a limb, the damage usually isn’t so bad. An entire tree is rather catastrophic, but it isn’t the end of the world.

Find a Contractor for Emergency Roofing Services

The first thing you need to do is relocate to a safe location. Then you need to find a contractor that offers emergency roofing services. The contractor will have to work quickly to remove the tree, piece by piece, from off of your roof. Then the real damage can be assessed before repairs begin. The contractor will put a tarp over the roof if the tree crushed the roof with enough force to leave large openings. 

Filing an Insurance Claim

This is an “act of God”, something that most insurance companies will cover when you file a claim. File your insurance claim as soon as the tree has been removed so that you can get good pictures of the damaged roof. The insurance company may still send a claims adjuster to your address to see the damage and get an adequate estimate for repairs. It’s the same process even if you only had hail damage.

Replacing the Roof

If the tree was of immense size and crushed the roof, there may be structural damage to the roof and possibly to the walls in your home. After a thorough investigation and determination of the damage to your home, the work begins. The roofer can replace and rebuild the roof, but any structural damage to walls will have to be done before the roof can be replaced. Expect a couple of weeks for really major repairs and roof replacement work to be completed.

When the Wind Blows: Signs of Wind Damage to Your Roof

You’ll not just walk into or see roof damage as you walk around your
home. Our hearts rejoice at the sunlight streaming into our homes through
parted clouds. However, rarely do we think of the effects the storm and wind
might have left on our roofs. The roof may have bang-ups, missing asphalt, or
loose shingles.

Most roof damages are caused by strong winds blowing roofing materials
off your home. This is more common in storm-prone regions, such as tornado and
hurricane zones. Below are several signs of wind damage:

1. Missing or Loose Shingles

Missing or loose shingles are widespread with asphalt shingles after a
windy storm. Avoid walking on your roof to check its condition as it could lead
to serious falls if it’s slippery. Hence, you can inspect your roof using
strong binoculars.

2. Curling Shingles

Hail damage is also more susceptible at the edge of asphalt shingles and
other pressure points. Hence, when inspecting your roof, you should check for
signs of curling shingles before they start peeling off. Shingles on your roof
are responsible for protecting your home from water damage. However, when the
shingles are curled, it is possible to encounter potential leaks. If not
addressed on time, your roof could deteriorate faster than expected.

3. Missing Granules

Asphalt shingles are covered with small pieces of crushed stones known
as granules. These granules offer an additional safeguard for your asphalt
shingles. When your roofs get old, the granules begin shedding, exposing your
roof unprotected from impact. Storm damage can cause these granules to be shed
off prematurely.

Therefore, after a windy storm, you should look for pooled granules in
the gutters. A few pieces here and there shouldn’t worry you. However, noticing
a significant collection of these granules might be a sign of wind damage.

Wind storms can cause serious damage to your roof. Thankfully, most of
these damages are repairable if it is caught early. For better and more
reliable roof inspection, contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors today. We’ll
also handle Insurance Claims for you with ease.

What You Should Do When a Large Tree Falls on Your Roof

It’s an unusual incident, but a tree falling on your roof isn’t entirely unique. Wind damage and storm damage are guilty of dropping tree limbs and even whole trees on top of roofs. When it’s a limb, the damage usually isn’t so bad. An entire tree is rather catastrophic, but it isn’t the end of the world.

Find a Contractor for Emergency Roofing Services

The first thing you need to do is relocate to a safe location. Then you need to find a contractor that offers emergency roofing services. The contractor will have to work quickly to remove the tree, piece by piece, from off of your roof. Then the real damage can be assessed before repairs begin. The contractor will put a tarp over the roof if the tree crushed the roof with enough force to leave large openings. 

Filing an Insurance Claim

This is an “act of God”, something that most insurance companies will cover when you file a claim. File your insurance claim as soon as the tree has been removed so that you can get good pictures of the damaged roof. The insurance company may still send a claims adjuster to your address to see the damage and get an adequate estimate for repairs. It’s the same process even if you only had hail damage.

Replacing the Roof

If the tree was of immense size and crushed the roof, there may be structural damage to the roof and possibly to the walls in your home. After a thorough investigation and determination of the damage to your home, the work begins. The roofer can replace and rebuild the roof, but any structural damage to walls will have to be done before the roof can be replaced. Expect a couple of weeks for really major repairs and roof replacement work to be completed.

Key Areas on a Roof That Every Homeowner Should Check After a Storm

Storm damage, whether from rain or hail, is a trying time for homeowners. Hail damage is considered the leading cause of property loss in the United States, with the most impacted area being the roof. The cost of roofing replacements ranges between $9,191 and $80,000. This makes the roof the key area to check for damage after a storm. With roofs being designed to protect your house from any harsh weather, they suffer the most. You could be in for a big surprise if you fail to check them after a storm. Below are the critical areas on your roof you should inspect after a storm.

Shingles

Shingles are the most apparent areas to check after a storm. A hail storm involves hailstones between 1 and 1.75 inches in diameter punching through your roof with very high intensity. Hail damage on shingles takes the form of cracks, missing shingles, or torn shingles. If you observe shingles damaged by weather-related damage, you must document them to file an insurance claim.

Long Valleys

For those with high roofs with peaks, you most likely have long valleys. Rain and hail storms pummel these areas, causing them to loosen and lift. Check the hails for any hail damage and ensure they are still intact and no water leaks underneath them. Confirm whether the flashing is loose, which, if it is, you can include in your insurance claim to cover the costs of replacements or repairs.

Attic

From the outside, your roof may appear undamaged. However, there may be unseen leaks that can only be located from the inside. This may require you to go up in the attic after a storm and look for signs of storm damage. Water stains on walls and ceilings to mold on your exterior walls are the signs of invisible leaks.

Flat Areas

Storms, especially hail, love to hit flat areas, resulting in storm damage. As the hail bounces off, it leaves dents the size of an orange or nickel. If you have flat or close-to-flat surfaces on your roof, check them for hail damage. The damage can be repaired as part of a homeowner’s insurance claim.

If you need help spotting roof damage, hiring a professional roofer is wise. At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we offer roof repairs and replacements and work with your insurance claim in case of storm damage. Contact us for all your roofing needs 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.