Posts tagged with "Roofing Contractor"

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.

3 Things You Need to Know About Finding the Right Roofing Contractor

When you need a roofing contractor, who do you hire? Common sense says you should never hire the first contractor that agrees to check out your roof. You also shouldn’t hire the least expensive without finding out why that contractor is the least expensive. There are at least three things you should be doing before you ever agree to hire a roofing contractor.

1. Ask to See Proof of License and Insurance

Always ask to see the contractor’s license and proof of insurance. The contractor should never balk at providing you with this information. The license says he’s legally able to work on your roof, and the insurance covers him if he has an accident (or his employees have an accident) while working on your roof.

2. Ask About the Roofing Products the Contractor Uses

There are high quality roofing products and then there are the basic, generic roofing products that will get your roof by. Ask the contractor what products he intends to use and then do your homework to see what those products typically cost. If you want a durable and longer lasting roof, make sure the contractor is using better materials.

3. Check for Experience

Has the contractor just started the business in the last three years or less? If the contractor has a decade or more of experience doing roofs of all kinds, that’s the right person to hire. Hiring someone who has never done roofs before or just recently started may result in a roof that isn’t what you expected. Hire experience over lower cost.

Ask Around

The best contractors get the most praise. Whether it’s online reviews or neighbors that have all used the same contractor, there’s always someone that everyone recommends. Just make sure you check off the above list before hiring the most popular contractor.

3 Things You Need to Know About Finding the Right Roofing Contractor

1. Ask to See Proof of License and Insurance

2. Ask About the Roofing Products the Contractor Uses

3. Check for Experience

Ask Around

Let Your Home Breathe With Better Roof Ventilation

You may discover ventilation problems with your roof if you inspect the attic. Many people first find out about roof ventilation problems when they assess their energy use. A roof that doesn’t ventilate properly will strain your heating and cooling systems. It may be difficult or impossible to heat or cool the building properly altogether. Your contractor may recommend adding certain types of vents to your building to fix the issue. Proper ventilation will keep your attic reasonably cool and keep the roof from wearing out early due to heat issues.

Use Multiple Vent Types for Great Results

Your roofing contractor can help you assess the issue completely and develop a long-term strategy. Many buildings utilize a combination of ridge vents and soffit vents to get the best results. Some people add turbines or gable vents as well. Box vents are also a great solution for many buildings. Ridge vents are installed near the top of the roof and are considered some of the best vents for releasing heat. Soffit vents are installed near the bottom edge of the roof and help supply the attic with fresh air. Box vents and gable vents can be used alone or in combination to do the same job for other buildings. Box vents can be matched to your shingles and are placed near the roof. Gable vents will often include a mesh screen and are installed right under the roof gable.

Shelby Roofing and Exteriors has provided quality contracting services for over 40 years. We help residential and commercial clients in the St. Louis, MO and Southern Illinois areas. Contact us today for help with your building.

How to Find a Roofing Contractor You Can Trust

The quest for a roofing contractor can be daunting, especially when you are faced with finding a qualified and reliable one. You want someone you can trust to complete your project from start to finish without any major issues or surprises along the way. You would also want to find a roofing contractor offering competitive rates and quality workmanship.

But with all the different roofing companies, how can you be sure which one to choose?

Read Reviews and Ratings

Check online reviews and ratings from past customers on Yelp, Angie’s List, or Google Reviews. You can also ask around your family and friends if they have hired any contractors in the past and what their experience was like. When reading the reviews, ensure they are recent and relevant to the type of work you seek.

Ask for Referrals and Recommendations

If you can’t find reviews or ratings online, another good option is to ask for referrals and recommendations. Contractors are more likely to provide accurate references for their work if they have a reputable business. Ask anyone who has recently had roofing work done about their experience with the contractor and if they would recommend them again.

Research Online

Check out the roofing contractor’s website and social media pages for background information and customer testimonials. Ensure that they are licensed and insured in your state and members of professional organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). This will give you peace of mind that a certified expert is handling your project.

When researching online, check out any pictures or videos of past projects. This will give you an idea of what kind of work they do and if it is up to your standards.

Visit Local Supply Stores

Finally, you can visit your local supply stores for roof contractor information. Ask them about any contractors they have worked with in the past and whether or not they were satisfied with their work. You can also ask if they know of any reputable contractors in the area specializing in specific roofing types.

Finding a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor can seem daunting, but with the right research and resources, you can be sure to find one qualified to handle your project. A professional roofing contractor can complete your roofing installation, repair and maintenance projects on time.

Essential Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor

Roofing contractors are an essential part of any construction project in terms of aesthetics and ensuring a safe and structurally sound roof. They are responsible for installing and maintaining residential and commercial roofing systems, ensuring that the job is done correctly and on time. Before hiring a roofing contractor, it’s important to ask them some essential questions to ensure you are getting an experienced professional who will do a great job.

What Type of Certifications or Licenses Do You Have?

Ask the contractor what certifications and licenses they have; this will give you a better idea of their qualifications. Make sure you check that any certifications are up-to-date and valid. It’s also worth asking if they have additional qualifications, such as roofing installer certification from the Manufacturer’s Association.

What Type of Insurance Do You Have?

Roofing contractors should carry liability insurance in case of any accidents or injuries that may occur on the job. It’s also good to make sure they have worker’s compensation insurance, as this will cover any medical costs associated with a work-related injury.

Do You Have Any References?

Ask the contractor for references or customer testimonials to understand their work. Ask them if any clients are willing to provide feedback on their services. You could also check online reviews and ratings to see what other customers say about the contractor.

What Is Your Process for Installing a Roof?

Ask them how long the job usually takes, what type of materials they use, and their installation approach. You should also ask them if they offer any warranties or guarantees on their work.

Do You Offer Any Maintenance Services?

Inquire about maintenance services, as this is vital to ensuring your roof remains in good condition. Ask them what kind of aftercare they provide and if they have any experience with repairs and replacements.

It’s essential to take the time to do your research and ask as many questions as possible so you can find the right contractor for the job. A professional roofing company like Shelby Roofing & Exteriors can provide all the answers and assistance you need to ensure your roof is installed correctly and looks great. We have years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, so you can be sure that any work we do will meet the highest standards. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can help with your next roofing project.

Can You DIY Fix Your Roof? Reasons Why This Is Not a Good Idea for Homeowners

Can You DIY Fix Your Roof?

You can DIY fix your roof, but it’s not recommended because of the many hazards likely to occur in the process. Remember that roofing projects can be dangerous; hence, they require a professional with proper safety gear and techniques. If you have low confidence in your roofing ability, it’s best to contact a professional.

However, there are some reasons why you might prefer doing DIY roofing projects:

Money savings: DIY roofing is cost-effective because you save on labor expenses and only spend on materials and equipment. It’s mainly effective for minor roofing repairs.
Convenience: When doing DIY roofing projects, you work on your own terms, unlike hiring a professional. A professional will give you a set schedule and might delay your plans.
A sense of accomplishment: DIY roofing gives a satisfying feeling and a sense of pride after completing your roofing project.

Reasons Why This Is Not a Good Idea for Homeowners

DIY roofing is hazardous and might do more harm than benefit. Some of the reasons it’s not a good idea include the following:

Lack of experience: Watching DIY roofing videos online will not give you roofing skills. Roofing requires training and experience acquired on the job. Doing your own roofing with insufficient roofing knowledge can lead to great mistakes and serious consequences.
Safety risks: Roofing is dangerous for someone with little to no experience. You might fall while doing your DIY roofing projects. Falling from the roof can be deadly; therefore, hiring a professional prevents accidents since they have the right safety gear.
Time spent: DIY roofing projects take a long time because of lack of expertise. A professional roofing contractor will install or repair your roof within a short time.
No warranty: DIY roofing projects have no warranties; hence it’s important to hire reputable roofing contractors. They will bear the costs in case of damages or repairs during the warranty period. Some warranties even extend to 25 years. A roof warranty will give you peace of mind.
Lack of appropriate tools and materials: Due to lack of expertise, you might use inappropriate tools or roofing materials while doing your DIY roofing project. Roofing contractors work closely with manufacturers and know suitable roofing materials for your home that can withstand severe weather conditions in your area.

DIY roofing might be enticing when you think about the saved costs of hiring a professional. The truth is that DIY roofing projects have more risks than benefits. Hiring a professional roofing contractor gives you value for your money and gives you peace of mind while in your home.

Common Roofing Problems and How to Handle Them Right Away

The Most Frequent Roofing Issues and How to Fix Them

Since snow, storms, cold, and other elements may enter a residence, it is crucial to the structure’s overall function to have a quality roof. With routine upkeep by Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, a quality roofing system should withstand environmental extremes. The roof will eventually develop problems just like the rest of the home. Roofing issues you ignore will only worsen and become more expensive to solve in the long run. Common roof problems include leaks, poor installation, clogged gutters, improper vents, and overcrowding trees.

Leaks

Cracks or missing shingles are the most common causes of roof leaks. Usually, the roof starts leaking around the point where a chimney, vent, or dormer makes a hole. The professionals at Shelby Roofing & Exterior can locate the source of the leak and fix the damaged shingles for you. You can detect leaks by inspecting the ceiling for stains or mildew.

Poor Installation

Hiring experts to put up your roof is crucial. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors is home to a team of skilled, certified roofers committed to providing excellent customer service and quality roofing installations. Leaks, mold, and a shortened lifetime are just a few long-term consequences of sloppy roofing construction. You may avoid this issue by thoroughly researching the roofing contractor you want to hire.

Clogged Gutters

When gutters are clogged, most people don’t think about the consequences for the roof. When the rainwater cannot drain properly from the roof, it pools and might lead to problems with root growth. The leaks and mildew might occur if the water starts seeping in. Maintaining clean gutters via regular inspections is an easy way to avoid this issue. Cleaning up the debris during routine maintenance visits is another way a professional roofer may assist in stopping a problem from getting out of hand.

Inadequate Ventilation in the Roof

Most cases of roof failure result from improper roofing air circulation. Sheathing and shingles are damaged by excessive heat due to a lack of ventilation. Inadequate ventilation also promotes moisture buildup, which raises inside temperatures and causes the shingles to crack and blister. If you want to solve this problem and avoid damage, a roofing professional should inspect your vents.

Overcrowding Trees

Trees are great for nature, but not if they shorten the life of your roof. It is essential to keep your trees pruned so that their branches don’t rub against your roofing system and diminish its lifespan.

Conclusion

Roofing inspection and repair services are necessary when issues arise. At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we have a staff of roofing repair specialists that combine decades of expertise with the required skills to provide you with the best roof repair services.