Roofing Company Baton Rouge is a challenging, exciting form of building construction. It requires a skilled team, from the administrative staff who manage daily operations to the skilled roofers who scale heights and brave the elements.
Ensure the safety of your team with a dedicated business bank account and reliable bookkeeping system. Also, be sure to invest in proper safety training and equipment.
A roof protects the structure and occupants of a home from rain, snow, sun, wind, and other elements. When a roof is damaged, it is important to repair the damage as quickly as possible. If not repaired, minor issues can escalate into major problems that require reroofing. Regular inspections and repairs can help extend the lifespan of a roof, saving homeowners from costly replacement.
There are several signs that a homeowner might need to have their roof replaced, including visible damage, moisture in the attic, and cracked vent booting. Moisture in the attic can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can damage the structural integrity of a roof. If not addressed, the damage can spread to other areas of the house and lead to serious damage. Cracked vent booting can cause leaks in the attic.
When a home needs roof repair, it is vital to work with an experienced roofing contractor. The contractor can assess the damage and recommend a suitable course of action. The roofer can also help the homeowner select the best roofing materials for their home. Options include dimensional shingles for aesthetic appeal, three-tab shingles to save money, wood shakes for a natural look, and clay tiles for extreme durability.
A roofing repair typically consists of removing the old shingles, repairing or replacing flashing, and applying sealant to leaky areas. The repair may also include installing new vent holes to increase attic ventilation and help reduce energy costs. In some cases, the repair may involve a complete overhaul of the roof, especially if it is damaged by a significant storm or has underlying issues.
The roofer will use the same tools to remove and replace shingles that they would for a new installation. These include a pry bar for prying and leveraging sheathing and shingles, a roofers knee pads to reduce the strain on the back, and a nail puller to get rid of the nails once they are removed from the sheathing. A good roofer will have a variety of other roofing tools, such as a ladder with steps, tarps to protect foundation plantings and shrubbery, and magnetic tools to pick up any discarded nails and metal objects from the lawn.
Roof Replacement
Roof replacement involves the removal and installation of a new roof system. This process is typically done when a roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or when significant damage has occurred. During the replacement process, a variety of materials can be used including shingles, tile, metal, and foam. When choosing a roofing contractor, it is important to find one that specializes in the type of roofing you need. Ask friends and family for recommendations and check online reviews. A reputable company will also be licensed, insured, and bonded.
In some cases, a roof can be saved from total replacement by simply replacing the outer layers of the roof. This is called re-roofing and usually costs less than a full roof replacement. Re-roofing can also be useful for roofs with large areas of missing or curled shingles as this option can cover these up and create a uniform appearance from the street. However, it is crucial to determine whether re-roofing is the right choice for your home or business.
Some roofing contractors specialize in re-roofing and can provide valuable advice on how to extend the life of your existing roof. A seasoned professional will be able to tell you if your roof can be re-roofed by walking on it and inspecting the construction. If your roof already has two layers of shingles, most building codes will not allow a third.
The first step in re-roofing is to clear the area around your home or business to make sure the job can be completed safely. It is recommended that vehicles be moved out of the garage or driveway during this time to prevent any damage or stains from dirt or debris that may fall from the old roof during the tear-off process. Large tarps should be spread over plants and landscaping to protect them from falling shingle fragments and nails.
After the yard has been cleared, the roofing contractor will set up protective barriers and begin the process of removing the existing shingles. They will then replace the roof sheathing with plywood or 1 by 6 sheathing boards depending on the type of roof you have. A layer of asphalt roofing paper is then laid over the sheathing to create an inner barrier against water penetration. In colder regions, this layer is reinforced with ice dam protection to prevent melting snow from backing up under the shingles and penetrating the roof sheathing. Finally, a top layer is added for sun and weather protection and can be coated with a fire retardant material to meet local building code requirements.
Roof Inspection
A roof inspection can be a worthwhile investment for homeowners, helping them to keep their home in prime condition. A professional roofing inspector is trained to identify the subtle signs of damage that can often be overlooked by an untrained eye. They will examine all aspects of the roofing system, including gutters, chimneys, and downspouts. They will also climb on the roof to look closely at shingles, flashing, and any other materials that comprise the roofing structure.
A professional will pay special attention to areas of the roof that are more likely to develop leaks. These include the eaves, valleys, and any areas where the roof meets walls or other structures. They will also check the condition of the vent pipes, chimneys, and skylights to make sure they are well-sealed. They will also inspect the flashing, which is a thin metal component that lines penetrations like vents and chimneys to prevent leaks.
They will also examine the fascia boards and soffit boards, which are attached to the roof overhangs, for rot or other damage. They will also check downspouts to ensure that they are free of clogs and efficiently direct water away from the house. The inspector will also look at the interior of the home for evidence of ceiling and wall damage, such as stains or peeling paint, which can indicate the presence of a leaky roof.
A qualified roofing contractor will provide a written report detailing the findings of their inspection, along with any recommendations for repair or replacement. This is an important document that can be used to support an insurance claim in the event of severe weather damage to the roof. It can also be useful when putting the home on the market, as it provides proof of a well-maintained roof. A homeowner can also use it to compare quotes from different roofing companies. Be wary of any company that asks for full payment up front, as this may be an indication that they are more interested in taking your money than providing a quality service. This is not a standard practice in the industry, and it should raise suspicions.
Roof Maintenance
A roof is a critical line of defense against outside elements, so it’s important to maintain it properly. Regular inspections can help catch problems before they grow into serious issues that require costly repairs. However, even minor damage can be hard to identify from the ground. That’s why professional roofing contractors can perform thorough inspections to ensure the health of your roof. They can address issues such as leaking, water stains, and moss growth. They can also re-caulk seams, deal with nail pops, and thoroughly examine the entire roofing system.
The most common maintenance tasks include shingle repair, cleaning moss, and tightening or realigning gutter systems. It’s also a good idea to inspect the chimney mortar, and make sure any vent pipes are properly sealed. Another essential part of a routine roof maintenance appointment is to check the flashing and membranes. Flashings are metal strips that seal around the edges of the roof, and membranes are waterproof layers that cover flat roofs. Both of these are vital to preventing leaks, so it’s important to monitor them for cracks or holes.
It’s also a good idea to check for signs of water intrusion, such as water stains or discoloration on the ceiling. In some cases, these can indicate the presence of mold or fungus beneath the shingles. It’s a good idea to look for any areas where the caulk has started to lift, as this can also be a sign of moisture buildup and deterioration.
During a maintenance visit, a roofer can also do things like clean out the gutters and downspouts to prevent debris from building up in them. They can also trim back overhanging tree branches, which can cause damage during storms. Finally, they can ensure that the roof is free from ice dams and other obstructions that can lead to leaks.
Regular roof maintenance is a great way to keep your property safe and protect your investment. It also helps improve energy efficiency, as a well-maintained roof keeps cold air in during the winter and hot air out in the summer. It can also increase your home’s value, as potential buyers may be willing to pay more for a property that has been well maintained and is in good condition.