If you’ve considered installing a metal roof onto your home, you’ve probably already done a lot of research. There are pretty much as many color and style options for metal roofs as there are for asphalt roofs. Additionally, they offer many benefits that differ from other types of roofs. But what about the price; does a metal roof cost more than other types of roofs? And if so, do the benefits justify the extra costs? Read on to learn more.
Your quote for a new metal roof may be more of an upfront investment than your standard asphalt roof. Here are a couple of reasons why.
First, high-quality metal roofing is more expensive to manufacture than asphalt shingles. Standard asphalt shingles are covered in mineral granules which help your roof block UV rays and make your roof more fire-resistant. You can tell how much life is left on your roof by checking the granules; the less there are, the sooner you’ll need a replacement. Metal roofs, on the other hand, don’t use granules to protect your roof. Instead, they are made up of panels with a durable metal coating to help your roof protect your home from the elements.
Second, metal roofing panels are a lot bigger than shingles, requiring a little extra labor and a lot more care during installation. Metal roofs are not installed the same way as asphalt roofs and there is a lot less room for error to ensure a proper installation.
Any roof, no matter the material it’s made of, is a long-term investment. Even your basic asphalt roof can last up to 20 years if you maintain it properly. So why consider a metal roof?
Compared to an asphalt roof, metal roofs last much longer because of the metal coating on their panels. In fact, the panels we use for metal roofs come with a 40-year paint fade warranty. This is about two times the warranty you would get for asphalt shingles. If you plan on living in your home for a long time or aging in place, a metal roof will end up saving you money from multiple roof replacements.
A new metal roof may seem very expensive when you’re deciding to install it, but, ultimately, its durability and longevity justifies its price. If you’re still wondering whether or not a metal roof is right for your home, give our friendly IBEX Roof staff a call! We’d be happy to help you in the right direction. And, if you’re just looking to replace an asphalt roof, we’ve got you covered, too. Check out our reviews and get a free estimate for your next roofing project today by calling us at (360) 218-3134.
Asphalt shingles continue to reign supreme as the go-to roofing material, but more homeowners have been considering replacing their roof with a metal one. Metal roofs have been around for a long time but haven’t always been the ideal choice, whether because of how it looked or the quality of the metal being used. But metal roofing technology has come a long way. Metal roofs now come in multiple weights, a variety of colors, and you can even find metal roofing that mimics different types of roofing styles.
The two most common types of metal roofs are corrugated and standing seam metal roofs. Corrugated metal panels have been used in metal roofing for a long time. But now, more homeowners are preferring standing seam panels for their sleeker appearance. Standing seam metal roofing comes in long sheet panels that are installed with hidden fasteners. Having hidden fasteners means you won’t need to worry about an exposed system while also reducing the need to replace your fasteners over time. Like an asphalt roof, there are a variety of colors you can choose from.
Want a roof that looks more conventional? There are also metal shingles! Meta shingle roofing has both different color options and different styles as well, including Shake and Slate. One of the advantages of metal shingle roofing is that it maintains its “natural” look without changing appearance; it doesn’t fade or decompose over time. Metal shingles are also more flexible to install on complicated roof designs than standing seam panels.
You’ll be able to take advantage of the long-lasting protection and durability of a metal roof no matter what type of style you choose. Metal shingles may cost more than a standing seam metal roof, but you’ll be able to have more style and texture options available. And even though metal shingles cost more than asphalt shingles, they certainly last a lot longer, making them a worthy investment. You’ll never have to worry about your roof again.
When it comes to metal roofing, there is no right or wrong answer. Our roofing experts at IBEX Roof have installed both standing seam and metal shingled roofs; we’d be happy to help guide you towards the right fit for your home! Give us a call about your new metal roof today at (360) 218-3108.
When most people think of a roof, they think of a pitched roof decorated with shingles. And while most residential homes are built with such roofs, most commercial buildings have flat roofs. Flat roofs, as the name suggests, appear flat, and require different installation methods than pitched roofs. Because they are designed differently, they have their own set of roofing issues to watch out for.
Flat roofs are not designed to shed water, snow, and ice as easily as pitched roofs. Although they have “flat” in the name, flat roofs are still slightly angled so that water can flow into designated drains. It’s possible, however, for pools of water, or standing water, to collect in shallow areas of your roof. We can help repair these areas by using roofing plaster so that water properly flows towards the drain.
It’s crucial to not let standing water sit on your roof for too long. Excess moisture could seep into your roof, causing organic growth, mold, or fungus. It could also cause your roof to start leaking. If you notice a water leak under your roof, get it repaired right away before it causes more expensive damage to the rest of your structure.
Call a professional for a flat roof repair any time you see signs of cracking or impact damage. Flat roofs take on more pressure than slanted roofs, which can cause cracks over time. It’s important to get these areas repaired so that it doesn’t cause further structural damage.
When a flat roof is approaching its end of life, it starts to blister. Some roofers call this “alligatoring” because your roof will look like crackled like alligator skin. At this point, it’s better to get your roof replaced rather than replace it.
This is another sign you’ll need a flat roof replacement. Most flat roofs are sealed with an asphalt membrane that is installed in one piece. As a building shifts, settles, and moves around over time, the asphalt membrane may start to buckle and will need to be replaced. This is very normal as a flat roof gets older!
IBEX Roof has worked on flat roofs in both residential and commercial settings. Because many residential properties have both flat and pitched roofing, our technicians are experienced in knowing when to install asphalt shingles and rolled roofing in the appropriate places. In addition to using top quality materials, we also add ISO insulation to increase energy efficiency, install tapered foam to avoid puddling, and custom fabricate drains for unique drainage situations.
To learn more about our flat roofing services, give our office a call today at 360-218-3104!
Most homeowners across the country choose asphalt shingles as their default roofing material. But recently, metal roofs have started to become more popular! Metal roofing will cost at least twice as much as an asphalt roof, but they can also last twice as long with proper maintenance.
In the olden days, tin was used for metal roofing, but that’s no longer the case. Nowadays, steel is the most popular metal used for metal roofs. You can also find roofs made of aluminum and copper. Metal roofs can also be designed and stamped to look like other roofs, from textured asphalt shingles to cedar shakes to a tiled design. When not made to look like something else, you may have noticed standing seam metal roofs, where the roof is made of long strips of metal.
Metal roofs are a great choice to consider if you are planning a roof replacement for a home you plan on living in for a long time. With proper care and maintenance, your metal roof could last over 50 years, making it a very economical investment. In some areas, installing a metal roof can also increase your home’s resale value, although it depends on how soon you plan on moving.
Not only do metal roofs have a longer lifespan than asphalt shingles, but they are also very durable. They’re resistant to wind, rain, fire, and mildew. They won’t rot from moisture damage and insects are not attracted to metal. Sustainability is another big reason why metal roofs are gaining popularity as they can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
Common myths surrounding metal roofing are that they sound very loud when it rains and are prone to lightning strikes. Both of these myths are untrue! With proper installation and today’s technology, metal roofs will make the same amount of rain sound as any other roof (it really depends on how hard the rain is falling!) And while metal is a conductor of lightning, it does not attract it. The likelihood that your roof is struck by lightning is the same as any object around your home.
One of the defining features of metal roofing is that it’s pretty low-maintenance. As with other types of roofing materials, we always recommend getting routine inspections and cleanings. This will ensure any repairs that need to be made are done right away. Over time, you can also paint your metal roof to refresh its look or to extend its lifespan.
We never recommend climbing onto any roof, and especially a metal one. They are more slippery than other types of roof materials. If you notice any abrasions, discoloration, or other damaged areas, call your local roofer to take a look!
Traditionally, tile roofs have been made out of slate, clay, and terra cotta. Nowadays, you’ll also see plenty of concrete tile options, too! Along with different roof tile types, you can also find them in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Tile roofs are one of the longest-lasting types of roofs out there. Read on to learn more.
No matter the roof tile types you’re considering, tile is considered one of the most durable materials to use on your roof. With the proper maintenance, your tile roof could last between 50 and 100 years! However, it’s also one of the more expensive roof materials and requires a lot more care when it comes to installation and repairs.
Tile roofs come with a lot of benefits outside of giving your home great curb appeal. They’re often recommended for warmer climates like California or Florida because they are well-ventilated and very good at regulating indoor temperatures. If you live in an area with short spurts of downpour rain, tile roofs also shed water very well.
The durability of tile roofs sounds almost too good to be true; they’re resistant to wind, rain, and fire, and they don’t rot like wood or rust like metal. So why doesn’t everyone opt for a tile roof? One big reason: weight.
If your home was not initially built with a tile roof and you are considering installing one, it’s vital to first consult with a structural engineer. Tile roofs are heavier than other roofing materials and, therefore, may not be the right choice for every home.
It is most crucial to make sure your tile roof is installed properly; if the tile pieces are not layered or placed correctly, your roof will be susceptible to leaks early on. And, just like any roof, it’s important to get routine inspections and to keep your roof clear of debris of overhanging branches. As durable as tile roofs are, they are prone to break under heavy impact.
Some tile roof types, like clay, may also require sealing every few years as well. Consult with your local roofer to see if there is any special care needed for your roof.
Installing a cedar shake roof may cost up to three times more than a standard asphalt roof, but it truly offers your home a unique look. If you are considering cedar shakes or shingles, read on to learn more!
If you’re not a professional roofer, talking about cedar shake roof shingles can sometimes be confusing. That’s because, while they sound like they’re the same thing, cedar shakes and cedar shingles are two different types of roofing materials.
Cedar shakes appear more rustic than cedar shingles because they are typically hand split, giving it a thicker texture and a more irregular shape; no two shingles are alike. Cedar shingles, on the other hand, are more precisely sawn, making them thinner and more uniform looking. You may have considered cedar shingles for your home’s siding before, but cedar shakes are the more popular choice when it comes to roofing!
Cedar shake roofs give homes a beautiful, natural look. It offers a very distinct style that is typically popular for historical homes and other traditional style homes. In fact, for some of these homes, not having a cedar shake roof may reduce their property value.
Aside from just how it looks, though, there are other benefits to cedar shake roofs. Cedar shakes are an eco-friendly and natural insulator for homes, like slate roofing, but much less expensive to produce or repair. They are considered energy efficient because they don’t absorb UV-light like asphalt shingles or metal roofs. They stand up to wind very well, too.
Cedar shake roofs require slightly more maintenance than regular asphalt roofs. Just like any type of roof, we always recommend getting routine inspections to watch for any small repairs to be made. Because cedar shakes are installed per piece, it’s possible to replace single shingles at a time. But if you wait too long to fix a small problem, your repair could become more costly overtime.
Because cedar shakes are made of wood, they need to be treated with sealer and fire retardant every 5-10 years. This will help prevent moisture deterioration and allow your cedar shake roof to last over 30 years. You can also restain your roof if the colors start to fade or to update the color of your roof.
Have more questions about whether or not a cedar shake roof installation is the right one for your home? Call IBEX Roof today! Our mission is to deliver quality service to all of our customers. Reach our Vancouver office at 360-218-3194, our Lacey office at 360-352-1885, or fill out our online form for a free roofing estimate.
There are a few different materials homeowners can choose when it comes to installing a new roof. From asphalt roofs to cedar shake to metal, these materials have different looks and require different maintenance routines. Today, we’ll go over the basics of the most popular roofing material used: asphalt roof shingles!
Traditionally, asphalt roof shingles were made of recycled organic materials. They were then saturated in asphalt for waterproofing and covered in granules. While you can still get organic asphalt shingles today, another common option is fiberglass asphalt shingles. As the name suggests, these shingles have a base layer of fiberglass and are then coated with asphalt and granules.
Asphalt coating is what makes these types of shingles waterproof. The top layer of solid granules, which can be made up of a variety of stone, minerals, or ceramic, are what block UV light and give shingles their color.
Asphalt roof shingles are by far the most popular type of roofing material for residential homes. In fact, 4 out of 5 homes have asphalt roofs. One of the main reasons why asphalt roofs are the top choice for homeowners is because it’s a very well-rounded material. It’s the least expensive type of roofing material to install and lasts anywhere between 15-30 years. It’s both an economical choice and a great investment!
Another reason why people love asphalt roofs is because they come in a variety of shapes, colors, and texture. You can find asphalt shingles that look like other materials, including wood, slate, tile, and more.
The two main types of asphalt roof shingles you’ll see are architectural or 3-tab shingles. 3-tab shingles come in one size and shape and are thinner than architectural shingles. This will give your roof a flatter and more uniform look. Architectural shingles, which are also called dimensional shingles, vary in size, shape, and color, thus adding extra visual interest to your home. Because they are thicker than 3-tab shingles, they are a little more expensive and tend to last longer.
The newer your roof, the less maintenance is required during the first few years. The best way to maintain your asphalt roof is by keeping it clear of debris and overhanging plant growth. It’s also beneficial to schedule annual inspections to make sure your roof stays in its greatest shape. One way to easily do this is simply look up at your roof from the ground; if you can see some shingles missing, call your local roofer right away to get it repaired! The quicker small repairs are made, the longer your roof will last without any costly problems.
IBEX Roof offers both inspection and cleaning services for our customers. We understand the ins and outs of roofing specific to the Pacific Northwest and have a comprehensive approach to keeping your roof in working order. Learn more about our maintenance program today by calling our team at 360-218-3108. You can also reach out for a free estimate using our online form.
Do-It-Yourself, or DIY, has become quite popular over the past few years, especially when it comes to home renovations. From demolition to painting to installing new kitchen cabinets, is there anything homeowners shouldn’t be able to do by themselves?
There’s a reason why there are professional contractors who do what they do. Every DIY home project comes with risks, even if it may not seem that hard. We can’t speak for other trades, but when it comes to DIY roofing, here are three very good reasons why you probably shouldn’t try doing it yourself.
According to OSHA, the leading cause of fatalities among construction workers is falls, and a study done by the Journal of Safety Research reported that a third of falls in the construction industry were from a roof. If that sounds scary, that’s because it is. Not all damaged roofs look dangerous from the outside and it’s extremely dangerous to walk on your roof with an untrained eye. As professional roofers, we take many safety precautions and measures to ensure the safety of our workers. We also know how to navigate around your roof when the weather isn’t ideal and when it’s best to delay roof work if the weather is bad.
You should NEVER go on a roof that is potentially unsafe. If you think there is a problem with your roof, most reputable contractors will offer a free or low-cost inspection.
Many homeowners choose to DIY home projects because they think it saves them money. For some projects, that may be true. But that is not the case with a DIY roof replacement. In fact, you may end up spending a lot more money than if you had just hired a contractor.
As mentioned above, inspections are often free with a reputable contractor, and they will usually perform an inspection before starting on any roof work. There is a lot more involved to roof replacements than just replacing the shingles; the process also involves removing and disposing of the old shingles and repairing any damages that may have been underneath them.
At IBEX Roof, we’ve put a lot of thought into our process for any roofing job. For example, we use a special trailer to collect trash and debris so that your driveway doesn’t get scratched up from a dumpster. We cover up your beautiful landscape to protect it from falling debris. And we also have a thorough cleanup process after your roof work is completed so that you and your family are safe to walk around your home.
It’s hard to think about every step of the roofing process when you’re doing a DIY roof replacement. Not to mention, if you end up installing your roof incorrectly, you will have to spend more money fixing any mistakes or even getting your roof replaced all over again.
Lasty, a DIY roof replacement could mean no warranty for your roof. Most manufacturers require their roofing materials to be installed by professional roofers. So even if you are confident in your roofing skills, it’s probably not worth passing over a warranty. After all, the roof is one of the most important parts of your home! Additionally, some roofing contractors may even offer extended warranties for certain roofing materials. They may also offer another warranty for their roof work.
If you think it’s time to get your roof replaced, call IBEX Roof today for a free estimate on your next roofing project!
Summer is a great season to tackle some of those home projects that have been sitting on your to-do list. When it comes to your roof, this is an opportune time to make small repairs or even schedule a routine inspection to ensure that your roof is in its best shape!
Now is also a popular time for homeowners to consider remodeling their homes, like adding a roof to a porch, patio, or deck. Adding a roof over an outdoor space can add value to your home and it can also set up your outdoor space to be converted into an indoor space later on. So if you’re considering upgrading your outdoor living spaces by adding a roof, here are some things to consider.
You can find many DIY tutorials and videos online when it comes to adding a patio or porch roof. Even if you’re confident in your own DIY skills, though, it’s still best to consult with an expert. While a porch or patio may seem to have a smaller square footage than your whole house, you want to make sure that your roof is sturdy and can handle harsher weather conditions. A poorly designed porch roof can end up with leaks and other construction problems. It can also lead to undesirable mistakes like ugly roof lines or a post that blocks the view of a window.
While IBEX Roof doesn’t specialize in roof design and framing, we can recommend general contractors to help you get started. Hiring a local contractor is beneficial because they will know the rules and regulations of local building codes that you’ll need to consider for your roofing project.
You will likely need a permit any time you add some type of structure to your home. As mentioned above, it helps to consult or work with a local contractor who can tell you what types of permits you’ll need before starting your project. You can also visit your local building department to look up what types of home renovation projects require a permit.
The design of your porch and porch roof should flow with the rest of your house design. Depending on where your outdoor space is, you may also need to take special considerations when it comes to the roof slope.
Generally, you’ll want to match or compliment the pitch and roof design with the rest of your home. Windows, doors, siding types, and unseen framing details can also severely impact the design of your porch, so it’s best to plan ahead and know what you’d like your finished product to be.
We love our IBEX Roof customers and want to make sure your home roofing projects are completed to last. After working on thousands of roofs around Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR, we know what you’ll need to consider when designing a roof for the Pacific Northwest. Contact us today at 360-218-3104 to see how we can help you get started on your next roofing project.
Asphalt roof shingles have been used for roofing since 1901 and it rapidly became the most popular material for roofing. Even now, it’s the most common type of roof installed to cover homes. What makes asphalt roof shingles waterproof is, as the name suggests, asphalt. Often, these shingles were marketed by weight; the heavier the shingle, the higher the quality and more durable the shingle.
But as the price of crude oil, of which asphalt is a byproduct, started to become more expensive. And this led to manufacturers using less asphalt and more fillers in their shingles to reduce costs. This is why many asphalt roof shingles manufactured today are a lot lighter and thinner than they used to be. Some manufacturers are using more fillers, which really lower the quality of the roofing shingle. In fact, the shingles on your current roof may be better quality than many of the “Lifetime” shingles offered on the market today.
As a result, you may have noticed roofing manufacturers, or even roofing contractors, offer lifetime warranties on their shingles. If the pricing of shingles are going up, then having a longer warranty makes sense, right? Not exactly.
As a result, you may have noticed roofing manufacturers, or even roofing contractors, offer lifetime warranties on their shingles. If the pricing of shingles are going up, then having a longer warranty makes sense, right? Not exactly.
While a “Lifetime Warranty” sounds great, that’s merely the name of the warranty. To really know and understand what you’re actually getting from this warranty, you have to read the fine print. In fact, most of these warranties only cover manufacturing defects, which are very difficult to prove after 10 years from your installation. Furthermore, these warranties never cover the lifespan of your roof. Many of them also have clauses that limit the warranty for certain types of damage, and that’s only if you have a leak. No leak? Then no warranty.
It’s not always easy navigating through all the different roofing options and trying to figure out which one is going to be the best one for your home. That’s why it’s important to find a local roofing contractor you can trust; always make sure that your contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured.
At IBEX Roof, we care about our customers and want to deliver the best. That’s why we focus on educating our customers so that you know exactly what you’ll be getting…without any of the fine print. We are always happy to answer any of your roof-related questions. And, when it’s time for you to replace your roof, we offer a variety of options so you can choose what you think is best for your home.
To learn more about IBEX Roof’s services, call us today at 360-218-3108. Or, fill out our online form to get a free estimate for your next roofing project.
