Most people know that asphalt shingles cannot be painted over if you want to change the color of your roof. But can you paint a metal roof? Painting a metal roof might be something a homeowner would consider doing to a very old roof, but it’s usually unnecessary. If you’ve had a metal roof installed by IBEX Roof, your panels come with a 40-year paint fade warranty! That means you don’t have to worry about painting your roof for at least the next 40 years.
After 40 years, you may consider painting your metal roof as a way to prevent a full-on roof replacement. Painting may be an option to help refresh your roof if it looks faded. It can also be used to re-seal an old roof to prevent rusting or eroding from rain, snow, and ice. However, we highly recommend getting a roof inspection before considering a new coat of paint on your roof. When you have an old roof, color fading is only one of the signs of roof deterioration. An inspection will make sure to catch any repairs that need to be made or to fully assess whether or not you’ll need a roof replacement.
Like any type of material, there are ones that are cheaper and ones that cost a little more. One of the most important qualities in a metal roof panel is the type of paint coating it has; this is not an area you want to skimp on cost! Avoid installing metal panels on your roof that use polyester-based paints. This type of paint fades in only a few years and increases the chance of your roof being exposed to rust more quickly. Installing these types of panels may like a cheaper option at first, but you will only end up paying more to repaint and repair it. Or, worse, you may end up needing to replace your roof sooner than later!
At IBEX Roof, it’s crucial for us to use high-quality roofing materials that can withstand the temperamental weather patterns of the Pacific Northwest. That’s why we use metal panels painted with Kynar500 paint. This type of coating on the panels is so durable that there is no need to think about ever re-painting your metal roof.
There are several reasons why we don’t recommend homeowners paint their roofs on their own. First, metal roofs are easier to slip on than other roof materials. We never recommend untrained professionals to climb onto their roof, especially if it’s a metal one. Second, there are some metal roofs that can get easily damaged if you walk on it the wrong way.
If you are worried that your metal roof needs repainting, call IBEX Roof’s friendly office to schedule an inspection! Our process involves a thorough evaluation checklist. After inspecting at your roof, we will let you know your options to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible. Give us call today at (360) 218-3134.
One of the best reasons to consider a metal roof is that they require very little maintenance. Like any roof, you should always avoid allowing debris to build-up on top and trim back any overhanging tree branches. While that is probably the biggest maintenance rule to follow, here are a few more tips to make sure you get the most life out of your metal roof.
DO clean the gutters: Gutters are an important part of your roofing system that helps to properly shed water away from your home. Clogged gutters will cause water to back up and potentially damage your roof’s foundation. In the winter, cold temperatures may also cause water to freeze and expand in small spaces under the metal, damaging your roof.
DO keep an eye out: Not only can excess debris create scratches on your roof, but it could also break down the metal coating more quickly. Exposed metal on your roof can cause ugly rust stains, which can negatively affect your home’s curb appeal. Fall and spring are often opportune times to take a look at your roof to make it is in good shape. In addition to debris, be on the lookout for any stains, scratches, dents, and loose fasteners, or seam separation. The sooner you catch any problems, the easier and less expensive it will be to fix!
DO get your roof inspected: As your roof gets older, always remember to get it inspected! An annual inspection will suffice to make sure any small repairs are fixed. This will ensure a long life for your roof and will also keep your roofing budget to a minimum; it’s a lot cheaper to repair an issue while it is small than it is to replace a roof because your problem got too big. You should also consider an inspection after major storms or when there are extreme weather conditions.
DON’T walk on your roof: For obvious safety reasons, you should never walk on your roof if you don’t have to. When it comes to metal roofs, a trained professional will know how to do so without bending or puncturing any part of the roof. Any small dent can be an eyesore, so it’s important to know where to step! Metal roofs can also be more slippery than your average asphalt roof, even when it’s dry. This makes it even more dangerous to walk on and it’s best to avoid going on your roof when you can.
DON’T pressure wash: Maintaining a metal roof may include a light cleaning, but NEVER pressure wash your roof! With asphalt roofs, pressure washing will wash away the granules that give shingles their longevity. Although metal roofs don’t have granules, pressure washing can still damage their metal coating. You should also avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents that may break down the paint and reduce the lifespan of your roof.
DON’T wait to get repairs: If you see something wrong with your roof, do not wait to get it fixed. Often, the longer you wait, the bigger a problem it becomes, which will end up only costing you more money. It’s possible that what could have been a small repair turns into an entire roof replacement!
IBEX Roof is here to be your long-term roofing team. We’re here for more than just emergencies and roof replacements; we do everything we can to make sure your roof lasts as long as possible! Our team uses a thorough checklist for all roof evaluations to make sure nothing is missed. If we see any underlying problems with your roof, we will provide you with options that fit both your needs and budget. To schedule a roofing inspection today, give our friendly office a call at (360) 218-3108.
We’ve mentioned how metal roofs are a wonderful long-term investment for your home. A big part of that reason is their durability and longevity. Metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions and don’t require frequent maintenance or replacement. We’ll go over how long you can expect your metal roof to last, as well as different factors that can affect your metal roof lifespan.
Even though a metal roof will cost more than an asphalt roof, it should also last you almost twice as long, reducing the number of times you’ll have to pay for a replacement. That’s why metal roofs are worth considering if you plan on living in your home for the long-term. The longevity of a metal roof will certainly justify its cost, although you’ll also want to a few other careful considerations when you’re planning on making that investment.
If a metal roof (or any roof, for that matter) is improperly installed, it most definitely will not last as long as you would expect. In fact, it could start leaking right away, and you’ll end up paying more to repair or even reroof. The installation process for metal roofs and asphalt roofs are not the same; metal panels are a lot larger to work with than asphalt shingles, so there is a lot less room for error! That’s why it’s crucial to find a roofer that has experience in metal roofing.
There are all sorts of metal roofing materials out there. Some will be better for roofs with lower slopes while others may have a shingled or commercial look. Your roofer may recommend a certain type of metal roof depending on the needs of your home. But generally, no matter what type of metal roofing you choose, make sure it comes with a great warranty. There are some metal panels that have a polyester-based paint that fades quickly. At IBEX Roof, we use metal panels that are coated with Kynar500, which is a very durable paint coating that comes with a 40-year paint fade warranty.
IBEX Roof is here to be your friendly neighborhood roofer! Whether it is a roof repair, a replacement, or a simple inspection, we love serving our community. Our mission is to offer the best service to our customers, which includes taking time to answer your questions and guiding you through the roof work we perform on your home. Check out our reviews on Facebook and call our office staff at 360-218-3108 to schedule an appointment!
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.
