The Pacific Northwest is known for having a temperate oceanic climate with lots of rain and wind. Therefore, PNW residents usually build roofs that can handle moisture and have good drainage. While there are many types of roofs, including concrete, cedar shakes, metal, slate, and asphalt, the 3 most popular roofing types in PNW are:
Let’s go over the properties of each type and see why they are so popular among the people of PNW.
Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing option in the Pacific Northwest. They are considered the most versatile type of roofing, available in a variety of different colors and adding a clean and aesthetic look if installed correctly. To build an asphalt roof, you need a fiberglass mat, on top of which the shingles are installed, and a layer of mineral granules is added as a finishing touch.
There are three main types of asphalt shingles:
Even just a decade ago, when people thought of metal roofs, they would think of a shed or outside buildings. However, metal roofing is becoming quite popular in the Pacific Northwest. This is mainly due to its water-resistant properties and also because it is now available in different colors and styles. Metal roofs are one of the best types of roofing because they are unaffected by rain and snow due to closely interlocked panels. They are lightweight, easy to install, deflect heat, and can last for more than 50 years. Plus, they can also be designed to look like wood shake and slate to make your home look aesthetically pleasing.
Cedar shake roofs have been around for more than 300 years and are another popular roofing type in the PNW. They are the pioneers of roofing, giving your home a luxury look and increasing its value. Cedar roofs are expensive compared to other roofing options, but they have a low maintenance cost, save energy, and provide optimum insulation and deflection. However, cedar roofs are prone to mold growth if not installed correctly. But, if you treat the wood with products designed to keep mold and bacteria at bay, they can easily last for 30 to 50 years with annual maintenance.
Living in the PNW means building roofs impervious to rain and wind. Although you will find houses with several different roofing types, asphalt shingles, metal, and cedar shake roofs are the most viable options in the region. If you’re not sure how to choose a roofing type that suits you best, IBEX Roof is here to help. We can find you the right match based on your budget, maintenance capability, and preference!
We understand that a roof replacement is often the last thing on homeowners’ minds. Roofs are a big investment and it’s natural to want to preserve the roof you already have! However, knowing when the right time to get a roof replacement is important when it comes to keeping your home safe and sound. While you may not need a roof replacement quite yet, keep these signs in the back of your mind. That way, you’ll be ready to spring into action when the time for a new roof comes!
It’s common for homeowners to wait until there’s a roofing emergency before considering replacing their roof. But why wait until your home is under distress? When you wait until there’s a big problem with your roof, you’re looking at a more costly repair and replacement. It’s always best to stay proactive so that your home doesn’t get damaged in unexpected ways!
One easy way to keep track of when you need a roof replacement is by knowing how old your roof is. The average asphalt roof will last around 25 years. If your roof is around 25 years old, it’s likely time to consider replacing it! While you may not need a roof replacement exactly at the 25 year mark, that’s a good time to start getting annual inspections and start saving up for a new roof in the near future.
Another sign to consider replacing your roof is if your neighbors are getting their roofs replaced. Usually, homes in the same neighborhood are built around the same time. So if multiple neighbors are replacing their roofs, it’s probably about time for your home to get one, too!
Missing shingles or granules are the beginning signs your roof needs replacing. While missing shingles are a localized repair that can be fixed without a roof replacement, missing granules are a much more serious concern. Granules are what protect your roof from UV rays and other elements; they are also what essentially show your roof’s “age.” The less granules your roof has, the sooner you’ll need a replacement. If you notice granules in your gutters, call your local roofer to see if there’s some type of maintenance to help prolong the life of your roof or to see if you’ll need a roof replacement.
Damaged shingles are not just a sign your roof is in need of replacing, but it’s also an eyesore! Patches of discoloration, curled or cupped shingles, and cracks on your roof are all signs that your roof needs a replacement, especially if you can see these problems from the ground. Contact your local roofer right away if your roof is starting to look worn out; not addressing damaged shingles on your roof can lead to more costly problems, including leaks, organic growth, or wood rot underneath the shingles.
When your roof is allowing water, sunlight, or even a small draft in, it’s probably time for a new roof. Don’t wait until the ceiling of your ground floor is falling apart! Your local roofer will be able to find the source of any leaks during a routine roof inspection. You can also check for leaks on your own by going into your attic. Check for any moisture on the walls or discoloration in the walls or the ceilings, especially after or during a rainy day. If there’s any moisture or sunlight peeking into your attic, or if you can feel a draft coming in through cracks in the ceiling, it’s time to get ready for a new roof!
Sagging or drooping roofs are often a sign of a structural problem with your roof and should NOT be ignored. Sometimes, you can solve a sag in your roof without a replacement if the damage is small and localized. Contact your local roofer as soon as you notice something is wrong with your roof to avoid a more costly replacement.
IBEX Roof is dedicated to serving the communities around Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA. Whether it’s a roof repair, replacement, or just some routine maintenance, we’re on top of it! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment or fill out our online form for a free estimate on your next roofing project.
Our team at IBEX Roof is always here to help make sure your roof is in its best shape to protect you and your family in your home. We always recommend routine roof inspections to stay on top of needed repairs, as this will help your roof last longer. However, we know life can get busy and it’s not always easy to stay on top of your roof! While waiting too to repair your roof can mean needing a roof replacement, it’s always best to do what you can when you can. Check out the before and after of one of our recent roofing projects:
To see more examples of the roof work we’ve done, click here. Helping our communities have safe and secure roofs over their heads is what keeps our team at IBEX Roof going. If you’ve been putting off your roof inspection or much-needed roof work, now is the time to give us a call!
Choosing roof shingles is usually something homeowners need to decide when getting a full roof replacement. There may be instances where you’ll need to choose shingles for a localized repair, too. There’s no right or wrong way on choosing roof shingles for color and style, but here are some tips that might help you narrow down the choices.
There are quite a few ways to eliminate your options when choosing roof shingles. If you live in an area with a Home Owner’s Association, double-check the rules to see if they only allow certain colors. You can also take a look around your neighborhood to see what color roofs people have; you might not want to choose a roof type that is totally different from what’s around you as this can affect both your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
If you already love the roof that you have, your first step may be to try and get the same shingle and color as your old roof. Because your last roof replacement may have been over 20 years ago, though, it’s possible that shingles in that color may not be manufactured anymore! Fortunately, you should be able to find shingles that are similar in color and better designed than your old shingles.
Often, roof replacements will have leftover shingles that will be left with the homeowners. It’s up to you what to do with them, but we recommend saving them in case your roof will need future repair. That way, you don’t have to worry about purchasing new materials or risk not being able to match the right color.
If there’s anyone who can offer a reliable opinion, it’s your local roofer at IBEX Roof. After all, we see a variety of homes and roofs every day of the week! Most roofers will have samples of shingles so you can take an up-close look. We can also advise you on the best way to repair a roof when you can’t find the exact same shingles are your current roof. While we can’t make the final decision for you, we’d be happy to tell you what colors are currently popular and trendy.
If you’ve ever wondered how satisfying it is to treat your roof for moss. the answer is easy — VERY satisfying!
As part of our roof maintenance program, we’ll clean every bit of loose debris from both the roof and the gutters in addition to clearing accumulated moss while keeping your property tidy and your landscaping intact. Because we’re a roofing company and not a cleaning company, we have an in-depth understanding of how to properly clean a roofing system. This means we’ll NEVER:
To learn more about keeping your roof clean, be sure to read our past blog posts:
Is Roof Cleaning Really Necessary?
Is That Algae, Moss, or Mold on Your Roof?
What Does Moss Removal Look like?
The Best Way to Remove Mold on Your Roof
Top 5 Roof Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to all roof and gutter matters, our crew at IBEX Roof is on top of it. We know your roofing problems are the last thing you want to think about, yet your roof is an essential part of your home’s safety. Whether you need to treat your roof for moss, repair a few shingles, or get a full-on roof replacement, we’re here to help. Give us a call at 360-218-3134 today to see how we can keep your roof safe and sound all year round.
Your roof is not looking good. Maybe it’s rotting out, there’s wind or fire damage, or animals have pecked and burrowed into it. Regardless, it either needs some major work done to it or to be replaced entirely, but which one? When it comes to extending the life of your roof, roof restoration may be a better option than a complete replacement.
Unsurprisingly, restoring your roof is going to be much cheaper than fully replacing it. Regardless of whether your roof is wood, metal, slate, or clay, new roofs are not cheap.
It’s better for the environment to restore your roof because it reduces waste. A new roof means getting rid of the old roof, which usually means a lot of garbage. Restoring your roof may mean trashing sections of it, but it will be far less waste than removing the whole thing.
The whole idea of roof restoration is to extend the lifespan of your home. This extension, of course, depends greatly on the material used for the roof. But assuming your roof is asphalt (which most roofs are), you could extend its life for 5 to 10 years. This restoration will not only improve the overall health of your home but will also return it to the energy efficacy that it had when it was new. Saving you money on heating and cooling as well.
The last reason it’s great to restore your roof is that it is far more convenient than a full roof replacement. A new roof can take weeks to install, while a roof restoration should not take longer than a few days depending on the work that needs to be done and the size of your roof.
You are going to want to fully replace your roof when it has extensive damage. For example, if you have a significant fire, water, hail, or high wind damage, it might be time to replace your roof. Think of it like a totaled car. If it is going to be more expensive to restore your roof than to replace it, then it’s time to replace it.
Age is also a factor when it comes to roof replacement, but that varies greatly from roof to roof. If you have an asphalt roof, expect to replace it around the 20-year mark.
First, your roof will get a thorough cleaning. Moss, mildew, lichen, and other debris will be cleaned off. If your roof is metal, any rust that has accumulated will be removed. Then seams, flashing, and fasteners will be checked to make sure they are still sealed. If they are not, they will be resealed. Any sections of the roof will be repaired, which will be the most time-consuming section of the restoration. Once your roof is completely repaired, it will be primed and coated in chemicals that are made to protect your roof from water, plant, and animal damage.
When in doubt about restoring or replacing your roof, give your roofing professionals at IBEX Roof a call. Our number one goal is to help your roof last as long as possible. We present our customers with cost-effective solutions that ensure a reliable roof over their heads. Let us help you find the right roofing solution for you!
Are you tired of dealing with frequent repairs and replacements for your traditional roof? Do you want a roofing solution that is not only durable but also energy-efficient and visually appealing? If so, it may be time to consider a metal roof. Metal roofing has gained increasing popularity in recent years due to its numerous advantages over traditional roofing materials.
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why metal roofs have become a favorable choice and address common misconceptions associated with them. Read on to discover if a metal roof could be the perfect solution for your home.
Before delving into the benefits of metal roofing, it's important to understand the issues commonly faced with traditional roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, wood shakes, clay, or concrete tiles. These materials often require frequent repairs or replacements, leading to additional costs and inconveniences.
Wood shakes and tiles are susceptible to rot, warping, and insect damage, making them less durable in the long run. Additionally, clay or concrete tiles are heavy and may require additional structural support for adequate installation.
In recent years, metal roofing has gained significant traction as homeowners seek a reliable and long-lasting roofing option. Let's explore the advantages that have contributed to the rising popularity of metal roofs:
Metal roofs are known for their exceptional durability. Unlike traditional roofing materials, metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snowfall, and hail. With a properly installed and maintained metal roof, you can expect it to last up to 50 years or more. This longevity surpasses that of asphalt shingles, which typically last around 20 to 30 years.
Metal roofs are highly energy-efficient, helping homeowners reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. The reflective properties of metal significantly reduce heat absorption, keeping your home cooler in hot climates.
This reduces the load on your HVAC system, leading to energy savings. Additionally, metal roofs can be installed with added insulation, further enhancing energy efficiency and comfort.
Gone are the days when metal roofs were limited to industrial or agricultural buildings. Nowadays, metal roofs come in a variety of styles, designs, and colors. You can choose from different metal roof colors to perfectly match the exterior of your home, whether you prefer a classic or contemporary look.
Metal roofs can mimic the appearance of shingles, tiles, or even a sleek standing seam metal roof. The versatility in design ensures that you can achieve the desired curb appeal for your home.
Investing in a metal roof not only offers long-term benefits but also enhances the value of your property. Potential homebuyers recognize the durability and low maintenance aspect of metal roofs, making it an attractive feature when it comes time to sell your home.
One of the myths associated with metal roofs is that they are noisy during rainfall. However, this is not the case. With advancements in insulation and soundproofing technologies, the noise generated by raindrops hitting a metal roof is no louder than that of other types of roofing materials.
Contrary to popular belief, metal roofs are not more prone to lightning strikes compared to traditional roofs. In fact, the non-combustible nature of metal makes it a safe option in areas prone to wildfires. Metal roofs have a Class A fire resistance rating, offering excellent protection.
Apart from their durability and aesthetics, metal roofs boast several environmental benefits:
While the upfront cost of metal roofs may be higher than traditional options like asphalt shingles, the long-term savings they offer outweigh the initial investment. Metal roofs require minimal maintenance, reducing repair costs significantly. Moreover, metal roofs have a longer lifespan, eliminating the need for costly replacements every few decades.
It's also worth noting that some insurance providers offer discounts for homes with metal roofs due to their durability and resistance to weather-related damage. Additionally, certain tax incentives may be available for homeowners who choose to install energy-efficient metal roofs.
Metal roofs can be made from various materials, each with its own advantages and considerations:
| Material | Advantages |
| Standing Seam | - Provides sleek and modern aesthetics |
| - Excellent resistance against water infiltration | |
| - Can accommodate thermal expansion | |
| Metal Shingles | - Resemble traditional roof materials like asphalt shingles |
| - Lightweight and easy to install | |
| Metal Tiles | - Highly durable and long-lasting |
| - Provides a classic, elegant look | |
| Corrugated Metal | - Ideal for agricultural or industrial buildings |
| - Budget-friendly option |
Installing a metal roof requires careful consideration of certain factors:
To ensure the best results, it's essential to work with reputable and experienced contractors for metal roof installation. Improper installation can compromise the performance and durability of the roof.
Regular maintenance involves clearing debris, inspecting for any loose screws or damaged panels, and promptly addressing any issues to prevent further damage. Additionally, applying a metal roof sealant can provide extra protection against leaks and extend the lifespan of your metal roof.
Hearing from others who have switched to metal roofs can provide valuable insight into their experiences. Here are a couple of success stories:
Metal roofs have undeniably established themselves as a superior roofing option, offering durability, energy efficiency, and numerous design possibilities.
Despite initial cost considerations, the long-term benefits outweigh the investment. Additionally, metal roofs contribute to sustainability efforts through recyclability and reduced energy consumption. By choosing a metal roof, you can enjoy peace of mind, aesthetic appeal, and long-lasting protection for your home.
Consider all these factors and consult with a professional to determine whether a metal roof is the right choice for you.
When it comes to enhancing natural light in your home, the choice often comes down to sun tunnels and skylights. Both options offer unique benefits and can transform a dimly lit space into a vibrant, inviting environment. However, understanding the differences between these two solutions is essential for making an informed decision.
Sun tunnels, known for their compact design and efficiency, contrast sharply with the larger, more open skylights. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between sun tunnels and skylights, helping you make an informed decision about which option best suits your home and lifestyle.
Sun tunnels, also known as tubular daylighting devices (TDDs), are innovative structures designed to capture sunlight from the roof and funnel it into interior spaces. They consist of a rooftop dome, a reflective tube, and a diffuser that disperses the natural light evenly into the room. Sun tunnels are particularly useful in spaces where traditional windows or skylights are impractical or impossible to install.
Sun tunnels utilize advanced reflective materials to maximize the amount of sunlight they capture. The rooftop dome acts as a light collector, capturing daylight from various angles throughout the day. The sunlight is then directed down the reflective tube and diffused into the room through the diffuser, providing a soft, natural glow.
Skylights are windows installed on the roof or ceiling of a building to allow direct sunlight into the interior spaces below. They come in various shapes and sizes, offering different design options to suit architectural preferences and lighting requirements.
Both are roof penetrations that allow for light into your home. Skylights are larger and take longer to install; their installation involves two large holes in your roof and ceiling. Sun tunnels are a much smaller footprint on your home, but they also provide much less light. Also, it’s worth keeping in mind that there are two different types of skylights and sun tunnels.
Skylights are either fixed or vented. Fixed are sealed to your roof, while vented let in fresh air along with natural light. Sun tunnels are either flexible or rigid; this really only has to do with their installation and not their performance. Fixed sun tunnels are used if a straight shot from the ceiling to the roof is possible, while flexible is used if there is some obstruction in the way.
The installation process for skylights begins with careful planning and measurement. Once the location is determined, a frame is created where the skylight is attached securely to the roof structure.
After ensuring proper sealing, the finishing touches are added, allowing the skylights open to provide natural light and ventilation effectively.
The cost of installing sun tunnels varies depending on factors such as location, materials, and installation complexity. Generally, homeowners can expect to spend between $500 and $2,500. This price includes both the tunnel and professional installation fees, ensuring optimal performance and aesthetic appeal.
Additional expenses may arise for roofing modifications or accessories like solar-powered fans. However, the long-term benefits of natural lighting and reduced energy costs often outweigh the initial investment.
Installation costs can vary significantly due to several key factors. One major factor is the complexity of the project, which can increase labor time and material requirements. Additionally, location plays a crucial role, as remote areas may incur higher transportation costs.
Another important aspect is the type of materials used; premium materials typically lead to higher expenses. Lastly, the experience of the contractor can impact costs, as skilled professionals may charge more for their expertise.
As mentioned earlier, sun tunnels are easier to install. This is because you only need to cut two relatively small holes in your roof and fit a premade tube into those holes. From there, an acrylic dome is sealed onto your roof and a light diffuser to place on your ceiling. A skylight, however, needs two large holes in your ceiling and roof that will be unique to your home and will need to be refinished by a painter once the job is done. This is why a sun tunnel will take two professionals about 3 hours to complete, while skylights could take as long as a week.
Consider a skylight as a window incorporated into your ceiling, whereas a sun tunnel functions more like a reflective tube that captures sunlight. In simple terms, a skylight will permit significantly more light to enter. This is why skylights are the favored option if you aim to brighten a dim space in your house.
When considering the best locations for skylights, the roof of your home is a prime spot to enhance natural light. For tighter spaces, solar tubes are an excellent alternative, as they resemble tunnels and are generally more budget-friendly. Ultimately, the choice for your home should focus on maximizing brightness.
Sun tunnels are an ideal choice for areas where natural light is needed but space is limited. Unlike traditional skylights, solar tubes are generally more budget-friendly, making them accessible for various projects.
These innovative solutions can brighten up hallways, closets, and bathrooms, providing an effective way to enhance interior spaces. A skylight lets in expansive views, while sun tunnels focus on maximizing light without compromising structural integrity.
When selecting roof and ceiling types, light sources play a crucial role. Incorporating solar tubes and skylights can significantly enhance natural lighting while improving energy efficiency.
Moreover, for those on a tighter budget, tunnels are generally more budget-friendly options, allowing for adequate illumination without the higher costs associated with traditional windows.
Understanding energy efficiency in skylights is crucial for optimizing natural light while minimizing heat loss. Proper installation and selection of materials can enhance insulation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Additionally, integrating energy-efficient technologies, like low-emissivity glazing, can further improve performance and sustainability in residential and commercial spaces.
Sun tunnels are innovative structures that harness natural light, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. By channeling sunlight into interior spaces, they create bright environments while minimizing energy consumption.
This reduction in reliance on electricity leads to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to overall energy savings.
Natural light into your home significantly enhances your living space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. By maximizing daylight, you can reduce reliance on artificial lighting, leading to energy savings.
Additionally, a skylight is a good investment for increasing natural light, as it brings sunlight directly from above, brightening rooms and improving mood.
Maintaining your skylight is essential for maximizing its benefits. When installing a skylight or a sun tunnel, it's crucial to consider factors like heat gain in the summer and the amount of light they bring into your home. A traditional skylight might let in much light, while solar tubes can be a more efficient option.
Choosing the right option between a skylight and a sun tunnel involves understanding the pros and cons. Sun tunnels are generally easier to install than a traditional skylight. However, both can effectively bring natural light into spaces like a hallway or a closet while enhancing your light fixture choices.
Furthermore, proper maintenance can help you avoid the issues that skylights aren’t immune to, such as leaks or damage to the roofing material. Utilizing solar tax credits for a new skylight or adding a skylight or sun tunnel can also be beneficial for energy efficiency and aesthetics. Always consult a skilled installer for optimal results.
Sun tunnels may be easier to install than a sun tunnel and are often more budget-friendly. They effectively bring light into the room, adding natural light to your home while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Unlike traditional skylight installation, solar tubes focus on funneling natural light without the need for extensive modifications.
Although skylights come with ventilation options, skylights cannot always provide the same efficiency as sun tunnels. Understanding what's the difference helps homeowners choose wisely. A skylight is a window that lets light in, while sun tubes are designed to let light in through a reflective tube, maximizing benefits of natural light.
To ensure optimal performance, regular care and maintenance for sun tunnels is essential, especially during summer and heat loss seasons. Using a blind can help control brightness, while the installation of sun tunnels guarantees a flexible approach to adding more natural light to your space.
Common issues in homes often include inadequate lighting and ventilation. Skylights can provide natural light and fresh air into your home. When choosing a skylight, consider whether a big skylight or a flexible sun is best suited for your space.
For more affordable options, installing a sun tunnel is a good alternative. Sun tunnels take a fraction of the cost of traditional skylights, making them a practical choice for bringing light to a room without creating a hole in the roof.
Understanding the difference between a skylight and a sun tunnel is essential. While rigid sun tunnels provide direct sunlight, they may not allow heat loss in the winter to be minimized as effectively as some skylights.
Ultimately, both options can help you effectively turn off the light during the day while ensuring your home is bright and airy. To complete the installation, consult with professionals for best results.
If you want natural light in your home, it is better to get a skylight. Sun tunnels are great when you want sunlight in sections of your home that would not allow for a skylight. However, they do not provide the type of light that a skylight can. While they are more expensive and take longer to install, skylights simply work a lot better for what they have to do than a sun tunnel.IBEX Roof offers installation services and repairs for skylights and sun tunnels to improve natural lighting in homes around Vancouver and Portland. If you’re still not sure whether a skylight or sun tunnel is better for your needs, give us a call. Our skylight experts would be happy to point you in the right direction.
Have you ever wished that your house had more natural light shining through? Then sun tunnels are the perfect addition to your home. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, their installation cost, and when to replace them.
Sun tunnels, or solar tubes, are metal tubes that are fitted to your home through holes cut into your ceiling and roof. They are meant to allow natural light into places that are situated in the middle of your home and are usually dark. There are two types of sun tunnels: flexible and rigid.
Flexible sun tunnels are used when there are things between the roof and ceiling that do not allow for a straight shot. Rigid sun tunnels are used when there is nothing between the roof and ceiling and a straight shot is possible. Both permit the same amount of natural light into your home, only the installation is mildly different.
Sun Tunnels are basically polished metal tubes that work like mirrors to shoot sunlight from the roof into your home. It all starts with the acrylic dome, which captures and magnifies the light from the sun. It is then shot down the polished metal tube to the light diffuser in your ceiling. This light diffuser is not as strong as direct sunlight but will still give any room a pleasant natural light.
The purpose of the diffuser is to disperse the light evenly throughout the room, creating a natural and pleasant lighting effect. Sun tunnels are a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to bring sunlight to areas that would otherwise remain dim. They can enhance the atmosphere and make a room feel more spacious and inviting.
Sun tunnels, also known as tubular skylights, are a great way to bring natural light into your home. Unlike traditional skylights, which are typically large windows installed in the roof, sun tunnels are smaller and more discreet. They consist of a tubular form that extends from the roof to the desired room, such as a bathroom, closet, or hallway.
The tubular structure captures sunlight through a small roof-mounted dome and channels it down the tube, dispersing the natural light into the room below. Installing a sun tunnel is a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to brighten up dark areas in your home without the need for electricity.
Moreover, sun tunnels also offer additional benefits such as adequate ventilation, reducing the dependency on artificial lighting during daylight hours, and providing a pleasant and healthier living environment. With their easy installation process and ability to bring natural light into areas that traditional windows cannot reach, sun tunnels are a popular choice for homeowners looking to maximize natural lighting in their homes.
Your local roofer should be able to install a sun tunnel in 2 to 3 hours with a two-person crew, regardless of whether it is rigid or flexible. The process starts with cutting a hole in your roof and ceiling. The metal tube will then be fitted so that no water or other debris can squeeze into your home. Once that is installed, your roofer will install the acrylic dome on the roof and the light diffuser on your ceiling. Depending on the quality of sun tunnel you get, this installation should only cost you between $500 to $1,000.
The cost of a sun tunnel can vary depending on several factors. The size and type of sun tunnel you choose will have an impact on the overall cost. Additionally, the materials used in the construction of the sun tunnel can influence the price. Sun tunnels made with high-quality materials such as acrylic tend to be more expensive than those made with cheaper alternatives. Another factor to consider is the presence of a light diffuser. Some sun tunnels come with a built-in diffuser, while others may require an additional purchase.
The installation process will also contribute to the overall cost. If you hire professionals to install the sun tunnel, you can expect to pay more compared to a DIY installation. Lastly, the type of roof you have may affect the installation process and therefore the cost. It's always best to consult with a professional to accurately determine the cost of installing a sun tunnel in your specific situation.
When it comes to bringing natural light into your home, there are a few options to consider, including skylights and sun tunnels. Both options have their own benefits and it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Skylights are windows that are installed into the roof, allowing natural light to enter a room from above. They come in various sizes and can provide a significant amount of natural light, brightening up any space. On the other hand, sun tunnels are tubular structures that are installed in the roof and direct sunlight into a hallway or room. They are great for smaller spaces and can bring natural light into areas that may not have access to windows, such as a closet or hallway.
One popular brand of skylights is Velux skylights, known for their high-quality installations. Whether you choose a skylight or sun tunnel, both options will help to brighten up your home and bring in much-needed natural light.
Sun tunnels are a popular alternative to traditional skylights for bringing natural light into dark spaces. However, one common concern is whether sun tunnels leak. The answer to this question depends on the quality of the installation and the materials used. When properly installed by a professional installer, sun tunnels should not leak. It is important to choose a reputable installer who has experience with sun tunnels and can ensure a proper installation.
The roof needs to be properly prepared to accommodate the sun tunnel and ensure a watertight seal. Velux is a well-known brand that offers high-quality sun tunnel products, such as the Velux Sun Tunnel. Velux sun tunnels are designed to prevent leaks and come with a warranty for added peace of mind. With a reliable installer and quality products like Velux sun tunnels, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of natural light without the worry of leaks.
A well-installed sun tunnel could last as long as your roof does, as long as you properly care and maintain it. Your acrylic dome should last around ten years, while your light diffuser can go as long as twenty. Note that your light diffuser will have to be regularly cleaned, especially if it is located in the kitchen. The most common problem that people run into that could lead to a full replacement is water leakage. This tends to happen when your sun tunnel is improperly installed, or there is a crack in your acrylic dome. Caught early enough, and this should not be a major problem, so be sure to keep an eye out for water droplets or discoloration near your light diffuser.
If you’re unsure whether or not your sun tunnel needs repair or replacement, give IBEX Roof a call. We have been installing and repairing skylights and sun tunnels for customers for years. We can advise you on the most cost-effective way to keep your roof functioning while also looking good.
Ideally, you should never see the nails on your roof. Properly installed nails should be flush to the shingle they are inserted into and covered by the shingle above them. The ensures that they are secure and unseen. Over time, however, even correctly installed nails can become exposed, usually from severe weather conditions. While it may not sound like much, these exposed roof nails can cause havoc to your roof and home.
One of the most common ways that roof nails get exposed is by harsh weather. When shingles come loose because of high winds or heavy snow, they often leave their nails behind. While this should not be a problem for a well-installed roof, this can happen fairly often if a nail is overdriven into a shingle or placed in the wrong spot. Also, improperly nailed shingles can void a manufacturer’s warranty on a roof. Once you notice the exposed nails ruining your home, you may not be able to cash in your warranty.
Another way for nails to get exposed is when a contractor repairs a part of your roof by simply nailing shingles over the damaged sections instead of taking the time to fit them under the preexisting shingles. Under this new section of roof will be exposed nails that could be letting moisture in.
The enemy of any roof is water. If water is allowed into your roof, rot and mold are bound to follow it. This can cause significant problems that will be costly to fix. Simply put, an unaddressed exposed nail will let water in eventually. They let water in because once they are exposed, they are liable to rust away, and once they do, you are left with a hole in your roof. This is why it is so important to spot exposed nails and deal with them before they can endanger your home. Even one exposed nail can lead to water damage.
If you suspect exposed nails or other nail-related issues with your roof, give IBEX Roof a call. We can send someone over to take a look at your roof. Once we have evaluated your roof, we can make the proper recommendations on how to best repair your roof. In most cases, a simple repair can be done, but there is the possibility that you will have to totally replace your roof if the damage is extensive enough. This is another reason why it is so important to identify exposed nails early and take care of them before they become dangerous.
