When you think of a roof replacement, the first thing you think of may be our roofers tearing away your old roof and replacing it with a new one. And while that is the bulk of the process, it’s only one part of the entire project! There are many factors involved that will ultimately affect your roof installation time, from beginning to end.
Every roofing project has a beginning, a middle, and an end. In the beginning, we have to inspect your roof to assess whether or not it needs to be replaced. Sometimes, it’s possible that your roof may have extra life left in it — we don’t want to make you replace a roof if we don’t have to! If your roof can simply be repaired, we will let you know and come up with a maintenance place that will help prolong the life of your roof until it is time for a full replacement.
Once we’ve determined you need a replacement, the next step is to choose the style and color you want for your roof. Then, we will need to order the materials before getting started on the installation.
There are many things that can affect the time it takes to install your roof. One of the major factors is the type of materials you want. It may take longer to get started on your installation if we can’t get all your materials together. Additionally, not every type of roofing material is installed the same way. Some types of roofs require a longer process to install.
Other factors that will affect your roof replacement time include the size of your home and historic status. Obviously, a larger house will take more time to install. Even so, asphalt shingle roofs often still take only a day or two to complete. Historic homes, on the other hand, have several rules that need to be followed in order to protect the historical integrity of the home. Therefore, it may take longer to install a roof on a historical home to ensure all the proper guidelines are being followed.
Another major factor that could affect your roof replacement is if your roof deck is damaged. This is a major component of your roof. If it requires repair or replacement, then we will fix it before we install the rest of your roof.
Lastly, another part of the roofing process is the cleanup! We make sure to clean up all the debris and trash from your old roof; your landscape will look as good as we found it! By the time we leave, the only thing you will notice is the amazing roof left behind.
IBEX Roof is here for you whenever you need us. Our friendly team is here to guide you through the entire roofing process. Our entire philosophy is to provide roofing services without any secrets or surprises! From the moment you call us to the moment we complete your project, we strive to be transparent in everything we do. That means being open and communicative about how long your project will take and how much it will cost.
Have a question about the roof installation time of your project? Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to answer!
Keeping your gutters clean is important to protect your roof and home from water damage. But if the task of cleaning out your gutters seems to slip your mind often, or if you’re not quite comfortable climbing up a ladder, it’s time to consider the best gutter guards for your home.
For the skeptic who’s wondering, “Do gutter guards work?”, the short answer is yes. There are plenty of reasons why you should invest in gutter guards or covers. While they aren’t 100% maintenance-free, they do cost less over time than hiring someone to clean your gutters once a year. Finding the best gutter guards for your home will also greatly reduce the dangers of having to clean out gutters yourself. According to the World Health Organization, 37.3 million falls a year require medical attention. So if you’re worried about your elderly parents climbing up a rickety ladder, or if you have a serious fear of heights, then gutter guards are definitely the way to go.
We want you to get the best gutter guards for your home, so here is what to keep in mind. First, make sure you’re getting removable gutter guards; this makes any problems easy to take care of. Second, gutter guards are made out of all different materials and in different designs, but they all come with their own pros and cons.
Foam gutter guards are commonly found at large box stores. They’re inexpensive and easy to install, but they get easily clogged with decomposed organic material. Seeds could also fall into them, turning your gutters into planters. Plastic gutter guards don’t last long, either, as they easily warp and break under UV rays.
Washington and Oregon are both home to large fir trees, and screen gutter covers with large holes won’t keep the fir needles out of your gutter. The acidity from fir needles and leaves will also cause galvanized steel gutter guards to rust.
Lastly, stay wary of companies that offer “maintenance-free” covers. The right gutter guard will take care of 90% of clogging issues. However, they will still need to be cleaned every few years.
Consider the type of environment you live in when looking for the right gutter guards. IBEX Roofing services the Vancouver and Portland area, and rusting is a general problem in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve found that stainless steel mesh screens are the best gutter guards for the region. Stainless steel won’t rust, and the mesh screen will keep out most small needles. Not only do they perform better than other types of gutter guards, but our customers like that they are also less expensive than other big-name gutter covers. Gutter guards with an aluminum finish are also recommended to prevent rust issues.
IBEX Roof can help you install new gutter guards at your next roof maintenance or gutter cleaning appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the best gutter guards for your home, or about gutters in general, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
A brand new roof is a large investment and one that is beneficial to prepare for. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t feel adequately prepared when it’s time to replace their roof. Even if you don’t need a new roof right now, it’s a great time to think about when it will be the right time. So when exactly do you need a roof replacement? Here are some questions to consider so you are ready for a roof replacement — when the time is right.
The first step to figuring out when to replace your roof is by knowing what type of roof you currently have. Do you have a three-tab asphalt roof, architectural shingles, or a metal roof? Different types of roofs have different lifespans and rules for maintenance.
Once you know what type of roof you have, it’s time to figure out when it was installed and its repair history. If you are not the original owner, it might be a good idea to ask the previous owners of your home about the roof’s installation. Even a ball-park estimate is good enough. Another option is to ask your realtor to see if they can look up the house records.
Knowing the age of your roof is helpful because then you can gauge where your roof is in its service life. The average service life of an asphalt roof is between 15-30 years, whereas metal can last up to 70 years. If your roof is nearing the end of its service life, it’s time to start considering and saving for a new roof.
If your roof is constantly needing repairs, a roof replacement might be more budget-friendly in the long term. Common signs of wear and tear in a roof include curling or missing shingles, clogged storm gutters, damaged flashing, or moisture in your walls. While the occasional leak can be repaired, it’s not normal to experience this often unless there is something wrong with your roof.
Any time you suspect a problem with your roof, it’s time to call your local roofer. And even if you’re roof seems to be doing well, it never hurts to schedule an inspection! At IBEX Roof, our roofing contractors begin every project with a thorough roof inspection. This allows us to provide a detailed assessment, expert recommendations, and an accurate estimate. When you give us a call, you can trust that IBEX Roof will be on top of it. We’re happy to look at your roof and let you know how much service life it has left. We can also make recommendations on how best to maintain your roof. That way it lasts as long as possible before it’s time for a replacement. And, if it is time for a replacement, we’re ready to help you with that, too! Give us a call today or fill out our online form to schedule your free inspection.
Installing or replacing a brand new roof is not just a big investment, it’s also a large job that requires some planning. The first step to any roofing project is to call your local roofer, get an inspection, and schedule an appointment. After, your roofer may have to order the right roofing materials, install your roof, and clean up when they finish.
With so many steps for such a big project, it’s recommended to consider your project timeline to ensure that your home is always secure and protected. Any step that is delayed can result in your entire roofing project being pushed back. Here are some tips to minimize the chances of that happening.
Your local roofer should be able to help you keep track of all the moving parts and details of your roofing project. We recommend talking with your contractor to make sure you’re on the same page. Of course, it’s important to first choose a roofing company that is trustworthy and professional. Once hired, talk with your roofer to make sure that everyone is on the same page. They will recommend a schedule and let you know if there are any permits required, as well as tell you how long the job will take.
We cannot control the weather, but we can do our best to work around it. If you have an intensive roofing project, choose a month with milder temperatures and clear weather. This does not mean that roof work cannot be done in other parts of the year, but heavy rains, ice, and snow can certainly delay or pause a project. Your roofer will also recommend an ideal time to start on a project that is safe for all parties.
Permit laws vary from state to state and county to county. Your roofer should be able to let you know if you’re required to get any permits for your roofing project. If so, make sure to get your permits as soon as possible. Otherwise your contractor will not be able to start on the work.
Some roofing jobs take about a day to complete, but there are other times when a roofing project may take longer. Even for daytime projects, roof work can be loud and disruptive, especially for children and pets. To keep everyone safe and happy, you may want to make accommodations with a neighbor, friends, or family. Your contractor will also let you know if there are any special instructions to follow to prepare your house before they arrive.
IBEX Roof wants our customers to feel confident in one of the biggest investments of their home — the roof. We strive to be transparent and will guide you through the entire process so that there will be no delays for your roof work. When you call IBEX Roof, we’re on top of it. Give us a call today at 360-218-3194 to start your next roofing project.
When it comes to the health of your roof, never ignore anything that seems unusual. Even if you notice mystery problems that don’t seem to be a big deal, get it checked out! Small problems have the potential to become expensive problems. And sometimes, it doesn’t take much time! While there are some obvious signs that will obviously make you call your roofer, here are other signs in your home that might make you consider a roof inspection.
Not all roofing problems can be seen with the naked eye, which is why it’s a good idea to get annual inspections on your roof. In some cases, you may even be able to hear odd noises from your roof. If you hear dripping water, creaking noises, or anything else that is out of place, it’s time to call your roofer for an inspection.
How exactly does a warped window indicate a roofing problem? Often, windows will start to warp when there is moisture absorbed into your home’s foundation. When your home’s wooden frame retains excessive moisture, it starts to warp. This could be connected to your roof if you have an undetected roof leak. It could also be from a clogged gutter that is not properly draining. If that’s the case, then you should call your roofer for a roof inspection.
Just like warped windows, cracks in the walls can be from excessive moisture, or it can be from a sagging roof. If the foundation of your roof isn’t secure, then the weight of your roof can cause cracks in your walls. Alternatively, cracks in your wall’s paint can also be from moisture that is coming in from the roof or leaking into your foundation.
At IBEX Roof, we care about helping you care for your roof for as long as possible, before it needs replacing. No matter what type of roof we’re looking at, every inspection follows a thorough checklist. Then, we’ll help you come up with a plan to maintain your roof to keep it safe and secure. If it’s time to consider a roof inspection, reach out today by calling us at 360-218-3134.
There are some roofing emergencies that happen unexpectedly, like a tree falling on your roof from a bad storm. There are other roofing emergencies, however, that likely start out as small, undetected problems. Over time, small would-be repairs can turn into bigger problems. The longer they remain undetected, the bigger the emergency you will eventually have to deal with. Staying on top of routine maintenance and repairs is the easiest way to extend the life of your roof.
Roof maintenance can mean different things depending on the type of roof you have. Asphalt shingle roofs and wood shakes or shingles require more maintenance than other roofing materials. Metal roofs and tile roofs are lower maintenance. Ask your roofer how you can best maintain the type of roof you have. The shape and slope of your roof may also affect how to best maintain your roof.
Get routine roof inspections. If your roof seems like it’s in good shape, then just scheduling an inspection once a year will do. If you suspect there is something wrong with your roof, whether from old age, a bad storm, or something else, then call your local roofer for an inspection. Not all roofing damage can be seen with the naked eye or from the ground. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
If you see a lot of debris on top of your roof or in your gutters, that is a good reminder to call your roofer for an inspection or cleaning services. This is a very simple way to stay on top of your roof maintenance. Some roofs will require more maintenance to keep clean than others. For instance, debris seems to just slide right off metal roofs! But pine needles, which are more acidic, can eat away at asphalt shingles if left to sit too long.
All roofing projects should start with an inspection. When you get your roof inspected or cleaned, your roofer should be able to point out areas of your roof that need extra care or repair. It’s best to get those repairs fixed as soon as possible, or to replace any small roofing accessory in a timely manner. This will ensure your roof lasts longer!
Yes, proper roof maintenance can certainly extend the life of your roof. With proper maintenance, your roof could last 5 to 10 years longer. For more personalized advice on how to care for your roof, give our friendly roofing staff a call at IBEX Roof. We can set up a free inspection for your roof and let you know what repairs need to be made, how much service life is left, and a long-term plan to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible.
A fallen tree on your roof is usually one of those things you don’t expect to happen. But when it does, it’s crucial to act fast. While we hope this never happens to your roof, the best way to be prepared is by knowing what to do for such an event. Here is what to do when a tree falls on your roof!
As with any emergency, your family should have an evacuation plan in place. Should the integrity of your home be at risk, everyone in the home should leave as quickly as possible. If the impact of a fallen tree is severe, such as it punctures through your roof and ceiling, it’s best to find another place to stay for the time-being. If anyone is injured, or if there are any downed power lines or smoke, make sure to call 9-1-1.
Never climb your roof or try to remove a fallen tree or branches off your roof on your own.
Once you and your family are in a safe place, call your local emergency services. They can tell you what to do and may even send the local fire department to ensure your home and its surroundings are safe.
If your roof has been damaged, call your local roofer right away so they can come to inspect your roof. Ask them to take photos of the damage and to give you a copy of the inspection report. Your roofer will let you know what the next steps are. If the tree has fallen straight through your roof, your roofer can also help you cover vulnerable areas of your home to keep it secure.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover fallen tree damage, but it may depend on the circumstances of the situation. Reach out to your insurance company and follow the direction they provide to filing a claim. Ask your local roofer for their photo documentation and the roof inspection report to file with your claim.
In some events, the damage is severe enough that you may have to vacate your house for a short period of time. In that case, do whatever you need to do to secure your home, including:
Again, never climb your roof or try to fix the damage on your own. It is possible there is damage on your roof that cannot be seen, and it is extremely dangerous to climb a roof in any situation without the proper safety gear.
Now that you know what to do when a tree falls on your roof, don’t forget to keep IBEX Roof’s phone number on your fridge. We hope you’ll never need it in an emergency situation, but it’s good to have it available. Likewise, having it in sight will remind you to call us for your annual roof inspection! Whether in an emergency or not, our roofing team is on top of it. Give us a call today at 360-218-3194!
One of the benefits of hiring roofers from a local roofing company is that we know what’s best for roofs in the area. Serving the Portland and Vancouver area, IBEX Roof has seen it all when it comes to Pacific Northwest roofing. All of our advice and recommendations to our customers come from knowledge and experience of roofing in the PNW region, ensuring that your roof can stand up to the ever-changing climate around here. Here are three common problems PNW roofs experience and how you can be proactive and ensure a long-lasting roof.
You’ve probably noticed, but we sure do get a lot of rain out here! Heavy rainfall can wear down a roof over time. Even when the rain isn’t heavy, though, constant moisture from misty days can seep into any cracks or openings in your roof, leading to rot or damage. This is why it’s super important to get repairs done as soon as you find them!
Another common problem you’ve probably experienced on your PNW roof is algae and moss. Both of these plants spread through the air, especially in a humid climate such as ours. If you see one roof with moss growth on a neighboring house, it’s very likely it could travel onto yours, too!
The good news is that neither of these plant growths is a dangerous health risk to your family. They also won’t cause major damage to your roof right away. This doesn’t mean you should wait too long to get your roof cleaned — otherwise, you might see a little forest of moss take over your roof! Any moss or algae can be cleaned off your roof within a day, or you can speak to our friendly staff about how to treat your roof to prevent such growth from happening at all.
One of the best ways to keep your roof in its best shape is by keeping it clean. One of the biggest debris culprits that you might not expect to harm your roof is pine needles. If you have a pine tree over your roof, it’s important to clear away those pine needles if you want your roof to last a long time. Pine needs are acidic and can eat away at your shingles. Sappy tree branches can also wear down your shingles more quickly.
While roofing problems are not exclusive to just these three issues, these are what’s common in Pacific Northwest roofing. They’re easy to fix but leaving them alone for too long can end up damaging your roof. Stay on top of your roof’s care by teaming up with IBEX Roof. The best way to ensure a long-lasting roof is with proper care and maintenance and we’ll be happy to help get your roof on a routine inspection and maintenance plan!
If your roof is approaching its end of service life, we can help with that, too. Give our friendly office staff a call at 360-218-3194 to schedule an inspection. Once we assess your roof, we’ll be able to give you a personalized plan to best care for your roof.
Did you know that IBEX Roof is a Certified Malarkey and CertainTeed installer? We strive to serve the roofing needs of our customers and being certified roofers is one of the key reasons customers trust us.
When hiring a roofer, always make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured. After that, check out their certifications. Here is why you should consider a certified roofer instead of a non-certified contractor.
Our team members go through many training sessions in order to become certified. These training periods help us stay on top of the latest technology in the roofing industry. We also learn the most up-to-date best practices as roofing methods improve over time. We learn how to properly install, repair, and replace the appropriate roofing materials straight from the manufacturer.
You can’t become a certified roofer without having installed some roofs and having roofing experience! The certification process is a great investment our team makes so that we can improve our craft and better serve our customers. It includes many courses that go over every type of roofing material we might use, not just the shingles, and how to best use them in a roofing installation. Being certified is our promise to you that we will never cut corners.
Have you ever gotten a roofing estimate, only to pay way more than you expected for the completed job? Fortunately, that will never happen with IBEX Roof. As one of the qualifications for certification is roofing experience, our team has a combined total of 215 years of experience! Because of this, we know exactly what we’re talking about when it comes to taking care of your roof, including how much your roofing project will cost and how much time it will take to complete. We dedicate ourselves to always being honest and upfront with our customers with no secrets and no surprises!
Did you know that you also benefit from IBEX Roof being certified roofers? Our certification allows us to offer longer warranties to our customers. These warranties are as secure as your new roof because they are not just back by us, but directly by the manufacturer. In short, this means they are very confident in our workmanship!
Our goal at IBEX Roof has always been to be a positive change in the roofing industry. This means providing the best service and helping our customers understand our process.
In addition to being Malarkey and CertainTeed certified installers, we have other accreditations that speak to our reputation:
If it’s about time for your roof to get some TLC, or if you are unsure about a specific roofing problem, schedule a free inspection with IBEX Roof today! Give us a call at 360-218-3134 or fill out our contact form to get started. Remember, there is no roofing job too big or too small for the IBEX Roof team to handle — we’re on top of it!
Last week we talked about common roofing mistakes we often see and are hired to fix. This week, we’re going to talk about how to spot a bad roof installation. Your roof is one of your home’s biggest investments and it’s important to make sure it’s done right. You can pay for a brand new roof only to have to pay for another one a year later if the first installation wasn’t done correctly. So how can you tell if your roof wasn’t properly installed?
The most obvious way to tell if your roof was badly installed is if it just plain looks bad. A brand new roof is supposed to add curb appeal, not take away from it! If you notice misaligned shingles, exposed nails, improper nail placement, or something else that’s obviously off, then let your roofer know. If they won’t fix it, get a second opinion from another roofer.
Is there damage to your gutters, landscape, or other areas surrounding your home? This might be a red flag. Roofs have many parts and layers and attention to detail is important — you don’t want someone who rushed through the job! Some signs to look out for include dirt or footprints on your roof, damages around the foundation of your home, and interior damage in your attic.
One of the main purposes of your roof, besides staying secure over your head, is to properly shed water away from your home. If you notice water dripping or leaking around your roof’s eaves, edges, chimneys, and other areas, then something isn’t right. Make sure to get these problems fixed as soon as you see them, or else they can lead to bigger issues.
A mess left in your yard doesn’t necessarily mean your roof was badly installed. However, it is definitely a red flag about your roofer’s workmanship. Most roofers will include a final cleanup and trash haul in your contract; and failure to do so can be dangerous to the homeowner. At IBEX Roof, cleanup is just as important of a step as any other part of a roofing job. We make sure to do a twice-over the surrounding areas of your home so that we get as much debris and trash as we possibly can so that you and your family stay safe.
If you’re not feeling confident about your last roofing job, give IBEX Roof a call. Our team has seen it all! We are dedicated to helping our customers stay safe and feel secure in their home. There is no roofing issue too big or too small — we’re on top of it! Give us a call today at 360-218-3104.
