After talking about roof vents all month, we thought it would be a good idea to go over the different roof ventilation options out there. Every house is different and there isn’t a single type of roof vent that works perfectly for every home. It is important for every home to have a properly vented roof, though. Some benefits of having roof vents include:
While there are a few different roof ventilation types available, the three main categories are intake, exhaust, and flappers.
Intake vents allow outside air into your attic or other ventilation spaces. The main types of intake vents we install are bird blocks, edge vents, or smart intake vents.
Bird blocks: These are also known as soffit vents because the vents are located underneath the eaves of your roof. This is only possible if your home has soffits, as some older houses don’t have them at all.
Edge vents: Some homes may not have room for bird blocks underneath their eaves, so an edge vent is the next best solution. Edge vents attach at the lower edge of your roof.
Smart vents: Smart vents combine ridge and soffit venting and are usually installed underneath the first layer of shingles at the edge of your roof. It’s most ideal to install when you’re installing a new roof or replacing an old one.
Intake vents work best when they are paired with exhaust vents. Exhaust vents are what direct airflow from the inside out. Common types of exhaust vents include ridge vents, box vents, and electric attic fans. We do not recommend electric attic fans because they can end up pulling air in from your exhaust vents instead of your intake vents.
Ridge vents: Ridge vents are a popular choice when it comes to exhaust vents because they allow continuous airflow and blend in seamlessly with your roof. They are installed underneath your roof’s ridge cap. These are the way to go if you are installing a brand new roof but are not easy to retrofit on existing roofs.
Box vents: Box vents are more visible on your roof than ridge vents but are easier to install on an existing roof. These are cuts in your roof that have a cover over them. You will need multiple box vents, depending on the size of your home, to ensure proper air exhaustion. Otherwise, your roof may be underventilated.
Flappers are dedicated exhaust vents, usually for bathrooms and kitchens. They only open when you turn on the fan switch so air won’t circulate between your other roof vents. Flappers help exhaust the air from high-moisture rooms out of your attic to prevent mold, mildew, and rot.
Some homes don’t have any ventilation at all when they need it. Other homes might have a few vents installed, but not enough to facilitate adequate airflow. Call IBEX Roof today at 360-218-3104 if you need guidance over different roof ventilation options for your home.
A poorly ventilated roof isn’t always noticeable right away. And by the time you start experiencing problems from it, there will likely already be some damage done. These problems range from bad to worse, which is why it’s vital to get a yearly roof inspection! While most homeowners just see their roof from the outside, our roof inspection includes looking at the interior of your roof, usually in the attic, for signs of damage. Read on to learn why proper roof ventilation is vital for a healthy roof!
Issues from a roof that isn’t properly ventilated can arise in a variety of ways. Some of the most common signs include:
Roof damage: Not enough vents on your roof might not look like a problem right away, but it will definitely reduce the life of your roof. Over time, you might notice warped or cracked shingles. Nails and fasteners inside your roof will also start to rust and break down, and the underlying materials underneath your shingles may also experience dry rot.
Leaky attic: Insufficient roof ventilation can cause condensation inside your roof, which will lead to leaks. This can then cause further damage to your home’s foundation or interior, including peeling paint and water stains.
Mold and mildew: In addition to a leaky attic, the extra humidity will make your roof the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. This may cause black rings to form around your existing roof vents. If you don’t have vents, then it can be harder to detect the problem sooner, which can pose a health risk for your household while also rotting the foundation of your roof.
Struggling HVAC: Proper roof ventilation helps our homes maintain a comfortable temperature. When you don’t have enough vents to circulate airflow, your heating and cooling systems will have to work harder to keep your home the proper temperatures.
Deteriorating insulation: If your roof and attic are improperly ventilated, the insulation in your roof will start absorbing the excess moisture in the air. Over time, your insulation will deteriorate more quickly and you will need to replace it sooner than later.
There are many different types of vents you can install on your roof: exhaust, intake, flappers, and more. The best choice for proper roof ventilation will depend on the design of your home. If you don’t already have a roof ventilation system, our team at IBEX Roof can help find the right solution for your roof. On the other hand, maybe you already have a ventilation system but are still experiencing roofing issues. This likely means you need more vents installed. Having more vents on your roof will put less strain on each vent, allowing better airflow and keeping your home comfortable.
Schedule a checkup for your roof’s ventilation system by giving IBEX Roof a call today! Our team follows a thorough checklist for every roof inspection. It’s our top priority to help you maintain and repair your roof so that it lives its best possible life. Call 360-218-3108 today to schedule a free inspection!
Is your roof properly ventilated? We sure hope so! Roofs without a proper ventilation system can cause condensation inside your roof, reduce shingle life, and overall decrease the lifespan of your roof.
One of the most common types of roof vent is a static vent, also known as a box vent. If you have this type of vent on your roof, it probably looks like a row of boxes on top of your house. What you see, though, aren’t the actual vents, but the covers that go over them. Because static vents are basically holes in your roof, it’s important to protect them from the elements. A roof vent cover will keep out rain, snow, sleet, and hail from entering your attic and keep it leak-free.
Those boxes you see on top of your roof are actually vent covers that go over the vents themselves. Because static vents are basically holes in your roof, it’s important to protect them from the elements. A vent cover will keep out rain, snow, sleet, and hail from entering your attic and keep it leak-free.
One thing we see often when performing roof inspections are plastic vent covers, sometimes called an attic vent cover, that are cracked and damaged. Plastic vents crack easily from UV rays and wear out pretty quickly. And once your vent cover cracks, your exhaust vent is more susceptible to leaks.
Metal covers are better to cover your vents because they don’t crack like plastic. But when it comes to metal vent covers, there are a variety of types you can choose from. One of the main problems with metal covers is that they can rust and be an eyesore on your roof. That’s why IBEX Roof only uses enamel baked metal vents. These types of metal vents have a thick coat of paint on the metal that prevents rusting and last longer. In fact, they can even last the entirety of your roof’s life and you’ll never have to worry about them.
Today, we’re talking about the boxes that go over static vents on top of your roof, which is the type of vents many of our customers have. But there are actually many different ways you can install a proper ventilation system on your roof, including soffit vents, ridge vents, flapper vents, and more. IBEX Roof is here to offer the best roofing solutions that work for your home. Whether you’re looking to replace your static vent boxes or need to update your roof’s ventilation system, we’re on top of it! Give us a call today at 360-218-3134 or contact us online for an estimate!
Just as people have to occasionally replace their worn-out shoes, the exhaust pipes on our roofs may need an occasionally re-boot! Repairing broken or damaged pipe boots on your roof is actually a very easy fix. Like most small roof issues, though, they can lead to big problems if not addressed right away.
Pipe boots are the flashing material that surrounds the base of your exhaust pipes on top of your roof. Their purpose is to waterproof your vent pipes and prevent leaks into your roof and ceiling. Without them, there is nothing preventing water and debris from making their way into the seam where your pipe meets the roof.
It is normal for pipe boots to deteriorate over time; this could be from the natural expanding and contracting of roofs, sun exposure, or other extreme weather conditions. It could also be from excess debris or small animals.
Ignoring a broken pipe boot, like most roofing problems, can only lead to other types of damage in your home. It’s kind of like using an umbrella with a hole in it- you’re going to get wet! Some signs that there may be something wrong with your pipe boot include:
If you see any of these signs in your home, call your local roofer right away.
The good news is, getting a pipe boot replaced is a very easy process and doesn’t take very long at all. Just give us a call and we’ll be in and out (or rather, up and down!)
Because damaged pipe boots are one of the most common reasons for roof leaks, it’s an important part of your roof to keep an eye on. And the best way to keep an eye on all parts of your roof is to get annual roof inspections. In addition to looking at your pipe boots, IBEX Roof will also assess the rest of your roof on the inside and outside; we want to make sure everything is in its best shape. Not only will a roof inspection give you peace of mind that your roof is working, but it will also help prolong the life of your roof by catching any problems earlier than later.
If your pipe boots need replacing or if you’re due for a roof inspection, give IBEX Roof a call at 360-218-3104.
Is there some mysterious green growth on your roof? Don’t worry, it’s probably just moss or algae! These types of organic growth are a common roof problem and not a difficult problem to get rid of. Algae and moss travel through the air, so you may even see some of your neighbors’ houses with moss growth. Moss growth usually looks unappealing but won’t cause major damage to your roof right away. However, don’t put off moss removal! Over time, it could start to grow underneath your shingles, lifting them and affecting the longevity of your roof.
Before we get into our moss removal process, here are some tips on what NOT to do to get rid of moss on your roof.
Never Pressure Wash: Pressure washing will certainly get rid of moss, but it will also spray away all the granules on your roof, too! This will ultimately destroy your roof and fast-track your need for a roof replacement. Avoid pressure washing or aggressively scrubbing your shingles if you want your roof to last a long time.
No Harsh Chemicals: Some homeowners may want to try cleaning their roofs themselves with store-bought moss removal cleaners. Some cleaners may remove any organic growth on your roof, but harsh chemicals can cause your roof to deteriorate more quickly. Furthermore, those chemicals could find their way into your gutters and landscape when washed off your roof.
IBEX Roof follows a two-phase moss removal process. First, we will treat your roof for moss using a cleaner that won’t damage your home. After, we wait 6-8 weeks to let the moss die off and unroot from the roof. Once the moss has died, we come back and scrub your roof with a brush, clear your roof of any debris, and re-treat for moss. Sometimes, we don’t get 100% of the moss right away because we don’t want to damage your roof. This will depend on how much moss in on your roof – that’s why it’s always best to call us sooner rather than later!
If you notice moss on your roof, give IBEX Roof a call today for moss removal. We also offer other roof cleaning services to help prolong the life of your roof. Fill out our online estimate form or call our office at 360-218-3108.
Roof maintenance may seem like a lot, but it’s actually pretty easy and budget-friendly to keep your roof well-maintained. This is in contrast to ignoring the state of your roof until an emergency replacement is required – that is often a cost that many homeowners are not expecting to pay! By maintaining your roof, you are maximizing its structural integrity and longevity. Summer time is an easy time to look at your roof and get those small roof chores done. Here are 3 summer roof maintenance tips that are easy and make a big difference in helping your roof last.
Clearing off your roof is a very simple task; so simple that it’s easy to put off until something bad happens! Keeping tree branches trimmed back and clearing away debris from your roof will only protect it from getting damaged. It will also keep your roof clear so that, if there are any problems on your roof’s surface, you’ll be more likely to be able to see it. Clearing away debris build-up in your gutters is also important because your gutters help water properly shed away from your roof. When your gutters are clogged, this can cause water damage to your roof, interior walls, or home foundation – none of which are cheap to fix. So, if there is one simple maintenance rule to follow, it’s to keep your roof and gutters clear.
You may not realize that the state of your attic can greatly affect your roof. Improper ventilation in your roof can lead to some serious roof problems, like condensation or overheating. And these problems can lead to more problems, like mold or mildew growth, wood rot, and wastefully high energy bills. One way for homeowners to determine any roofing issues is by visiting the attic and seeing if there are any unusual drafts, moisture on the walls, or lights shining through open cracks. If your attic is at an unusually high temperature that doesn’t match the outside, that’s also a cause for concern.
Calling your local roofer for a roof inspection is a sure way to check off all your summer roof maintenance boxes. In fact, our roofing professionals at IBEX Roof follow the same comprehensive checklist at every inspection. This ensures that every home gets a thorough evaluation. Some things on our checklist include, but is not limited to:
Essentially, we look at your roof’s structure, material, interior, and workmanship to determine the life of your roof. Once our inspection is over, we will let you know what to do so your roof lasts as long as possible. And, if your roof has reached its end of life, we’ll give you options on the best way to replace it based on how much life is left in your roof and your budget.
Schedule a roofing inspection today by calling the IBEX Roof office at 360-218-3104. You may also want to ask about our roof maintenance services! Sign up for yearly inspections and maintenance and you’ll never have to worry about “getting around to it” ever again.
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.
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.
