If you’re getting a new roof for your house or the old one renovated, you must have come across the term “Roofing Square” either from your contractor or the supplier. So, what is a roofing square? To put it simply, it’s a unit of measurement that helps in calculating the total amount of material required for roof building. How does one calculate the number of roofing squares, and how does it help estimate the total material required?
A roofing square is a 10 x 10 area on the roof that equals 100 square feet. The number of roofing squares helps contractors calculate the total square footage of your roof, and determine the exact amount of material required to build the roof. This includes the underlay and bundles of shingles.
As a homeowner or someone involved in the construction industry, understanding roofing squares is crucial. When planning a roofing project, having a grasp of this concept allows you to communicate effectively with contractors, suppliers, and other professionals involved. It enables you to make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure the project's success.
The number of shingles in a square can vary depending on the specific type and size of the shingle. A square refers to a measurement used in the roofing industry that equals 100 square feet. Roof shingles are typically sold in bundles, and the number of shingles in a bundle can also vary based on their size.
On average, a bundle of shingles can cover approximately 33 square feet of roof area. This means that three bundles are needed to cover one roofing square. So, if we consider a standard roof size of 100 square feet, we would need around nine bundles of shingles to completely cover it. However, it's important to note that these numbers can vary depending on the specific product and manufacturer. Therefore, it's always recommended to consult the product specifications or seek advice from a professional when determining the exact number of shingles needed for a specific roof.
The cost per square is a term used in the roofing industry to determine the price of a new roof or a roof replacement. A square, in this context, refers to a unit of measure equal to 100 square feet of roof area.
The cost per square is determined by various factors including the type of shingle you choose, the size of your roof, the pitch of your roof, and the difficulty of the job. Generally, the cost per square depends on the materials used and the labor required to install them. For example, if you opt for high-end shingles, the cost per square will be higher than if you choose a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, a steep roof will require more caution and specialized equipment, which can increase the cost per square. Therefore, when considering a new roof or roof replacement, it is important to consult with a roofer who can accurately estimate the cost per square based on the specific details of your roof.
The first step in calculating the number of roofing squares is to find out the total square footage.
For this, you have to measure the length and width of your roof planes. The number of roof planes depends on the style of your roof. For instance, a gable roof has two planes, one at the front and one at the back. Similarly, a shed or flat roof has just one plane. The length multiplied by the width of a roof plane gives you the square footage of that particular roof plane. If your house has three roof planes, add the square footage of all 3 to get the total square footage of your roof. Now, divide the total square feet by 100 to get the number of roofing squares.
It may seem like a lot of math, but trust us, it’s quite essential when it comes to roof building. Don’t worry, though. Our team will do the math for you! By calculating the right amount of materials, we can ensure that you have just enough left over at the end for future repairs. We’ll also order your materials for you. At IBEX Roof, we’ve got you covered every step of the way!
Roofing projects can vary significantly in cost due to several factors. Some of the key elements that influence roofing costs include:
Considering these factors and understanding the concept of roofing squares can help homeowners and contractors develop accurate cost estimates.
Roofing squares play a vital role in determining material costs and, consequently, overall project expenses. By knowing the number of roofing squares required, contractors can calculate the total cost of materials needed for the project. This information is crucial in budget planning and ensuring that the project remains within financial constraints.
When seeking bids from roofing contractors, providing them with accurate measurements in roofing squares is essential. It allows contractors to assess the scope of the project accurately and provide more precise quotes. Moreover, this ensures that all contractors are bidding on the same project specifications, making it easier to compare offers.
Choosing the right contractor is paramount to the success of any roofing project. It is advisable to research and gather recommendations from friends, family, or reputable online platforms. Additionally, check for licenses, insurance, and customer reviews to ensure the contractor's reliability and expertise.
If you are in need of roofing services, look no further than IBEX Roof. We are a trusted and reliable roofing company that specializes in all aspects of roof maintenance and repairs. Whether you need us to inspect, repair, or replace your roof, we have got you covered.
Our team of experienced and skilled roofers will ensure that your roof is in top shape, providing you with the protection and peace of mind you need. We understand that investing in a new roof can be a significant undertaking, which is why we are committed to delivering quality services at affordable prices. Our customer service team is always ready to answer any questions or concerns you may have, and our technicians are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to handle any roofing project efficiently and effectively. Don't wait until your roof is beyond repair, get in touch with IBEX Roof today and let us take care of all your roofing needs.
Is your roof leaking? Are its shingles falling off? Are you experiencing mold growth or roof algae on your shingles? If yes, it means your roof has completed its life cycle; it’s time to get a new roof! And when you’re getting a new roof, the first question that arises in your mind is: How many layers of shingles can I have on my roof?
Well, according to most building codes, you can have a maximum of two layers of shingles on your roof. Furthermore, based on the condition of your roof, you get to decide whether you need a complete roof replacement or just add a new layer of shingles on top of the existing ones. If you ask us, we suggest tearing down the existing roof and getting a new roof altogether! Let’s discuss the number of layers of shingles and tell you why you should do a complete tear-off rather than layering shingles on top of each other.
The number of layers of shingles allowed on a roof depends on the type of roofing material used. For instance, if you’re installing asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, or rubber shingles, the maximum number of layers can be two. On the other hand, metal roofs or concrete roofs will pretty much stop at one layer. Whether you’re getting a new roof or adding shingles on top of the existing ones, the highest you can go is two layers.
Now, let’s discuss why a tear-off replacement is better than multiple layers of shingles on your home.
While adding a new layer of shingles on top of the old ones seems like a good way to save time and money, it is not a viable option in the long run. Here’s why:
When building a roof from scratch or replacing an old one, people tend to avoid tearing it off completely to save time and money. However, while adding multiple layers of shingles seems a good idea in the short term, it can lead to more damage and cost a lot of money in the long run. The solution? Stick to the rules and keep your shingles limited to two layers.
If you want to make your home more energy efficient, we suggest installing skylights. They’re a good source of natural lighting and help reduce your energy bills significantly due to daylighting.
However, people tend to get confused when it comes to choosing the types of skylights for their roofs. Therefore, we have put together the different types of skylights and their purpose.
A skylight is a window installed on the roof of a building that provides natural light to its interior. Skylights come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including rectangular, circular, and pyramid-shaped.
They can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Skylights allow natural light to flood a space, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Some skylights come with a cover that can be opened and closed, allowing for ventilation.
In addition to providing natural light, skylights can also provide energy savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. However, improper installation or maintenance of skylights can lead to leaks, which can cause damage to a building's interior.
To avoid such issues, hiring a professional when installing or repairing skylights is important.
The most common types of skylights are fixed skylights. As the name suggests, they are fixed on the roof and do not open.
They are good for places like attics and stairwells, where you don’t need much ventilation. However, you can also get them installed in rooms with hard-to-reach high ceilings for some extra daylight and star-gazing.
If you want daylight in your rooms but would like some air as well, we suggest getting ventilated skylights.
They look exactly like fixed skylights; however, you can open them to let in some fresh air, and remove excessive moisture.
Ventilated skylights are good for kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.
If you don’t have much space on your ceiling to install fixed or ventilated skylights, you can still get the daylight to illuminate your home using tubular skylights. These skylights are in the shape of a small tube with a 10 to 15-inch diameter.
It starts from your roof and goes all the way to the room where you need natural light. The tube uses optical techniques to direct the sunlight down the shaft and into the room.
Custom skylights are uniquely designed as per your preference. They can be of any shape or size, tilted or straight, ventilated or fixed, and are usually installed to improve the aesthetic appearance of your home or building.
However, many people go for custom skylights in instances where regular skylights cannot be installed due to roofing conditions. And while these skylights make your home look trendy, make sure to use hurricane-resistant glass and rain sensors.
If you want the natural light to stream into your home even when the sun is not as bright, the dome acrylic skylights are a good option. They are made of flexible yet strong plastic that spread light evenly around the room. And, the shape is such that it brightens up your room even with little light. Most people use dome acrylic skylights in their entrances to highlight decorations like sculptures and paintings.
Barrel vault skylights are specific to non-residential buildings as they require almost 80% of the roof’s surface for installation. These skylights provide an economical and practical solution to brighten up lobbies, entrances, interiors, and passageways in buildings. Barrel vault skylights are also used as canopies to cover walkways between buildings.
A pyramid skylight is a type of roof system that is designed to allow natural light to stream into an indoor space. It typically consists of a pyramid-shaped glass or polycarbonate structure that is placed on top of a roof.
Pyramid skylights are popular in commercial and residential buildings because they offer several benefits.
First, they make indoor spaces brighter and more inviting by allowing natural light to enter.
Second, they can help reduce energy costs by reducing the need for electric lighting during the daytime. Additionally, pyramid skylights can improve indoor air quality by allowing fresh air to enter and circulate.
Finally, they can enhance the aesthetics of a building and add value to the property. Overall, pyramid skylights are a practical and stylish way to bring more natural light and fresh air into a building while also improving its energy efficiency and value.
A hallway skylight is a great way to brighten up any dark or narrow hallways in your home. A skylight can bring in natural light and elevate the overall feel of the space. Not only does it provide a source of natural light, but it also adds an architectural feature to your hallway, creating a unique focal point for your guests.
A skylight can also save you money on electricity bills, as it can cut down on the need for artificial lighting during the day. Of course, the installation of a skylight requires proper planning, design, and execution.
It’s important to work with a professional to ensure that the skylight is installed correctly, as any mistakes could lead to leaks or other issues. With proper installation and maintenance, a hallway skylight can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home’s design.
A double skylight is a unique feature that consists of two skylights installed side by side on a roof. This is an excellent option for people who want to maximize the amount of natural light that enters their home or building.
Double skylights can be made from a variety of materials, including glass and acrylic, and are available in various shapes and sizes depending on the preferences and needs of the homeowner. They can also be installed in different locations, such as over a living room, kitchen, or bathroom, to create a bright and airy feel in those areas.
The advantages of having a double skylight are numerous, including reducing the need for artificial lighting, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the aesthetics of a space. However, proper installation is necessary to ensure that the skylights are watertight and safe, and should always be carried out by a professional.
Everyone wants to have a home filled with natural light. It not only saves costs, but makes the interior look spacious, airy, and fresh. Not sure which skylight is the right one for you? No problem! Our team is here to help.
There are so many different options available, we’d love to learn more about what you’re envisioning for your home. Then, we’ll make the right recommendations for your home and budget. Give us a call today for your next skylight installation!
Do you have a room in your home that seems dull and gloomy? Why not install a skylight to add some cheery vibes to it? Skylights not only make a space bright and sunny but also make it appear spacious with fresh air ventilation. Here are some factors to consider if you are planning on adding a skylight to your roof.
Skylights are a good source of letting in natural light; however, on days when the sun is too bright, especially in summer, it can make your home excessively warm and uncomfortable. Not only this, but unfiltered sunlight can cause discoloration of upholstery, rugs, and curtains. Therefore, when installing skylights, get a UV filter or shade installed with them to lessen the impact of sun exposure.
Skylights come in different styles and shapes; however, if you want your home to be cool and bright, go for ventilated skylights, preferably with an automatic mechanism. When the weather gets too hot in summer, it’s nice to open the skylights to let in some fresh air. Not only does this lower the internal temperature of your home, but ventilation helps keep the interior fresh and moisture-free.
The shape of the skylight plays an important role in lighting up your room. For instance, if you want a skylight that spreads light all over the space, install a skylight with flares, like a pyramid or dome-shaped skylight. If you want to focus on a particular area of the room, get a skylight with straight sides so that the light can linearly enter the room.
Another thing you should consider when installing skylights is the type of roof your house has. If your home has a stick-framed roof built using individual rafters spaced 4 feet apart, there’s plenty of room to cut and fit a skylight between the rafters. However, if your house has a truss-framed roof, you cannot cut the trusses after installation, as it can weaken the roof’s structure. So, if you still want to get skylights, make sure they are less than 2 feet wide so they can fit in the space between the beams.
Skylight material is essential in keeping your home comfortable because the last thing you want is your home to become boiling hot. Therefore, when installing a skylight, ensure that it is made with tempered, double-insulated glass with a bronze tint and argon gas between the panes. This type of skylight reduces heat gain and can be installed on any side of the house.
Skylights are quite integral for illuminating your home and keeping it ventilated. However, there are certain factors you should consider before installing a brand new skylight so that it can benefit you and your home’s interior instead of causing issues. We hope these factors are helpful to keep in mind if you’re considering a new skylight. Our team at IBEX Roof is here to answer any of your questions. Just let us know what you need and we’ll make knowledgable recommendations to meet your needs.
If you’ve built a new roof for your house, we recommend inspecting it at least once a year. A bi-annual or annual inspection can help you spot potential issues and get them sorted before they become serious with a huge expense. As a homeowner, you can spot many underlying issues by just going around the house and checking out the roof from ground level or noticing other signs of damage from the inside.
So, how can you inspect your roof by staying on the ground, and what things can a roofer spot by getting up on the roof?
Here’s a list of things you can check for on your roof from the ground or inside:
If you see dark spots or circles on the ceiling or walls inside your home, your roof leaks, causing the water to seep into the walls.
If you notice small clusters of black, dark green, brown, grey, or white spots inside your home, it is a clear sign of mold growth. This is caused by excessive moisture inside the house, probably from the decking under the roof.
If you see your home’s ceiling sagging or light coming through the rafters, there’s either a hole in your roof or the moisture has caused the ceiling to sag. Both these issues are quite severe and call for immediate repairs.
At IBEX Roof, we have a very extensive list we use to evaluate your roof from the top down to inside and out. We never recommend climbing your roof to look for roof damage on your own. Here are the most common signs of damage a professional roofer might find on your roof:
Cracks and blisters in shingles are common and are caused by excessive water accumulation behind the roofing layers. They can also appear due to improper attic ventilation that causes the roof temperature to rise, resulting in cracks and blisters on the shingles.
Another thing to check for is loose nails. These are also caused by moisture and high temperature on the roof and are quite dangerous as loose nails can cause roof components to come undone.
Shingles are embedded with mineral granules that protect them from direct sun exposure and help retain their color. Heavy rainstorms can knock off the granules causing the shingles to wear off faster than usual. Therefore, checking the granule loss level when getting your roof inspected is important.
Flashing is the metal sheet placed under the shingles to prevent snow and water from entering the openings and cracks on the roof. Get your roof inspected for dented or missing flashing and get it repaired because it can lead to more serious issues like rotting wood and water infiltration.
If you’re investing a hefty amount in your home’s roofing, it should last its fullest service life. However, that’s only possible if you inspect your roof regularly, spot signs of underlying damage, and get it fixed right away. We hope our roof inspection checklist will come in handy to keep an eye out for anything funny on your roof. And if you suspect a problem, don’t hesitate to give us a call or reach out online.
The Pacific Northwest region is known for its coastline, mountains, and rainy weather. And pretty much the only kinds of storms you can expect in the cities located in this region are wind and rain storms.
However, these storms can cause potential damage to your roof, even if a roofing contractor has inspected it. Here are some of the common types of storm damage in the PNW region and how to avoid them:
Windstorms are quite common in the PNW region, given the coastline on one side and mountains on the other. Therefore, you can expect a few shingles from your roof to get blown away during a relatively wild windstorm. Roof shingles can get loose over time, and even though they usually would stay in place, strong winds can cause them to become disintegrated and tear off.
Apart from the shingles, a roof is comprised of numerous structural parts, including skylights, felt underlayments, vent pipes, decking, rafters, collar beams, etc. These components can crack or get loose with the passage of time. Strong winds and rain storms make it worse by causing these components to come undone. To avoid this, you should get your roof inspected regularly and get loose parts fixed as soon as possible.
Another storm damage that is quite common in the PNW region is trees falling during heavy storms. If you have large trees around your house, especially old trees, there’s a possibility that they might fall during a spell of strong wind and rain and damage the roof and walls of your house. There isn’t much you can do to avoid this type of storm damage; however, planting trees a little away from your house or cutting down old trees with weak and hollow stumps can help you avoid damage to your home from falling trees.
Rain storms are common in coastal and mountainous regions, and PNW is no different. The area experiences lots of rain all throughout the year. Our roofs have many cracks and crevices, and constant rain can cause water to seep into them. As a result, the wood becomes swollen, causing the nails to come off. Also, water seepage can weaken the entire structure of the roof. The solution? Regular inspection and filling of cracks as soon as you discover them. As for crevices, keep them to the minimum. The fewer the crevices on the roof, the lesser the chance of water getting inside them.
The shingles on our roofs have mineral granules embedded into them to give them color and deflect the sun from the roof. Heavy rain storms can knock off these granules, which get stuck in leaves, pipes, and debris. Granule loss can cause the shingles to wear off earlier than expected. Also, the sun rays are not deflected, causing direct exposure, which can make your home’s interior warmer in the summer. So, if your roof is old or you notice granule loss, it’s time to replace your roof or repair it.
If you’re in the PNW region, you can expect common types of storm damage like shingles tearing off, roof parts coming undone, water seepage inside the house, and shingles wearing off faster due to granule loss. You can lessen the impact of these damages by getting your roof inspected regularly and repaired instantly.
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.
