Re-roofing a residential home in South Florida is a complex process that involves more than simply laying down new shingles/tiles. With harsh elements causing significant wear and tear on roofs, homeowners know that hiring professionals to identify issues and safely perform the residential re-roof is vital.
A re-roof must be planned carefully to comply with local building codes. The roofing contractor will need to select quality materials and navigate significant challenges to ensure the roof is functional, durable, and safe. Here are some important facts that homeowners need to be aware of.
The Functions Of A Roof
The roof is one of the most critical components of the home, and apart from aesthetic appeal, it has many functions. The primary functions of a residential building roof include:
- Protection: The roof is the home’s primary defense against the elements, including sun, humidity, rain, and wind. In South Florida, known for its hurricanes and tropical storms, the roof is essential for safety and security.
- Energy efficiency—A well-constructed roof helps maintain indoor temperature by preventing heat from entering the home. With indoor temperature maintained at a comfortable level, the AC is more energy efficient, resulting in lower utility bills.
- Structural integrity – The roof is crucial to maintaining the stability of the house. It provides a solid framework for the entire structure and helps to distribute the weight evenly.
- Aesthetic appeal – A well-maintained roof enhances curb appeal, contributes to the overall look of the home, and increases property value.
5 Things That Cause Roof Problems
Roof problems are exacerbated by South Florida’s harsh weather conditions. Common things that cause roofing issues include:
- Weather conditions
- Poor installation
- Lack of roof maintenance
- Aging materials
- Pests and other wildlife
Weather Conditions
Prolonged exposure to South Florida’s heat and humidity causes roofing materials to deteriorate at a faster rate. Strong winds, rain, and flying debris during hurricane season can also cause significant damage to roofing materials.
Poor Installation
Incorrect installation can result in weak spots, improper sealing, and inadequate water drainage. All these issues will over time deteriorate roofing materials and shorten the lifespan of the roof.
Lack Of Roof Maintenance
Neglecting regular inspection and maintenance, especially before and after hurricane season, can result in minor issues becoming major problems and costly repairs.
Aging Materials
Depending on the materials used, most roofs have a lifespan of between 20 – 30 years. Over time, all roofs succumb to wear and tear that reduces their effectiveness and leads to leaks, sagging, and other problems.
Pests And Other Wildlife
Squirrels, raccoons, vermin, and birds cause damage to roofing materials by nesting or chewing through them.
Common Roof Problems That Need Urgent Intervention
With such a large surface area that is constantly exposed to the elements, the roof is unfortunately susceptible to a variety of issues. It’s important to identify issues early, so that action can be taken to prevent further damage. Common roof issues include:
Leaks And Water Damage
Leaks, water pooling, and water damage are common roof issues that homeowners need to look out for. Left unattended, leaks can lead to water stains, mold growth, and minor/major roof structure damage.
Loose, Missing Or Damaged Shingles or Tile
Strong winds or general wear and tear can cause shingles/tiles to loosen, crack, or come off. This leaves the underlying roof layers vulnerable to the elements.
Sagging Roof
A sagging roof is an indication of a serious roof structural issue. Sagging roofs are often a result of water damage or an aging framework and usually necessitate roof replacement.
Granule Loss
A sign of shingle wear and tear is granule loss. When shingles start losing granules, their effectiveness is compromised, leaving the underlying structures unprotected.
When Should A Re-Roofing Be Considered?
To maintain the safety and integrity of your home, you need to know when it’s time for your roof to be replaced. Signs that it is time for residential re-roofing include:
- Roof age – All roofing materials have a lifespan, after which they need to be replaced. Asphalt shingles typically last 20 – 30 years.
- Extensive damage – Roofing contractors will advise roof replacement if extensive damage has occurred. If more than 30% of the roof has been significantly damaged, roof replacement is usually a safer and more cost-effective solution than repair.
- Frequent repairs – when a roof requires constant leak repair or missing shingle replacement, roofing contractors will often recommend roof replacement.
The Challenges Of Residential Re-Roofing
Re-roofing a home is a multi-step process that must be carried out by a professional roofing contractor. When planning to replace a residential roof, homeowners and roofing contractors need to allow for the unique challenges that South Florida’s climate presents. These challenges include:
- Structural Issues
- Existing roof structures may have hidden damage, such as rotting wood or compromised supports, which only become apparent after the old roofing material is removed.
- Some roofing materials, like tile or slate, are heavier than others. If switching materials, the roof’s structural integrity needs to be evaluated to ensure it can handle the additional weight.
- Weather Delays
- Hurricane season with the possibility of extreme weather conditions.
- Heat and humidity make working conditions difficult and require using and installing materials that can withstand prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Unless you hire professional roofing contractors, frequent rainfalls can delay the project and increase the risk of water damage.
- Permits & Compliance
- Roofing projects often require permits and must comply with local building codes. Navigating these requirements can be time-consuming.
- Cost Management
- Unexpected expenses may arise from unforeseen structural repairs or changes in material costs.
- Balancing quality and affordability can be challenging.
Reducing these challenges can be done by thorough roof inspections, detailed planning, open communication between the roofing contractor and client, and using an experienced roofing contractor.
What Roof Replacement Entails
To ensure the new roof is functional, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and adheres to the roofing requirements stipulated in the Florida Building Code, professional roofing contractors will follow the following steps:
Inspection And Assessment
The existing roof will be inspected to assess its condition. Once it has been determined that a replacement is necessary, an accurate cost estimate will be provided.
Preparation
Before re-roofing commences, the surrounding area needs to be prepared and protected. Homeowners will be required to:
- Notify the neighbors of the construction. They will require notice of expected noisy periods and a general time frame of the entire process.
- Vehicles, boats, or other items in the immediate vicinity may need to be moved. The driveway has to remain clear for the removal process in order for the dump trucks to have good access to the building.
- Pets may need to be rehoused for the construction period, especially if they are anxious or prone to escaping.
- Artwork or other valuable wall hangings will need to be taken down, as they may fall and be damaged if any vibration occurs.
The contractors will then apply a protective covering on the driveway, and other areas that could potentially be damaged during the re-roofing.
Removal Of The Old Roof And Structure Repairs
The existing roofing materials will be removed, exposing underlying structures. Rotten wood and faulty hurricane straps will be replaced. Underlayment and waterproofing will also be inspected and replaced if necessary.
Installing New Roofing Materials
New roofing materials are installed according to manufacturers’ specifications. Flashing is installed around areas prone to leaks, and proper ventilation systems are put in place to regulate attic temperatures and prevent moisture build-up.
Clean-Up
Once the contract supervisor is happy with the new roof, the clean-up operation begins. Project debris such as nails, fasteners, wood scrapings, and product wrapping is removed from the premises. The protective coverings are also removed, and homeowners now prepare for the final inspection.
Final Inspection
This takes place after the city permits have been submitted. Inspectors will ensure that the roof has been installed according to the specifications in the Florida Building Code, giving homeowners peace of mind that their new roof meets all the quality and safety standards.
Professional Re-Roofing Contractors In Coral Springs
The process of re-roofing can be challenging, so choosing the right roofing contractor is essential. ABC Roofing Corp is a trusted roofing company that has the solution for any roofing needs. Our contractors are:
- qualified and experienced
- licensed
- insured
- familiar with and adhere to the Florida Building Code
Your residential roof is a valuable asset that should only be trusted to professionals. To find out more about our extensive range of roof services call us at 954-344-4622 today.
