How to Repair A Leaky Flat Roof

How to Repair A Leaky Flat Roof

by | Nov 2, 2022 | Roofing Tips

Owning a property can be a rewarding experience. However, it also comes with the burden of necessary roof repairs. One of the most stressful examples of this is a roof leak. This guide by Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR will teach you about flat roof repair and other important information.

how to repair a leaky flat roof

What Are the Different Types of Roofs?

Roofs vary based on style, material, and purpose. While there are dozens of varieties, these are the five main types of roofs:

  • Gabled
  • Gambrel
  • Mansard
  • Hip
  • Flat

What Is a Flat Roof?

Despite its name, a flat roof is still a kind of sloped roof. Without a slope, it would be impossible to drain water. Even so, this is the most horizontal of all roofs.

Flat roofs are primarily used for commercial properties and residential apartments. The shape allows for a more open floor plan rather than having the upper floor restricted by a sharp incline.

What Are the Pros of Flat Roofs?

roofing contractors on commercial flat roof

Each type of roof has its advantages and disadvantages. Flat roofs in particular have a set of benefits that helped popularize the style. These include…

  • Costing less than most other roofs
  • Being able to use the roof as extra storage space or a gathering spot
  • Providing open space on the top floor of the building
  • Installing more easily
  • Being an optimal roof for solar panels
  • Decreasing energy usage
  • Being easy to clean and inspect

What Are the Cons of Flat Roofs?

roofing crews on commercial flat roof

While flat roofs come with plenty of advantages, there are noteworthy downsides.

  • Collecting water that pools after heavy rain
  • Unappealing and lacking customization
  • Prone to leaky seams after heavy precipitation
  • More susceptible to damage than other roof types

What Causes a Leaking Flat Roof?

No roof is impenetrable. With enough wear and tear, a hole will form, giving water the opportunity to sneak in. There are some factors that hasten this process.

Storms

pouring rain on house roof

Hail, strong wind, and excessive rain can all weaken the structure of the roof. While tornadoes are uncommon in Austin, they can still pose a threat to a flat roof when they do occur. Even a weak tornado can strip tiling and crash debris into the roof.

Other Factors

Lack of regular maintenance can cause issues to go unnoticed. A minor leak can quickly become a major problem. Coupled with wear and tear, neglect can compromise flat roofing as much as storms.

Another reason to routinely inspect your roof is to remove animals and invasive plant roots. It can also give you an opportunity to spot a rotted roof deck before it collapses. The more problems accrue, the more difficult flat roof repair will be.

What Happens if You Ignore a Roof Leak?

water stain on ceiling

Before you notice a leak, the water has already been pooling within the roof. The standing water can lead to mold and diseases. It may also attract insects and animals that will cause further damage to the property.

Small damage eventually turns into obvious damage that may be too late to repair. Ignoring a leak can result in the floor flooding, the walls losing structure, the ceiling sinking, and other disastrous consequences. What was once an easy flat roof repair is now a full-scale remodel or condemnation.

Flat Roof Repair Options

How to DIY Repair a Flat Roof

modified bitumen roofing

If there isn’t extensive damage, you may want to attempt repairing a flat roof yourself. This can be a viable option if you trust in your capabilities.

Roof Repair Kit

yellow nail gun on shingle roof

Before attempting flat roof repairs, access the damage. How the leak was caused will influence the best way to fix it. Assemble a roof repair kit containing everything you will need. To get started, include the following:

  • A utility knife and/or putty knife
  • Roofing cement
  • Fiberglass mesh
  • Roof repair material appropriate for your existing roofing material
  • Bitumen roof sealant
  • Multiple towels
  • A trowel
  • Bitumen primer
  • A protective tarp
  • Safety gloves

What Is Roofing Cement?

Every DIYer needs roofing cement in their toolbox. Without it, any roofing job is almost certain to fail. Used alongside fiberglass mesh, these two create a powerful duo to make quick work of any roof repair.

Made of asphalt or similar material, roofing cement is a powerful adhesive. It usually lasts between three to seven years before needing to be reapplied. While this may not be a long time, it is one of the best options for a DIY project. Commercial roofers have access to longer-lasting materials.

Quick Fix

roofing contractor residential roof

If you are short on time or need something in place as you wait for a roofing contractor, you may want to try a temporary fix. The simplest option for a leak is to use a protective tarp to prevent more water from infiltrating the roof.

This method works best if the weather will be clear for a while. A tarp will not withstand excessive winds and rain during a storm. Light showers, thin layers of snow, and condensation should not be a concern, depending on the quality of the tarp.

Long-term Fix

If the leak does not seem severe, you can learn how to repair a flat roof long-term. Small leaks can be patched up quickly if you have everything you need.

Begin by locating the source of the leak. You can use a wet spot or soft spot indoors as a reference point. Once you find the location, use a tool to lift the tiling.

Clear any noticeable debris from the location. Often, there is a noticeable gap in the identified area. Using roofing cement or another form of wet cement, gently fill the hole. Give the cement a moment to sink before adding a thin layer of even more roofing cement.

Clean the removed tile, inspect it for cracks, and then firmly place it back over the hole. If the tile is loose, add a bit more roofing cement around it to hold it in place. Monitor the leak over the next few days. If the problem persists, this may indicate larger issues. Call a professional roofer to help you identify the problem.

How to Repair Commercial Roofing

Commercial buildings are often too large to fix with DIY solutions. To resume business quickly and with minimal interruption, it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor.

Depending on the size of the property, you may need to hire a team of workers. Extreme damage will require ongoing work for weeks. It is important to have a roofing contractor inspect the building regularly to prevent issues from accumulating. It is more cost-effective to close part of the building for a day for mild repairs than close the entire building for weeks for major repairs.

Flat Roof Repair Costs

roofing crew installing modified bitumen roofing

The cost of a flat roof repair depends on a variety of factors. Some roofing material is more expensive than others. A full or partial replacement will also cost more than a standard roof repair.

Another major factor is the size of the building. Small residential houses are going to cost less than large commercial properties. However, you can often find larger discounts for commercial roof repair.

The severity of the problem also affects the price. A “leaking roof” can be one leak in a specific location or several leaks throughout the building. Flat roofing is more likely than other types of roofs to cause the latter.

Is It Better to Replace a Flat Roof or Fix It?

Sometimes, the roof damage goes beyond small cracks. If there are major problems that go beyond what modified bitumen can handle, you may need a new roof.

Replacing a roof can better address the underlining issues putting your building at risk. It offers a long-term solution that replaces an endless stream of temporary repairs.

However, if the damage is not extreme, you should opt for flat roof repair. This is usually a cheaper option that does not require vacating the building for an extended time. On the downside, if the problem turns out to be severe, repairing will be more costly in the long run.

Flat Roof Replacement

Flat roof replacement may involve replacing the entire roof or a significant section of it. This option is usually more expensive than repairs, but it offers a more permanent solution. When an entire roof needs to be replaced, the top floor of the building must be vacant for the following weeks.

If you need a roof replacement for your home, be sure to have somewhere to stay for at least a month. When getting a roof replacement for a business, consider how to rearrange operations to keep work flowing smoothly.

Related Article: Roof Replacement Process

How to Prevent Further Damage

The best form of roof repair is damage prevention. If a problem never arises, it won’t require a solution. This saves you time, money, and stress in the future.

Prepare for Severe Weather

pouring rain

While not as hectic as northern parts of Texas, Austin sees its fair share of severe weather. Natural disasters are one of the biggest culprits of roof damage. Between tornados, hail storms, and the occasional snowstorm, there is a lot putting your roof at risk.

When storm season starts, immediately start making preparations. Place a protective tarp across your roof whenever a severe thunderstorm is forecasted. Even a haphazard job will provide more protection than nothing.

Inspect your roof for damages at the start of the season and after every major storm. If you do not already have insurance, consider investing in it before your property sustains any damage. Having coverage can relieve some of the financial burden if you need a flat roof repair following a bout of extreme weather.

Do Regular Maintenance

Keep the roof clean, regularly inspect it for damages, and frequently check the ceiling or attic for signs of a leak. If you notice any cracks or small leaks, fix them immediately to prevent them from growing into bigger issues.

Should You Hire a Roofing Contractor?

The damage may be too much for you to handle on your own. If you find yourself at a loss, seek out a roofing contractor or company to help.

Where to Find a Professional Roofing Company

We offer roofing services in and around Austin. From fixing small leaks to full roof replacements, we provide whatever your roof needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

8 Signs That You Need a Roof Repair

8 Signs That You Need a Roof Repair

by | Mar 11, 2022 | Roofing Tips

Protecting your home is making it capable of shielding you and your family. First, you always have to keep your new roof in excellent condition. If you’re living in the humid subtropical areas of Austin, Texas, there might be slight seasonal changes that can adversely impact your roof’s condition.

Residential roofing should ideally last for several years without any problem, especially if roof installation is done right. Still, there are red flags saying you might need help from the roofing experts. To ensure you don’t get caught with a broken roof, here’s an article by Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR about eight signs that you need to schedule a roof repair soon.

1. Damaged shingles/ missing shingles

A roof shingle is a part that covers the overlapping sections of your new roof. Take a look at the shingles’ condition. Depending on the kind of roof your house has, it might be cracked or have missing tiles. Corrugated roof shingles may start warping or have curling edges. Dents are also something to look out for. If there’s no tear on the shingles, it’s probably still good. If they are in bad condition, they might require full-on roof replacement.

Shingles get damaged as they are exposed to harsh environmental elements. For example, once the paint wears off, the fluctuation between hot and cold temperatures could cause them to warp. This warpage also applies to entire standing seam metal roofs.

Similarly, dented shingles could be caused by hail damage, with ice from a powerful hail storm usually hitting these roof parts. This calls for a thorough roof inspection. Make sure to contact a licensed roofing company in Austin or nearby areas for any issues.

Related Article: Roof Repair Versus Roof Replacement

2. Algae Growth On Ceramic Or Metal Roofing

This is another sign you can see even without climbing on the roof. If you see dark spots, streaks, or patches of discoloration on your roof, that might be algae cultures proliferating.

Algae growth is usually caused by poor ventilation or constant exposure to moisture. Even worse, this could also be caused by clogged drainage that retains water. Other symptoms of algae growth might include blistering on the roof or paint peeling, which often occurs with corrugated roofs.

Austin roofers work on it by removing the cause, improving ventilation, or declogging the gutter system to ensure that the algae don’t regrow. You can also repaint the entire roof after cleaning it of growths.

3. Gutter Blockage

Your roof is designed to shield the house from rain and divert water through the gutter. With time and shoddy roofing work, tiles or shingles start to erode. This is particularly common among aging materials such as composite shingles or asphalt shingles. However, architectural shingles are usually more resilient to erosion.

A gutter blockage could also be caused by weather events chipping away at your tiles or shingles. Hail damage is a common cause of damaged roof materials, starting further decomposition and wear.

If you start finding coarse grains of sands on your gutter or down the waterspout, usually of the same color as your roof, then it’s a sign of impending roof repair work.

Once you start finding tile or shingle granules in your gutter, start checking your roof or tap your local roofers for help. They might’ve run their course and are now due for a roof replacement.

4. Light Streams

Whenever you’re at the ceiling or the attic, check if there are streams of light passing through. Wherever light passes, remember that water can, too. This is one telltale sign that you need to know before calling for roofing services in Austin. Even a slight ray of light is a cause of concern.

Depending on the case, it can be solved by replacing the shingles, or worse, the plywood underneath. It needs a roofing contractor to ensure the problem is addressed at the roots.

5. Sagging Spots? Call Your Roofing Company Immediately.

Aside from light, water is an invasive material that tells you it’s time to get your roof checked. It might be that a part of your roof has started sagging, or you’re seeing a section that’s noticeably lower than the rest. It’s most likely an indicator that the wood pillar or board underneath the roof has begun to rot due to constant water exposure. It might be caused by improper roof installation.

You can start by looking for sagging sections of the roof, trace its lowest point, and go up. If you see a bend or sag in the roof boards, make sure to contact your trusted professional roofing tradesperson for roof repairs in Austin, TX.

Remember that leaving your roof unattended is dangerous. Wood that has weakened due to constant moisture could cause sections of your roof to collapse. Usually, problems at this point would require roof replacement.

6. Watermarks On Walls And Ceilings

Water doesn’t constantly drip from roofing systems through the ceiling if it is raining hard. More often than not, it crawls through beams and walls.

In this case, the leak starts leaving watermarks and stains. In some cases, water even starts accumulating inside the wall and creates water pockets that sag and bulge as water accumulates.

Not only does it indicate a leak in your roof, but it is also a sign of something more serious. As the water reaches your ceilings and walls, it might’ve started compromising the roof underlayment. This is the extra protection usually found beneath the roofing material. Letting this go on could affect other house parts, weakening wooden structures and waiting for electrical circuits to go haywire.

7. Detached Chimney And Flashing

In roofing systems lingo, flashing refers to thin metal sheets used to cover possible waterways that could get into your walls, roof valleys, and chimneys. An issue with this part of the roof could cause water to be in places where it shouldn’t be. This is something that requires immediate attention.

Flashing problems could also cause watermarks on your walls and ceilings. For your chimney, if you see pools of water accumulating at the base or see water dripping from its walls, call a roofer immediately.

When left unchecked, water could lead to bricks spalling or cracking. Not only does it cause watermarks, but it could also compromise the structural integrity of your chimney. All of this is from a potential leak from your roof, one that requires immediate roof repair services in the Austin area.

house with metal roofing

8. Increased Energy Bills

This is one of those indirect effects of having a damaged roof. Most of the signs listed above are from external factors like light and water coming into your house. Where things come in, other things also come out, especially cold or warm air from air conditioning or heating systems. By leaking outward, your HVAC system is forced to continue providing temperature-controlled air and not reach the target temperature.

If you think you maintain pretty regular energy use in your house, then a sudden spike in your utility bills could be a telltale sign. Addressing this issue in your roof or your attic should also reflect through lower bills.

More About Roofing In Austin

A roofing company usually allows clients to choose between different shapes and sizes, often in response to certain factors such as the house’s direction or the usual weather patterns in the area. The same goes for roofing houses and buildings in Austin in Central Texas.

Austin roofing materials

You could find roofing materials that are made of wood, asphalt, ceramic tiles, or even corrugated metal sheets. Each of these materials has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, tile roofing erodes or deteriorates over time, with their components being washed away. On the other hand, metal roofs could start warping or bending as they are exposed to the elements. Additionally, each material for residential and commercial properties has its lifespan:

  • Asphalt 3 tab shingles and wood shingles usually last for 20 years.
  • Asphalt architectural shingles last from 30 to 50 years, depending on location and roof installation strategies.
  • Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 80 years. An insurance company generally looks favorably at buildings with these materials because of their resiliency and cost.
  • Traditional solutions like slate shingles, concrete tiles, and clay materials can last from 60 to 150 years. Although they are more expensive, a roofing company would most likely recommend them.

These are only material projections, primarily affected by many other factors, such as the roof maintenance procedures and the installed environment. This is why for newly-installed Austin roofing items, you might want to check with roofing specialists serving Austin to ensure that the material you use will suit your needs.

Roof replacement parts for residential and commercial properties

There are basic needs roofing experts will include more than the tiles, sheets, and shingles. From new roof installation to roof inspections down the line, here are six essential parts that usually cover all your roofing needs.

Strip shingles

It serves as the base of any roofing job. Usually, a roofing company installs them with a tar adhesive to keep them in place, prevent them from getting blown off, and avoid moisture from coming in.

Flashing materials

Usually made from metal, flashing prevents water from accumulating by redirecting them elsewhere, usually down the gutter.

Underlayment

It is a protective layer underneath the tiles or the roofing itself. You might find a full-service roofing contractor installing a sheet of asphalt, rubber, or felt-like material during construction.

Roofing material

This refers to the tiles or corrugated metal sheets that you see on the exterior of your home.

Ventilation

This section keeps continuous airflow going in and out of the attic or the ceiling. This prevents the accumulation of overheated air or moisture, which protects the support beams, underlayment, and even the roofing material.

Roof hip, ridges, and valleys

These are parts that are concerned with the corner connections of your roof. These are the diagonal joints where roof slopes meet.

Find Residential Roofing Services Today

Roof damage is often inevitable. This is particularly true with normal wear and tear. However, you have to act upon it as soon as you start seeing any of the eight telltale signs enumerated above. Complacency in dealing with your residential or commercial roofing systems would only lead to more significant problems — untoward events that would require more time and money to fix.

Austin residents primarily include regular maintenance on their checklists. Especially after a severe weather event, it is prudent to look for free estimates regarding storm damage restoration services on top of the standard restoration efforts.

By being proactive in your home care practices, you can continue providing a safe and comfortable home for your family and even improve the property’s value. As soon as you find something wrong with your roof, contact roofing contractors in Austin, TX today and get a free estimate.

6 Tips to Prepare Your Roof in Austin, Texas for Fall & Winter

6 Tips to Prepare Your Roof in Austin, Texas for Fall & Winter

by | Aug 25, 2021 | Roofing Tips

At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we understand how critical it is to prepare your roof for fall or winter. Seasonal weather changes can bring heavy rain, sleet, and even hail, all of which pose significant risks to your roof’s integrity. That’s why it’s essential to inspect your roof before the colder months arrive. Our expert technicians provide free roof inspections and can help identify any issues before they turn into costly repairs, ensuring your home stays protected through the harshest conditions. Let us help you safeguard your roof and avoid potential winter damage.

The Best Time to Winterize Your Austin Roof

 

The Best Time To Winterize Your Austin Roof

 

Repairing a roof in the wintertime isn’t something you want to deal with. The harsh and icy winters in Austin make repairs more difficult and expensive. At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we want you to save time and money when it comes to your home. Over the years, our professional team of roofing contractors has learned the best preventative measures to help you maintain the safety and security of your home. Take advantage of the friendlier climate of fall and use these tips to make sure your home is secure.

 

Inspect Your Roof for Debris

It’s a beautiful time in Austin when the heat breaks and fall arrives. This is the perfect time to check your roof for debris from the foliage around your home. You may find the occasional football or frisbee, too! It’s best to remove anything from your asphalt shingles to avoid possible erosion or damage.

Your roof may potentially be damaged by spring and summer storms. Inspect your roof from all sides or – have an experienced Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR roofing technician inspect your roof for you. Catching any issues before the winter comes will go a long way in keeping your home safe and secure through the unpredictable Austin winters.

Read more here: Shingle Roofs vs Metal Roofs

Trim Nearby Trees

A common source of roof damage is falling limbs from nearby trees. Take the time to inspect the trees around your home to ensure your roof is safe from dead or dying tree limbs. The winter in Austin can bring high winds, heavy rain, ice, sleet, and snow. Remove any easy-to-reach branches that could be damaging. You may want to hire an arborist to remove any large tree branches, especially those at great height.

Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

If properly maintained, gutters do a great job of catching most of the debris that lands on your roof in the windy fall and winter. When debris is allowed to build up in your gutters, it increases the potential for leaks and water damage to the exterior of your home. Regular cleaning of the gutters and downspouts attached to them can keep your home safe and protected throughout the harsher seasons.

Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

 

Take this time to inspect and clean your window wells. Remove all debris and inspect for cracks or damages. Damaged window wells give winter conditions a way into your home. Make the minor repairs before they lead to larger ones.

Consider Adding Seasonal Gutter Guards

You may want to consider adding gutter guards to your gutter system for the winter season. Gutter guards help keep heavy snow and ice from building up in your gutters. The Austin area experiences lots of sleet and ice during the winter. Prevent damage to your roof and gutter system by taking the simple step of adding gutter guards. If you’re interested in adding gutter guards to your gutters, one of our knowledgeable Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR associates will be happy to help guide you through your options.

 

Add New Caulking to Your Roof

Caulking is used around any seam on your roof. Check around chimneys, vent pipes, and counter flashings to see if your caulking needs replacing. When the weather gets severely cold, caulk may crack and break, making your roof vulnerable to leaks. Remove any compromised caulking and replace it with new caulking.

Check Your Attic For Leaks

Check Your Attic For Leaks

 

Don’t forget to check your attic or crawl space for leaks from your roof. Repairing any problems you find will reduce the potential for water damage to the interior of your home. When checking for leaks, check the insulation in your attic. Adding insulation is a great way to protect against the cold weather in East Texas.

Make All Necessary Roof Repairs

The winter season in Austin can bring damaging weather conditions. Don’t get left out in the cold this winter! Make all necessary repairs to your roof during the milder fall season. If your roof requires a little extra attention or needs repairs, the trusted roofing contractors at Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR are here to help! Contact us today for your free roofing inspection. At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we secure Austin one roof at a time.

Shingle Roofs vs Metal Roofs

Shingle Roofs vs Metal Roofs

by | May 3, 2021 | Roofing Tips

Let Our Roofing Experts Guide You

Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR has been installing both shingle roofs and metal roofs for years. We are familiar with the unique roofing needs of homeowners in Austin and are ready to give you the information you need to make the right decision for your home. At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we believe in quality craftsmanship and customer service. That’s why the homeowners of Austin have trusted us with their shingle and metal roofing projects, no matter how big or small.

Let Our Roofing Experts Guide You

 

When choosing the right roofing system for your home, there’s a lot to consider. Both a shingle roof and a metal roof have pros and cons. The ideal choice of roof for your home depends on several factors. Over the years, our experiences have led us to understand which roof style works best for each neighborhood and area of Austin. Let our roofing experts guide you to a roof that will leave your home safe and secure for years to come.

The Benefits of a Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingles are the number one choice of roofing material in North America. Shingles are constantly manufactured and, therefore, readily available. This makes them a cost-effective option for your roofing project. Though they are budget-friendly, shingles offer many appealing benefits to the discerning homeowner.

Safety Benefits

Shingles have been used in roofing for decades. This has allowed the manufacturers to upgrade the design and functionality of each type of shingle. A properly installed shingle roof will protect your home and withstand many environmental factors.

High Wind Resistance

You don’t have to live in the East Texas area for long to understand that winds are a factor you should consider when installing or replacing a roof. Typically, a shingled roof can withstand 110-130 mile per hour winds.

High winds can not only remove shingles completely but can cause shingles to shift making your home vulnerable to water damage. Selecting the right asphalt shingle for the high winds in our area is our specialty. We take the time to install each shingle properly to ensure they can stand the high winds and frequent hail storms common in Austin.

Class A Fire Rating

A Class A fire rating means your asphalt shingles can help protect other parts of your home from damage or destruction. Not all shingles are rated this highly but there are a wide variety of affordable shingles that fall into the Class A category. Our experienced contractors know how to install a shingle roof to meet the highest level of fire safety possible with your home.

 

Class A Fire Rating

 

Sound Protection

This might not be top on your priority list but shingles provide a surprising amount of protection from outside noise. Depending on where your home is located, noise control may be something to reconsider.

Read more: Mold Remediation

 

 

Design Freedom with a Shingle Roof

There are a wide variety of shingles available to today’s homeowner. At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we can help guide you through the wide selection to fit your required aesthetic. Whether you need us for a budget-friendly roof repair or a full roof replacement, we have the shingles to fit your home perfectly.

Shingles come in 3 main categories; 3 tab, architectural, and designer. Each type meets our high quality standard but only one type is right for your home.

3 Tab Shingles

The most affordable option, 3 tab shingles are available in earth tones including tan, grey, white and black. Usually accompanied with a 25 year warranty, this style of shingle is made to be extremely durable and functional.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural Shingles are moderately priced with a wider aesthetic selection available. They are also longer-lasting and more durable so you may see some limited lifetime warranties with architectural shingles.

Dimensional, Designer or Premium Shingles

Available at a higher cost, specialty asphalt shingles are usually rated a grade higher than architectural shingles. If you desire a unique look for the roof of your home, designer asphalt shingles are the right choice for you.

 

Quality and Value

Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective roofing system available. You aren’t substituting value for cost with the variety of asphalt shingles there are to choose from. Because asphalt shingles have been used for years and are so common, installation is easy and the cost to install is low.

 

The Benefits of a Metal Roof

When properly installed, a metal roof is a strong, protective barrier against the powerful storms common in the Austin area. A sturdy metal roof secures your investment against the heat, heavy rains, hail, and high winds. You also have a choice in the type of metal roofing available. There are benefits to each type of metal roof and the expert contractors at Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR can install them all!

The Benefits Of A Metal Roof

 

Types of Metal Roofing

The two most common types of metal roofing available are corrugated metal roofs and standing seam metal roofs.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Corrugated metal roofs are thinner than standing seam roofs making them less resistant to the hail storms of the East Texas area. Corrugated metal roofs also have a higher roof pitch requirement than other materials, making it unusable for a flat roof home.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing can be more visually appealing while simultaneously being more protective. The panels of the standing seam system are thicker, which provides your home a higher level of protection. They can also be installed on low pitch homes.

 

Weather Resistant

No matter the type of metal roof, a metal roof provides excellent protection from the elements. The slick surface of a metal roof naturally forces rain, and even the occasional ice or snow, off the roof. Metal roofs reflect the heat of the sun away from your residence. It seems simple, but reflecting the sun in Texas helps lower the workload on your air conditioning system. This, in turn, helps reduce your energy costs.

 

Environmentally Responsible

Metal roofs are a smart environmental choice. Typically, a metal roof is made from recyclable materials and can itself be recycled. Because it is so long-lasting, a metal roof means less traditional roofing materials end up in a landfill. Installing a metal roof can create the perfect foundation for solar panels or water collection implements. A metal roof also helps contribute to your property’s energy efficiency.

 

Affordable and Long Lasting

Even though installing a metal roof requires a higher initial investment, that investment pays out in the end. Not only do metal roofs last a long time, up to 70 years, but they provide superior protection against weather and premium energy efficiency within your home. We’ve installed hundreds of metal roofs over the years and can help you choose the right one to fit your budget.

 

Which Roofing System is Right for You?

There are pros and cons of each roofing system so it’s important to have your home inspected by our roofing professionals. We can walk you through the best options available for your roofing project. Every home is different with different needs. Our expert team has seen it all when it comes to roof projects and can handle any roofing job.

Which Roofing System Is Right For You

 

Shingles are a tried and true, budget friendly option. Over the years, manufacturers have improved and modernized shingle design to accommodate today’s homeowners. You can rest assured that, with a properly installed shingle roof that gets regular maintenance, your home will remain safe and secure.

A metal roof provides a higher level of protection but with a higher price tag. Considering the money-saving capabilities of a metal roof, you may choose to make the upfront investment. Metal roofing requires less maintenance than a shingle roof and can easily accommodate modifications like solar panels.

Whatever your choice, Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR can help. From selection to installation to maintenance, our friendly staff is there for each step ensuring you make the right roofing choice for your home. Your initial roof inspection is always free. Give us a call today and we’ll get started on your roof repair or replacement right away!

Austin Local Vs. Out-of-Town Roofing Contractors: After the Storm

Austin Local Vs. Out-of-Town Roofing Contractors: After the Storm

by | Apr 27, 2021 | Roofing Tips

2021 has brought Austin unpredictable and record-setting weather. Austin homes have taken a beating from ice storms in February to hail storms in April. This unprecedented and damaging weather brings in roofing contractors from out-of-town and even out-of-state. While it may seem like these transient roofing companies may be able to help the increased demand for roofing services such as roof repairs or roof replacement, homeowners may not be aware of many pitfalls to hiring out-of-town contractors.

Read more: HOW TO REPAIR ROOF SHINGLES BLOWN OFF?

Here are a few reasons why the best roofing contractors think homeowners should consider when choosing between local roofer or out-of-town contractors:

Local contractors can honor long-term warranties.

As out-of-town contractors flood the Austin area in search of new work, they often leave homeowners with limited ways to receive warranty work. Oftentimes issues with a repaired roof may not manifest until years down the road. These out-of-town contractors may not be available or willing to travel and repair your roof. Local contractors, like Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, will be able to maintain your roof and provide extended warranty service work.

Out-of-town contractors are sending salesmen, not workers.

With unprecedented weather events like Austin has experienced, we often see a flood of salesmen selling new roofs to Austinites. The workers and laborers for these out-of-town contractors can be states away. It is unpredictable to know when they’ll be able to start and if they will even be able to find the right people for the job. Local contractors, like WDR, have a team of vetted and proven laborers to get the job done right. Out-of-town contractors will be forced to experiment with a new labor force. Do you want the contractor to experiment with your roof?

Out-of-town contractors have limited access to building materials.

Ever since the COVID pandemic, Austin, like most of the country, has experienced a shortage of building and roofing materials. When you couple the shortage with the multiple major weather events, materials become even more scarce. Out-of-town contractors do not have relationships with local vendors to quickly provide the materials needed to repair your roof. It’s oftentimes cost-prohibitive to import roofing materials from out-of-state, thus driving up the cost of your new roof.

Local contractors will be able to repair your roof faster.

If a damaged roof is left damaged for too long, it can cause extensive damage throughout the home. Time is of the essence when repairing a roof. Out-of-town contractors have many factors stacked against them that prevent them from fixing roofs promptly. Local contractors have the labor, materials, experience, and knowledge of the nuances in our community to be able to expeditiously repair your roof.

roofing contractor repairing a roof

Local contractors have relationships with local insurance companies.

Many Austin homeowners have homeowners insurance that will cover some or all of their roof repairs. Local contractors have experience with local (and national) insurance companies and the processes it takes to successfully file a proper claim. At Austin Roofing Company & Water Damage | WDR, we work with insurance adjusters to streamline this process and save you, the homeowner, the most time and money possible.