Category: Roof Inspection

  • Does Roofing Material Affect Energy Efficiency?

    Does Roofing Material Affect Energy Efficiency?

    With rising energy costs and increasing strain on the electrical grid, can a quality roof help save you money on energy bills? The short answer is yes, but let’s explore some specifics of the different roof types as they relate to maximizing energy efficiency for your home or business.

    Shingle Roofs

    shingle roof
    Shingle roofs come in a variety of materials and designs to suit aesthetic preferences, and are the most affordable roofing material on the market. They’re also low-maintenance and energy efficient, making them a popular choice for home and business owners. Florida’s weather brings almost year-round sunshine and extreme conditions like heat, humidity, and fierce winds during tropical storms. Our top-quality shingles from CT Landmark are dual-layered to last for a long time. Made from sturdy architectural and designer shingles, our shingle roofs can withstand rain, wind, and hail. In the event of damage from a storm, shingles are relatively easy to repair.

    Tile Roofs

    Tile Roofs
    Orlando Roof Installation has been a leading company in tile roof installation since 1985. A lot of research has been done on the energy efficiency of tile roofs, and studies have found that tile roofing can decrease heat flow into an attic by up to 70%. Because tiles are dense and heavy, they provide what is called thermal mass, which enables the tile to absorb and store heat. Tile roofs can be made from Enviroshake, cedar, metal, cement, clay, slate, and synthetic materials. In consideration of energy-efficient options, tile roofing is a top contender. The airspace created by individual, overlapping tiles allows air to easily circulate and acts as a layer of insulation, promoting year-round energy conservation.

    Metal Roofs

    Metal Roofs
    Metal roofs continue to increase in popularity because of their durability, longevity, and energy efficiency. The reflective quality of metal roofs–though they can be hot to the touch–only shows how much of the sun’s energy is bouncing right back off. Thermal resistance determines the heat insulation property of textile materials, and metal roofs are top-rated for their reflective properties. In Florida, we experience tropical storms that have the potential to damage roofs, and metal roofs hold up well to strong winds and rains. For these reasons, metal roofing is on the rise in the US, and Orlando Roof Installation has years of experience helping our customers choose suitable metal and fastener systems.

    Quality Roof Repair, Maintenance, and Installation Matters

    The best way to ensure maximum savings during times of increasing energy costs is to find ways to conserve, and residential or commercial roofing options are a great place to start. This is an area worth looking into before choosing materials and beginning roof installation. Once you’ve chosen the tile, metal, or shingle roof that best suits your needs, it’s important to maintain functionality with regular maintenance and repairs if damage occurs. At Orlando Roof Installation, we can help you decide which type of roofing material best meets your preferred aesthetic and energy efficiency needs, and our complimentary inspections ensure maximum savings on your energy bills year after year.

  • What Is Included in a Roof Inspection?

    What Is Included in a Roof Inspection?

    Regular roof inspections can help to keep your roof in good repair. It’s also a good way to discover possible problems before they become major issues that could cause a lot of expensive damage. Homeowners can inspect their own roofs, but it’s recommended to have it done professionally because a roofer will better know what they’re looking for.

    But what happens during a roof inspection? What comes included in a roofing inspection may differ depending on the contractor, but in general, the following are standard for roof inspections.

    Exterior Roof Inspection

     

    During a roof inspection, the inspector will examine the exterior of your home, including the roof itself. In particular, the inspector will be looking for signs of roof damage. Not all of these signs are on the roof itself, so they may also inspect the ground near your home or the exterior walls. They’ll also inspect the surface of the roof, which is dangerous for homeowners to do. Walking on a roof requires proper technique and a professional will have the equipment and expertise to go up on your roof safely without damaging your roof.

    Roof Damage the Inspector Will Look for

    Roof Inspection

    The following are signs of roof damage that the inspector may look for during the exterior inspection:

    • Leaks
    • Cracked caulk
    • Damaged flashing
    • Moss or algae on the roof
    • Hail damage around the house
    • Water buildup on the ground
    • Discoloration on the walls or roof
    • Shingle roof damage:
      • Missing shingles
      • Granule loss
      • Curling shingles
      • Cracked shingles
      • Broken shingles
    • Tile roof damage:
      • Missing tiles
      • Cracked tiles
    • Metal roof damage:
      • Rust
      • Dents
      • Punctures
      • Movement
      • Damaged fasteners

    Interior Inspection

    inspect indoor

    Because roof damage can result in leaks that allow water to enter the home, roof inspections may also include interior inspections. Inside your home, the inspector will be looking specifically for signs of water damage. This can look like discoloration or mold and mildew on the ceilings, or even active leaks. The paint on the ceiling bubbling and peeling are also signs of water damage.

    Attic Inspection

    inspectors inside the house

    The interior part of the roof inspection will also involve looking at your attic. The attic is right under the roof, so it’s important for it to be checked for signs of leaks even if there’s no other evidence of water damage in the house. An inspector will look for the following in the attic:

    • Openings in the roof
    • Light coming in
    • Active leaks
    • Aging
    • Mold
    • Moisture

    The inspector can also let you know if your attic doesn’t have enough insulation. Insulation can help keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, so it’s important to have enough because it can help to lower your energy bills.

    A Free Quote

    Often, a roof inspection is completely free of charge. Roofing companies will offer the inspection for free and provide a quote for repairing the damage they find during the inspection. A very thorough inspection may cost money, but it’s common for basic inspections to be complimentary. Orlando Roof Installation, for example, offers complimentary inspections.