Tag Archive for: Roof Replacement

EPDM Roofing Systems – Everything You Need to Know

Avoid installing the wrong roofing system on your commercial building. Knowing the benefits of an EPDM roofing system and how one protects your structure will help you determine which commercial roofing system is best for your needs.

EPDM commercial roofing systems are best installed by professional roofers

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered essential information on EPDM roofing systems, their compelling benefits, and how they are manufactured.

What is EPDM?

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) is a synthetic rubber material commonly used in multiple applications, including roofing systems. This material is renowned for its excellent durability, weather resistance, and versatility. EPDM roofing membranes are widely used in the construction industry to install flat or low-slope roofs on industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. Consider the following benefits of EPDM roofing:

Exceptional Durability – One of the primary reasons for selecting an EPDM roofing system is its exceptional durability. EPDM is a synthetic rubber membrane that can withstand a range of environmental stressors, including:

  • Exposure to UV rays
  • Extreme temperatures
  • Inclement weather conditions

EPDM roofs have a proven track record of longevity. They can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years or more with proper maintenance, making them a durable, reliable, and cost-effective roofing solution.

Superior Weather Resistance – EPDM roofing systems are renowned for their ability to withstand a range of severe weather conditions. They are highly resistant to damage from rain, snow, hail, and ice. EPDM membranes are designed to expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, ensuring they remain intact and effective over time. This weather resistance provides unparalleled peace of mind to property owners, knowing that their roofs can stand up to the elements.

Energy Efficiency – EPDM roofs are excellent at reflecting sunlight and heat away from the structure, contributing to significant energy savings. EPDM roofing’s reflective nature helps reduce the cooling load on the building during hot summer months, leading to lower energy bills. EPDM roofing materials are often completely recyclable, further promoting environmental sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint (associated with cooling systems).

Low Maintenance Requirements – Maintaining an EPDM roofing system is straightforward, and its low maintenance requirements are another significant advantage. Routine inspections and occasional cleaning are typically all that’s required to keep your EPDM roof in excellent condition. EPDM’s resistance to mold and algae growth helps maintain its pristine appearance and structural integrity, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Cost-Effective Installation – EPDM roofing systems are known for their cost-effective installation. They are lightweight and can be installed quickly, which leads to reduced labor costs. Additionally, EPDM membranes come in large rolls, allowing for seamless installation with minimal seams or joints, reducing the risk of leaks over time. This efficiency in installation can save property owners substantial time and money.

EPDM commercial roofing systems are easy to repair and maintain

Eco-Friendly Alternative – EPDM roofing systems are an eco-friendly roofing option. EPDM membranes are typically composed of recyclable materials and can be fully repurposed at the end of their useful life. This sustainable aspect aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible construction practices.

Note: EPDM roofs also contribute to energy efficiency, reducing the carbon footprint of the building and helping property owners reduce their environmental impact.

Versatility and Adaptability – EPDM roofing systems are incredibly versatile and adaptable to multiple architectural styles and roof designs. They can be installed on flat roofs, low-slope roofs, or even steep-slope roofs. EPDM roofing materials are available in different thicknesses and can be fully adhered, mechanically fastened, or ballasted, depending on your project’s specific needs. This versatility makes EPDM a suitable choice for both new construction and roof replacement projects.

See if an EPDM roofing system is appropriate for your structure by requesting a free roof inspection.

How is EPDM Manufactured?

To fully understand how EPDM offers so many incredible benefits, here’s an overview of how EPDM roofing membranes are manufactured:

Raw Materials – EPDM is made from a combination of several raw materials, including:

  • Ethylene
  • Propylene
  • Diene monomers

These materials are derived from petrochemical sources. The specific formulations and additives may vary depending on the manufacturer and the intended application.

Polymerization – The manufacturing process begins with the polymerization of the raw materials. This process chemically bonds the ethylene, propylene, and diene monomers to create the EPDM polymer. The polymerization is typically done using catalysts and heat.

Vulcanization – After the EPDM polymer is formed, it needs to be vulcanized to achieve its desired physical properties. Vulcanization is a polymer cross-linking process that increases strength, durability, and heat resistance. This is typically achieved by adding sulfur and using heat or chemical accelerators.

Processing – The vulcanized EPDM rubber is processed into the desired form, which is often in large sheets or rolls. During this stage, multiple additives may be mixed in to enhance specific properties, like UV resistance, flexibility, and/or flame resistance.

Sheet Formation – The EPDM rubber is then processed into sheets or rolls at a desired thickness. These sheets are typically available in various widths and lengths to suit different roofing applications.

Curing – The EPDM sheets may go through a curing process to ensure that they are fully set and ready for use. This process typically involves applying heat to further improve their physical properties.

Reinforcement – Some EPDM roofing membranes may have reinforcement layers incorporated into them. These reinforcement layers, often made of polyester or fiberglass, are embedded within the EPDM sheets (creating a composite) to provide additional strength and stability.

Final Quality Control – Before the EPDM roofing material is packaged and shipped to customers, it undergoes multiple rigorous quality control checks to ensure that it meets industry standards and specifications. This includes checking for defects, thickness consistency, and quality.

Once the EPDM roofing material is manufactured and quality-controlled, it is ready for distribution and installation on roofs. EPDM roofing systems are known for their ease of installation, as the sheets can be adhered to the roof substrate using various methods, like adhesive, ballast, or mechanical fasteners.

EPDM commercial roofing systems are easy to install

Visit and subscribe to this commercial and residential roofing contractor’s YouTube channel for short informational videos on multiple roofing topics.

EPDM Roofing Systems

In this article, you discovered what EPDM is, its multiple benefits, and how it is manufactured for roofing systems.

Understanding what EPDM is, its valuable benefits, and its extreme versatility will contribute to making informed decisions when installing or replacing your roofing system.

Failure to educate yourself about different roofing systems can lead to an inadequate or problematic roof being installed on your structure with costly consequences.

Sources:
energystar.gov/products/building_products/roof_products/other_types_roofing_that_can_save_energy
gccds.msstate.edu/research/altconstruction/roof/roof.pdf
vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/bitstream/handle/10919/109460/polymers-14-01308.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
mulehide.com/en-us/News-Events/Blog/why-choose-epdm

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041
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Residential Roofing Maintenance Plans – Protecting Your Investment

Avoid crushing out of pocket expenses when your residential roofing system requires repairs or replacement. Knowing how roofing maintenance plans are structured and what they cover will help your home’s roof meet or exceed its life expectancy.

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered crucial information about various types of roofing maintenance plans, how they impact warranties like No Dollar Limit (NDL), installation (workmanship) warranties, and manufacturing warranties, and addresses the optimal frequency for scheduling your home’s roof maintenance.

Roofing Maintenance Plans

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, and it plays a crucial role in safeguarding your property. To ensure its longevity and effectiveness, regular roof maintenance is essential.

Annual Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Annual inspections are the most common roofing maintenance plan type. It involves scheduling a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roof once per year, typically in the spring or fall, and perform necessary cleaning and/or maintenance tasks. Consider the following:

Benefits – Regular inspections and maintenance can detect minor issues before they escalate into significant problems, extending your roof’s lifespan. It also helps identify and fix leaks, damaged shingles, and other issues promptly.

Cost – The cost varies depending on your roof’s size and complexity, but the investment is usually minimal compared to the potential costs of neglecting maintenance.

Bi-Annual Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Some homeowners opt for bi-annual maintenance plans, scheduling inspections and maintenance tasks twice per year. This is particularly beneficial in regions with extreme weather conditions. Take the following into consideration:

Benefits – More frequent inspections allow for quicker problem and defect detection, reducing the risk of expensive repairs. It’s especially useful for properties in areas prone to severe storms, heavy rainfall, or harsh winters.

Cost – While bi-annual maintenance plans may cost slightly more than annual plans, the added peace of mind and potential savings on repair costs make it a worthwhile investment.

Seasonal Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Residential roofing systems benefit from seasonal inspections and maintenance

Seasonal maintenance involves scheduling inspections and maintenance tasks in every season (spring, summer, fall, and winter). It’s the most comprehensive plan. Consider the following:

Benefits – This approach ensures that your roof is well-prepared and maintained for the specific challenges each season brings, like clearing debris in the fall or addressing ice damming in the winter.

Cost – Seasonal maintenance plans may be more expensive due to the increased inspection frequency, but they provide the highest protection level for your roof.

Visit and subscribe to this professional roofer’s YouTube channel for informational videos about residential roofing maintenance plans and other industry topics.

Impact on Warranties

Regular roof maintenance is closely tied to warranties provided by manufacturers and contractors. These warranties offer peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected and catastrophic issues.

No Dollar Limit (NDL) Warranty

An NDL warranty is one of the most comprehensive warranties available and provides protection against material and workmanship defects. However, it often requires proof of regular maintenance.

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the roof’s long-term performance and to prevent issues that could void the NDL warranty.

Installation (Workmanship) Warranty

Residential roofing systems benefit from professional installation and maintenance

Installation (Workmanship) warranties are typically offered by roofing contractors and cover the workmanship involved in installing the roof. These warranties also often depend on regular maintenance.

If a roofing contractor installed your roof, their warranty may specify that regular maintenance is necessary to keep the warranty valid.

Manufacturing Warranty

Manufacturing warranties cover defects in roofing materials and are usually provided by the manufacturer. The terms of these warranties often require proper installation and maintenance.

Neglecting maintenance can lead to the manufacturer denying warranty claims, leaving you responsible for the total cost of repairs or replacements.

Roof Maintenance Frequency

Determining how often you should schedule roof maintenance depends on various factors, including climate, your roof’s age, and its current condition. Here are some general guidelines:

Annual Maintenance – An annual inspection and maintenance plan are suitable for most residential roofs in moderate climates with minimal weather extremes.

Bi-Annual Maintenance – Consider bi-annual maintenance if your region experiences harsh weather conditions, frequent storms, or if your roof is over a decade old.

Seasonal Maintenance – If you live in an area that experiences extreme seasonal variations or your roof is older and more susceptible to damage, a seasonal maintenance plan is ideal.

Note: Request a quote for a roof maintenance plan when scheduling an inspection, repair, or replacement.

Residential roofing systems benefit from a maintenance plan with a professional roofing company

Read more about roof and home maintenance at newimageroofingatlanta.com/home-maintenance-tips-homeowners-must-know/

Maintenance Plans for Residential Roofing

In this article, you discovered how roofing maintenance programs extend your roof’s lifespan, help preserve your warranties, and how often you should schedule maintenance visits.

Signing a residential roofing maintenance program will help you avoid out of pocket repair and replacement costs, aid your roof in reaching its maximum life expectancy, and heighten your sense of security when at home.

Failure to acquire a residential roof maintenance program can result in expensive out of pocket repair or replacement costs or your roof’s premature and catastrophic failure.

Sources:
hud.gov/sites/documents/HUDGB5C3GUID.PDF
nrcia.org/why-homeowners-need-annual-roof-inspections/
garca.org/page-1150861

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041
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Home Maintenance Tips Homeowners Must Know

Keep catastrophic damages from significantly reducing your home’s value. Knowing how to maintain your home and what warning signs to watch for will protect your home’s value and potentially save your life.

Regular home maintenance includes inspecting and tightening loose ends

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered the following home maintenance tips to help homeowners maintain their homes in the best possible condition while preserving their value.

Essential Home Maintenance Tips

Some repairs are inevitable as a homeowner, keeping caught up on monthly and seasonal tasks around your home can prevent major damages and save you significant money over time. Consider the following home maintenance tips:

HVAC System Maintenance – Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential in maintaining indoor comfort. Consider the following HVAC requirements:

Regular home maintenance includes servicing your HVAC unit

  • Change air filters every 1-3 months to ensure proper air quality and system efficiency.
  • Schedule annual professional HVAC inspections to clean, service, and optimize the system’s performance.

Note: A malfunctioning HVAC unit can emit foul odors, cause severe water damages, and cause a life-threatening house fire.

Roof and Gutters – Your roof shields your home from the elements. It is essential to keep it in good condition. Be observant of the following tips:

Regular home maintenance includes roof and gutter inspections

  • Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles.
  • Address any issues promptly to prevent leaks.
  • Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water buildup (causes water damage and mold growth).

Read this article to understand why roof ventilation is crucial to your roofing system’s performance and longevity.

Tip: Contact this professional residential roofer to help keep your roofing system in its best condition.

Plumbing Maintenance – Prevent plumbing mishaps and disasters by promptly addressing corrosion, pipe bursts, leaks and clogs. The following tips will help you prevent significant plumbing malfunctions:

Regular home maintenance includes plumbing inspections and repair

  • Check faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks regularly.
  • Learn the location of the main water shut-off valve to halt water flow in emergency situations.
  • Flush your water heater annually to prevent sediment buildup, maintaining its efficiency.
  • Protect external (outside) water lines from freezing weather.

Tip: Hire a professional plumber to thoroughly inspect your home’s plumbing system annually before freezing winter weather arrives.

Exterior Home Maintenance – Caring for your home’s exterior increases its curb appeal and protects it from the elements. Consider the following tips:

Regular home maintenance includes caring for its exterior

  • Refinish, repaint, or touch up siding and trim as needed to prevent weathering, rot, and decay.
  • Regularly inspect and clean decks, patios, and walkways to prevent decay, mold, mildew, and staining.
  • Maintain your trees pruned, mulched, and fertilized to keep them healthy and thriving.
  • Seasonally plant and refresh your garden with flowering plants and small shrubs.

Tip: Hire a local professional landscaper and tree service to keep your trees, garden, and lawn neat, trimmed, and healthy.

Window and Door Maintenance – Well-maintained windows and doors enhance energy efficiency and provide increased home security. Observe the following:

Regular home maintenance includes window and door inspections

  • Inspect doors and windows for drafts, cracks, or broken seals.
  • Lubricate hinges and locks to ensure they function smoothly.
  • Install door, window, and motion detectors.

Read more about window care and treatments at energy.gov/energysaver/articles/spring-home-maintenance-windows-windows-windows

Tip: Select a smart security system that automatically sends alerts to your smartphone and law enforcement when an intruder is detected.

Electrical Safety – Maintaining your home’s electrical system is crucial for safety. Routinely inspect the following:

Regular home maintenance includes inspecting your electrical system and connections

  • Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly (annually replace batteries).
  • Check electrical outlets for loose panels, worn or frayed wiring, or signs of overheating.
  • Hire a professional electrician for periodic electrical system inspections.

Note: Signs of overheating include burn marks, sparks, warping, cracking, bubbling, and fixture malfunctions.

Pest Prevention – Regular pest inspections and prevention measures can save you from costly infestations and the illnesses they may bring into your home. Consider the following preventive measures:

Regular home maintenance includes regular pest control and prevention

  • Seal cracks and gaps around your home’s exterior to keep unwanted pests out.
  • Keep your living spaces clean and clutter-free, as pests are attracted to food residue, moisture, and clutter.

Tip: Hire a professional pest control service to inspect and treat your home after each winter season.

Appliance Maintenance – Home appliances provide daily conveniences (often overlooked), so it’s essential to keep them in working efficiently. Regularly clean refrigerator coils and clean lint filters in your dryer to prevent fire hazards.

Regular home maintenance includes taking care of your appliances

Tip: Follow manufacturer guidelines and timelines for maintaining appliances, like your dishwasher, oven, and washing machine.

Seasonal Maintenance – Different seasons bring unique maintenance challenges. Observe the following seasonal maintenance tasks:

  • Fall – Clean gutters and remove fallen leaves to prevent clogs. Winterize your home by insulating pipes and sealing gaps to conserve energy.
  • Spring – Check for winter damage and prepare your home for the warmer months.

Tip: Schedule maintenance visits after severe weather, tree falls, and other disruptive or unexpected events.

Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

In this article, you discovered several essential home maintenance tips to help keep your home functioning at peak performance.

Keeping your home properly maintained will enhance your comfort and foster a healthier environment for you and your loved ones.

Allowing your home’s maintenance to lapse can result in catastrophic damages and costly repairs.

Sources:
fcs.uga.edu/docs/HomeMaintChecklist_update_6.21.pdf
nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/fcs/2020/11/02/8-fall-home-maintenance-tips/
extension.usu.edu/finance/faq/home-maintenance-checklist

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041
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Residential Roof Ventilation

Keep poor residential roof ventilation from causing premature roofing problems, leaks, and catastrophic failure. Understanding why and how residential sloped roofing systems are ventilated will help you get your roof installed with the best possible performance and longevity.

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered the following residential roof ventilation information and tips to help you ensure your home’s roofing system properly mitigates extreme temperatures and significantly extends its lifespan.

Sloped Roof Ventilation

Residential sloped roofing systems can include air vents

Adequate roof ventilation is a crucial component of any residential structure, and with sloped roofs, ventilation becomes even more of a necessity. Residential sloped roof ventilation plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable living environment, preventing moisture buildup, and improving energy efficiency. The following will help you understand why residential sloped roof ventilation is necessary:

Temperature Regulation – Sloped roof ventilation helps regulate temperatures inside the attic and living spaces. During hot summer months, unventilated attics can become exceedingly hot, leading to heat transfer to living areas, making them uncomfortable. Proper attic ventilation allows hot air to escape, reducing heat buildup and keeping the entire structure cooler.

Moisture Control – Without adequate ventilation, moisture may accumulate in the attic, leading to mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and without intervention, structural damage. Moisture can seep into the structure’s insulation, compromising its effectiveness and causing potentially severe health issues for occupants. By allowing sufficient airflow, sloped roof ventilation helps mitigate moisture, preventing these issues and maintaining a healthier indoor environment.

Energy Efficiency – Efficient ventilation significantly impacts a residential building’s energy efficiency. In the summer, a properly ventilated roof reduces the need for excessive air conditioning by preventing hot air accumulation in the attic. In the winter, adequate ventilation prevents condensation, causing damage to insulation, reducing its effectiveness. By improving energy efficiency, sloped roof ventilation can lead to significant cost savings on utility bills.

Ventilation for Sloped Roofs

Commonly, residential sloped roof exhaust vents consist of continuous ridge vents or static vents no more than 3 feet from the ridge (measured vertically). Intake vents within soffits or eaves are also common, and in-plane intake vents are used when eaves and soffits are not built to include intake vents. Consider the following sloped roof ventilation options:

Ridge Vents – Ridge vents are installed along the ridgeline (peak) of a sloped roof, allowing hot air to escape naturally. Such vents are effective in providing consistent and continuous airflow, as they typically span the entire length of the roof’s peak. Ridge vents are often combined with soffit vents to create a balanced ventilation system, where cool air enters through soffit vents and warm air naturally escapes through ridge vents.

Residential sloped roofing systems can include a roof ridge vent

Soffit Vents – Soffit vents are installed under the roof’s eaves, allowing fresh air to enter the attic. They function in conjunction with the roof’s ridge vents to create seamless airflow, facilitating the continuous exchange of hot and cool air. Soffit vents are typically protected by grilles or screens to prevent the entry of pests and debris.

Residential sloped roofing systems can include soffit vents

Gable Vents – Gable vents are installed on the gable ends of the roof and provide an alternative to ridge vents. They allow hot air to escape from the attic and can be particularly useful in houses where a ridge vent cannot be installed. Gable vents are available in various shapes and sizes and can be aesthetically pleasing while providing effective ventilation.

Residential sloped roofing systems can include attic vents

Roof Vents – Roof vents come in many different styles, like turbine vents or box vents, and are installed on the roof’s surface. These vents use natural wind power to create negative airflow removing hot air from the attic. Roof vents can be an excellent option for homes with limited roof space or when other ventilation systems are not suitable.

Read more about residential sloped roofing options, components, and structures here.

Note: Current building codes typically require attic ventilation to minimize condensation on the underside of roof sheathing. Summer cooling of attic air, minimizing ice dams, and extending the roof’s lifespan are commonly cited as additional benefits of proper attic ventilation. In fact, most asphalt shingle manufacturers warrant their products only for adequately ventilated roofing systems.

Roof Ventilation Systems

In this article, you discovered why sloped roofing systems require ventilation, how adequate ventilation is achieved, and the consequences of installing a poorly ventilated roofing system.

Properly installed residential roofing ventilation helps prevent mold and mildew growth in your attic while efficiently regulating its temperature, making your home’s air quality healthier and significantly more energy efficient.

Allowing the installation of a roofing system with inadequate ventilation will result in significantly increased utility bills, harmful mold and mildew growth, and a roof with a lower lifespan requiring continuous costly maintenance and repairs.

Sources:
energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/do_it_yourself_guide/about_attic_ventilation
fpl.fs.usda.gov/documnts/pdf2002/rose02a.pdf
iibec.org/attic-ventilation-101/

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041
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