There is a silver lining to all of this. There are many different options and roofing types to choose from. If you live in one of the hurricane zones, the type of roofing materials that you choose will need to be resistant against sunlight and heat, as well as tropical storms. 

Clay Tiles

Homes and structures have had roofs made out of clay tiles for centuries. Clay tiles have never gone out of style for a few reasons. This incredibly durable and beautiful roofing material is also expensive when compared to other options due to the amount of material that is used in these thick structures. The reason why they are so expensive is also because they have been known to withstand extremely bad weather, including winds as high and over 150 mph and 2 inch + hailstones. Clay tiles add a lot of value to a home’s resale value because they withstand weathering for a very long time. 

This building material is also a great type of roofing material for hurricane zones because clay is made from the earth, is easily recyclable, and energy efficient. Ventilation is necessary in the hot summer months and the curved shape of these tiles will not trap hot air or temperature. Their heavy thermal mass will help insulate Florida homes during the colder season and reflect heat during the warmer months. 

Clay tiles require a low degree of maintenance. Maintenance of clay tiles is only needed if tiles are broken, which generally only happens with very severe storms or hurricanes. The good news is that they can be individually installed and easily fixed. 

The only cons to clay tiles are that they are expensive and very heavy. So, you’ll have to check with a contractor to make sure that your roof can support the massive weight of a clay tile roof. Clay tiles are also difficult to install, so you’ll need to employ the help of a licensed and insured professional roofer. 

Traditional Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles dominate the market. It is – by far – the most popular roofing material. This is due primarily to its low cost and ease of installation. It is one of the easiest roofing materials to install, especially when you compare it to metal or clay tile installation. 

When you think of a roof, you probably picture asphalt shingles without realizing it. They make up almost 75% of the roofing material market in Florida due to their cost and ease of installation. There are also a huge number of color and texture options available for traditional asphalt shingles. 

Asphalt shingles are made up of fiberglass matting, an asphalt coating, and some sort of stone or ceramic granule to give durability to the material. The most common form of asphalt shingle is the traditional 3-tab variety. 

Also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, architectural shingles are made up of the same materials as asphalt shingles, but are thicker and heavier, thus providing more protection against the coastal elements. Asphalt and architectural shingles won’t stand up to winds past 100 mph, so keep that in mind when installing a new roof or choosing a roofing option for your Florida home.

Metal Tiles or Metal Roofing 

This is, by far, the best option for protecting your home from strong winds and any concurrent damage. Metal roofs are extremely long-lasting and durable. They can withstand hail and very strong hurricane winds. Especially when you compare it to asphalt, metal roofs have about 3x the life expectancy of your average asphalt roof. A quality field-locked standing seam and metal aluminum shingles can last you 50 to 60 years. A quality metal roof made out of copper or zinc can last well over 100 years. 

Metal roofs are much better at withstanding the elements than clay tiles or asphalt shingles, as clay tiles are prone to shattering if hit by debris, and asphalt shingles are easily ripped off at mph over 100. Metal roofs can withstand winds approaching 160 mph and are unaffected by such things as fungus, mildew, and moss. Moss and fungus growth can cut the lifespan of an asphalt roof in half. For metal roofs, mildew is not an issue. Metal roofs are also indestructible to small animals, unlike a traditional wooden roof that can be hacked at by small rodents or animals like raccoons. 

Metal is durable and sustainable, unlike wooden roofs such as cedar. They can also stay cooler than asphalt shingles during the hotter summer months. 

Best Type of Roof for Florida 

Not all things are created equal. This is especially true for roofing materials. For overall durability, we would have to suggest a metal roof. It is very impact resistant, absorbs heat well, and can last for a lifetime. If the price is an issue for you, consider architectural shingles or clay tiles. While asphalt shingles are the most popular choice in Florida due to its low cost, it is not our first choice for severe weather protection, something that is necessary if you live in a coastal region of Florida. 

If you are looking for a roof replacement or more advice on the best type of roof for coastal Florida homes, give Tornado Roofing a call at (239) 319-4119 for the best roofers in Southwest Florida!

The post Homeowners’ Guide to the Best Type of Roof for Coastal Florida Homes appeared first on Tornado Roofing & Contracting.

Ever since Hurricane Andrew’s $25 billion impact in 1992, the game has changed. Building codes in high velocity hurricane zones have evolved drastically and contractors need special licensing in every county in Florida. Aside from salt air, sun, and wind, these codes will have a huge impact on what your options are for your domicile.

As a homeowner, you need to consider price, pragmatism, longevity, and building codes when choosing the right roof for your home, which is why we compiled information on the most popular types of roofs below.

Replace Your Roof With Clay and Slate 

Typically these two options are grouped together because they hold many of the same advantages and disadvantages. Clay and slate both offer superb protection from wind damage and also carry with them long warranties due to their durability. Both can withstand winds of over 100 miles per hour and hold up well to salt air. They’re also both flame retardant and insect resistant.

The downside to these roofs is that they typically require a very sturdy frame due to their heavy weight. Clay also tends to crack when exposed to hail or debris (a disadvantage that doesn’t carry over to slate).

Clay usually starts at around $15 per square foot whereas slate costs a little more. This means that they are a bit pricier than other options, but also carry with them 50-100 years of life with little to no maintenance.

Time to Replace the Wood

Wood can be a beautiful option for some styles of home, but also carries with it a few considerations to be made. When it comes to wind, most wooden roofs today can withstand winds of over 200 miles per hour, making them a great option for high velocity wind zones. They also hold up well to salty air, making them very practical for sea side villas. 

The issue with wood is that it is highly flammable and prone to insect damage. It is also difficult to install and must be replaced much more often than other roofing options. From a price perspective, wood is the more moderate option, typically costing around $10 per square foot. 

Concrete Roof Shingles

Concrete may not be the most popular roofing option, but it does certainly have its place. Concrete is, of course, one of the strongest types of roof you can purchase for your home. From a debris perspective, it can withstand much more damage than most of the other options on this list. It can also withstand very high winds and corrosion, which is always something to consider on the coast. 

With all that being said, there are a few disadvantages to concrete roofs. One of them being the weight; this option is heavier than both clay and slate and therefore requires a very sturdy foundation. Concrete also tends to fade much more than other options and can crack with extreme temperature fluctuations. It is also much more difficult to replace a concrete roof when compared to the other options on this list. 

Prices vary depending on a few factors, but concrete will generally start at around $10 per square foot. 

Metal Roofing

In some regards, metal is almost the black sheep of roofing options and one of the last considered by most coastal homeowners. Aesthetically, many people find that these roofs may take away from some of the charm of older style homes. There is also a misconception that metal tends to corrode and that it does not stand up to wind as well due to it typically coming in a larger sheet format. There have, however, been many strides made in this category over the past few decades making this option more alluring than ever.

Metal roofs don’t burn, provide no sanctuary for insects, and are highly customizable. They can also be coated to make them more resistant to corrosion and can withstand winds of up to 160 miles per hour. Options to disguise the metal as slate or clay are also currently available. 

Regarding price, metal varies depending on which options you choose, but typically starts at around $10 per square foot making it one of the more economic options.

A Note on Asphalt Shingles

Despite being the most popular option on the market, asphalt is not a great choice for coastal homeowners. Traditional asphalt can only withstand winds of up to 60 miles per hour before peeling and usually carries with it the shortest term warranties. It also doesn’t hold up to salt air and tends to leak when not properly maintained. Though it is one of the least expensive options (sometimes as low as $5 per square foot), that cost will rise in the long term with repair and replacement. Architectural shingles are a great compromise between asphalt and expensive choices like clay. 

The Final Roof Replacement Standings

When all factors from price to durability are considered, we would rank the materials as follows:

• First Place – Metal 
• Second Place – Slate
• Third Place – Clay
• Fourth Place – Wood

Special circumstances always exist where this order could be changed around or where a concrete roof may work, but for the majority of homes I would say this list makes the most sense. As always, make sure to confer with a professional before making your final decision. 

For the best roof replacement in Southwest Florida, contact our Naples or Fort Lauderdale offices for a free roofing estimate!

The post Our 2020 Ultimate Guide To Getting a Roof Replacement for Homeowners appeared first on Tornado Roofing & Contracting.

It is critical to repair the protective layer to your home to keep your family safe and comfortable.  Employing a residential roofing repair service is the easiest way to ensure that your roof is properly maintained and repaired. Our Naples residential roof repair service is the best in the business when you need experienced contractors that know how to get the job done. 

With the gargantuan amount of information at your fingertips, you can WikiHow a shingle-repair or a fascia board replacement. People are certainly more confident in taking home renovations into their own hands, but unless you are a roofing professional or local handyman, the average individual does not have the experience to take on roofing repair. It can be a difficult task that requires keen senses alert for hazards and health risks that could threaten the occupants of the home.

Why Is Residential Roof Repair Worth Your Money?

• Longevity

If your roof is in need of a complete replacement due to years of wear and weather, a minor repair can increase the duration of your roof’s life.  You may be able to put off spending $9,000 to $15,000 for a complete roof replacement for a few years. Fixing minor issues with the roof now saves you money in the long run because it will cost more money to fix the problem that has been marinating and worsening for years. 

• Warranty

Regular maintenance and repair is the requirement.  Roofing services require frequent upkeep so that the warranty remains valid.

• Cheaper & Higher Quality Materials

Going the professional contractor route may be cheaper because they purchase supplies at a lower cost than you can, and they are thoroughly equipped with all the tools they need to fix any problem a roof presents.  

Not only can the roof repairman get the materials for a cheaper price, but also higher quality.  With years of experience, they know what materials are the most reliable and durable. The more years of experience under your repairman’s belt, the better the supply chain.

• Protection & Security

Is it worth the money to keep you and your loved ones safe from weather, disease, and distress?  Regular roof repair is a way to show your family how much you love them. Lack of roof preservation leads to exposure to harsh weather, water leaks, mold, and mildew — 

which is a breeding ground for sickness and could pose serious health risks.

• Energy Efficient

Repair sustains the energy efficiency of your home.  Undamaged insulation keeps the heat and air conditioning in your home, which reduces wasted climate control and therefore reduces wasted money. Lower energy bills are just one roof repair away.

• Sustainable

Roof repair is sustainable.  Millions of pounds of ripped out roofing are discarded in landfills all over the U.S.  Regular repair increases the life of your roof and prevents unnecessary waste production.  An average-sized house of about 2,687 square feet with red cedar shingles would weigh 5.7 tons in the landfill, or one fully grown Asian elephant.

• Expertise & Efficiency

You are paying for expertise and efficiency.  Professional roofers have repaired your exact roof issue a thousand times over.  They will professionally execute and perfect a repair in a time-efficient manner.  Roof repairmen have the correct know-how, technology, and tools to bring you expertise and efficiency. 

• Safety

According to the National Safety Council, over 6,000 people die in the U.S. from falling off roofs or ladders while attempting DIY roof repair and maintenance.  Professionals are trained in safety, have the proper equipment, and have the knowledge to evade fatal roofing accidents. Though it is still dangerous for roof repairmen.  There are about 30 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers in the roofing industry according to Best Roofing. Even the professionals are not perfect and accidents do happen.

• Visually Pleasing

Lastly, and most importantly to some people, roof repair and maintenance improves the overall aesthetic of not just your roof, but your entire home.  A regularly serviced roof rejuvenates a clean, sharp, visually pleasing look to your home.

Types of Roof Repair

Fascia Board Repair: Fascia boards evenly distribute the roof’s weight. If it is damaged, it can threaten the structural integrity of the roof. 

Replacement Roof Shingles: It is not abnormal for a few shingles to become loose or weather slight damage from the elements. Failing to repair them, though, can result in detrimental hazards like water damage and water leaks.

Gutter Cleaning & Repair: Gutters redirect water away from the foundation of your family’s house. If not properly maintained or repaired, rainwater can damage your house or even cause minor floods.

Interior Water Damage: Heavy rainfall and humidity are the perfect conditions to trap water in the roof. Leakage turns into mold, mildew, and decay in your ceilings. This can lead to unsafe conditions for your family.

Flashing Replacement/Roof & Vent Boots: this thin steel redirects water away from delicate areas of the roof like vents and chimneys to prevent water from invading your ceiling and home. These features, if properly maintained, keep all moisture out.

Final Thoughts

Now you understand how essential a working roof is to any home. If you ever need a roof repair or roof maintenance in Naples, Florida then Tornado Roofing and Contracting is your go-to service.  We are Naples’ favorite roofing contractor because we employ the best industry practices and are devoted to quality and to your family. At Tornado Roofing and Contracting, we make repairs that are intended to last and endure the craziest Florida weather. Reach out now and receive a free quote! 

The post The Value of Residential Roof Repairs Vs a Replacement appeared first on Tornado Roofing & Contracting.

Roofing Styles

Flat Roofs

Commercial flat roofs are not entirely flat, with about a 10-degree incline, and have architectural influence from Egyptian, Persian, and Arabian styles. These roofs are more cost-effective than other roof types simply because they require less material, which generally means a quicker installation. Flat roofs tend to be stronger than pitched-roofs.  They offer a bit of diversity because the even surface enables use for installing solar panels, roof gardens, roof pools, and decks.  There are several color options, but white is the most common color used because of its light-reflecting and energy-saving properties.

Maintenance is the easiest with a flat roof since it is accessible to workers.  Workmen can efficiently walk around to perform drain cleaning.

Although the roof is at a slight angle, the largest issue is draining.  Large amounts of water can accumulate, which deteriorates the roofing material.  This concern can be alleviated by installing automatic siphons for ponds in the center point of the roof because it acts as a vacuum for water that was never drained.

Low-Sloped Roofs

Typical of factories, apartment buildings, and industrial buildings low-sloped roofs usually slope at ¼ to ½ an inch per foot.  This roofing is very similar to flat-roofs but has a slightly larger slope. The 3 components of this roof are the roof membrane, installation, and deck.  This style is effective for water runoff, so this option would be suitable for Florida business owners. Low-sloped roofs are easier to maintain and safer for workers when compared to pitched roofs.

Like flat roofing, low-sloped roof installation, maintenance, and repair are relatively easy to carry out.  Both flat and low-sloped roofing are installed with the same materials: rubber rolled roofing, EPDM, TPO, bitumen, and modified bitumen.  The only disadvantage is that snow can build up quickly, adding heavyweight that the roof has to withstand. Luckily, this isn’t an issue in Florida.

Pitched Roofs

Pitched roofs are more commonly used for homes, though commercial businesses use them as well.  The steep angle of the roof is what makes this style the most effective for avoiding rainwater collection.  All water and snow run off the steep slope. This essentially means that there is less opportunity for damage and less need for maintenance compared to the other styles.

If the roof does need repair or maintenance, however, it is difficult for workmen to navigate on the roof.  More safety precautions are needed. 

Commercial Roofing Materials

Metal

Metal roofing is great for the environment, energy-efficient, and weather-resistant.  The best quality though is the durability this material provides — metal roofs can last up to 70 years.  Because of the long lifespan that metal roofs provide, they save you money on maintenance and replacement. For years, metal roofing had a plain sheet metal with grooves appearance.  You have probably seen exactly that on barns, sheds, and warehouses. Today, metal roofing can emit whatever aesthetic you desire in whatever architectural style you have.

Typically made up of copper, steel, or aluminum, metal roofing can be configured into many shapes.  This material can even mimic the look of shingles or tiles.

Metal will save you money in the long-run because it does not need replacement or excessive maintenance.  It is lightweight and light reflective, which diverts heat away from the building. This roofing prevents the spreading of wildfires and they are recyclable when it eventually is time for a roof replacement.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

This roofing material option is most commonly used on low-slope roofs.  This roof is made up of layered reinforcing fabric, bitumen (asphalt), ply sheets, and aggregate (stone or gravel).  The layering ensures the roof is a continuous sealed surface.

It is estimated that built-up roofing lasts between 15 to 30 years, but can last up to 40 years.  This material is great for warmer climates. They are fire-resistant, waterproof, and have ultra-violet light protection.  The installation process can be painful in terms of time and money, but once it is installed, there is little maintenance needed.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Membrane

PVC is the most popular roofing material used commercially.  It is designed for strength and durability — it is required for roofing membrane to at least withstand 200 pounds per inch, but can typically muscle 350 pounds per inch.

This material has a life expectancy of 20 years requiring little maintenance.  It is resistant to chemicals, which is a necessity for manufacturing facilities.  PVC is wind and fire-resistant. It can self-extinguish fires and has endured category 3 hurricanes.  The membrane is designed to remain watertight and is environmentally friendly.

Modified Bitumen 

Bitumen roofing, also called torch down roofing, is a combination of asphalt and filler substances that can be applied to the roof in both hot and cold temperatures.  This material has a lower lifespan relative to the other material options, requiring replacement after 10-15 years. The asphalt bonds any seems on the roof together, which prevents leaks.  Bitumen’s quality durability reduces the chance of cracks. It is also weatherproof.

There are several disadvantages in the use of this material.  Because the surface is black, it attracts heat making the building require more air conditioning, ultimately using more energy.  It also holds water after a rainfall, which ages and damages the roof. It is durable when installed correctly.

Concrete Tile

Although this material is less frequently used for commercial buildings, they are attractive and durable.  Typically made of tinted concrete, terra cotta, or fired clay, this material is heavy and expensive. Concrete tiles are versatile because they come in any shape and size.  It is vital to have a strong foundation beneath the tiles so that the weight of the tiles can be structurally supported. 

This material has the longest lifespan with the ability to last over 100 years.  These tiles have the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and they will never decay.  Additionally, tiles are environmentally friendly and can be recycled. They require low maintenance — only for repair if a tile breaks. 

Concrete tiles do cost a lot.  They can even be 3 times as expensive as an asphalt roofing system.  Installation is long and tedious and can break under heavy pressure like a fallen tree.

Commercial Roofing Options

There are a lot of styles and materials available, but you can choose according to your budget.  Longevity is worth the investment and will pay off in the long-run. At Tornado Roofing Company, we will work with you and your budget to install whatever roof suits your needs.  We orient ourselves around saving you time, money, and stress. We strive towards providing the highest quality and have been for 20 years, so let us help you protect your business. If you’re looking for the most reliable and highest quality roofing contractor in South Florida, give Tornado Roofing a call today.

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Why your roof matters

There’s a common saying among housing experts that the roof is the most crucial part of the house. Once the integrity of the roof begins to fail, extensive and expensive damage to the structure of the house quickly follows. The rapid deterioration is because the leaking roof lets water into the house, causing nasty things like mold and rot.

We certainly see an enormous amount of rain and wind in Naples, and a high performing roof is imperative to the safety of your home. The best way to ensure that your roof will stand up to the fiercest Florida storms is to choose an appropriate roofing material. You must match your roof with the types of weather conditions that we experience throughout the year.

What types of roofing materials work well in  Florida?

What to look for in a new roof

Fortunately, you have lots of terrific choices when choosing a new roof. Popular options include (1) asphalt shingles, (2) metal roofing, (3) clay tiles, (4) concrete tiles, and (5) slate tiles. Today’s Homeowner With Danny Lipford suggests that you consider the following when looking at roofing material options.

• What is your budget?
• Can it withstand tropical storms and hurricanes?
• Will the framing support the weight of the material?
• Does it fit the style of your house?
• Does it meet building codes in your area?
• Is it environmentally friendly?

 When it comes to choosing material for a roof replacement, Naples families turn to experienced contractors for advice. Top-notch roofers, such as Tornado Roofing & Contracting Inc, will happily explain the ins and outs of all types of materials that might work for your project.

Florida homeowners have many terrific roofing materials to choose from when replacing their roof. Let’s look at the perks and cons of two favorite options, clay, and cement tile.

Clay vs. concrete roof tiles- similar benefits

Let’s admit it; tile roofs are beautiful, and there’s no doubt that they will upgrade the appearance of your home. Whether you opt for clay or cement roof tiles, you’ll enjoy a significant number of benefits. Some of the obvious benefits in using clay or cement as a roofing material include:

• Variety of colors and styles suit many different types of homes
• Repels rot, insects, and rodents
• Leak-proof
• Fire resistant
• Stands up well to a wet, coastal climate
• High wind resistance
• High longevity of fifty to one hundred years
• Energy-efficient as the roof tiles keep interior of the house cooler

Given these advantages, it’s no surprise that many homeowners turn to clay and cement tiles when it comes time to put on a new roof. The Tile Roofing Industry Alliance provides more information about the benefits of tile roofs here.

Of course, no roofing system is without a downside. Keep reading to learn about several disadvantages that you should consider.

Clay vs. concrete roof tiles- similar downsides

Tile roofs are an excellent option in southwest Florida. However, like any other roofing material, there are a few negatives to consider. Some of the critical downsides of tile roofing in general include:

• Cost- a tile roof is costly. Expect to pay as much as double or triple what you would pay for asphalt shingles.
• Weight- you might need to reinforce your home before installing a tile roof if your home previously had a shingle roof. Each square of clay tile weighs as much as eight hundred-fifty pounds whereas a square of cement tile can weigh-in at nine hundred-fifty pounds per square. By the way, a square equals one hundred square feet.
• Repair costs- The tiles tend to break if hit with a heavy object. It’s even possible to break the tiles while walking on them during a routine roof inspection. Repair costs are expensive.

Another thing to think about if you covet a tile roof is that you must hire a professional roofing contractor for the installation. Fitting a house with a clay or cement tile roof is not a DIY job. You must work with a professional to fully experience the benefit of living under a tile roof.

Differences between clay and cement tiles

Right now, you may wonder if there is any difference between clay and cement roof tiles at all. The truth is that there are several differences. The primary ones are (1) longevity, (2) cost, and (3) easy maintenance.

The most significant reason to choose clay tile over a cement tile is longevity. This material does very well in the climate found in southwest Florida. You can expect a relatively easy maintenance clay tile roof that will last for as long as one hundred years. 

The major plus of choosing cement tile is that the initial expense is less than that for clay. The average lifespan of cement tile is approximately fifty years. They are higher maintenance than clay tile since the cement absorbs water and tends to develop mildew stains.

Proper maintenance

Although tile roofs are relatively easy to maintain, that doesn’t mean that they are maintenance-free. Indeed, you’ll need to perform regular upkeep if you want to keep the roof in top shape. Make sure that you do the following tasks several times each year.

• Check for cracks, chips, and broken tiles
• Fix and replace damaged roof tiles and flashings
• Wash with a low-pressure hose or house power washer
• Remove leaves, dirt, and sticks from gutters and tile

Before you set aside your valuable weekend time to perform seasonal roof maintenance, think about hiring a professional to tackle the job. Working on a roof is dangerous, and thousands of people suffer injuries each year from ladder and roof falls. 

A roofing contractor knows how to deliver proper maintenance for all types of roofing systems. Along with general roof upkeep, you’ll also receive the benefit of a complete roof inspection during a seasonal maintenance appointment. 

Get a Professional Roof Inspection

A professional roof inspection includes a thorough examination of all parts of the roof system. Expect a quality roofer to thoroughly check your attic for any signs that water has found a way into the interior of your home. Along with cleaning and inspecting your roof, the roofing maintenance technician can fix minor problems before they grow into significant roof expenses.

Routine professional maintenance is a cost-effective way to make sure that your roof is in tip-top shape, ready to repel the elements. It’s also an affordable way to spot and repair problems before you face a roofing crisis. Contact Tornado Roofing & Contracting Inc. to schedule a  maintenance appointment today.

Lastly, when considering the pros and cons of clay vs. concrete roof tiles, there isn’t one best option. You can relax and choose either one of these terrific materials for your roof. We suggest that you work with a local roofing contractor to select a tile that fits your project needs and budget.

The pros at Tornado Roofing & Contracting Inc. know all about tile roofs, and we pride ourselves in providing first-class installation and upkeep services in Naples, FL. Contact us today for a no-hassle consultation.

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