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Your roof has multiple antagonists over its life. Water, wind, snow, ice, and storm damage are the biggest enemies of your roof. Water intrusion in any form is a major culprit. Whether it is from rain, snow, ice, or a poorly ventilated roof that traps humidity all of them can promote premature roof damage and aging.
Water and humidity are the arch enemies of wood. If water penetrates or gets underneath shingles and pools it can cause wood rot, mold, and mildew. Each of these is an open invitation for wood-destroying insects like termites or carpenter ants. Your roof can have multiple barriers to moisture depending on the age of your roof.
The average homeowner looks at a residential roof and sees shingles, but a professional roofing company is looking at the layers of the roof that not only include the shingles but the underlayment. Each layer provides additional protection to your roof. Modern roofing has multiple layers for protection. There is a leak barrier, starter strip shingles, roof decking, proper ventilation, and edge cap shingles. These various layers work together to form a water seal for your roof.
Roofing Layers
These layers can be broken down into various stages of roofing:
Framing is the first layer. The framing provides the foundation for the remaining layers of your roof. Framing consists of wood or metal which supports the weight of your roof. Framing balances the weight distribution of your roof so the final weight is balanced and not punishing one section of the roof more than another. This is why professional roofing companies want to get below the shingle so they can inspect the framing both on top of the roof and from the attic. They will inspect for signs of water intrusion, mold, mildew, or wood rot. In many cases, your roof will not need framing repair, but you want to make sure it is inspected to rule out water intrusion or damage.
Insulation is the second layer from the underside of the roof in your attic. Insulation helps keep your home cool during the summer months and warm in the winter. Under-insulation can cost you utility bills and also contribute to the deterioration of the roof layers above if it is not the right amount of insulation.
Roofing ventilation is vital to ensure the proper amount of airflow is traveling through the attic during hot and cold months. Ventilation provides an escape for hot and humid air in the summer months that if trapped can cause moisture damage over time leading to costly repairs.
The roof deck is the plywood that ensures the connection of the framing between the roof trusts and joints. It provides a layer of protection for the layers above.
A water barrier goes on top of the wood roof deck and framing. This is a layer of protection to prevent water from intruding onto the wood surface underneath the underlayment and shingles should a heavy storm push water deep into the roofing surface.
Roofing underlayment provides an additional layer of protection underneath the shingles and on top of the roofing deck. It creates a smooth surface so shingles stick to the roof, form a more uniform shape, and fight blown off shingles in storms.
The starter strip is critical for the rest of the shingle layout and application. This strip is applied below the underlayment and it seals the edges and sides of the roof. It defends the edges against storms, high winds, and rain to help maintain shingle integrity during strong weather conditions.
Shingles are the final layer of the base roofing protection. They provide protection against harmful UV rays and premature aging due to water, ice, and snow. Shingles are fiberglass that provides protection and the look and feel of your roof exterior.
Ridge caps help keep rain, snow, and excessive moisture out of the roofing system. They run along the top of your roofline, but their positioning forces water, snow, and ice away from the roof system due to its position against the slope of your roof. Ridge caps also vent the roof so heat and moisture can vent from the attic maintaining a property attic humidity level.
Additionally, flashing provides layers of protection for the previous layers of roofing. Flashing is metal and is installed around chimneys, pipe venting, and other areas where seams or breaks between the shingles and the roofing exist. They are sealed with roofing tar or silicone that forms a water barrier so water cannot intrude into the seams or crevices that meet the shingles.
The multiple layers of a roofing system are vital to protecting your home. Having an annual roofing inspection by a reputable roofing company will ensure proper maintenance and extend the life of your roof. For example, your shingles may be fine upon inspection, but the roofing professional may find you need repair to your flashing around the chimney or other roof venting. Getting ahead of trouble before it becomes a problem is critical in regular roof maintenance.
At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations. We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
Spring has arrived in full fledged with extremely warm temperatures and thunderstorms from the west and south. If you live in the Southeastern part of the U.S. you know that springtime can be hectic with cellphone and weather alerts about severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes.
No one is immune to this severe weather that can play havoc with your roof. Roof damage from a severe thunderstorm and high winds can be extensive and costly. Typically, when a storm hits a southeast town or city, a large contractor will descend upon one or more neighborhoods trying to get their business and insurance coverage repaired for damages. These companies prey on storm victims following significant weather events. Their goal is to do a quick insurance paid repair and get out of town as they move on to the next storm system in another city.
If you have been a victim of a storm don’t take the first roofer that comes along. Be vigilant in researching their online reviews and BBB ranking. Too many consumers have been burned from fly by night roofing companies that just want to turn a quick insurance buck and offer no warranty on their work.
As a consumer be wise in choosing a reputable roofing company to repair storm damaged roofing. Contact your insurance agent at the first sign of damage and learn about your options.
Roof damage following heavy thunderstorms, tornadoes or high winds can be extensive and expensive. Wanting to get everything “back to normal” as soon as possible is understandable. However, you need to be careful about letting your emotions get ahead of you and just hiring the first company that lands on your doorstep following a storm. Beware of storm chasing roofers and contractors showing up on your door unsolicited following a storm.
When a roofer shows up on your doorstep following a major storm, ask questions. What is their liability and workman’s compensation insurance coverage? What is their Better Business Bureau ranking? Have there been any complaints lodged against the company for past storm repairs? Ask if they are licensed to work in your area.
The storm chasing roofing epidemic has become so prevalent that the Better Business Bureau has posted guidelines for consumers regarding storm-chasers.
A reputable, licensed, local roofing company will not come to your home unsolicited following a storm. They don’t “get out of town” when the job is done, they stay because like you, they live and work in the same community. This is one of the biggest reasons to contract a local roofing company. They will be accessible for questions and warranty work after the job is completed. Reputable roofing companies can provide multiple local referrals, proof of their license both state and local, workman’s comp, liability insurance coverage, and total accountability in proof of their training and work history that qualifies them to be legitimate roofing contractors. Storm-chasers like to avoid these accountability markers.
In 2016 an 18-mile tornado touched down through Simpsonville, SC per the National Weather Service. Within three hours of the storm, damaged neighborhoods were plagued with out-of-state “roofing” companies going door to door soliciting work. Many promised potential customers that their neighbors had decided to go with them when they hadn’t committed to any company.
Others fearing more water damage contracted the companies to cover their roofs in tarps only to discover they were in for a major battle on the damage repair and reconstruction they hadn’t agreed to because they were still waiting on insurance adjusters and had simply gotten approval to tarp their roofs.
In one specific community neighbors got together following the storm and as they started picking up and surveyed the damage they began to share their notes about the “on the spot” contractors all sharing similar high-pressure techniques and sketchy business practices.
At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations. We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
office@gilstraproofing.com
Most homeowners assume that their insurance will cover their roof in the event of storm damage. However, every policy has exclusions so it is a good idea to review your policy to make sure you are adequately covered in the event of damage to your roof from a weather-related event.
Damage to your roof can be caused by hail, sleet, ice dams in the winter, heavy snow, high winds, thunderstorms, hurricanes, lightning, smoke, and fire. Most major insurers provide replacement or repair coverage in the event of these destructive forces.
However, losing a few shingles after a storm may be considered cosmetic, or minimal damage by your adjustor as compared to having a section of the roof blown off, or gutter, drip edge, facia, and other wood damage. The insurance company may provide for a total roof replacement for covered hazards, but sometimes the damage may only warrant repairs. This is why you want a professional and reputable roofing contractor (not a storm chaser contractor) to inspect your roof after a weather event if you suspect damage. They can find things that a layperson may not be aware of following a storm or wind event. After the storm clears contact your insurance carrier to begin filing a claim. You will have to pay your deductible.
Regular roof inspections and maintenance once documented can also save you trouble down the road in the event of future damage. If the insurance company sees that your roof is old and has been in disrepair prior to a storm or weather event it could jeopardize your coverage. Things like loose shingles, torn drip edged, rotted facia and any leaks prior to a storm can be penalizing. There is an expectation by most insurance carriers that the homeowner is going to maintain the home within reason. You don’t want to get penalized for maintenance failure on a big claim.
Some insurance carriers might try and steer you in the direction of their list of contractors, but you have the right to consult the roofing contractor of your choice. Reputable contractors are usually accepted by most national insurance companies and have built up a life time of credibility because of their estimates and the quality of their repairs. It never hurts to get multiple quotes but just make sure they are quoting for the same scope of work, supplies and materials. For example one quote may be much lower because the contractor is using cheaper shingles. Ask about warranties on shingles and labor. If two contractors are in dispute get a third quote.
When seeking a roofing contractor you should check out several things. Read Google reviews and consult the Better Business Bureau listings to see if they have any red flags from previous jobs. Don’t gamble with a lower rated contractor. Ask to see their liability coverages, workman’s compensation and any other insurance they carry. Professional roofing companies are used to this and will make them readily available to you so as to alleviate any concerns about protection coverages while the work is being done to your home. Ask how long they have been in business. Many local and family-owned contractors have spent years providing quality roofing in materials and service. They value their reputation for quality workmanship and don’t want to jeopardize it.
Be leery of storm chaser contractors that blow into a community after a storm from out of town or out of state and try do a sweep of the entire damaged area. Some of these companies ask for money up front. Reputable companies will not do this and will work with your insurance company. Unfortunately, many homeowners have had bad experiences with these companies that here today and gone tomorrow. One advantage of a local roofing contractor is accessibility after the job is completed. They live, work, worship, breathe and play where you do! They have a vested interest in the local community too.
Do an annual review of your coverage with your insurance agent. Ask about coverage exclusions and have them advise you of the best level of protection coverages they can offer. Don’t be afraid to shop around and get other quotes on coverage, but use due diligence in your research of prospective companies and agents just like you would for a roofing contractor.
Gilstrap Roofing has been a family-owned and operated business serving the Upstate and the Midlands of South Carolina since 1935. We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor. We are a full-service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
office@gilstraproofing.com
Even minor roof repair can be dangerous for homeowners, or laypersons. There is always the risk of a fall when you climb onto a roof and that is one of the most important reasons to call a professional. If you fall off your roof and injure yourself it could put your family, financial and physical health in serious jeopardy. While homeowners can make minor roof repairs it’s risky. When should you contact a professional roofer?
Obstruction From Objects
If a big tree limb, satellite dish, or some other type of heavy obstruction from a neighbor, etc, has fallen on your roof there is the possibility that you have roof damage beyond what you can see from the roof. Damage could be present in the attic and underneath the shingles. A professional roofer can inspect the roof exterior and underneath to see if there is any hidden damage. And never touch, or get near a downed power line on your roof. Contact your utility company if there are downed power lines.
Loose/Curled/Missing Shingles
If you spot multiple missing, or loose shingles it could be the sign of something more serious. If you’ve had your roof replaced in the last couple of years and are experiencing loose and missing shingles with no memory of bad storms, or weather, it could be that you had a poor roof installation and it’s just now showing up. Typically, torn, loose and missing shingles are the result of storm damage which could be recent, or longer and they finally worked loose. If excess water worked its way underneath some shingles and remained it could loosen the nails as well. A professional will walk the roofline and inspect your shingles for proper installation, possible water breach, and repair any loose, or missing shingles.
Poor Ventilation
Most roofs in newer construction are properly ventilated through the ridge, or other eternal vents that allow air to flow properly through the attic. Roof ventilation is vital to prevent moisture and humidity from damaging the roof deck and rafters from mold, mildew and even wood rot. The ventilation also helps your house avoid trapping fungi and mold that can pose serious respiratory problems, and aggravate allergies, asthma, etc. Ventilation also keeps rodents, squirrels, and birds from entering your attic and setting up shop. Faulty ventilation can allow these pests into your attic, or damaging moisture to be trapped inside. A professional roofer will inspect any and all ridge, gable and even soffit venting and make repairs as necessary.
Flashing Gaps
The metal and rubberized material around roof vents, chimneys, roof valleys and other sections where the surface comes together is called flashing and it is used to prevent leaks. If you have leaks near these areas it could be an indication of old or damaged flashing. A professional roofer can repair the leaks and if necessary replace the flashing before coating it and sealing out any water.
Multi-layered Roofing
Multi-layered roofing occurs when a roofer installs new roofing over your old roof to save costs. This practice is not that uncommon but multiple roofs can be a problem over time. Most local/state building codes will allow two layers but anything over is not allowed or advisable. If you have purchased a house and the inspector missed a multi-layered roof it could be the source of problems. Professional roofing companies typically like a single layer roof because they know what is under it and how it was laid by their team. A roofing pro can tell you whether or not you have a single, or multi-layer roof.
Leaks
Ceiling or leaks in your attic are like a warning light on a car dashboard. It is a big indicator that water is intruding into your home and it has to be addressed before it causes further damage to materials, roofing and your family’s health. Leaks can come from multiple sources, but a professional can usually pinpoint the source of entry in a very short time. Do not let water leaks of any kind fester over time. Procrastination in calling for help will only make matters worse and cause more damage. Your roofer can determine if it’s a roofing or plumbing issue.
Clogged Gutters
Water pooling or standing in your roof valley, or other areas is usually an indication of a clogged gutter, or french drain from the downspout that is clogged and backing water up to the roof. A roof professional can determine the root cause but you don’t want standing water on your roof.
Loose Fascia
High winds, excessive rain, and heat can cause your fascia wood/material to shrink and expand pulling away from nails just below the shingle line of your roof. Gaps can allow water to penetrate onto the roof deck and into the attic causing dry rot, mold, mildew and other damaging problems.
Make sure you contact a licensed, insured/bonded and reputable professional roofer. Ask for references and check online reviews as well as the BBB.
At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations. We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews. We regularly perform roof inspections for these and other kinds of issues. Contact us today.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Greenville, SC 29611
Roof damage following heavy thunderstorms, tornadoes or high winds can be extensive and expensive. Wanting to get everything “back to normal” as soon as possible is understandable. However, you need to be careful about letting your emotions get ahead of you and just grabbing the first company that lands your doorstep following a storm. Beware of storm chasing roofers and contractors showing up on your door unsolicited following a storm.
Storm-chasers are contractors who travel from town to town, storm to storm trying to get as many jobs in one localized area as possible at the lowest cost before moving on to the next storm-damaged town, or community. Many of them are not professional roofers and ask for payment before the work is performed. They typically show up in a neighborhood that’s been hit hard by a storm in vehicles with out of state tags. Many of these companies solicit work with high-pressure sales pitches and often promise things that are just too good to be true. One of their biggest tactics is to be the first company on your roof to provide temporary tarps or cover forcing you to prematurely commit to their company for the larger body of work out of a sense of obligation because they were there when you needed them right after the storm. These contractors prey on the emotions of people who are in a vulnerable state following damage to their home and want it fixed now!
Many storm-chasers are not licensed to do the work in your state, or city. Others don’t carry insurance or only the bare minimum which could put you in a risky liability situation. They work by getting as many jobs under contract in a localized area often employing inexperienced and cheap labor. Working in a concentrated area saves them time by having materials, trucks, and supplies in one location since their offices are not local. The more jobs they get together, the more money they can save while making revenue off multiple homes. The most important thing to remember is that you should never make a commitment verbal, or in writing with a contractor until you have vetted several companies, received multiple quotes and talked with your insurance agent.
The storm chasing roofing epidemic has become so prevalent that the Better Business Bureau has posted guidelines for consumers regarding storm-chasers.
A reputable, licensed, local roofing company will not come to your home unsolicited following a storm. They don’t “get out of town” when the job is done, they stay because like you, they live and work in the same community. This is one of the biggest reasons to contract a local roofing company. They will be accessible for questions and warranty work after the job is completed. Reputable roofing companies can provide multiple local referrals, proof of their license both state and local, workman’s comp, liability insurance coverage, and total accountability in proof of their training and work history that qualifies them to be legitimate roofing contractors. Storm-chasers like to avoid these accountability markers.
In 2016 an 18-mile tornado touched down through Simpsonville, SC per the National Weather Service. Within three hours of the storm, damaged neighborhoods were plagued with out of state “roofing” companies going door to door soliciting work. Many promised potential customers that their neighbors had decided to go with them when they hadn’t committed to any company.
Others fearing more water damage contracted the companies to cover their roofs in tarps only to discover they were in for a major battle on the damage repair and reconstruction they hadn’t agreed to because they were still waiting on insurance adjusters and had simply gotten approval to tarp their roofs.
In one specific community neighbors got together following the storm and as they started picking up and surveyed the damage they began to share their notes about the “on the spot” contractors all sharing similar high-pressure techniques and sketchy business practices.
At Gilstrap Roofing we have been serving the Upstate longer than any other roofing contractor accredited by the Better Business Bureau, spanning four generations. We live, work and play here so we have a lot at stake when it comes to providing quality roofing with certified crews.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Greenville, SC 29611
A roof is something everyone wants over their head whether it’s a residential or commercial application. You have to have a roof. It is one of the biggest expenses and investments for home and business owners. Few of us ever think about our roof until something happens whether through storms, winds, or the natural aging progression of human-made materials over time. Everything wears over time, even the best products and materials.
Typically no one considers their roof until there is a problem such as a leak, cracks, missing pieces like shingles, rubber, or deteriorated metal. Because roofing is expensive there are several things to consider when trying to decide if you should restore the existing roof, or replace it.
Restoring a roof is cheaper than replacing one. While it won’t extend the life of the roof as much as a new one it will get you farther down the road than you think. If your company is trying to save capital, planning on relocating, or expanding down the road this might be a great option for you. You get an improved roof with an extended life without having to shell out more capital than you want to at the time. This frees up capital to focus on growing your business, marketing, equipment investments, etc.
A restoration involves fewer material and labor costs than a new one. A commercial roof usually lasts between 15-20 years and with the restoration, you can usually stretch that to another 10-15 years before you would have to replace it. This provides valuable time to make long-range capital improvement and corporate growth plans.
Restoration reuses your existing roof. By doing so you are helping the environment. This is sustainability in action. Your facilities can be made more energy-efficient and you may qualify for energy credits.
When you restore your roof it is categorized as an upkeep/maintenance expense, but replacement is categorized as a capital expense. Taxwise the maintenance expense can be an advantage because you are taking a deduction as opposed to trying to recoup the cost through depreciation. Commercial roofing is depreciated on a 39-year timetable per Federal tax code. By extending the life of your current roof you are receiving a bigger tax advantage. Consult your accountant or tax preparer for the exact tables and numbers.
The decision to restore or replace a commercial roof is dependent upon the condition of your current roofing. Only a trained professional can assess whether your roof is a candidate for being restored, or if it needs to be replaced. Time is critical and it’s up to you to make the call and consult a professional roofer. Make sure you get more than one quote or opinion on the condition of your current roof.
A reputable roofing company will inspect your roof for things like ripples, tears or bubbles in the roofing material. They will look to see if there is any standing water on the roof, cracking in seams, or gaps. They will also inspect the interior of your building to see if there are wet spots, leaks, mold, and odors.
Commercial roofing is an investment and you need to make sure you have a professional giving you an informed opinion/recommendation after proper inspection. At Gilstrap Roofing our trained team strives to help customers make wise decisions in regard to roof repair, or replacement.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Greenville, SC 29611
Many people do not realize they have damage to their roof after a storm. Whether you’ve had hail, a lot of snow, or high winds during a storm you could have storm damage. Everything from ice damming that backs up ice/water and cause leakage, to hail and wind damage can attack your roof during a storm. For most people they do not notice any damage until there is a leak, or the obvious missing shingles, or damaged gutters.
After a serious storm it’s a good idea to step outside and visually inspect your roof. Look for missing shingles, downed, or bent gutters, leaks inside, bent flashing, or bent drip edges on the sides of your roof line where the shingles join the facia. Talk to neighbors who may have had similar damage and theirs may be more visible. One of the biggest signs of storm roof damage is neighboring structures that have similar damage.
Heavy, wet snow, strong winds, and hail are the biggest culprits of roof damage from a storm. Your roof takes a beating from the elements all year long and most people don’t regularly inspect, or survey their roof for damage. Hail, tornadoes, straight line winds and heavy, wet snow can seriously damage a roof. If you think you have had storm damage you need to contact a reputable and highly rated roofing company along with your insurance company.
There are several things to inspect before you call a reputable roofer, or your insurance company. Inspect and look at the following:
If you have any concerns, or questions contact a professional roofing company and ask them to inspect your roof for possible damage. Most companies will perform an inspection for free and provide a repair estimate if necessary. You should have your roof inspected at least twice a year (fall and summer), or minimally once per year.
Reputable firms will be more than happy to sit down with you and discuss any potential underlayment issues, shingle replacement, flashing repair, or sealant/caulking problems around venting, etc. They will provide a written estimate. Your homeowners insurance will usually cover what is damaged beyond your control. Extreme weather and “acts of God,” are typically covered as well as straight line wind damage, tornadoes, hail, wind and rain.
If you suspect damage, take pictures of what you can see from the ground or the second floor windows. Do not get on your roof to assess damage. This is a liability from which you may not be covered under your insurance policy. Leave the gritty work to the professionals!
Depending on the age of your home, or the roof, your roof may come with a warranty. This is an important factor in determining reimbursement and liability. Many shingles are covered from 25-50 years depending upon the type and manufacturer. If you recently purchased the home, or structure most roof warranties are transferable. Do your homework and rely on certified, highly rated roofing professionals as well as your insurance company.
Avoid companies that show up in your neighborhood after a harsh, or devastating storm. These companies prey on innocent homeowners in need of repairs to inhabit their home following a storm. Make sure the company is recognized by the Better Business Bureau, your insurance company and has strong ratings/online reviews. You have to look out for yourself when it comes to storm repair and cleanup.
Make sure the company you choose is reputable, meets the state and local qualifications for roof repairs and has no outstanding grievances, or lawsuits regarding their work.
Gilstrap Roofing has been a family owned and operated business serving the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina since 1935. We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor. We are a full service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
Email: office@gilstraproofing.com
One of the most disregarded home maintenance issues is your roof. There are a wide variety of issues that affect your roof. Think of your roof as the blanket on your bed. It protects you from the elements, keeps you dry and warm as you sleep. When it performs like it’s supposed to no one thinks about it. However, when it fails, or doesn’t deliver as expected, it can be frustrating and costly.
There are several things that can lead to roof maintenance issues. Among them:
Gilstrap Roofing has been a family owned and operated business serving the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina since 1935. We welcome your questions, and scrutiny in searching for a roofing contractor. We are a full service roofing contractor with an A+ BBB rating.
Brian Gilstrap, President
Gilstrap Roofing
Greenville, SC 29611
864.269.1232
Email: office@gilstraproofing.com