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Even though EPDM has a seam, the way it is installed makes EPDM is a virtually waterproof, material. When it does develop a leak, repairs are inexpensive and quick using the same high-strength tape. EPDM roofing is challenging to ignite directly, impedes an existing fire, making it one of the best fire-resistant roofing materials. 

How long does an EPDM roof last?

A black rubber-like membrane, EPDM roofing is generally non-reinforced. Still, because the application method is to glue it in place fully, it has a longer lifespan than other flat roofing materials. The material itself has a lifespan warranty of forty years, and the EPDM roofing system has a lifespan of up to thirty-five years. The longevity of EPDM roofing is affected by several factors: 

• Climate
• Environment
• Installation

Does EPDM shrink?

Flat commercial roofing that relies on synthetic rubber membranes like EPDM roofing, a sturdy rubber membrane, is made from a natural material and has been known to shrink. It is a durable product and used to seal car windows. 

Just as there are factors that can affect the longevity of an EPDM roofing, there are factors that can make EPDM roofing shrink faster, such as rain, snow, and sun exposure. With regular inspections of an EPDM roofing by building maintenance, it is possible to stay up on the condition of the roof and address any cracking, leaking, or possible shrinkage before it becomes a problem. 

How do you care for EPDM roof?

A visual inspection is suggested monthly, no less than four times a year. To perform a thorough inspection of EPDM roofing, sweeping it before using a rubber roof cleaner, remove any stains is recommended. 

Once it has time to dry, slowly walk the surface looking or blistering, cracking, tearing, or separating seams. Inspect the chimney and vent joints, making sure the hardware is secured and in place. Any areas that cause concern should be marked with chalk, take pictures, and make notes of these things and then call a professional commercial roofing contractor. 

TPO cons: 

• TPO roofing is a newer technology with no track record
• TPO roofing requires a unique installation for the seams
• TPO roofing seam requires re-welding and additional maintenance by a professional contractor
• TPO roofing material formulations has a lifespan warranty of ten years

As good as EPDM roofing is, there are some precautions to be considered before you install this roofing material: 

• Choose a contractor that is experienced with EPDM roofing. Many roofing contractors claim they can install any roofing material, but you need to request references of recent installations and then follow up and contact those references. 
• Confirm how the contractor will install the roof and what attention they give the seams. If when EPDM roofing is installed correctly if the seams are not secured well, you will have leaks. 
• EPDM roofing rubber is going to shrink over time, which is why quarterly inspections are recommended, even better monthly to check for possible cracks and shrinkage. The larger the roof, the more frequent you should do a walk over the roofing, monitoring for potential problems. 
• EPDM need regular inspection and may require maintenance due to the shrinkage. Other flat roofing materials require annual inspections. 

EPDM is not environmentally-friendly when it is replaced, and tear-off is required. This fact doesn’t affect your building, but more businesses are becoming more aware of their environmental footprint and making choices that will ease that. Dial (303) 647-3883 today for your roofing needs in Lafayette and Denver, CO.

• Improve your landscaping and shade by planting more trees around the building.
• Add a roof coating. Elastomeric coatings like silicone or acrylic not only protect your roof from leaks and other damage, they are highly reflective and protect your roof from the heat of the sun.
• Install additional roof ventilation to move warm air away from your building.
• Replace your roof with cool roofing materials like TPO or PVC, which are highly reflective and reduce heat transfer from your roof. 
• Add SPF spray foam over the roof as an insulating reflective layer. The foam will make your roof airtight.

If you want to keep your building cooler and make it more energy-efficient, and are considering cool roofing in Lafayette and Denver, CO, look to the roofing professionals at Blue Spruce Construction Group to provide you with the most options. Get more information or set up a project by calling (303) 647-3883.

What is cool roofing?

Cool roofing encompasses an extensive range of roofing options. In general, a cool roof is any roof specifically designed to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat. Almost any roofing material, including shingles, can be made into cool roofing. There are materials like TPO and PVC, as well as roof coatings, that are primarily installed because they are highly reflective.

What is the coolest roofing material?

If you are looking to cool your building down with cool roofing, you have plenty of options available. For residential buildings, clay tiles or metal roofs are some of the coolest roofing materials. Clay tile roofs are particularly prevalent in warm, arid regions because they are so much cooler than other materials. But, clay tile isn’t common on commercial buildings, where flat roofs dominate. When it comes to flat roofing, many building managers are choosing single-ply thermoplastic materials like TPO and PVC for their cool roofing capabilities. Another very efficient option is to add a silicone or acrylic roof coating, which is directly applied to the roof. Coatings can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s energy.

What color roof is the most energy efficient?

Cool roofing generally is lighter colored than other roofing. The lighter the color, the more energy-efficient these roofs are compared to darker roofs. White roofs are usually the coolest and most energy-efficient, although lighter shades of any color will be cooler and more energy-efficient than darker shades.

Is a dark roof hotter?

For the most part, any darker roofing material will absorb more heat than a lighter roof. A dark roof can get as much as 90 degrees hotter than outside temperatures. Some roofing materials like metal, however, will reflect the sun better than others, even if the metal roof is painted a dark color. Rubber roofing materials like EPDM are usually dark but are also a little more energy efficient than other materials, and their heat transfer can be decreased with a reflective coating.

Are white roofs better?

If you are installing cool roofing, white roofs tend to be much cooler than other shades of cool roofing. They can reflect as much as three times the sunlight than a darker roof.

Cool roofing coating

Roof coatings are some of the best options for cool roofing available, especially if you don’t need to replace your roof. In fact, roof coatings are used to preserve older roofs as an alternative to roof replacement. They are directly applied to the roof so no tear-off is required. Most are white but pigments can be added to match your building’s coloring. While the white coatings are generally cooler and reflective, pigmented coatings are still effective when it comes to cooling your roof and building.

Cool foam roofing

Another cool roofing option is SPF spray foam roofing. Foam is applied directly over the roof and forms an airtight barrier over it, protecting it from damage and leaks, and insulating the roof for improved energy efficiency, creating a cooling effect. A roof coating is applied over the foam for further protection, and the coatings are highly reflective of the sun. Foam works on most roofs, including metal.

Cool roofing flat roof

Depending on the material used, flat roofs tend to absorb heat more than other roof types. This heat absorption can be countered by installing cool roofing like TPO or PVC, or by having a roof coating or spray foam added that better reflect the sun’s heat.

Cool roofing urban heat island

Urban areas tend to be warmer than rural areas because of increased human activity and a larger concentration of buildings in relatively smaller concentrated areas. Research has shown cool roofing can reduce the temperatures of these urban heat islands.

Types of Metal Roofing

For many people, they don’t care what the commercial building roof looks like because it is up above eyesight. They simply want it to do what a roof should do without leaking or having other issues. Therefore, commercial metal roofing has become so popular for businesses. When they are installed correctly, they last forever, (longer than rubber coated commercial roofs), have minimal problems or repairs.

Here are three types of commercial metal roofing solutions that are commonly used on new construction and re-roofing existing roofs today.

• R-Panel Commercial Metal Roofing
  • If you are looking for low requirements to maintain commercial metal roofing, R-Panel metal roofing is the perfect option. It is less expensive than some other options because of how easy it is to install requires less labor and is done faster. This commercial metal roofing material comes in several colors and are used on residential structures too. A downside to this type of commercial metal roofing is the need to have it coated or painted upon installation and refreshed every 5 years. 
• Corrugated Commercial Metal Roofing
  • This is the type of metal roofing most people picture when they hear the words metal roofing. It is the classic type of metal that is used on barns and has found its way in home for decorating purpose. Restaurants and retail establishments use corrugated commercial metal roofing material because this is galvanized, minimizing the rust possibilities. They can integrate it with fiberglass skylight panels to create a unique design with designs and patterns. 
• Architectural Standing Seam Commercial Metal Roofing
  • The panel interlocking style of this commercial metal roofing system affords superior protection against wind uplift and is water resistant compared to other types of commercial metal roofing systems.  Water is challenged to find a way into the building with this type of commercial metal roofing because of that tight seal it creates when interlocked. The panels have a sealant applied at the factory in some manufacturing plants. 

Can you put metal on a low pitch roof? 

For a low pitch roof, only one type of commercial metal roofing system is applicable: structural metal panel. Structural metal panel roofing systems is ideal for a slope roof because it has water barrier characteristics. Such as resisting water to pass at laps and joints because of the anti-capillary designs or sealants used at the seams. A structural metal panel roofing systems has strong characteristics that give the roofing good support. 

Is it recommended to insulate under a metal roof? 

In cold weather climates like Colorado, yes.  Commercial metal roofing that are mono-slope, non-vented cathedral style, and steel framed roofs, the first thing that should be considered is the R-value of the insulation. 

How do you stop condensation on a metal roof? 

Condensation on a commercial metal roofing can have an enormous impact, but it is preventable with the following steps:

• Factor Number One: Keep moisture out, which is done when the structure built, and the commercial metal roofing is installed. The structure should be built on an elevated area that has natural drainage and a vapor retarder should be placed before the flooring is installed. The building should have ample ventilation in the ceiling. 
• Factor Number Two: Natural ventilation can be effective if the building is well designed to withstand the year round climate of the area.
• Factor Number Three: A building that is properly ventilated is sometimes not responding to the first two factors. In that situation, the building needs to be insulated so that it doesn’t reach the dew point and use of pre-installed membrane will absorb the condensation then release with the weather cycle.

Can I install a metal roof myself? 

Commercial metal roof installation is best done by a professional. This gives you a guarantee and warranty should there be issues or problems later. However, it can be a DIY project if you’re looking to cut costs.  There are commercial metal roofing systems that you can install, but you want to make sure you able and comfortable working with metal and have the proper specialty tool. 

How do you fix a residential glass window?

Different types of damage will require different repair methods when it comes to window repair. One of the most common repairs for glass windows is a broken pane. To repair a glass window you’ll need to take the following steps:

• Carefully remove the window: You’ll want to place painter’s tape in an “X” shape over the pane that’s being removed. For a double hung window you’ll push against the vinyl channels and release the channel pins to remove the window.
• Clean out putty and the frame: Scrape away any putty with a putty knife and use a wire brush to brush away dirt and debris.
• Remove any broken glass fragments from the frame: Once the glass is removed, you’ll need to sand L-shaped grooves to clear away any remaining old paint or putty.
• Measure the frame: You will need to measure the frame’s height, width, and opening.
• Add putty: The glazing compound should be applied in a thin layer to avoid swelling after the window is set.
• Set the window: Set the window in place with someone’s help and press it lightly to bed it.
• Add an additional layer of putty: The putty is added around the edge of the glass. Smooth it with your wet finger or a cloth.
• Paint window frame: If you used latex glazing you can probably do this the same day. You’ll want to overlap the paint on the glass by about 1/16 inches. This will improve the weather seal.

How long does it take to fix a broken window?

The amount of time it takes for window repair will depend on the type of damage. Most repairs, however, can often be done in less than a day. It should take less than two hours, for instance, to fix a single broken window pane, as this is normally an easy repair to make, and one of the most common.

Can you repair window seals

If you’ve begun to see moisture between the layers of glass in your windows, this is usually a sign your window seal is broken. This is not normally a good repair to undertake as a DIY project. Repairing a seal also includes cleaning the panes, replacing the argon gas that goes between the panes, as well as replacing all the seals and reinstalling the window. There’s too much room for error for this type of window repair. In this case, getting a reliable professional like those at Blue Spruce Construction Group to make the repair is your best bet. We’ll make sure the job is done right so your window seals are repaired and no longer letting air in or out of your home.

Can you repair window screens

In some cases, window screens can be repaired as a DIY project. Much of this will depend on the damage. If you have a small hole it can be fixed with glue and patches, and you won’t even need to take the screen off the window. Big holes, however, pose a bigger problem and are less easy to fix. You will, for instance, need a patch that will fit correctly over the hole. 

Window repair kit

While some companies offer window repair kits, you really just need some basic tools and materials to make simple fixes like repairing a broken window pane. Here is a list of useful tools and materials for window repair.

• Caulk gun
• Paint scraper
• Putty knife
• Sand paper
• Wire brush
• Paint brushes
• Paint
• Putty

Window repair and replacement

While often a window repair is all that’s needed to keep your windows performing well, sometimes it may be necessary to replace the window altogether. If you have damage to the frame, for instance, it may be best to replace the whole window or if you have multiple windows that are letting air seep in and out of the house. This will cause your utility bills to go up, as energy is wasted. Usually, windows that are 15 to 20 years old begin to have problems like leaks. Often seals get broken and the windows may start to look foggy as moisture builds up between window panes. Your windows become less energy efficient as they age. It’s usually best, however, to replace all of your windows at once when you do replace them. This will ensure all your windows are performing at optimum levels at the same time.

Does homeowners insurance cover a broken window?

When you have insurance on your home most components like roofs or windows are usually part of that coverage and the coverage pays for damages caused by what insurers call perils. These are events often out of your control like hail or fire or even vandalism. If hail strikes your windows and breaks them, it’s very likely the insurance company will cover the damage. If your neighbor’s child hits a baseball through the window, your insurance may cover it, but your neighbor’s insurance or the neighbor could be held liable for the damage. Any damage caused by a lack of maintenance or neglect is normally not covered. If you have questions about particular coverage, consult with your insurance agent.

Can I install gutters myself? 

The avid do-it-yourself homeowner is often tempted to install their own gutter system, and yes, it can be done. There are plenty of gutter installation instructions on the internet that will take you step by step, but is it the best option? Yes, all the materials, supplies, and tools are readily available at the local home improvement stores for gutter installation. Most homes, a gutter installation can be completed within one day, maybe a whole weekend. 

The upside to doing your own gutter installation, it will be less expensive by not having any labor costs. You can do the gutter installation on your schedule and not wait for a contractor to fit you in their schedule. Last, but not least, you’ll have a wider choice of colors by doing your own gutter installation. 

The downside to doing your own gutter installation, you’ll be the one climbing the ladder while carrying materials, supplies, and tools with you. You’ll be the one working at a height that an average homeowner isn’t accustomed to being. Don’t worry though, you won’t be the first or the only homeowner at the emergency room for falling off the ladder or roof. 

Another factor of doing your own gutter installation is to know the proper placement of hangers and the proper tilt for the rainwater to run off into the downspouts. It’s challenging to install a gutter system without having sagging spots, particularly around corners. If a gutter section is tilted too far back or forward, it loses its effectiveness during heavy rain. 

How do you attach gutters? 

When doing a gutter installation, the proper slope is an absolute must. This can be achieved by driving a nail half an inch below the shingles on the upper gutter run. Next, measure the distance fascia board bottom to the nail then subtract one-fourth inch for every ten feet of gutter run starting at this measurement. At the gutter run end, mark this distance, and drive a nail there. Pull a chalk line between the nails and line up a level with the string to examine the slope. You want the bubble off-center to the high side. Now, snap the chalk line to the fascia board.

Slide gutter flashing beneath the shingles and every two feet, fasten with one-inch roofing nails and lap the section two inches. Attach the gutters to the fascia and install the gutter hangers every two feet so the gutters support and strengthen on the front edge. Hold the gutter hangers’ level and screw them through the flashing gutter back and into the fascia.

Do you install gutters under drip edge?

A gutter installation with drip edge is a must, the gutter runs should be two or three inches under the roof edge. The drip edge is installed under the first row of shingles to encourage water to run into the gutters. Without it, rainwater could run behind the gutter, down the fascia board and siding, possibly damaging the fascia board and siding.

How do you seal a gutter joint?

Before starting to apply sealant, the inside of the gutters needs to be dry. Brush the seams clean and then apply gutter chalking compound or silicone along the seams, inside and outside. Use roofing cement to patch holes, generously spreading with a putty knife around the hole all around.

Do roofers install gutters?

Some roofing contractor does offer gutter installation in addition to their roofing service. However, their specialty is roofing, not gutters. Because this isn’t their specialty, the workmanship may not be the same quality as a company that provides gutters installation and repair only.

Gutter installation isn’t necessary in every home. Homes that is located in an arid climate where there isn’t a lot of rain, then a gutter system isn’t needed. If you’ve decided your home needs gutters, interview several gutter installation companies for quotes before deciding to do the job yourself. The money you save may not be worth the possible danger. Dial (303) 647-3883 today for your gutter installation needs in Lafayette and Denver, CO.

There are several types of siding replacement on the market today. The choices available extensive and each type of material offers a vast range of aesthetics, durability, and energy efficiency, and the price ranges are wide too. 

Here, we offer you the different siding replacement options along with pros and cons of them. This information can help you determine the best choice for you and your home. 

Vinyl – the most popular of all siding replacement materials. 

Fiber Cement – the second most popular siding replacement option.

Brick – a popular siding replacement option because of the longevity.

Metal – some options of this siding replacement are popular, like the aluminum and steel options.

Wood – popular siding replacement option because of the natural and timeless appearance.

What is the most popular house siding?

Fiber cement siding replacement has become the most popular over the recent years. It offers a variety of looks from masonry or stucco to wood and is less expensive. The low-maintenance, fire resistance, and termite resistance are other bonuses for homeowners and insurance companies.

How long does siding usually last?

Siding replacement is a layer of protection for your home. The climate, the elements, and the weather are hitting every day, all day. This can all affect the lifespan of any siding replacement, but some last longer than others.

• Vinyl Siding – 20 years to 40 years
• Aluminum Siding – 30 years to 50 years
• Wood Siding – 15 years to 40 years
• Brick Siding – 50 years or longer
• Fiber Cement Siding – 25 years to 40 years

What siding lasts longest?

As we’ve mentioned already, vinyl siding replacement is the most popular choice for several reasons. It is less expensive, comes in a variety of colors, and requires little to no maintenance. Another favorable fact with vinyl siding replacement is the longevity it offers when installed correctly and taken care of as needed. It has lasted 60 years and sometimes 100 years.

Siding is the appearance of your home; it can make it appealing and welcoming. It is also what is protecting your family.  Having the best that you can afford is one thing that you can get a high ROI whether you stay there forever or place it on the market. Call (303) 647-3883 today for your siding needs in Lafayette and Denver, CO.

What does a standing seam metal roof look like?

A standing seam metal roof can come in a variety of colors, dimensions and metal roofing materials that are further explained below. 

What is a standing seam metal roof systems?

A standing seam metal roof systems are a type of roofing system design made of metal materials where there is a concealed fastener metal panel system with long verticle legs and broad flat areas between the two legs.

What is standing seam metal roof made of?

A standing seam metal roof can essentially be made of a variety of metal roofing materials from aluminum, galvalume, steel, etc. This is because a standing seam metal roof is a design style of a metal roof.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Colors

A standing seam metal roof can come in a variety of different kinds of color schemes. With metal roofing, you can potentially incorporate any color, hue or tint. The options are seemingly limitless.

How are standing seam metal roofs attached?

 standing seam metal roof systems are attached with concealed fasteners in between panels of sheet metal. The connecting points where the two meet form a vertically pointed rib or seam that is usually 1-1.5 inch high.

What gauge is standing seam metal roofing?

A standing seam metal roof gauge can depend on metal manufacturing. The most common metal used on standing seam roofs are galvanized or galvalume steel which can range from 18 for heavier structural properties like with commercial businesses to lighter gages of 26 or 28 for simple projects. As such, for residences, a gauge of 24 or 26 is most commonly used for a standing seam metal roof.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Dimensions

A standing seam metal roof dimensions will have widths range by the manufacturer supplying it. Standing seam metal roof panels, however, are typically between 12”-18” in width with 16” as the most commonly used. Panel sizes, in turn, will come if different profiles with varying sizes that are dictated by the performance requirement and how well it works with the profile. The varying sizes and panels can be purchased or roll-formed on-site. Now with the rib height, aka the seam, most standing seam metal roof systems have a height between 1 inch to 3 inches. 1.5 and 2 inches tend to be the most common. The height will also vary depending on what’ s best for the building’s architecture. 

What does a standing seam metal roof cost?

A standing seam metal roof installation will have costs range anywhere from $23,000 to $30,000 which depends on the pitch, slope, and size of the roof. A standard size single-story home will typically be $8-$14 per square foot or $800 to $1,400 per square.

Warranty on Standing Seam Metal Roof

Standing seam metal roofs have warranties that typically come with 20 years which is actually significantly longer than most built-up or even single-ply roofing systems.

Get in Contact With a Professional Roofing Company

When you’d like to get set up with a standing seam metal roof in Lafayette, CO be sure to contact your local roofers for assistance. A professional roofing contractor will be able to inspect your roof for specifications and determine any underlying problems before beginning the roofing process. What’s more, they ‘ll work with you on the goals that you have with your roof and will be able to make the best recommendation that will support your particular structure in the long run. For other areas of home improvement like with plumbing services make sure to reach out to the available avenues for help. As such, a standing seam metal roof is a great way to provide a sense of modernity and aesthetic style to your home. Contact a roofing company today.

If you require assistance with a standing seam metal roof in Lafayette and Denver, CO call (303) 647-3883 with Blue Spruce Construction Group!

What are the signs of a bad roof?

Depending on the age of your roof, there could be signs creeping up that indicate that maybe your roof is not what it once was and could be in need of replacing. The signs depend on the type of roofing material used, but there are some common things to look for.

If you have a shingle roof, you might notice that several shingles are either loose or missing. This could be due to storm damage but it can also indicate that your roof is well past its prime. The shingles are meant to protect your home and if they are broken or missing, they won’t do a very good job of that.

The roof could also be sagging. This can mean a few different things. It could be from supporting too much weight like excess snow or ice during the colder months of the year. Roofs are only graded to handle a specific amount of weight and that additional snow could put a lot of strain on the roof.

It could also be due to your roof weakening and deteriorating. Your roof can begin to wear down after enough time and damage and this is one of the most obvious signs that perhaps your roof needs to be replaced entirely.

Again, the signs may not be completely obvious. If you have an inclination that your roof could be dealing with leaks, it is imperative that you call in a professional to inspect your roof right away.

What to do if the roof is leaking?

It can be difficult to know if your roof is leaking. Unless the problem is blatant, smaller leaks can persist for a long time before it is noticeable. This can lead to a number of issues. The first of which is structural issues. Water damage can rot the wood in your home, causing damage throughout your home.

It can also lead to the growth of mold. Mold, if allowed to grow unchecked, can become a serious issue for the respiratory systems of those in your home. If you see black mold in particular, you need to call a professional service immediately.

The first thing to do is to call in a professional service to survey the damage. That professional roofing contractor will survey the damage to assess the repairs that will be necessary. If the leaks are large enough, they will implement emergency repairs to ensure that the leaking does not spread.

From there, it is about implementing the proper repairs to ensure that the site of the leak is addressed and that there are no subsequent areas of concern. The last thing you need is to pay for a leak repair only for another problem area to go unnoticed.

How often should you replace your roof?

Unfortunately, this is not something that can be answered in straightforward terms. In reality, it all depends on the kind of roofing material that is being implemented in your home. Even the most basic of roofing systems should last in excess of 10 years, though it varies based on material.

Asphalt shingles, one of the most common roofing materials out there, can last anywhere from 15-30 years depending on the installation and the weather in that area. With proper maintenance, you can get closer to that 30-year mark than the 15-year minimum.

For rubber roofing systems, the results can greatly increase. With proper installation and proper maintenance, rubber roofing can last you all the way up to the half-century mark. That means you can reasonably expect to have to replace your roof only once, if at all.

Even more durable than that are metal and tile roofs. These come at a bit of a greater initial cost but will last you a lifetime. Metal roofs, when properly installed, can last 50-75 years whereas tile roofing can last a full century with the proper maintenance.