Cold Applied Modified Bitumen Roofing

November 4, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

Cold Applied Modified Bitumen Roofing

There are different materials which can be used on commercial buildings. One of the popular choices in commercial roofing is the use of cold applied modified bitumen roofing. This material was first introduced and used in Europe in the 1960s and was later brought to America in the 1970s. For the past decades, bitumen roofing has grown more and more popular and is now a top choice for flat and low-sloped roofing commonly on commercial properties.

What is Modified Bitumen?

Modified bitumen roofing is made of polymer modified bitumen which is further reinforced with one or multiple layers of fabric which could be a material such as polyester, glass fiber, or even a combination of both of these materials. This type of roofing can be installed on a property through conventional methods or it can also be self-adhered to the underlying structure.

For property owners, there are mainly two types of modified bitumen membranes to choose from.

Atactic Polypropylene (APP)

APP is a modified bitumen roof which consists of a thermoplastic polymer. This can either be heat-welded or can also be torch-applied. The end result of this type of roofing gives asphalt a plastic-like finish.

Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS)

SBS bitumen roofing is a modified bitumen roof type that is installed with the use of cold adhesives or hot moppings of asphalt. This type of roofing can also come with some form of adhesive backing. The end result for this type of roofing is more rubber-like in quality.

Modified bitumen is a material that is made in manufacturing factories and is sold in sheets. The material has a consistent thickness. Bitumen roofing membranes can have 1 or even multiple bitumen sheets and also make use of a roofing felts along with those sheets.

Cold applied modified bitumen roofing membranes are not a new addition to the roofing industry. This method of application has been in use for quite a while and is becoming more and more favored due to the various benefits it provides. One of the advantages of this type of roofing is that it does not require the use of fire for installation, making it a much safer and easier method to use.

For cold applied bitumen roofing, the use of solvent-based membrane adhesives was one of the first methods of cold applications. Recently, there have been newer and more effective self-adhered systems that can achieve full bond strength. This allows roofers to enjoy time and labor-savings in any season.

Why Choose Bitumen Roofing?

The use of modified bitumen roofs is recommended for commercial roofing because of its longevity, strength, waterproof properties, and energy efficiency.

A modified bitumen roof can typically last up to 2 decades with minimal need for maintenance and repairs. During this time, bitumen roofs are able to stand against hot or cold weather conditions, especially when the roof has been reinforced with multiple layers of bitumen sheets. Aside from longevity and strength, bitumen roofs are also waterproof. The adhesives used to attach modified bitumen provide protection against water damage. Furthermore, modified bitumen roofs have been found to be energy efficient, providing an added insulation layer that keeps heat both inside and out of your property.

Modified bitumen membranes can offer exceptional weatherproofing protection, but only proper application will ensure longevity. In order to avoid any issues in terms of installation, it is best to seek the expertise of a licensed roofing contractor and work only with the right team.

It is essential that your roofer knows how to follow manufacturer recommendations and guidelines on installation, especially in terms of application temperatures and ambient conditions.

While bitumen roofs are a low maintenance roofing option, it is still necessary to get regular roof inspections and work on any maintenance and repairs as soon as possible to avoid further property damage and to also avoid higher costs in the future. While property owners or even your maintenance staff can do these checks, getting the help of roofing contractors who can spot minor problems and early signs of damage would benefit you in the long term.

The use of Waddle Exterior’s services will also eliminate the risks of injury during the process. Keeping any inexperience or untrained individuals safe. This will also allow a specialist to inspect, assess, and evaluate the entire roof system, whether modified bitumen or other type of roofing material, for concerns or issues that may or may not be immediately apparent.

Questions to Ask your Roofer

October 18, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

Questions to Ask your Roofer

Prior to hiring a roofing contractor, most homeowners do their research. They need to know who the best contractors are in the area, how much their roofing project could potentially cost, and a number of other things. Like most homeowners, you probably want to get the job done right. In order to achieve that goal, picking the right roofing contractor is key.

In order to be able to choose the right roofer, you also need to ask the right questions.

The first step is determine a potential roofer’s credibility by knowing their business name, insurance coverage, and who works for them.

Before even considering a roofing contractor for a job, you first need to make sure that they are credible. This is essential to protecting yourself from getting a faulty roof installation that could potentially harm your family, cause more damage, and cost even more in the long run.

One of the first questions that you should ask is: What is your legal business name?

It is important to get a roofer’s legal business name so that you can make use of this information to check on state or federal directories to, first of all, make sure that they are registered, certified, and are an actual legitimate roofing company, and to also check if they are certified with certain roofing manufacturers, especially if you are hoping to use certain roofing materials that require installers to be trained in the proper installation methods of the product.

If your roofer gives you the run-around when you ask this first question, that is a major red flag that they may not be as reliable as you expect. Some companies may have their roofing company under another legal business name. In that case, you might want to follow up on the reasons for them doing so and also to make sure that they aren’t using another company’s name to boost their credibility.

To be on the safe side, if they sound unsure of what their legal business name is – they are probably not the right team to be handling your roof. No roofer should have trouble emailing you a copy of state licenses or proof of insurance.

The next question to ask is this: What level of roofing insurance do you have?
Insurance coverage can be tricky, especially when it comes to roofing. There are many different levels of roofing insurance in the state. The type of insurance that a company has also depends on the type of contractor they are. There are certain insurance requirements that a roofing contractor needs to meet in the area before they can work on your home. The important thing is that their insurance covers the minimum requirement.

After getting their business name and insurance coverage, you should also ask your roofer: Who will be on the job site during my roofing installation?

Most well-known roofing contractors have more than 1 roofing project to attend to per day. And they usually have tons of teams working under them. The company owner may not be available during your schedule and when this happens, you need to know who is going to be managing the whole project to ensure that it goes smoothly.

Most reputable companies have designated project managers to handle this. The goal of the project manager is to make sure that all steps of the installation process proceed as planned and that the roof is installed according to the legal requirements and manufacturer guidelines.

The above questions are just some of the essentials that you need to cover in order to determine the roofing contractor’s credibility. A few other questions that you should definitely pitch to get an even better idea of your potential roofer’s experience, expertise, and work process to assess whether they are the right team for your project include…

Which parts of my property do you need to inspect to give me a cost estimate?
Can you provide a detailed breakdown of expense?
How does the material affect installation costs?
Can you provide price for possible repairs that are commonly associated with roof installation or replacement?
What is the cost of roof removal?
Does the cost estimate you provided factor in the cost of materials?
Will you provide at least three references for my research?
What are your guidelines when processing a warranty claim?
How will you protect your workers’ safety while on my property?
What steps will you take to avoid damaging my home or property during installation?
How will you ensure the project is completed on time?

TPO vs EPDM vs PVC

October 4, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

TPO vs EPDM vs PVC

There are so many different roofing options readily available to property owners today. When making a choice, there are also so many factors to consider – aesthetics, durability, resistance, cost, and many others.

One of the more popular options in the market right now is the use of single-ply membrane systems, such as TPO, EPDM, and PVC roofing. These are all different materials which are commonly used for single-ply roofing on commercial properties. Recently, there have been a spike in the number of homeowners using this type of roofing as well.

Why?

Read on to find out the specific properties, advantages and disadvantages of these materials.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM, ethylene propylene diene monomer, is a synthetic rubber material that is commonly used in roofing applications, as well as in other outdoor applications, due to its high tensile strength, durability, flexibility, and high resistance to varying weather conditions. EPDM roofs can last decades with minimal maintenance because regular day-to-day and seasonal temperature changes do not cause it to wear out quickly. The material does not easily change its shape when exposed to hot or cool temperatures. It has a thermoset property that enables it to retain its shape in these conditions.

This material is typically available in sheet rolls which are relatively easy to install. However, when installing EPDM roofing, we would not recommend it as a DIY project. For this type of roofing, getting a professional to do it will ensure quality workmanship. It adheres to the roof structure with high strength adhesives and tapes. Aside from being durable, EPDM rubber is also waterproof. Thus. you also create a water and moisture barrier between the environment and your home.

Aside from those properties, another advantage of an EPDM roof is that it is highly impact resistant. It creates an effective defense system against hailstorms, windblown debris, and other materials that could potentially damage your roof.

TPO and PVC

Aside from EPDM, other single-ply membrane options include TPO and PVC materials. TPO. which is thermoplastic polyolefin, and PVC, which is polyvinyl chloride, are both materials that change their shape when there is a change in temperature. Aside from this, another thing that these materials have in common is that they are both white or reflective in appearance.

However, despite not having the thermoset property that EPDM roofing has, these materials are just as durable as EPDM roofing. These materials also offer another set of advantages that are not provided by EPDM roofing systems.

A major benefit to using TPO or PVC roofing is that it provides resistance against certain chemicals and bacteria. Things such as oils or animal fats, which could end up damaging other roofing materials, will not damage your TPO or PVC roof.

The white color of this material is also another benefit. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, the material also adds a cooling effect to your roof. When properly installed, your TPO or PVC roof will be able to control temperatures around the building, as well as inside it. This is owed to the naturally reflective property of the material which also makes it more energy efficient than the black EPDM alternative, especially during the summer time.

EPDM vs TPO vs PVC

After learning about these different materials, you’re probably wondering which one is the better option for your property. However, as with any other decision anyone makes, the best option is not always objective. In this case, the best roofing option is completely dependent on your property as well as many other factors.

When you take into consideration the inherent properties presented by these different materials, you might be able to pick out which material is the best for you. However, we are also here to help. If you need expert advice on what the best roofing material for your property is, we are readily available to help you out. Our years of expertise and experience in roofing will help us guide you towards the right decision.

Choosing the best roof for your commercial building involves careful consideration and decision-making. Aside from the many options available – many of which you probably have no clue about – you also need to factor in things like typical weather conditions which your property is often exposed to, the building’s design and architectural style, and even what your business does or makes.

Single-ply membrane systems are great for a range of business and building types, but you need to consult an expert commercial roofing resource like Wade Exteriors to get the best performance from your roof.

Are Roof Warranties Worth it?

September 18, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

Are Roof Warranties Worth it?

Getting a new roof is no easy expense. However, so many people still get in a doozy when they see the cost on their roofer’s proposals. Like many other construction projects, the budgets are often stretched when it comes to any roofing replacement, repair, or installation. Not only is there the cost of the materials, the cost of labor and equipment also needs to be factored in. With prices constantly rising, many homeowners are now asking the question – are roof warranties worth it?

When you look at the cost of a roof warranty and compare it to the cost of roof repairs and replacement, it might seem like an easy comparison as the latter seems a lot higher than the former. However, a common mistake that homeowners make is the assumption that ahaving a 30 or 50 year warranty means that throughout that span of time, any damage to your roof will automatically be repaired by the contractor.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. It is important to learn about some of the major differences between workmanship warranties and manufacturer roofing warranties.

For starters, there is a difference between the manufacturer warranty on the product and the workmanship warranty by the contractor. The manufacturer warranty covers any damages to the product. However, this typically only covers pre-existing defects from the factory or any damages that may have occurred during shipping and transport. When your roof is damaged to typical wear and tear over time, your manufacturer’s warranty won’t cover the cost for new materials. The workmanship warranty, on the other hand, is the warranty that covers the services needed for repairs or installation provided that the damage or defect to your roof is due to installation error or something that the contractor did. These warranties usually come at no added cost when you purchase new roofing materials or get a certified contractor for the job. However, there are some things you need to know before you rely on these warranties.

When you look at roofing manufacturer warranties, there are many differences between what certain companies offer. Warranties vary and this is usually dependent on the type of material the product is made of. For example, asphalt shingles are typically made to last 20 to 30 years. Most manufacturer warranties cover between 20 to 50 years provided that you can prove that the product was defective. Usually, if the shingles last for only 10 years, you’ll have a hard time proving that the shingles were defects. That aside, newly installed shingles that start to fall off or become damaged within just a few weeks may be subject to this warranty.

However, the likelihood of newly installed roofings materials to fall off right after installation is not that likely. Even when it does, most cases are usually caused not by a product defect but by construction errors. When you hire a roofing contractor that does not have the right level of skill, expertise and experience, a ton of things could go wrong. In these cases, manufacturer warranties become null and void. So, you will have to rely on your contractor’s service warranty.

It is essential that homeowners keep themselves informed, especially when it comes to the warranty their roofing contractor offers. If something goes wrong with the roof, the installer’s company is the one you would call. Unfortunately, these warranties don’t last as long as manufacturer warranties. While manufacturers provide decades of warranty coverage, roofers typically offer only a year or two.

As a homeowner, when was the last time you checked to see what the warranty from your roof system manufacturer covers?

If you haven’t recently suffered a leak, the answer might be never – and you may have an erroneous idea of what your warranty actually says.

In order to get the most out of your roofing warranties, it is best to understand your warranty coverage, use requirements as leverage, and reduce the likelihood of needing your warranty.

As a homeowner, it’s best to never be lured into buying a certain product just because of the warranty offered. It is much better to get something that won’t need any replacement anytime soon. The way to do this is to look closely at the details and quality of the product. If there is a warranty included, get into the nitty gritty of the warranty’s coverage.

If you are looking to find the best roofing materials and roof installation services that come with comprehensive warranties, speak to Waddle Exteriors.

Ponding Water on Flat Roof

September 4, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

Ponding Water on Flat Roof

Flat roofs are a common type of roofing usually found on commercial properties. There have been a growing number or residential homes sporting this type of roof because of the modern aesthetic it provides. There are a variety of materials used to create a flat roof, however, the main defining feature is that it is flat or at lease has a very low slope.

By nature, flat roofs typically collect rainwater. Unlike roofs with a much higher slope, flat roofs are not able to allow rainwater or melted snow to drain away as quickly. Instead, it is imperative that a flat roof structure have a reliable, efficient, and effective drainage system to prevent ponding.

Ponding on a flat roof refers to when water collects and creates small pools or “ponds.” While most of these small pools eventually drain off or even evaporate over a few hours, it can become problematic when pooling water stands on top of a roof for 2 days or more. The water may seep into the roofing material and cause damage inside, cause leakage, and potentially damage the roof even further if not fixed. Excessive ponding threatens your roof. On top of that, ponding can also void your warranty.

When a flat roof is consistently ponding or collecting water, it can be a worsening problem that needs to be addressed quickly.

The main reason that this occurs on a flat roof is that the slope is too low for water to efficiently drain off your roof with just the aid of gravity. This is why flat roofs should also have an efficient drainage system to avoid pooling. Since you can’t increase the slope of your roof right away, one of the first things you need to do is check on your drainage systems and make sure that none of them have been clogged up. Most of the time, pooling is also caused by blocked or obstructed drainage. If you are unable to check on your roof’s drainage system, contacting a roofing expert to pinpoint the cause of the problem is the fastest and most efficient way to get it fixed.

While it might not seem like an urgent problem, ponding on a flat roof needs to be addressed as soon as possible, SImply ignoring the problem with the hope that it will drain away or evaporate eventually will only cause even more damage. And with more damage, you might end up spending way more if you wait.

What can Happen if you Ignore Ponding on a Flat Roof?

The most common problem is that you’ll have a leaking roof. In most cases, people spot the leak before they realize there is standing water on their roof. Since water moves down, it will find the lowest point of your roof and from there may eventually sink down further into the underlayment and through to your ceiling. If your roof has any cracks or small openings, water will eventually find its way there. Even when there are no openings, water can also weaken the structure of your roof.

The problem compounds on itself. As more and more water collects in a certain area of your roof, the added weight forms an indentation that will make that spot lower than the rest of the roof. When this happens, it causes even more water to pool in the area. This adds even more weight and deepens the area even further. The worst case scenario is that area eventually collapsing which won’t just mean massive damages and skyrocketing repair expenses, it is also hazardous to the people in the property.

One more way that the pooled water can cause damage to your roof is through acting as a magnifying glass that concentrates the UV rays from the sun. This can hasten the degradation of your roofing materials.

Aside from that, there are even more ways that ponding water can damage your roof. In order to avoid any of the major damages that ponding water can cause, it is always best to seek the help of your local experts at Wade Exteriors. Not only will we find you a quick and long-lasting solution, we provide you with the right solution that will prevent water from ponding the next time there’s a downpour.

Is Standing Water on a Flat Roof a Problem?

August 4, 2020/in Roofing/by waddle exteriors

Is Standing Water on a Flat Roof a Problem?

When water starts to stand on your roof, not only does it lead to leaking and other damages to your property, it also reduces your roof’s lifespan and negatively impacts its structure. In the roofing industry, ponding water refers to water that has stood flat on your roof for longer than 2 days following rain.

Standing water on a flat roof is also known as ponding which is a term that describes how the water collects in pools on certain surfaces of the roof, thus forming ponds. This typically happens right after a heavy downpour. However, most pools either drain off the roof or evaporate. When the water is stuck on your roof for prolonged periods of time, typically more than 48 hours, then it should be something that needs to be dealt with.

If it lasts for much longer, contacting a professional roofing team would be the best option in order to avoid further damage to your property.

It is also essential to note that ponding is not typically an imminent threat, as roof membranes are composed of water-resistant materials. Although immediate leakage is not likely to occur, recurring ponding can cause damage to the roof.

But the best thing to do is to keep your roof in tip-top shape to avoid major damages and to also keep it at optimum performance levels. That is also the best way to get the most out of your roof over the years.

Is standing water on a flat roof a problem?
Yes, it is.

The next question you should now be asking is “how do i fix this problem?”

In order to find a solution, every homeowner should first identify the reason why their flat roof is holding water.

Reason 1 – Inadequate or Obstructed Roof Drainage Systems

One of the most common reasons why a flat roof tends to hold standing water is due to the fact that there is an ineffective drainage system. When the drainage system of your roof is inadequate or obstructed, this will tend to keep the water on the roof, especially since there is no roof slope to naturally drain the water away with the aid of gravity.

While this might seem like a major problem that will require an entire roof replacement to solve, this is actually one of the easier reasons to correct. One of the major fixes is to implement regular roof maintenance. There are 3 different ways that flat roofs drain. The first is through the roof scuppers which are collector heads leading to downspouts. The second is through sloping towards a gutter system that guides the water away from the roof. The third is through roof drains.

By maintaining roof drains and gutter systems clean, water should flow out and avoid ponding.

Reason 2 – Roofing Structure, Design, and Deflection.

Another reason that can cause ponding water on your flat roof is because of the form of the roof itself. This is trickier to fix because regular roof maintenance will no longer be able to cut it. When a roof is designed poorly, ponding water can be due to the structure or by parts of the roof that start to sag under pressure.

This issue can also be because of improper placement of roof gutters and drains, which can lead to these drainage systems to be inefficient even when clear and unobstructed. If the structure that the flat roof is installed upon has settled or sagged, ponding water will be equal to the distance that the structure has deflected below the roof gutters or scuppers.

Reason 3 – Compressed or Saturated Roof Insulation

The third reason which is a common cause for ponding water is due to compressed or smashed roofing insulation layers. This can occur due to the added weight of construction materials, HVAC equipment, or other heavy equipment placed on top of a flat roof. Over time, roof insulation may have also degraded and become saturated.

Most flat roofing insulation systems tend to be quite sensitive to water and degrade rapidly or even dissolve when exposed to water or other liquids. When the insulation layer starts to degrade or dissolve, it loses its shape and forms an indentation on your roof where water can form ponds. This will then cause an even bigger problem since the standing water can cause more damage to the roof and the underlying insulation, thus making the indentation grow deeper, increasing the area where water is collecting. The best way to fix this is to replace the roofing insulation layer.

Determining the major causes of standing water on your flat roof can be a difficult task. However, there are experts in your area readily available to give you a hand and recommend the best course of action.

Make Your Home in Sioux City, IA, Look Better with a New Roof

August 12, 2013/in Roofing/by Audrey Heaberlin

If your home doesn’t look attractive from the outside, most people will assume the same about the inside. That’s a big deal, especially when you’re trying to sell your home in Sioux City, IA. According to the personal finance website Bankrate.com, a good first impression can add 5-10% to the selling price of your home! Investing in a new roof is one important way to boost its curb appeal and value.

If your roof has seen better days, begin by having it inspected by a reputable professional roofing contractor like Waddle Exteriors. Our experts can tell you the exact condition of your roofing material, and advise on the necessity to replace it. If your roof has some life left but shingles or tiles are missing or damaged, we can make seamless repairs that will calm potential homebuyers’ fears about its condition.

If it’s definitely time to replace, consider your options. Top roofing manufacturers are always introducing new materials that add beauty and cut down on maintenance and noise. Before you choose, take the time to look at other homes in your neighborhood. Which roofing materials are the most common, and will complement the architecture of your home while blending with others in the neighborhood? What do your neighbors like about the roofs they own? Also remember to check with your local building department and homeowner’s association for roof requirements that could impact your decision.

For information about types of roofs we install in Sioux City, call Waddle Exteriors at (877) 398-4555. We’d also be pleased to provide a FREE estimate for roof installation. Our professional installers can handle your project from beginning to completion. Your satisfaction is our #1 concern!

Get Affordable Maintenance in Iowa with Waddle Exterior’s Signature Home Evaluation Program

July 9, 2013/in Gutters, Roofing, Siding, Uncategorized, Windows/by Audrey Heaberlin

Take the stress out of caring for your Iowa home exterior by signing up for the Signature Home Evaluation Program from Waddle Exteriors. For as little as $10 invested per month, our home improvement specialists will conduct a complete annual inspection and maintenance check-up, so you’ll never again have to wonder if you’ll need to deal with unexpected repairs or damaging leaks. Our inspection and evaluation covers these areas:

• Roof
• Venting and piping on roof
• Soffit and fascia
• Chimney
• Siding
• Grading and drainage
• Windows
• Exterior doors

Repairs often cost only a fraction of the amount of total replacement, so the Signature Home Evaluation Program offers long-term savings. Pricing options include one year of coverage for $150 (a monthly investment of $12.95); two years for $270 (a monthly investment of $11.25 and a $30 savings); or three years for $382.50 (a 15% discount saving you $67.50).

From roof to foundation, windows to siding, we’ll work together with you to deliver affordability, comfort, security and the protection you want for your home! Give Waddle Exteriors a call today at (877) 733-6400 to get started with our Signature Home Evaluation Program.

Count on Waddle Exteriors for Fast Emergency Roof Repairs in Iowa

July 9, 2013/in Roofing/by Audrey Heaberlin

After a tornado or heavy thunderstorm blows through Iowa, we pray that’s what is left behind is only minor damage. But when it comes to your roof, even minor damage can cause major problems! When a storm leaves its mark on your home, it’s important to choose an experienced, local contractor to help you cope with emergency repairs. Why a local contractor? Because “storm chasers” are just like the storms they follow: here today, and gone tomorrow. That means should you need follow-up service, they will not be around to back up their workmanship.

Waddle Exteriors encourages you to never take chances with your most valuable asset just to save a little money! Not only do we offer competitive pricing, but our team has the resources and the reputation to ensure your home is properly repaired and cared for long-term. We can make fast emergency repairs to protect your property and prevent additional damage. When the weather clears, we’ll return to make permanent repairs.

Our experienced staff can also guide you through the insurance claims process, including documentation of damage, so you get the money you need to cover the repair costs. When a storm leaves you in desperate need of repairs, call Waddle Exteriors at (877) 733-6400 for fast emergency service. We’re here to help!

3 Reasons to Invest in Our Omaha Signature Home Evaluation Program

June 26, 2013/in Roofing, Uncategorized/by Audrey Heaberlin

When it comes to caring for a home, many significant problems result from the lack of a regular maintenance plan. Just like your car, your home should be inspected and serviced periodically (at least once every year) by professional Omaha roofers. That’s why Waddle Exteriors developed our Signature Home Evaluation Program, featuring the following benefits:

1. Peace of mind. With a routine inspection, you won’t need to worry that you may be hit with unexpected home maintenance expenses.
2. 15% discount. As a preferred customer, you’ll receive an exclusive 15% discount on all repairs and new projects.
3. Priority guaranteed appointments. As a preferred customer, you’ll enjoy our fastest service times.

From top to bottom, Waddle’s certified home improvement experts will examine every part of your home’s exterior to nip problems in the bud. From roof to foundation, windows to siding, we’ll keep your home in its best condition and make these components look better and last longer. Give us a call today at (877) 733-6400 to sign up for our Signature Home Evaluation Program. We look forward to working with you to deliver affordability, comfort, security and the protection you want for your home!