Lyons Roofing

Roof Replacement and Repair Contractor Louisville, KY and Indiana

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Add Another Layer to your Roof?

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Should you Add another layer to your roof?

Tear off or add another layer

Is it time to replace your roof? I know we all dread that day! So why not just add another layer to your roof and avoid the cost of labor and dump fees to remove that old roof? Is it a viable option, or should you just replace the whole roof and call it a day?

 

So what is the big deal anyway, why cant you just throw another layer of shingles on top of the existing?

 

In some cases, you can. However, most building codes limit a home to only having two layers, most homes can handle two layers but adding a third can greatly stress rafters and other structural parts of your home. Additionally, make sure that the product you decide to use warranties this type of application.

 

Why you should not add another layer to your roof

 

We talked about the basics, to much weight, against code, warranties. Why are those important factors? I mean it is the same thing on top of another right?

 

First, roofing material suppliers want their products to last. Layering shingles in the eyes of a manufacturer diminishes the overall performance of their product; if they say it is a lifetime shingle and it only lasts 17 years, you would be pretty upset right?

 

Multiple layers means more wear and tear on the new shingles, the layer below can create an effect that traps heat in and hurts the overall life expectancy of the shingle. The shingles are not able to breath and any cool air that your attic ventilation brings in will be used to cool the bottom layer instead of your newer higher performing layer.

 

Weight from multiple layers

 

Your home is a machine, designed to perform in a certain way for its life. Any change in design that you may cause can have detrimental effects over the life of your home, including adding multiple layers of shingles.

 

Bet you are probably sitting there looking up at your ceiling and wondering, how much weight does it really add?

 

Let us say you have an average size home (35 sq.) you decide to add an additional layer of Owens Corning Duration coming in at lets say 70 lbs. a bundle now with this particular shingle you are looking at three bundles per square. That comes out to a total of an additional 7,350 lbs. on your roof. Yes, if you have one layer on your roof, your home will more than likely hold it and you will never know the difference. However, you could be just setting yourself up for some major settling and structural issues down the road.

 

However, ask yourself this, would you park an Escalade on your home and not worry about it?

 

So there, you have it, just a few reasons why some roofing contractors may try to talk you out of a second layer. Do not think they are just trying to talk you out of it because it only means more on the total bill right now. They more than likely have your interest at heart and I know if Lyons Roofing Company is going to put their name on it, we want it to last. I am sure plenty of other companies feel the same way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why do you Need a New Roof?

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Why do you need a roof? What type of roof do you need, 3-tab, dimensional what is the difference? How long is a shingle warranty, how long is the roofing contractors warranty? Should I pay them a portion up front, to “buy materials”?

new roof

No wonder you as a homeowner are pulling your hair out trying to figure these little things out. Is there not a way to make this whole roof replacement thing easier?

Sorry, but no. It is a complicated process and a huge investment that you as a homeowner want to be involved in and want to be very vigilant of potential frauds.

Why do you need a new roof?

 Most people wait until a storm, have their insurance company come out, insurance company recommends a company and bam. Job done, everyone is happy and we all move on with our lives. That sounded like an easy process, but be careful, contractors even those “recommended” by your insurance company, can still pull fast ones on you.

Make sure the shingles they are installing are the type you requested, instead of a cheaper brand. Make sure they are doing everything they told you and the insurance company they would do.

What type of roof do you need?

 What is the difference between 3-tab and dimensional and which one should you choose on your home?

The best and easiest to understand explanation without me going in depth can be found on roofpedia.

From experience and longevity of the systems, for most we recommend going with a Owens Corning Duration Dimensional Shingle. With a great warranty on their product and a strong company that stands behind their product, its the way to go and price is not much higher than a standard cheaper 3-tab shingle.

Should I pay a Contractor upfront?

Old, red van in summertime

That is a pure judgement call on your part. Now, there are good companies out there with good intentions that just don’t have the overhead needed as they are smaller startups. I know you are like most and have heard the horror stories, “I paid Buck in the Truck half of my roof cost and never heard back from them?!” yes, be vigilant of this and use your best judgement.

We recommend, payment upon completion and satisfaction of the work. We are aware that isn’t always normal practice. Just ensure you protect yourself, family and home.

How long is a shingle warranty, how long is a roofing contractors warranty?

Shingles, brands, styles just like roofing contractors carry their own standard warranties. This is an important question to ask your contractor when selecting shingles and contractors. Most contractors are moving towards a longer warranty as most shingle products carry a longer warranty, (limited lifetime warranty).

Owens Corning

We hope as a homeowner these questions and answers bring you some peace of mind during a complex situation. As always if you ever need assistance or just have a question, reach out to us. Even if you are not in our service area, we are happy to help!

 

 

DIY Roof Leaks

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The goal of Lyons Roofing is to be your first line of defense when it comes to the elements and to protect your greatest asset from roof leaks. Water, in whatever form, (rain, snow, sleet, or hail), has a way of finding any weak spots in a roofing system.

damaged plywood in attic

 

Lyons Roofing has two goals, one to install a system that will stand up to the wear and tear that the weather brings year after year. To assist when roof leaks occur and to make you the happiest person under your own roof.

 

While so many roofs leaks can be simple to repair, determining the source of the leak is often the hardest part. When customers notice a drip on their ceiling, they often assume that the leak is coming from right above spot on the ceiling. However, a leak can travel down a rafter or can even be condensation from another system in your home.

 

Roof leaks can be caused by anything.

  • Missing, cracked or loose shingles, tiles or seams
  • Ponding water
  • Wind driven rain
  • “Tips” in Valleys
  • Improper installation of valleys, flashing, shingles, collars, etc.
  • Damaged or deteriorated flashing, seals and caulking
  • Exposed nail heads
  • Built up debris, which can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration
  • (My personal Favorite) Brick and mortar

 

Now the fun part memorize, you get to try to remember all of those potential hot spots for leaks! Just to make it a little bit easier, I will give you a short description of the cause of each, what to look for.

 

Missing, cracked or loose shingles, tiles or seams

This for the most part is self-explanatory. You will more than likely notice any missing shingles from the ground. To look for any cracks, you will have to spend a little time investigating on the roof. As always, if you do not feel comfortable, or you cannot do it safely. Do not climb on your roof. Cracks can be big problems in certain areas, if you find any in a valley (where two pitch changes come together) call a contractor and have it addressed immediately. It could be a minor crack or something more substantial that could be a major threat to your home.

cracked-shingle

 

 Ponding water

Ponding water is a big issue on flat roof systems. Your water should have areas to drain from the structure. If not this could cause problems with added weight to the structure and if water sits long enough it will more than likely find a way in.

ponding water

Wind driven rain

For the most part this will be a “freak thing” Maybe a storm comes in a certain way, or the wind just happens to blow rain in a vent. There is nothing in particular to look for. The only way to tell if this is an issue or not is if it is a small leak and does not re-occur.

“Tips” in Valleys

Being one of the most common issues a roofing company will see, it is the easiest to diagnose. If you are willing and able to climb on your roof, look at your valley, is the top layer cut and sitting on top of another layer that runs under? If so lift up the top section slightly, if you see any points on the upper layer of shingles running in line with the cut, those need to be trimmed back. You could try this yourself, but it is always best to have a professional do any work, that way you are not on the hook for any damage.

Improper installation of valleys, flashing, shingles, collars, etc.

This will be up to a professional contractor to decide. No offense, but unless you do it every day. You will not know if it is right or wrong. Granted, if something is obvious, your vents are upside down and backwards, and then yes, you will be able to diagnose this problem.

This is something you will have to look closely for, if you have exposed counter flashing look for any breaks in the sealant. On your pipe collars, look for any signs of dry rooting. This is normally only a problem after 7-8 years, in some cases never a problem.

 

Exposed nail heads

Look around your roof, any vents or flashings or even on the shingles. If you see any nails that are not covered by silicone, then a small dab to cover the nail is a good temporary fix. A final fix is removing the nail and sealing under the shingle it penetrated or replacing the shingle as a whole.

 

nail heads

Built up debris,

Look around your valleys, look along walls or behind any chimneys. Any debris left in these area can present a huge problem. A dam if you will hold water and allowing it to become your nightmare.

 

roof-leaks

(My personal Favorite) Brick and mortar

Something you would never realize could be a problem, but we at Lyons Roofing see it all the time. Chimneys are beautiful but can require a good amount of maintenance. If yours happens to be brick, look at the mortar, are there chunks missing? If not does it have the appearance of a sponge? If any of these are true you would need to get the mortar tuck pointed or the brick sealed.

damaged-mortar-crumbling-chimney-and-bricks

If none of these are issues, or you don’t feel safe climbing around on your roof. Contact Lyons Roofing for a free estimate. We are here to help you protect your greatest investment, your home.

Roof Underlayment?

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So why do you need a roof underlayment? Whether it be felt, tar paper or a newer underlayment system like Rhino. Not only should a consumer know the purpose of the roof underlayment, but also the best type for their home or business.

You would think all roof underlayment is the same. you would be right for the most part, but wrong just a little bit.

Types of Roof Underlayment

  • Tar paper
    Tar paper is made exactly how it sounds, it is a heavy duty paper impregnated with tar to produce a solid underlayment product for your roofing system.

     

  • Roof Felt
    Roofing felt is constructed in a very similar way to tar paper. This is a heavy duty paper that is impregnated with asphalt vs. tar.

     

  • Synthetic Underlayment (Rhino)
    Synthetic underlayment, just making a huge move on to the home improvement scene is a woven synthetic product. (almost like those sweaters grandma used to make, just better looking, sorry grandma).

So what is the best type of underlayment for your home and why do you need it?

Now in the opinion of Lyons Roofing Co. Synthetic is the way to go. Synthetic underlayment like Rhino or Tiger Paw, is leaps and above the old tar and felt papers of the old days. Don’t get me wrong, the old tar and felt papers are very reliable products and will protect your roof for years to come. rhino roof underlayment

Have you ever paid attention to your own roof replacement. Or how about seen a new construction home with torn and blown off felt paper. What about seeing a roofing contractor walking on the felt and it ripping under his feet? Synthetic underlayment provides not only a safer work surface but also a more durable one. No more worrying about it blowing off if a little wind kicks up or tearing under the feet of a contractor taking his afternoon stroll across your open roof.

So what is the purpose of underlayment, why do you need it?

Any type of underlayment you choose for your home or business will be beneficial. This is the first step of a new roof and a very important one. Underlayment provide the first basic layer of protection for your home. Underlayment, even though nailed through provide a basic barrier for weather and moisture. Hence the importance. If wind blows rain under your shingles, then a solid underlayment will help funnel water down your slope and if all goes well out of your gutter or to a point where the water will stop and dry when the sun comes out.

So yes, felt is a very important sub surface of your roof. If at all possible make sure you have it as a good starting point. There are other options for protection like an ice and water shield, which we will address at a later time.

Just remember, you want and need a good roof underlayment product and make sure it covers all of the gaps and isn’t ripped or torn in big sections. its not waterproofing, but it is water resistance.

Roof Question: Roof Pitch

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We at Lyons Roofing Company hope this roof question and answer will help you gain the knowledge you need to make the right decision when it comes to your roof replacement or repair.

Roof Question:

Everything being the same, shingle brand, vents and climate- which roof will last the longest: one with a steep pitch or one with a shallow pitch? 

steep roof

You would think common sense would prevail in this situation, you think hey a steep hillside erodes faster than a low slope, so you would think that roof shingles would wear out more quickly on a steeply sloped roof.

Really its not that cut and dry, it is difficult to say with so many other factors leading to the failure of a roof system. On one hand you could say, a steep roof is less likely to collect leaves and debris that hold moisture against the shingles and invite the growth of moss and algae.

On the other hand, that same roof in a wide-open un-shaded area facing due south will take the full brunt of the sun, which is hard on any roof, regardless of the amount of ventilation.

So, what is the answer to which roof will last the longest?

There is no answer! Wait, then how is this a good question to ask? Nobody said it was, just a common question! You know the old saying, the only dumb question is one that isn’t asked.

As a homeowner, you have to look at a few other factors other than pitch that will have a greater impact on asphalt roof longevity.

Major Impacts on roof longevity

  • Poor installation

poor patch work

  • The side facing your worst weather typically takes a bigger beating than your leeward side.
  • Proper roof and attic ventilation.
  • Leaves, branches and other debris left on your roof for long periods of time.
  • Storms (Hail, Wind, Etc.)hail damaged roof
  • If you have, any roofing question related to the topic above please feel free to email or call Lyons Roofing Company and we will be more than happy to answer the question quickly.