5 Signs of Storm Damage to Your Commercial Roof

Missouri can experience some bad weather and is ranked 8th when it comes to states that experience the most tornadoes each year.

No matter how durable the roof of your commercial building is, exposure to the elements will eventually take a toll. Bad storms can have a sizable impact, so whenever one passes through, you should check your roof to see its condition.

In this guide, we'll cover five major signs of storm damage to your roof. Keep reading for more.

1. Bubbles

Storms bring a lot of moisture with them, and this can get trapped in between the various layers of your commercial roof. A new roof should be sealed well to prevent this, but it can still occur in bad conditions.

If moisture gets into your roof, it can cause bubbles and blisters to form. The water can travel through your roof before forming bubbles, making it hard to determine where the water is actually getting in.

You should get a professional roofer to inspect your roof to find the source of the problem. They'll then be able to deal with it to stop things from getting worse.

2. Ponding

This may not be an issue depending on your roof installation. Ponding is a problem that occurs on flat roofs when water sits for 48 hours or more.

This is common in spots with depressions, and every time it happens it will get worse. It can make the roof unsightly, affect the structural integrity, and even lead to vegetation growth.

You may be able to temporarily manage the problem by removing the water manually, but this isn't a long-term solution. You'll need to get a professional roofer to take a look to determine the best remedy.

3. Water Leaks

Leaks are among the most common roofing problems, and they can become very severe. You might notice this straight away when a storm arrives, or it may take several days to appear. Regular roof maintenance will help keep the risks of leaks to a minimum.

Leaks can be very difficult to diagnose as the water can travel quite far from the point of entry. This is something you want to have dealt with quickly as a leak will only get worse with time. It can lead to serious structural damage, so taking care of it as soon as possible will minimize the size of the repair job.

4. HVAC Damage

If you have HVAC units on your roof, a bad storm can damage them. The risk of this is much higher if there's hail. Check your units after a storm for dents or other signs of damage to make sure they're not affected.

5. Mold Growth

Without proper roof care, you might end up with mold. This is a serious problem, as it can release spores into the air that can potentially be harmful to people's health.

Mold thrives in dark, damp places, so if moisture gets into your roof and nothing is done about it, mold is likely to start growing. It will only continue to grow, so it's not something to be ignored.

What to Do if You Notice Signs of Storm Damage to Your Roof?

If you notice any of these signs of storm damage to your roof, you should act quickly. The faster you deal with any issues, the less difficult it will be to put things right.

Signature Exteriors can provide commercial roof repair, replacement, and installation in St. Charles, MO. Take a look at our commercial roofing page to find out more about our services.

TPO Roof Maintenance Tips and What to Look For

Did you know that the average roof lasts 20-50 years? A high-quality thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roof can last for decades if properly maintained. This is where TPO roof maintenance is key.

From what TPO is to how to maintain it, we’ll go over all the signs and red flags to watch for. These tips can help you understand if you can do a repair or if it’s time to replace your roof. Read on for the roof maintenance tips that will help keep your roof lasting longer and looking great.

What Is TPO?

TPO stands for thermoplastic polyolefin. It's a durable, single-ply roof membrane that's lightweight and flexible. TPO is made from a combination of synthetic resins and oils, which makes it ideal for use in areas where there is high heat or humidity because it will not crack or become brittle like other materials do when exposed to these conditions over time.

Clean Your TPO Roof

Regular professional cleaning is one of the best ways to maintain your roof. When cleaning your TPO roof, it's important to use a soft brush to clean the surface of your roof. It’s best to have a professional do this to make sure it’s done properly and safely.

You should never use bleach or other harsh chemicals when cleaning your TPO Roof because they will damage the coating on top of it. You shouldn't use a power washer either because it can cause damage to both the surface and layers underneath.

Look for Loose or Damaged Shingles

The best way to keep your TPO roof in good shape is to look for any loose or damaged shingles. If you see any of these signs, it's time to call in a professional. If you can move the shingle with your hand, it's loose and needs replacing.

Loose shingles can be dangerous as well as damaging if not taken care of immediately. Damage or dings in your roof are usually caused by hail damage or other weather-related incidents like strong winds or heavy rains that may cause damage to your home's roofing system too. If you notice any cracks or holes on top of your TPO surfaces then this could mean serious problems down below.

Check for Signs of Leaking

To keep your roof well-maintained, you’ll also want to look for leaks. Check the gutters and inspect the flashing around your roof, especially at the corners and seams. Leaking water can lead to water damage and harmful mold.

Look for any signs of water pooling on top of your TPO roof and check to see if there are any leaks underlayment or shingles underneath. Water damage inside your home on the ceiling or in the attack is another red flag that it’s time to call in a professional.

Call for TPO Roof Maintenance Today

If you're looking for a way to extend the life of your TPO roof, consider these tips. Regular TPO roof maintenance can help prevent leaks and other issues that might otherwise lead to more costly repairs down the road.

If you have any questions or need your roof looked at, fill out the contact form here. We know how best to care for your TPO roof, make repairs, replace it, and more.

The Pros and Cons of Copper vs Aluminum Gutters

These days, gutters are available in a wide variety of materials. However, when it comes to metal gutters, two materials reign supreme: copper and aluminum.

The question is: which should you choose? What are the pros and cons of each? We're going to dive into that question below, helping you make the perfect choice for your home maintenance efforts.

Without further ado, here's a comparison of copper vs aluminum gutters.

The Pros of Copper Gutters

There are quite a few pros associated with copper gutters. The biggest of these pros is their aesthetics. Copper gutters possess a high-end look that's regarded to be much more luxurious than aluminum.

In addition, copper gutters are rust-free. Because of this, they can last well over 50 years without a replacement. They far outpace aluminum gutters in this department as well.

The Cons of Copper Gutters

One of the biggest cons of copper gutters is their price. Copper gutters generally have to be custom-made, as they need to form fit to their respective homes. Because of this, and because copper is a more expensive material in general, copper gutters end up being much more expensive than aluminum ones.

And you can't cut corners when installing copper gutters. For instance, you can't fasten them with non-copper bolts. Doing so could cause them to corrode.

This only drives up the price of copper gutters more. So, while you will get excellent durability from them, you'll have to pay an increased price for that durability.

The Pros of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters are the most popular gutters on the market. The reason? They offer good durability and reasonable aesthetics at an affordable price.

Aluminum gutters are available in a wide variety of colors, something you can't say about copper gutters. In addition, they're quite lightweight and therefore work with every home in existence.

Because they're mass-manufactured and pieced together, and because aluminum is a generally affordable material, aluminum gutters cost much less than copper gutters.

The Cons of Aluminum Gutters

Aluminum gutters don't last as long as copper gutters. Whereas copper gutters regularly last for over 50 years, aluminum gutters tend to give in within 30 years. This is because they're much more prone to rusting.

In addition, aluminum gutters don't tend to have that "high-end" aesthetic that copper gutters have. This isn't to say that they look bad (they don't). They just lack some of the luxuriousness of copper gutter systems.

Copper vs Aluminum Gutters: Both Are Great Gutter Options

When it comes to the subject of copper vs aluminum gutters, it's important to note that both are excellent types of gutters. If you want something a little cheaper, aluminum is the way to go. If you want something with a high-end aesthetic, copper has you covered.

Looking to install new gutters in St. Charles, Missouri? If so, Signature Exteriors is the company to call. We've installed new gutters on countless St. Charles area homes and can do the same for your home.

Contact us now to discuss your gutter needs!

What to Expect When Submitting a Roofing Damage Insurance Claim

What to Expect When Submitting a Roofing Damage Insurance Claim

Today, most residential homeowners are paying attention to the "commercial owners' rulebook" and buying home insurance. This includes roofing damage insurance.

With all the natural disasters in America right now, like wildfires, earthquakes, and hurricanes, that extra peace of mind with roof damage insurance is essential.

If you have never put in an insurance claim for roofing damage, you might be wondering about the process. Keep reading to learn more about filing a roofing damage insurance claim.

Be Patient With the Process

Insurance companies move at the speed of dinosaurs when approving claims. This is common throughout the industry, so prepare for this glacial motion forward.

Do not get impatient or angry with the insurance claims adjuster if the process is too slow.

Make Sure To Keep Copies of All Documents

When you first notice roof damage, you must contact your insurance company immediately.

Treat the adjuster who comes along to check your roof and do an inspection with respect. They are the ones who approve or reject your claim, so you do not want to antagonize them.

Once they approve the claim, you can contact a roofing company to get your roof repaired. But even before the repair happens, the roofing company might come back to you and say that additional repair is necessary (over what the claim approved).

You will want to return to the insurance company with the supplemental claim and get that approved before proceeding with the roof repair.

Make sure to keep copies of all approvals, claims, and everything else. Also, watch your insurance policy to ensure you get what you paid for.

Follow Up With Your Insurance Adjuster

Your insurance adjuster is probably dealing with dozens of other insurance claims for roofing damage. So don't get annoyed if they aren't the most communicative.

The onus falls on you to keep in touch with your insurance adjuster and follow up with them in case there's a delay. Don't be rude or harsh with them.

Keep a rein on your temper, but follow up with them to ensure the process moves without glitches.

Don't Despair if Your Claim Is Rejected

There is a possibility that your claim might be rejected. There are many reasons for it, known and unknown. You could ask for a second opinion by requesting a different adjuster at your insurance company.

They might go along with the first adjuster's rejection or give you a different answer. If that still doesn't work, contact a roofing company and see if you can get financing options to complete your roof repair.

Put in a Roofing Damage Insurance Claim With Confidence

Now that you know what to expect when it comes to putting in a roofing damage insurance claim, you can go forth and do so confidently, no matter if you are a residential or commercial customer.

Are you still searching for a roofing contractor in St. Charles, Missouri, or surrounding areas? Contact Signature Exteriors. We've got you covered!

Tips to Handle an Emergency Commercial Roof Repair

A commercial roof can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years. Of course, that's an extensive range of years, and many things can impact a roof's lifespan, including materials, installation, and climate.

Even with this range of roofing lifespan, it can come as a surprise when you find you need an emergency commercial roof repair.

Whether you suddenly find yourself with a leak or a catastrophic event damaging your roof, you might not know what to do first to handle the damaged roof.

Read on for tips on how to proceed when you need emergency roof repair.

What Creates a Damaged Roof?

Sometimes the reason your commercial roof needs a repair seems obvious. There's a big event in nature that causes damage. Other times, it happens slowly.

What causes commercial roof damage?

• Heavy winds

• Torn tree limbs

• Fire

• Lighting strikes

• Severe storms

• Heavy snow

You might be surprised to learn that animals can also cause roof damage over time. If animals like squirrels or raccoons can access your roof, they can chew through the roofing, attempting to get in, causing significant damage requiring repair.

Do You Need Emergency Commercial Roof Repair?

No matter the material your roof is made from, a repair is needed when it is not keeping water from entering your commercial space.

This can happen very suddenly if your roof suffers from storm damage. It can happen slowly, where suddenly, you notice a drip that progressively worsens with time.

Either way, once you recognize that your roof is no longer secure, you need to cover the spot where the leak occurs. This will help prevent more water from coming to the inside of your commercial space.

This is a temporary but necessary fix, so your interior space does not suffer damage too.

What Should You Do If You Need a Roof Leak Repair?

Once you realize you have a leak, the damage is likely already done. If you have already covered the spot where there is a leak, you have done your part.

Commercial roofs need experienced roofing contractors to work on them. You do not know how severe the damage is or if the roof is sound for you to be walking on it. You do not want to be on your roof if there's a problem.

Once you recognize you have an issue, it's time to call in the roofing professionals.

Emergency Roofing Services

You need to get a roofing company to come and take a look. Try to use a professional who you have experience with or who comes recommended.

If your roof damage results from a big storm, be wary of storm chasers who go door-to-door looking for rooking work. You do not know anything about their credentials or experience with commercial roofs.

Get a licensed and insured roofing contractor to come and look at your roof, get an estimate, and discuss the work that needs to be done for the repair.

Emergency Commercial Roof Repair When You Need It

An emergency commercial roof repair can feel frustrating. But when you get an experienced contractor on the job, they'll know how to fix it properly to prevent problems down the road.

If you need to have your commercial roof looked at, we can help. Let us take a look at your commercial space and give you an estimate for your roofing needs.

Things To Consider When Picking the Roof for Your Commercial New Construction

The US currently has over 5 million commercial buildings. Most are used as offices, warehousing, educational institutes, and restaurants.

What all these buildings have in common is the need for a sturdy, durable roof.

The roof is a crucial commercial new construction element. It requires careful consideration by the building owner and construction contractor.

Roofs protect the building and its contents from the elements. It also affects the structure's energy efficiency and durability.

Read on to learn what to look for when picking a commercial roof.

Installation Costs

The installation cost is one of the first things to consider when choosing a new roof. While a roof needs to provide the necessary protection, it must also fit into your commercial construction budget.

As you probably expect, different roofing materials have varying price points. For example, asphalt is a popular choice due to its low cost. Metal roofing is more expensive but often has a longer lifespan and requires less maintenance.

When deciding, weigh the upfront installation costs against the long-term cost of ownership.

Environmental Impact

Another factor to consider is the environmental impact of the material you select.

Some new commercial roof materials, such as metal, are more eco-friendly due to their long lifespan and recyclability.

PVC roofing is not as environmentally friendly. It's made from non-renewable resources. It's also challenging to recycle because it contains hazardous compounds.

Is sustainability a priority? Then, choose a roofing material that aligns with your environmental values.

Commercial Roofing Style

In addition to cost and environmental impact, it's also essential to consider the commercial roof style.

Flat roofs are popular for commercial buildings like office towers or medical facilities. Pitched roofs are better suited for businesses that need to look aesthetically pleasing. Think cafes or clothing boutiques.

Some people believe pitched roofs are better suited to snowy climates. But flat roofs can weather a dump of snow just as well.

Aesthetics

Finally, you should also consider the aesthetic appeal of the roof. It is, after all, one of the most prominent visual elements of the building.

Consider the visual impact of the roof on your business. Choosing a commercial roof material that enhances the appearance of the building is vital.

For example, shingles in most materials come in a wide range of colors and styles. Even flat roofs—made of everything from EPDM rubber to BUR—can be color-customized, though most building owners choose black.

Roofing Your Commercial New Construction

Commercial new construction is a pricey endeavor, so it's something you want to get right the first time around.

When choosing your new roof, you must consider everything from installation costs and style to environmental impact and aesthetics. Get all these elements right, and you'll have a durable and aesthetically pleasing commercial building in your portfolio or to operate your business confidently from within.

Signature Exteriors focuses on top-quality construction for commercial properties in the St. Charles area. Owner Jeramie Beechler brings 18 years of experience in construction, real estate, production management, and sales​ to every job.

Take action on your new roof today. Contact our team.

Why and How Often You Should Replace Your Roof?

While the roof is arguably the most important part of the home, it is also often the most overlooked.

Your roof keeps your home safe and dry, protects it from the elements, regulates temperatures, prevents dampness, and upholds the structural integrity of the property. This is why knowing how often to replace roof structures is so important.

With material costs currently skyrocketing, now is the time to budget when you will need a new roof. Read on to find out exactly when to replace your roof. 

How Often to Replace Roof Structures Depends on the Material

When asking, "how long does a roof last?" there is no single answer. It depends entirely on what your roof is made of and when it was built. While other factors play a role, here are the generally-accepted lifespans of different roof materials: 

• Asphalt: 10-20 years

• Wood: 25-30 years

• Slate: up to 100 years

• Cement: 50-100 years

• Wood shakes: 35-40 years

• Steel: 40-50 years

• Aluminum: 40-50 years

• Zinc: up to 100 years

• Copper: up to 100 years

As you can see, there is a huge variation in roof lifespan, depending on the materials used. You might also be able to guess that the materials that last the longest are also much, much more expensive than those that do not last as long.

However, the initial upfront investment will nearly always save you significant time, money, and stress in the long run. One of the benefits of a new roof is that you can make those smart decisions now to save money in the future. 

Other Factors Will Affect Your Roof Lifespan

Of course, it's not solely about the materials you use. There are several other factors that will play a significant role. Chief among these is climate. For example, if you live in an area that is windy or particularly wet, you can expect your roof to not last as long.

The existence of trees or animals around your roof will also play a role and potentially degrade the roofing material more quickly.

In addition, you level and quality of home insulation can have an impact, since poor insulation will make it more likely that destructive moisture will build inside the roof structure. 

How to Extend Your Roof Lifespan

There are a few things you can do to add a few years or even decades to the lifespan of your roof.

All of these involve being proactive. Arranging an annual roof inspection from a professional will allow you to identify problems quickly and resolve them before they get serious.

Repairing or replacing damaged tiles as soon as you notice them will also help, as will cleaning your roof, gutters and siding at least once a year.

Meanwhile, adding high-quality sealant to the correct parts of the roof can also make a big difference. 

Be Proactive and Save Money Today

Some of these chores might seem annoying, but they are a lot less expensive and time-consuming than doing nothing and waiting for the problem to get worse. 

Knowing how often to replace roof parts will push back that full replacement by years or even decades. For this, we are here to help.

To find out how we can keep your roof in tip-top condition now and in the future, do not hesitate to give our friendly and professional team in St. Charles a call. 

Flat Roof vs Sloped Roof for Commercial Properties: The Pros and Cons

It’s no secret that flat roofs look completely different from sloped roofs. 

While roof designs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, flat roofs are far more common for commercial property. However, sloped roofs are the more traditional, better-looking option to consider as well. 

This is why the flat roof vs sloped roof debate is so interesting to look into. The kind of roof you choose can play a major role in the design and look of the entire property, with maintenance also being a factor to keep in mind.

Trying to decide between a flat or sloped roof for your commercial property? You’re in the right place. Here are the pros and cons of each style of roof. 

Flat Roof

If you’re thinking of installing a new roof for your commercial property, flat roofs are a great option. Here are some of the pros and cons of a flat roof installation for your property. 

Flat Roof Pros

One of the most notable pros of installing a flat roof is that they require a lot less material than sloped roofs. This means that the roof is simpler to install and significantly more affordable as well. Flat roofs are also easier to maintain and can be upgraded in a very short span of time.

Flat Roof Cons

While flat roofs are more affordable, they also have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs. They also require regular maintenance as they don’t have a slope to naturally get rid of debris. 

Sloped Roof

Sloped roofs are some of the most popular roofs around the world. While these roofs are popular for residential property, they can also be used to give your commercial property a unique look. Here are some of the pros and cons of installing a sloped roof.

Sloped Roof Pros

Sloped roofs are durable, versatile roofs that are perfect for both residential and commercial property. These roofs have a natural pitch, allowing for rain, snow, and debris to naturally fall off the roof. This makes it a lot easier to maintain throughout the year. 

Sloped Roof Cons

While sloped roofs have their advantages, they are also costly to build. These roofs take a lot longer to construct compared to flat roofs, meaning that your business will need to close its doors for a lot longer during the construction process. 

Flat Roof vs Sloped Roof

As you can see, the flat roof vs sloped roof debate is filled with pros and cons for both kinds of roofs. While sloped roofs may be more pleasing to the eye, they are also more expensive to build and maintain. Flat roofs are quick and easy to install, making them a simpler option for commercial properties.

Whether you decide to build a flat or sloped roof, we’re here to make it happen. If you have any questions or want to know more about how we can help build and maintain your roof, feel free to contact us today.