The Complete Guide to Choosing Materials for HOA Sloped Roofs

When it comes to homeowners associations (HOAs), selecting the right roofing materials for sloped roofs is paramount to not only maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the community but also ensuring long-term durability and efficiency. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the vast array of options available, focusing on key considerations such as climate compatibility, durability, aesthetic value, and cost-effectiveness.

Understanding Your Options

Asphalt Shingles

Durability and Cost: Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material due to their cost-effectiveness and reasonable durability. They typically last 20 to 30 years and offer a wide range of colors and styles.

Climate Suitability: Ideal for a variety of climates, but especially effective in areas with fluctuating temperatures. However, they may be prone to damage in high wind areas unless specifically designed for such conditions.

Metal Roofing

Durability and Cost: Metal roofs boast a lifespan of 40 to 70 years, depending on the material. They are more expensive upfront but provide significant long-term savings due to their durability and energy efficiency.

Climate Suitability: Excellent for all climates, particularly effective in areas prone to heavy snowfall, as the snow easily slides off metal surfaces, reducing the risk of accumulation and potential damage.

Tile Roofing (Clay and Concrete)

Durability and Cost: Tile roofs are among the most durable, lasting over 50 years. Clay tiles offer a traditional look but at a higher cost, while concrete tiles are more affordable and versatile.

Climate Suitability: Tiles are ideal for hot climates or areas with salt air; their thermal properties help keep homes cooler. However, their weight requires a robust roofing structure, especially for clay tiles.

Slate Roofing

Durability and Cost: Slate is the pinnacle of roofing materials in terms of longevity and aesthetics, with a lifespan of over 100 years. It's also the most expensive, requiring professional installation and a strong structural support due to its weight.

Climate Suitability: Slate works well in all climates, offering excellent resistance to extreme weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain, and snow.

Considerations for HOA Communities

Aesthetics and Uniformity

For HOAs, maintaining a cohesive look throughout the community is crucial. When choosing a roofing material, consider the architectural style of the homes and the existing roofs in the area to ensure consistency.

Budget and Long-Term Planning

While initial costs are a significant consideration, HOAs should also factor in long-term maintenance, repair costs, and potential energy savings. Metal and slate roofs, for example, while more expensive upfront, may offer savings over time due to their longevity and energy efficiency.

Climate Adaptability

Selecting a material that is suited to your local climate can reduce maintenance issues and extend the roof's lifespan. For instance, metal roofing is preferable in snowy regions, while tile roofing is better suited for hot, sunny climates.

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient roofing materials can lead to significant savings on heating and cooling costs. Materials like metal roofing reflect sunlight and heat away from the building, reducing the need for air conditioning in warmer months.

Take the Next Step with Signature Exteriors

Ready to elevate the look and durability of your property's roof? Signature Exteriors is here to guide you through the selection and installation of the perfect roofing materials for both commercial and residential projects. Contact us today to ensure your roofing project is in expert hands, and let us help you make the best decision for your community's needs.

3 Signs It's Time for a Commercial Roof Replacement

Walking into your place of work only to find a puddle on the floor or discoloration in the walls is never a good feeling. Not only will you need to handle the leak that day, but it could be disaster if left unrepaired for too long.

So, do you know how to recognize when you might need to do something about it before those first drops hit the business floor?

Read on to discover three ways to find out if you need a commercial roof replacement before things worsen.

1. The Roof Leaks

This might be the most obvious one. If you are starting to get water coming through, and you can be sure it is not the pipes, you are likely to need a repair somewhere. If this happens a lot, it may be cheaper to replace the whole thing rather than continue to make repairs.

Signs of a leaking roof might include:

• Water dripping from the roof

• Water staining on ceilings and walls

• Mold growing on the walls

Not dealing with this issue fast can lead to issues such as further structural damage or health issues from mold and mildew. As such, ensure you act fast and call in a professional to inspect the roof and assess the situation.

2. The Building Is Old

Many types of commercial roofs have been around for a long time and will be close to needing replacement. While you might feel confident if you have tile or slate overhead, eventually even these materials start to show their age.

If there is a sudden storm or other extreme weather, an older roof is often even more vulnerable to further damage, too.

Replacing the roof will not only refresh the time until you need further repairs, but a roofer will also construct it to modern standards. The materials, structure, and adhesives used will thus last longer than your old roof.

3. You Notice Cracks or Other Damage

You should make sure to inspect the roof for your commercial building now and then. This not only means looking at the surface but also the support structure underneath. You will want to see if you notice any of the following:

• Cracks or tears in the roofing material

• Bubbles in a flat roof membrane

• Water damage or pooling after rain

• Brittle or warped roofing material

• Rust or corrosion in the roof structure

• Deformation or sagging

If these occur, you need to decide whether to repair vs replace the roof. If the issue is more severe, then try speaking to a professional. They will let you know if getting a new commercial roof will be the safest precaution.

Finding a Commercial Roof Replacement Expert

Ensuring you keep your building in good condition can mean the difference between paying a little now and paying a lot later. You do not want your whole business to come crashing down, literally.

Here at Saint Charles Roofing, we want to offer you the best-quality commercial roof replacement you can afford. No matter whether your roof is flat, sloped, metal, or any other material, we can get it up-to-date so that will stand the test of time.

So, call us now to book an appointment and learn what we can do for you.

The True Value in Installing Commercial Gutters

In the world of commercial properties, some crucial structural elements quietly work behind the scenes to protect your investments. Among these unsung heroes, commercial gutters take center stage. These modest components play an essential role in directing rainwater away from your commercial structure, ensuring its long-term durability and functionality. In this article, we will explore the genuine value of installing commercial gutters for your commercial property and investments.

Why Commercial Gutters Matter

Protecting Your Commercial Investment

Your commercial property represents a substantial investment, and its longevity is of utmost importance. Commercial gutters serve as the first line of defense against water-related damage. By efficiently diverting rainwater away from your building's foundation, they safeguard your property from costly foundation issues and structural damage. The true value lies in preserving your commercial investment for the long haul.

Preventing Structural Damage

Water infiltration can ruin building's structure, leading to issues like mold growth, rot, and compromised integrity. Commercial gutters, when expertly installed and well-maintained, act as a barrier against water infiltration. This proactive measure not only protects your building but also ensures a secure and healthy indoor environment.

The Benefits of Commercial Gutters

Preserving Structural Integrity

For commercial property owners, maintaining the structural integrity of the building is most important. Commercial gutters play a critical role in this regard. They shield your building's foundation, exterior walls, and roof, guaranteeing that your commercial property remains a safe and operational space for your business.

Compliance with Local Regulations

Many commercial properties must follow local building regulations, which often include terms for proper water drainage. The installation of commercial gutters helps your business remain compliant with these regulations, averting potential legal complications.

Selecting the Right Commercial Gutters

Materials and Durability

Choosing the appropriate material for your commercial gutters is essential. Options encompass aluminum, copper, steel, and vinyl. Each material has distinct advantages, and your selection should align with your specific needs and budget.

Size and Capacity

Commercial gutters come in various sizes and capacities. The size you choose should be based on the expected volume of water your commercial property will handle. This ensures efficient water drainage during heavy rainfall.

The Importance of Commercial Gutter Cleaning

Regular commercial gutter cleaning is vital to prevent water damage, maintain the integrity of the roof and structure, and avoid mold growth. Neglected gutters can also lead to ice dams in winter, potentially causing further damage. Proper maintenance ensures that commercial gutters function effectively and protect the property.

Invest in Your Commercial Property with Commercial Gutters

The true value of installing commercial gutters is endless when it comes to safeguarding your commercial property. These important components provide protection against water damage, uphold structural integrity, and ensure compliance with local regulations.

At Signature Interiors, we specialize in expert commercial gutter installations that secure the future of your property. Don't wait for water damage to become a costly concern—invest wisely. Contact us today to discuss your gutter installation needs and safeguard your commercial property's future.

3 Commercial Roof Types Explained: Pros and Cons

Did you know that nearly 20% of St. Louis office spaces remain vacant? Many of these structures require renovations. The most effective approach to enticing businesses is by ensuring your commercial building maintains a fresh appeal.

Do you need a new commercial roof, for instance? There are various types of roofs to choose from. Each option has its specific advantages and disadvantages.

Keep reading to learn about the three most common commercial roof types.

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR)

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) is a traditional and time-tested commercial roof. It consists of multiple layers of asphalt and felt or other reinforcing materials.

Pros

BUR roofs have a long lifespan and can even resist high winds and extreme temperatures.

The initial installation cost of a BUR roof is often lower than other commercial roofs. This fact makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious building owners.

With multiple layers and asphalt coatings, BUR roofs provide effective waterproofing.

Cons

Due to the multiple layers, BUR roofs are heavy. Some buildings might need additional structural support. This will be added to the expense list.

The installation process can be time-consuming compared to other roof options. You may experience potential disruptions to your business during installation.

During installation, BUR roofs can produce strong odors and fumes that might be unpleasant for building occupants.

2. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing

EPDM roofing is a synthetic rubber membrane. It's most often used in commercial flat roofs.

Pros

EPDM roofing is one of the most cost-effective types of roofs. It's a wise choice for large buildings with expansive roofs.

Once installed, EPDM roofs require minimal maintenance. This means you'll save time and money on repairs and upkeep.

EPDM roofing can adapt to temperature fluctuations and building movements. You'll enjoy a lower risk of cracks and leaks.

Cons

These roofs can be susceptible to punctures from sharp objects or falling debris.

EPDM roofing is available mainly in black or dark-colored membranes. These choices may be less attractive to some building owners.

Compared to other commercial roofing options, the lifespan of EPDM roofs may be shorter. This means a sooner roof replacement could be needed.

3. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing

TPO roofing boasts a single-ply membrane. It features a modern blend of plastic and rubber.

Pros

TPO roofing reflects sunlight and heat. This benefit can lower cooling costs.

TPO is recyclable, making it an eco-friendly option.

This type of roofing is relatively easy and quick to install. That way, you'll have shorter business interruptions, if any.

Cons

TPO roofs can be more prone to tears and punctures.

TPO roofing can react negatively to certain chemicals. It's crucial to ensure compatibility with rooftop equipment and maintenance materials.

You Can Choose the Best Commercial Roof Types

These three commercial roof types have the potential to meet your needs.

Signature Exteriors can not only meet your needs but also exceed your expectations. We offer comprehensive solutions, including roof maintenance, solar investments, and emergency services.

Send us a request. We're happy to serve you as soon as possible.

How to Repair Holes in Vinyl Siding

In the first half of 2023, the U.S. experienced nine significant weather/climate disasters that caused damage and losses of more than $1 billion. That's not counting the many smaller storms and weather events, and the millions in damage that those cause.

When high winds, hail, and heavy rain strike, the exterior of your home is always at risk of suffering damage. One common impact of storms on the exterior of the home is damage to the siding.

Vinyl siding is susceptible to damage from wind, falling tree branches, hail, and more. An errant baseball or even a lawnmower colliding with the side of your home can also lead to damage. If you notice a hole in your siding, you might wonder whether you can repair it yourself, or whether you need to call in professionals.

Keep reading to learn how to repair holes in vinyl siding, and when it's best to call in the experts.

How to Repair Holes in Vinyl Siding

Whether or not you can repair holes in your vinyl siding on your own largely depends on the size of the hole.

Fixing Small Holes

A very small hole in your siding can be repaired using paintable or tinted caulk. Simply apply the caulk to the hole, following the package's directions. Smooth the caulk until it's flush with the surface of the siding.

For a polished final look, paint the caulk to match your siding once it has dried.

Repairing Medium-Sized Holes

For medium-sized holes, you'll need to remove the affected vinyl siding parts. You can do this using a siding zip tool. After removing the piece of siding, apply foil tape to the back of the hole. Then, place the siding back in place on your home.

Now, you can use caulk to patch the hole, smoothing it until it is flush. After it has dried, you can then paint the caulk to match your home.

What to Do About Larger Holes

Larger holes are the most difficult to repair. In most cases, you'll need to replace the piece of affected siding.

If you have several large holes, don't have replacement pieces, or if your siding is past its prime, replacing your home's siding might be the best option. While installing vinyl siding is an investment, it can help protect your home from further damage caused by leaving holes exposed.

In some cases, the cost for a larger repair or replacement could be covered in part or full by your insurance company. This may be the case if your siding is newer and was damaged by a storm.

Repair and Replace Vinyl Siding

Learning how to repair holes in vinyl siding can allow you to quickly repair damage after a storm or other incident. Using a vinyl siding repair kit can save you from having to call in the pros for every little puncture mark.

However, if your siding has multiple holes or if the holes are too large to easily repair on your own, you'll want to call for help right away. Leaving holes in your home's siding can let water get in, and eventually cause damage to the walls of your home. This can add up to major repair costs down the road.

When you compare the cost of vinyl siding with the cost of replacing or repairing water-damaged walls, repairing your vinyl siding wins every time.

If your vinyl siding has holes or other damage, the experts at Signature Exteriors can help. Contact us today to schedule your repair.

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.