Archive for September, 2011
Roof Tiles
Clay roofing tiles date back 5,000 years ago to China. Tile roofs are fireproof as well as long lasting and beautiful. Clay tile roofs have long been the standard of attractive, durable and heavy roofs, especially currently in the southwest.
Gaining popularity are concrete tiles developed and mass produced in Europe in the early 1900’s. The tiles are fireproof, immune to rotting, termite and rodent damage. Concrete tiles resist weathering of all types and grow stronger with age. Concrete tiles can be installed up to 40% faster than traditional clay tiles.
Concrete tiles are a couple hundred pounds lighter per square foot than clay tiles. Clay tiles also become heavier when they are wet. Concrete tiles cost less than clay, shakes and some metal roofing materials. Concrete tiles come in many shapes and colors. The concrete tiles are molded with a ridge on the back that hooks over sheathings making installation easier than traditional clay tiles.
A new roof built to code can easily handle the weight of tiles. Clay tiles are usually over 1,000 pounds per square, while concrete tiles are in the range of 750-900 pounds per square. If you are putting a new tile roof on your home, you may need to add some additional framing or joists for the extra weight. Your roofer, contractor or tile distributor can help you evaluate your needs.
Roofing Help For Business Owners
After Hurricane Irene, many business owners are returning to their businesses to survey the damage left behind. Many businesses will have severe roof damage caused by flying debris and high winds; while others may need to replace a roof that collapsed during the storm. For business owners, roof repair costs can easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars.
Commercial roofs pose unique challenges when it comes to weather resistance and preventative maintenance. As storms such as Irene approach, many businesses board up windows and doors to keep out the rain. Unfortunately, many businesses forget about protecting their roof from the elements.
Checking Your Roof, Saving Your Business
As a business owner it is your responsibility to make sure your roof is properly maintained, especially before a large storm. There are a few ways to ensure your roof is maintained and you are prepared before any major weather event.
Have your roof inspected. Roofs should be inspected by a professional roof contractor at least once a year. If a weather event is predicted, have a roofer inspect your roof for damage and carry out any necessary repairs. Get a copy of the inspection report, which you may need to provide to the insurance company if any claim is filed after the storm.
Contact your insurance company. It is always a good idea to know what is and is not covered under your insurance policy at all times. Ask if they have any preventative maintenance clauses, which may exclude certain damages from your claim.
Document the evidence. Filing an insurance claim for damages can be a tedious process. Having all of your documentation about your roof can expedite the process. Take before and after pictures of the roof to send in along with your claim. Make sure you have any inspection, both before and after, the storm included in your claim.
