The surface of a commercial roofing structure

The Secret Ingredients for an Energy-Efficient Roof

How to Maintain an Energy-Efficient Roofing System 

Today, our society continues to lean toward creating an eco-friendlier culture. Everywhere you turn, more and more people are going green and adopting cleaner habits. But don’t expect this to be an easy adjustment. Adapting to this lifestyle is challenging when you’re in an environment that abuses its energy sources. That’s often the case when your roofing system is causing your utilities to work overtime. Fortunately, there are better alternatives that can help you save a fortune in the long term.

With the growing popularity of sustainable building technology, energy-efficient roofing materials are becoming more of a necessity in homes and buildings. In this blog, we’ll identify what those resources are, discuss their importance, and show you the steps to follow so you can create a more resourceful environment. 

The Key Elements of an Energy-Efficient Roof Design

A majority of energy usage stems from the HVAC equipment, and your roofing system is a driving force in how much effort it exerts. But when you construct your building with an energy-efficient roofing model, expect to see a dramatic reduction in usage rates, along with a massive dip in energy bills. The best part is that there are only four steps to follow. 

Here’s how the model works:

Use Sustainable Materials

When it comes to commercial roofing, metal roofs are best for saving energy. The metal material is engineered with a reflective coating, which helps release heat generated from the sun. This takes the pressure off of the air conditioning system and makes it easier to keep colder air circulating throughout the building longer with less effort.

Other notable alternatives include concrete and tile roof layers. These sustainable components provide fantastic insulation, which helps keep comfortable airflow in motion. For best results, it’s wise to purchase lighter colored materials as they will help deflect heat, rather than absorb it. And as a bonus, all of these resources are environmentally friendly products. This means less ecological strain and more savings for your bank account.

Apply a Roof Coating 

A proper roof coating is a cost-effective way to cool down the indoor environment. During the summer, roofs have the tendency to spike up to 150+ degrees Fahrenheit unless they’re protected by a heat-repellent coating. When the surface temperature rises, it transfers radiation into the building. Installing a cool roof reduces the roof temperature by up to 50%. Not only does this thwart overheating and discomfort, but it also prevents heavy energy bills from invading your mailbox once a month.

Maintain Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for prolonging the lifespan of your roofing system. If your roof isn’t properly insulated, expect a less healthy airflow and more mechanical issues to deal with. To put it simply, roofing ventilation helps keep indoor air inside the building, while blocking external air from entering it. This roofing technology directs moisture out of incoming air, thus helping to filter dangerous components out of the oxygen in your building. This prevents your HVAC system from sucking in air that it shouldn’t, which helps keep your environment breathable and at a comfortable temperature.

Install a Skylight 

If you’re looking for a unique way to promote energy efficiency, consider installing a skylight system. Skylights leverage natural lighting, which helps take some responsibility off of your electric equipment. This unconventional light alternative also prevents heat from transmitting into the building. A skylight can block glares from the outside, which helps fend off the invasion of a UV threat. This helps shrink monthly cooling costs and encourages more productive office lighting throughout the building.

Commercial Roofing Done Right

Frederic Roofing has been the gold standard for professional roofing support in St. Louis since 1929. Our experts work tirelessly to help maximize the value out of your building. Whether it’s an installation, repair, or maintenance, we’ll be there to make the project quick and hassle-free. With us, count on a sustainable solution that keeps your energy costs down for years to come. 

Stop wasting your company’s money on unnecessary roof repairs and take advantage of an Energy Star solution that’s built to last. Contact us to get started with your free consultation!

Red metal roofing structure

Types of Roofs on Commercial Buildings—The Big 4

Pros and Cons of Today’s Most Popular Commercial Roofing Materials 

What’s the weather like? Hopefully, you aren’t able to answer that question just by looking up at the ceiling. If you can identify rain, snow, or sunshine from a windowless office, then it’s probably time to test the market for a new roofing system. But what is the best option to consider? 

In this blog, we’ll examine the most widely used types of commercial roofing products and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each solution.  

Primary Commercial Roofing Systems

A quality commercial roofing structure can help solve many problems. Yes, it helps keep your hair dry, but that’s just one of many factors you should be taking into consideration. Before signing up for a service with a roofing contractor, do your homework. You’ll know you’re making the right purchase when you find a solution that’s durable, energy efficient, and flexibly priced.

The following roofing systems can help save your business money, preserve your energy, and keep you safe for many years to come. 

Flat Roofing Systems

A flat roofing system is a superior option if your building is commonly exposed to extreme weather. This commercial building structure can withstand years of heavy winds, hail, and torrential downpours. Flat roofs can easily cover the entire square footage of a commercial facility. As a bonus, these commercial roofing structures are easy to maintain. When examining a flat roof, contractors will have better access to apply routine maintenance on your HVAC equipment. 

Unfortunately, the installation is no easy task. The process requires careful planning and timely labor. If a flat roof is installed incorrectly, be prepared to deal with problems like water drainage and early repairs. If the system isn’t sealed tightly, it becomes easier to puncture through the surface. Before installing the roof, make sure the design meets all building specifications. Review all building codes and make sure the system is constructed out of the highest quality materials.

EPDM Roofing Systems

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) is an extremely durable synthetic roofing membrane. Not only is this material more flexible and stronger than traditional roofing alternatives, but it is usually considerably less expensive. Composed of oil-based and gas material, EPDM is engineered to offset the effects of weathering. It’s easy to install and can be applied to both flat and sloped surfaces. The thick rubber can be laid across a variety of structures in a single strip. And with fewer seams, it won’t erode parts of the roof during the application.

 

EPDM systems should be applied by experienced contractors only. While it’s easy to measure the right layer, it’s also easy to apply incorrectly. If the membrane isn’t attached right, it will expose more of the building’s vulnerabilities. This can shrink the roof deck, chip the paint, and ultimately damage the integrity of the building. 

Shingle Roofing Systems

While shingles are more commonly seen on residential buildings, they often play a pivotal role for commercial properties. Shingles come in numerous materials, most notably asphalt, architectural, slate, plastic, and ceramic forms. They are easy to apply and quick to repair in case a disaster strikes the surface of your building. And since there are plenty of color options, it’s easy to add shingles to boost the curb appeal of the roof. 

The downside is that they come with a shorter lifespan than other commercial roofing alternatives. It’s easier for a violent storm or gust of wind to blow off a layer of shingles than other traditional roofing structures. Finally, shingles are also susceptible to mildew, moss, and a variety of other substances. This might not be the ideal option if your building is located in a shaded area. 

TPO Roofing Systems 

When it comes to commercial roofing, thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) checks every box. This single-ply roofing system acts as a strong barrier against dangerous elements like heat, UV heat, wind, and all forms of precipitation. The flexible metal roofing layer is simple to install, resists mold growth, protects refrigeration, piping, and heating and ventilation equipment. It’s also adjustable to different thermal settings, which can help keep your building warm in colder climates. Finally, the ENERGY STAR model’s white reflective surface cuts down on energy waste, which helps your utility systems run at a more controlled level. It also helps reduce long-term spending on utility bills.

Although TPO has proven to be strong and durable, it is still a young technology. This means that there’s a great amount of room for error. Many manufacturers continue to build out TPO models with failing materials. This degrades the quality of the roofing membrane, which increases the likelihood of product failure. While improvements are constantly being made, it’s impossible to predict how long the system will last. 

Plan a Routine Roof Inspection 

If you’re searching for a cost-effective roofing system that fits your needs, Frederic Roofing has your answer. We take pride in preserving your building and will do whatever it takes to maximize its value. By scheduling a roof inspection with our team, you’ll be able to see where your building is most vulnerable. This allows our experts to do some much-needed damage control, which can help keep your roofing system in optimal condition for years to come.

Contact us today to set up your free roofing inspection and start collecting the energy and cost savings that you deserve!

Prep your building for the temperature decline by practicing the best fall roof maintenance tips

How to Prep Your Commercial Roofing System for Fall and Winter

It won’t be long until summer is in the past, which means it’s time to do some damage control and treat your commercial roofing system with some much-needed TLC. Frederic Roofing is prepared to help prevent wear and tear buildup, but there’s plenty you can do on your own before the professionals step in. 

Winter Is Coming—Is Your Roof Ready?

Ever tried fixing your roof in the dead of winter? It’s much easier to make adjustments when the weather is mild and snow isn’t mounting up on your roof. The best maintenance is preventative maintenance because it gives you enough time to identify issues with your roof before the changing seasons make their presence known. The important part is being diligent about your preparation. Leave no stone (or shingle) unturned so you can confidently say your roof is ready to take on whatever comes its way. We’ve outlined the most important steps home and business owners can take to ensure their roof is in the best shape possible when winter comes.

Residential/Commercial Roof Maintenance Checklist

  1. Clear off debris: Leaves might not weigh a ton, but that doesn’t mean they don’t add pressure on your roof. As the trees start shedding, a collection of leaves can add up quickly. If there isn’t a storm coming, take some time to remove debris from the surface of your roof. Small pieces of dirt, pine needles, and leaves can contain moisture, rot, or mold that can break down the material and cause roof leaks.
  2. Check for early signs of deterioration: Weather doesn’t have to be as catastrophic as a tornado to make an impact on your roof structure. Even small rainstorms or gusts of wind can cause significant deterioration over time. Adhering to a consistent preventative maintenance schedule is the best way to make sure you’re not neglecting any early signs of problems to come. Hold yourself accountable so you can spot an issue before it’s too late.
  3. Clean the gutters: Initially, it might seem negligible, but the slow buildup of leaves and debris in your gutters can pose a series of issues if you’re not taking the time to remove them. Rainwater can cause gutters to overflow, which poses risk for severe damage to your roof, membrane, trim, and siding. A thorough cleaning of your gutters can prevent problems and keep maintenance costs at a lower, more manageable level. Replacing or restructuring an entire gutter can be a costly fix for any building owner.
  4. Inspect the inside of your building: It’s easy to overlook issues in your attic, but truthfully, it’s a hotbed for roofing issues to manifest themselves. If there is light shining through the attic anywhere where your roof should be, it’s imperative that it’s fixed as soon as possible.
  5. Examine specific shingles: Your roof might still look great from afar, but inspecting the shingles individually (as arduous as it sounds) is crucial to ensure the quality of your entire roof. A cohesive, unified roof won’t have any faltering areas that are prone to leaks or damages, but over time their condition can be compromised. Make sure you’re staying in front of the issue before the seasons change because this can easily fend off future problems.

Call the Experts at Frederic Roofing to Whip Your Roof Into Shape 

At Frederic Roofing, we pride ourselves on being more than just an ordinary roofing company. Our team is the gold standard in every aspect of commercial and residential roofing support. We work tirelessly to help you get the best results from your unique setup. When we’re by your side, expect a team of experts to do whatever it takes so you can avoid expensive repairs and replacements. And since summer is coming to a close, it’s the perfect time to prepare for the upcoming temperature changes.

Don’t wait to condition your roof for the upcoming season change. Act now and schedule your free roofing inspection with the best roofing service providers in the St. Louis area. Contact us today!

Prep your building for the temperature decline by practicing the best fall roof maintenance tips

Tips to Prep Your Roof for Fall

Each season brings changes: changes to the climate, the weather, and therefore your roof. Being proactive and preparing your roof for upcoming seasonal changes is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your investment. If you want to get the most out of your roof’s life, properly preparing and performing the following fall roof maintenance checklist items will keep your roof in excellent condition.

Preparing Your Roof for Fall

Preventative maintenance is extremely important, especially in the summer before the upcoming fall season. There are several things you should do in the summer to be proactive before the fall months arrive.

  • Clean Your GuttersThe end of summer and beginning of fall means the leaves changing colors and, of course, falling from the trees. When trees die off at the end of summer, leaves, branches, and other debris can end up in your gutter and clog it. That’s why it’s best to perform annual gutter maintenance in the summer to clean your gutters from anything that may have clogged them earlier in the winter and spring months. Clean gutters will ensure that water doesn’t pool up on your roof and, in turn, will prevent roof leaks.
  • Fix Damaged ShinglesBoth homes and businesses use shingles as a common roofing material. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, it is critical to check for damaged shingles and get them fixed as soon as possible. Shingles protect your roof from wind, rain, and other inclement weather. Checking for damaged or missing shingles will ensure that harsh weather doesn’t do any serious damage to your structure.
  • Check for Water DamageSpring showers and even summer storms can cause more water damage than you might think. Checking for water damage is crucial before fall arrives. Fixing one leak now is better than having to fix several later down the line. Plus, before you know it, winter will be here. Snow buildup on your roof can make leaks even worse and lead to several leaks at once, a headache that no one wants to deal with.

The Importance of Routine Roof Inspections

Roof inspections and maintenance go hand in hand. A huge part of maintaining your roof is routine inspections. A professional roof inspection involves checking for issues and performing repairs as necessary. Inspections are so important because they can help you fix minor issues before they lead to serious roof damage and costly repairs.

Fall Roof Maintenance Tips

Even once fall arrives, it’s best to keep up regular maintenance with your roof. After all, with harsh winter weather right around the corner, you’ll have a whole new checklist of items you’ll need to complete to protect the longevity of your roof.

Roof Upkeep Tips for the Fall

To maintain the pristine condition of your roof during the fall months, there are some routine checklist items that you should make sure you are performing during this time every year:

  • Have your gutters cleaned and unclogged regularly
  • Schedule routine inspections to check for issues and damages
  • Trim back your trees to prevent too much buildup from leaves and branches

For All of Your Roof Maintenance and Replacement Services, Contact Frederic Roofing

Frederic Roofing is a top roofing contractor in St. Louis, Missouri, and we are your go-to source for roof repairs, routine inspections, and complete roof replacements. No matter your unique situation, we can perform a variety of repair and replacement services for both residential and commercial roofs. To learn more or get a free estimate, contact us today.

Plan a yearly review for commercial roofing upkeep

4 Commercial Roofing Yearly Tips

Yearly Commercial Roofing Upkeep

A roof is a big investment for your business, and it’s something you need to protect if you want to avoid costly roof repairs and disastrous problems. Roof repairs can slow your business down and cost you tons of money. Not properly maintaining your roof can have a negative impact on your bottom line and ultimately affect employee productivity and morale. 

Here are five tips to get the most out of your commercial roof and keep it in tip-top condition throughout the year.

Commercial Roofing Maintenance Is a Must

Whether your business is small or large, commercial roof maintenance is an absolute must. If you are thinking long term for your building and your roof, it’s smart to have a maintenance plan in place with a roofing contractor. 

A roof maintenance program typically involves a team of roofing specialists performing regular inspections. A roof inspection program will involve inspecting and repairing any damages to extend the life of your roof and to prevent minor problems from becoming larger issues.

You can expect the following from a commercial roofing inspection:

  • Interior inspection to check for water intrusion
  • Exterior inspection to check for damage to your roof’s surface
  • The contractor will provide a repair estimate

Communicate With Your Roofing Contractor Often

Having a good relationship with a roofing contractor is key. Whether you need a repair or complete replacement, your roofing partner should know exactly what to expect. They should know everything about your existing roof system so that they can quickly estimate how long a job will take and how much it will cost. This makes repairs and replacements much easier to deal with.

Know Your Warranty

When you get a new roof—whether it’s a flat metal roof, TPO, shingle, or rubber/EPDM—make sure to get your warranty in writing and that you fully understand it. Roofing warranties typically cover a lot, and knowing what your warranty covers is extremely important later down the line and could save you from having to deal with additional problems.

Consider Roof Restoration

Roof restoration is something to seriously consider before you replace your entire roof. Restoration is an alternative to repair or replacement. It allows you to get more life from your existing roof when it is still in fairly good shape. By choosing this cost-effective option, you may even be able to reap tax incentives among several other benefits.

Plan Ahead and Prepare for Seasonal Changes

Something important to keep in mind throughout the year is that you always want to be preparing for the season ahead of you. When it comes to your roof, taking proactive measures will save you in the long run if you perform the appropriate checklist items. Make sure you are prepping your commercial roof ahead of time for summer, fall, winter, and spring. Depending on what season you are prepping for, this could mean cleaning the gutters, checking for water damage, or repairing any leaks.

Get the Most out of Your Commercial Roof—Call Frederic Roofing

Proper roof maintenance is important, which is why it is even more important to find a trusted partner to rely on. Frederic Roofing is an experienced roofing contractor in the St. Louis area, and we are proud to offer our many commercial clients a variety of roofing services. 

If you are a facility manager or building owner who is interested in a partnership with Frederic Roofing, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Frederic Roofing today for more information!

Review your roofing buyers guide before putting money down

Roofing Buyers Guide

Are you a business owner or a homeowner looking into buying a new roof? The decision can seem overwhelming. There are many types of roofs to choose from, and it’s hard to know which one is best for you without roof advice from an expert. This buyers’ guide will help you make the best decision for your new roof.

Things to Consider

It’s important to assess your current situation before deciding what roofing material is right for you. What is most important to you in a roof? What does your current building structure look like? 

Here are just a few of the things you should consider:

  • How extreme is the weather where you live? This could dictate how much of a barrier you’ll want.
  • Is the top of your building flat or sloped? This will impact what type of roof you get. 
  • What appearance are you going for? Modern? Colonial? Or are you looking for certain colors? This could also influence the type of roof you decide on.

Choosing the Right Roof: Common Roof Types

Before you choose a roof for your home or building, you should familiarize yourself with all of the common types of roof materials. The more you know about each type of roof and what the purpose of each kind is, the more informed your decision will be. Here are five common roof types and the materials they are made with.

Shingles for Low Slope Roofs

Shingles work great for steep slope or low slope roofs on buildings or homes. They are aesthetically pleasing and are an excellent value. Although minor repairs may be needed throughout the years (given the roof is properly maintained), shingles can last for 30 to 50 years before needing to be completely replaced.

There are many different types of shingles, including the following:

EPDM/Rubber for Flat Roofs

Ethylene propylene diene terpolymer (EPDM) is an extremely durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane that is widely used across the nation for flat roof systems. 

Advantages include:

  • Highly durable
  • Cost effective
  • Low maintenance
  • Several thickness options
  • Energy efficiency

TPO Roofing―Strong and Durable

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) roofing solutions offer excellent benefits to both homeowners and businesses. TPO can withstand the test of time and acts as a strong barrier against all weather elements. It is also resistant to heat and UV rays.

Additional benefits of TPO roofing including:

  • Low cost (great for large buildings that cover a large area)
  • Reliable durability; membranes resist mold, impacts, and punctures
  • Simple, high-quality, quick installation
  • Exceptional energy efficiency; reduce costs
  • Environmental sustainability; go green!

Metal Roofing for Extreme Weather

Metal is typically sold in large panels or smaller sections that resemble shingles, tile, or slate roof material. Metal is resistant to fire, insects, rot, and mildew. This is a popular option if heavy snow occurs where you live. If snow causes problems with your roof year after year, a metal roof may be the solution. It can be noisy during rain or hail, however. Depending on the location and type of facility where it’s installed, it could be the perfect roof system.

Roofing Tiles

Tile roofing has become more popular, customizable, and durable over the years. It’s especially popular in areas where it gets very hot and humid during certain times of the year. Benefits of tile roofing include the following:

  • Leak proof
  • Low maintenance
  • Customizable (sizes, colors, and shapes)
  • Durability

For Expert Guidance When Buying a Roof, Call Frederic Roofing

If you need further guidance and advice on what type of roof you should install for your home or business, consult with the experts at Frederic Roofing. We are professional roofing contractors in the St. Louis area with more than 30 years of experience. We have the ability to install completely new roofing systems, perform roofing repair, and more. 

To learn more or get a free estimate for your project, contact us today.

Maximize the value of your building by practicing proper summer roofing tips

Summer Roofing Tips: Prepping Your Roof for Summer

Tips for Maintaining Your Roof in the Summer

Proper maintenance and frequent inspections are important for any roof. If you want to get the most out of your roof’s life and ensure its longevity, it’s important to know the appropriate actions that need to be taken during every season. For summer in particular, proactive measures are extremely important. Taking action in the spring months is just as important as the maintenance items you’ll complete during the summer months.

Whether you are a business or a homeowner who is actively looking to protect the life of your roof, a roofing contractor can help you keep your roof in good shape during the summer months.

Commercial Roof Maintenance Tips

To keep your business running at optimal efficiency, it is important that nothing disrupts your or your employees’ day. If you pay little to no attention to your roof, catastrophic problems can occur. You won’t only sacrifice productivity, but costly repairs can impact your bottom line. 

Here’s how to protect the life of your roof during the summer and all other times of the year.

Roof Upkeep Tips for Businesses in the Summer

  • Unclog the Drains―Much like homes, businesses have a gutter system too, and it’s important to keep them clean and unclogged. There is a high possibility that leaves, branches, and nests will get clogged in your drain throughout the year. Clogged drains mean more water on your roof.
    • Look for Damages―Your roof is exposed to bad weather and the elements all year long. If you don’t take care of these issues in the summer when the weather is fairly consistent day to day, the damages can turn into huge problems later on. You may even have to have an entire roof replacement. Get the most out of your roof’s life by checking for issues and taking care of them early on.
  • Maintain Your Roof―Whether your business has a flat, rubber/EPDM, shingle, or TPO roof, you’ll always need maintenance. Depending on the type of roof you have, different checklist items will be important. An expert can help with this.

Residential Roof Maintenance Tips

As a homeowner, you want to keep every aspect of your home in good condition. After all, a home is one of the biggest investments you can make. That’s why proper home maintenance is so important during all types of the year, and summer is no exception. 

Here is what you should do in the summer to ensure the longevity of your roof and keep it in good condition during winter, spring, and fall as well.

Roof Upkeep Tips for Homeowners in the Summer

  • Gutter MaintenanceShow some love to your gutters and downspouts during the summer months. Annual gutter maintenance should entail cleaning your gutters and checking for clogs, blockages, and any damages. If gutters are clogged, water can puddle on your roof and seep into your home or attic, causing mold or mildew and eventually deterioration.
  • Show Shingles Some Attention―It’s important to check your roof for cracking or missing shingles or tiles. Shingles protect your home against wind, rain, and other elements that can cause damage. A professional roofing company can check your roof for loose, torn, or broken shingles that could break off during harsh weather. Taking care of this problem early will save you, as water damage can be costly later down the line.
  • Check for Roof Damage―The harsh weather during the winter months or the storms during the spring can do serious damage to your roof that you may not even know about. If this is the case, it’s important to contact a professional who can perform roof repair for any roof leaks, damaged shingles, or other issues. Whether you need to repair or replace your roof, summer is a great time to do it to ensure that no further damage is done throughout the rest of the year.

Let the Experts at Frederic Roofing Be Your Dedicated Roofing Company

For summer roof maintenance and high-quality roofing services all year round, the professionals at Frederic Roofing have you covered. We can perform a wide variety of maintenance tasks for all types of residential and commercial roofs. For questions or to receive a free estimate, contact us today.

Winter Roof Maintenance Tips

The winter months in St. Louis can be brutal and unpredictable. Here are two major maintenance tasks you can do to keep your home protected all season long.

Even with regular maintenance, the winter months can take a toll on your roof. The very thing that your roof is designed to keep out, ice and moisture, is it’s own worst enemy.

Prevent Ice Dams

Your gutters are a critical part of your roof. They collect water and direct it away from your home, which is important because otherwise, water runoff will go down your siding and into the foundation. This combination of moisture and cold can cause damage to your foundation and other parts of your home if left unchecked.

Ice dams are buildups of ice when your gutters aren’t clearing the water from the roof quick enough. Water from the roof refreezes in the gutters creating a rim of ice that blocks runoff from the roof. The damage doesn’t come from the ice itself but from the water that pools behind the ice and therefore has nowhere to go but under the shingles, through the roof, and onto your ceilings. There are two ways you can prevent ice dams:

Clean your gutters before winter – When your gutters can’t clear water quick enough because of leaves or sticks blocking your downspouts, this is a prime reason why ice dams build up. This is obviously something that needs to be done before it gets brutally cold, but you might find you need to clear them when it is cold.

Make sure you have a cold roof – Your attic is meant to be cold, and heat that escaped into the attic can form warm spots on your roof that melts snow and ice where it runs down to the rim of your roof which is colder and refreezes. Proper insulation has two functions, to keep warm air in your living spaces and out of your attic which keeps the roof surface cold.

Look for Loose or Damaged Shingles

Ice, snow, and blowing wind can wreak havoc on your shingles. Depending on the angle, wind can get under your shingles and loosen them, or blow them off the roof altogether. After a snowstorm or a prolonged period of cold weather, do a visual inspection of your roof from the ground to see if you can spot any shingles that are damaged or missing. If you do see any, you should check the attic for leaks as well.

Call Frederic Roofing

While you can do a quick inspection from the ground, the best way to make sure your roof is in good repair and that your gutters are clear of obstructions is to get on your roof for a closer look. This is where calling Frederic Roofing can really pay off. Not only can we give your roof a close-up inspection, but our professionals can spot other pot

5 Things Contractors Wish Customers Knew About Roofs

When you hire a roofing company, you are hiring them to solve an issue, whether you need routine roofing maintenance, want to schedule an inspection, or if you need an entire roof replacement. But just because the company is doing the physical work, doesn’t free the building owner from doing their own homework. Knowing the company you hire will go a long way to making sure your partnership with them will go smoothly.

If you are looking to get some important roofing work done, here are some things you can do to make sure the contractor you hire is the right fit.

See Completed Work In-person

Roofing contractors may show you photos of completed work, but there are a few issues with this practice. First of all, the photos were most likely taken right after the work is done. Everything looks great when they are shiny and new, but when you go see work in-person, you can see how the work will age. Shoddy work will be much more obvious when the wear and tear of weather has a few months or years to work on the roof.

Know What You Want to Get Out of the Partnership

You’re not expected to know the small details of roofing, but when you have an idea of the materials you want or the final look you are going after, it makes the whole roof replacement process that much easier. Know what you want to have at the end of the project and trust the contractor to get you there.

Choose a Contractor by the Quality of Their Work

If the price is the sole determinant of your choice of a roofing contractor, then chances are, you will be disappointed with their work. Most contractors are proud of the most recent work they have done, or they should be. Look for a contractor that has done lots of work in your area and visit it in-person to see if it is good quality.

Understand That Things Can Go Wrong

Newer homes and buildings may not have hidden issues, but if your roof is older there may be issues with the structure underneath. Good contractors will do a thorough inspection before they do any other work. From this inspection, they should go over any potential issues with you and once they start removing old shingles, these issues can arise.

Communicate With the Contractor

If you are unhappy with the way things are going, the first thing you should do is speak to the contractor. Venting your frustration at workers for issues is really not the way to get things addressed. The contractor is the person to speak to if the staff is underperforming, or if you believe there was a misunderstanding about what you expected from the project.

Frederic Roofing Has the Experience and Knowledge to Get the Job Done Right

We are proud to be one of the most well-known and versatile roofing companies in the St. Louis area. Our long-time reputation for providing exceptional customer service has led us to a legacy of excellence. If you are looking for a contractor to handle any roofing issue or replacement, give us a call today for a free estimate. Call us today, we look forward to adding you to our long list of satisfied customers.

Understanding the Differences Between Low-slope Roof Membranes

Any roof that is nearly flat is called a low-slope roof. This means it has a slope of less than 3 in 12, which means that for every horizontal foot, the roof level rises by 3 inches. They are commonly found on warehouses and commercial buildings that don’t have or need any attic space.

Unlike pitched roofs that use gravity to remove water, a flat roof requires a waterproof surface to protect the roof decking underneath from getting saturated with moisture that would damage the roof structure. The modern solution is to install sheets of impermeable membranes to protect all roof surfaces.

These membranes need to be tough to withstand pools of standing water, heavy wind, freezing and thawing cycles, UV radiation from the sun, expansion and contraction and still remain watertight. It is important that these membranes are installed correctly so that there are no weak spots or seams that can let in moisture.

EPDM Roof Membranes

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer is a single-ply rubber-based membrane that has been around for more than four decades. Its main benefits are its resistance to wind and hail and other damaging impacts, making EPDM roofs a popular choice in areas that get a lot of rain. They are mechanically attached and can last from 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance. An issue with this material is it is only available in black, which means it retains heat from sunlight.

TPO Roof Membranes

Thermoplastic Olefin roofing membranes were designed to be energy efficient and effective protection, without the drawbacks of EPDM and other roof membrane systems. This system is also single ply and is chemically installed in sheets. It is available mostly in white but can come in grey or even customized colors. TPO is economical, durable, UV resistant, and easy to install. It’s not known how long TPO will last, as the material is relatively new and has only been installed on buildings in the last 20 years. Also, TPO tends to weather quicker when exposed to high heat for prolonged periods of time.

Built-up Roof Systems

Traditionally, this was done by tar and gravel built-up roofing systems that combined layers of asphalt and coatings to provide protection, but these systems tend to be heavy and are costly to install and maintain. Surfacings of a built-up roof usually include aggregate, which is gravel or mineral granules, aluminum coatings, or hot asphalt. This tends to add a lot of weight to the roof, which means there needs to be adequate roofing structure underneath.

The Frederic Roofing Advantage

We have serviced and installed low slope and flat roofs in the St. Louis area for a very long time. Put our expertise and experience to the test. If you have a hole in your low slope roof or if you need a whole new roof, call Frederic Roofing.