Owning a commercial building takes a great deal of work and dedication. Upkeep and regular maintenance on the building needs to be a line item on your yearly to-do list. You must keep your property in tip-top shape for the safety of all those involved. Perhaps you own an apartment complex or assisted living facility and must ensure the safety of the building for your residents who place their trust in you. Perhaps you own a shopping center or warehouse. The stores inside depend on you for helping to keep their products safe. The pressure can be great when owning a commercial property.
One thing to consider, which should be of top priority, is the quality of your roofing system. The roof keeps out the weather elements, ensures quality air temperature indoors, and can also assist with lowering monthly energy bills. Here are some ways to keep your roof healthy and strong for years to come.
Protect Against Leaks
Inspecting your roof for leaks is vitally important and should be done regularly. If caught early, sealants can fill in any gaps, holes, or damaged areas before more complications can occur. This liquid compound can seep into the deepest of crevices, sealing them up and strengthening the bond. Unfortunately, if not addressed promptly, and the damaged area has become too large, there could be other issues that need to be addressed.
Debris Removal
Cleaning out the roof drains, or gutters and downspouts, can help extend the life of your whole roofing system. When debris clogs the system, water can not be eliminated from the roof, and can therefore pool in undesired areas. After cleaning the system, make sure the water flows freely. Look for loose bolts and screws on gutters, and examine sealants and flashings for the drains.
Fix and Repair Quickly
Leaks on a roof can lead to significant damage to the interior of your building, resulting in costly repairs. As soon as you notice a leak or a soft spot, take immediate action to have it repaired. If you have concerns about how to repair a commercial roof, be sure to contact Shull Remodeling in Salina to diagnose the problem and properly fix it.
Keep the Roof Clear
Depending on where the building is located, and the height of the building, there may be trees nearby dropping the occasional broken branch or limb. Also, in the autumn of the year, leaves may collect on the rooftop. It is imperative to keep your roof clear of excess leaves, pine needles, and limbs. If the building owner chooses not to clear off the roof regularly, pools of water can collect in these areas causing potential future damage to the roofing material.
Proper Ventilation
Ventilation throughout your building is essential in keeping the roof healthy. Consider these questions when it comes to ventilation:
Does the roof deck have proper ventilation?
Does the deck sag?
Are there cracks in the wood rafters and supports?
Can you see light streaming in from the exterior?
Does the air smell musty or pleasant?
Do you see areas of mold or mildew on the surface?
Owning a commercial building does have many rewards. However, there is a great deal of work that goes into securing a safe building. Business owners can follow these simple roof maintenance tips to keep their roofs healthy for years to come. Call Shull Remodeling in Salina to assist with regular inspections and let’s work together to keep your business moving forward!
The longer days of springtime are almost upon us. Emporia weather turns from chilly cold wintery days to comfortable temperatures of the 70s and 80s in spring. The short sleeves and shorts can come out while the coats and hats get packed away. Spring is a time to mow the grass, plant some flowers, and open the windows to let the fresh air in. It is also a time to access the exterior of a home for any damages that need to be addressed. What are some common things to look for when inspecting your roof every spring?
Curled Shingles
Shingles can warp and split due to cold temperatures, especially on the edges of a roof. Also look for areas of shingle loss, bent edges, or buckling of the shingles. An annual inspection is a perfect time to also evaluate the edges of your roof to make sure they are prepared for the upcoming year.
Clean the Gutters
Believe it or not, the gutter system plays a vital role in a healthy roof. Inspect the condition of the gutters when you look at the roof. If there is any debris buildup in the gutter system, this is a perfect time to clean them out and make sure water flows freely. The spring rains will be upon the rooftops soon, and there needs to be a place for all of that water to flow to. (Learn why you need gutter guards.)
If you don’t have gutters guards, perhaps it is wise to consider investing in some. Gutter guards are a mesh or screen used to keep large substances out of the gutter system. Small debris and particles can still filter through, but no more pine needles, nests, or piles of leaves.
Pests Issues
This beautifully leads to our next point, pests. Those little critters are adorable in nature, but certainly not when they raise their families in or on a roof! Those small animals come out of hibernation in the spring and are ready for food and creating nests. A gutter is a perfect shape to build a small nest and many animals begin there. Look for evidence of squirrels, mice, ants, raccoons, or birds making their little home on your home.
Failed Sealants
Many roofing materials contract and expand slightly due to the changes in seasons. Sealants should be inspected to make sure they can withstand another warm season. Sealants surround the rooftop flashing and protecting it from water sneaking and damaging the surfaces underneath. Many times it is hard for the homeowner to determine if the sealants are still strong enough to protect. This is an excellent opportunity to contact a roof professional in Emporia who can detect the quality of the sealant.
Damage from Trapped Moisture
Were you able to do a fall inspection in preparation for winter? Many times, we forget about that one! There may be a pile of old leaves and pine needles nestled in a corner holding in moisture. That is a sign there could be potential damage underneath. The moisture along with added rainstorms may not allow this area of a roof to fully dry out. Make sure to remove the wet, damp areas before the critters find them.
A thorough inspection in the spring will prepare your roof for an enjoyable summer ahead. This is a perfect time to address any issues and make sure all is sound and secure. If you have any questions or concerns about the inspection and evaluation of your roof, please do not hesitate to contact Shull Construction in Emporia.
We have had members of our crew work for us since 2002! We have seen it all and worked on it all when it comes to all things roofing. We maintain the highest standards on your property and the materials we use are top-of-the-line. We are true roofers and true neighbors! We cherish the communities we work in and treat all of our customers as if we are family. Contact us today and let’s set up that inspection to make sure your roof is prepared for another season.
Areas of Kansas were devasted Wednesday, April 19, 2023, as a massive storm canvassed the area with quarter-sized hail up to ping-pong and teacup-sized hail. The damages were extensive and the cleanup from downed trees and broken branches may take days.
What: Hail, up to tea cup size
When: April 19, 2023
Where: Tipton, Ellsworth, Hoisington, Claflin, Bushton, Peabody, Florence, Elmdale, Strong City, Cottonwood Falls, Americus, Kansas
WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR HOME
KSN TV reported several areas of Kansas were affected by the severe storm that delivered funnel clouds, hail, and massive storm clouds.
Strong winds, broken trees, quarter-sized hail, and damaged power lines were evident as the storm ravished the area. Some areas, such as Tipton and Peabody, reported hail up to ping-pong size.
Hail
Hail larger than 1” can create damage, and a professional inspection is advised now that the storm has passed. What are some ways this size hail can damage your home?
Create dents in shingles
Bruise the underlayment
Dented or cracked siding
Rip holes in window and/or door screens
An excessive amount of granular loss
Hail, closer to what Tipton and Peabody experienced, can create even more complications. Add to the above list,
Broken ridge caps or roof vents
Even more destruction to siding, including areas being torn off
Cracks in doors and windows from impact
Add to this, the strong winds, and your home can be hit by falling trees, broken branches, or areas of roof materials ripped off the home.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Contact Shull Remodeling and Construction for assistance in a full and thorough inspection and guidance on any repairs needed. Don’t wait to get the areas fixed or another storm may create more damage. We are just beginning storm season in the Kansas area. Keep your home safe this season and call Shull Remodeling and Construction for assistance.
Gutters play a crucial role in the safety and protection of your roof and home. Without a proper gutter system, water will spill over the edge of a roof, and possibly leak into the foundation and basement area. There must be a strong complete system to divert the water away from the roof and home to diminish complications.
Shull Construction in Salina has been installing gutters on people’s homes for years. After determining the right solutions for you and your budget, we install gutters that fit your home’s drainage system needs in a quick and seamless installation process giving your home a finished look that enhances the curb appeal.
What are the types of gutter systems we offer?
Seamless Gutter
This gutter system is hard to beat. Our knowledgeable team will visit your home, make measurements and determine the amount of seamless gutter needed. The order will arrive and be assembled directly on your home with ease and safe procedures. This system is tops because it will never crack or split. No worries about fasteners or grooves for debris to get cluttered in. This system allows the water to flow through the gutter and to the downspout with ease.
K-Style Gutters
Are you looking for a more classy option? This is for you! These gutters nail into the fascia boards with a need for fewer brackets, allowing for a seamless finish and fewer common leaks. They are designed to look like interior trim and can give any home a sophisticated look. They are shaped as a “k”, hence the name. The flat area of the gutter is what is nailed into the fascia board and therefore no brackets are needed.
Gutter Guard
An additional item to consider is a gutter guard. This type of guard prevents leaves, twigs, and other debris from landing in your gutter, restricting the flow of water. The use of gutter guards will also give your home a complete, finished look which can enhance the curb appeal.
What are some signs of needing new gutters?
Cracks, splits, or separated gutters
Many times, these happen with sectional gutter systems. The individual gutters are assembled with fasteners and can separate or deteriorate with time. Even a small crack or split will grow over time, preventing the gutter from properly doing its intended job. This gives an ideal time to upgrade to either a seamless or k-style gutter system.
Peeling paint or rust
Most gutters are painted or coated to protect them from the weather. When you begin to notice peeling paint, that is an indication that rust is right around the corner. Rust is an enemy of gutters as the weakened spots soon allow water to drip through. Be sure to replace your gutter system when you notice rust forming.
Pulling away from the roof
There are two main reasons why your gutter could be pulling away from the roofing system. Perhaps there is too much buildup in the gutters, preventing the water to flow freely. This buildup could be from leaves, small branches, or nesting material for birds and mice. The weight of the debris and water could be too heavy for your gutters to hold, and unfortunately, they begin to pull away from the roof.
A second reason for pulling away could be that the brackets and fasteners have just worn out. This is an indication that the system has aged, and it is time to replace it before damage to your roof will occur.
Basement flooding
This unfortunate event can occur because the gutter system is not transferring the water away from the home far enough. There is potential for water to overflow after a great deal of rain, causing the water to seep into your foundation and eventually your basement.
When the time comes to upgrade or simply replace your gutter system, trust the roofing professionals at Shull Construction in Salina! We have the skills and experience to bring the best products to you. We strive for exceptional customer service and desire your complete satisfaction with every job, large or small. Give us a call, and let’s work together to protect your home with a quality gutter system!
Updating your existing Great Bend roof allows you to add value to your home and communicate your home’s look and feel. While roof framing, preparation, and proper installation are always important, the material you choose for your roof can bring the exterior of your home to the next level. There are lots of options for roofing materials available and here is a rundown of some of the most popular ones.
Asphalt Shingles
Almost 90% of homes in the US use composite asphalt shingles because they’re affordable, durable, and easy to install. Asphalt shingles can last up to 30 years and can be recycled to make pavement. Manufacturers mix fiberglass, asphalt, and mineral composite to create a variety of colors like gray, brown, red, green, or blue. However, their color will fade over time due to sun exposure. The color and quality will look different depending on whether you choose architectural or three-tab shingles.
Pros
Affordable
Low-maintenance
Easy to find
Works well in most climates
Comes in a variety of colors
Recyclable
Cons
Color fades with sun exposure
3-tab style prone to wind damage
Short lifespan
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are one of the most popular roofing materials in the world and date back 5,000 years to glazed earthenware rooftops in China. They last anywhere from 50 to 100 years or more, and you can choose from a variety of styles like Spanish, French, Scania, and more. While expensive to install and repair, clay tiles last longer than almost all other types of roofing. It’s common in places like Southern California and Florida because clay roofing is perfect for hot climates, can endure winds of up to 150 miles per hour, and is incredibly fire-resistant.
Pros
Low-maintenance
Great curb appeal
Colors include terracotta, red, brown, and gray
Made from natural materials
Regulates temperature inside the home
Cons
Vulnerable to impact
May need extra structural support for its weight
May require specialized labor to install and repair
Slate Roofing
Slate is one of the most durable types of roofing material and is similar in cost to clay tiles. This material can last 50 to 200 years. In addition to being fireproof and resistant to high winds and extreme temperatures, it is also resistant to impact from hail and small branches. You can choose from natural, quarried slate, or synthetic alternatives like fiber cement slate or bituminous styles. Synthetic slate is much more affordable and has many of the same benefits as natural.
Pros
Long lifespan
Low-maintenance
Durable
Colors include gray, blue, green, brown, and red
Cons
Cost
May need extra structural support for its weight
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing feels like a modern choice, but they’ve been around since the 1800s. Metal sheets and shingles continue to be popular choices today because materials like aluminum and zinc are affordable, easy to transport, low-maintenance, and beautiful—even with age. They can last up to 80 years depending on design and material. You can also have the metal pre-treated with sealants. While metal roofing can come in a variety of colors, you can also paint some styles.
Pros
Low-maintenance
Durable
Can mimic slate, asphalt, or wood
Variety of colors
Lightweight
Recyclable
Cons
Needs soundproofing to reduce noise
May warp or develop ripples with improper installation
Requires specialized labor to install and repair
Solar Shingles
Solar shingles are one of the newest types of roofing materials. You’ll need to hire a roofer who specializes in building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) to install it.
While solar shingles may work efficiently for 20 to 30 years, this renewable energy solution is an expensive investment. Despite steeper installation costs, they can boost the value of your home by $15,000 or more. The future of US solar power looks bright.
Pros
Produces usable, renewable energy for your home
Improves resale value
Cons
Requires specialized labor to install and repair
Moderate maintenance
Needs extra structural support for weight and wiring
Conclusion
Roof replacement can be expensive, but it’s imperative that it’s done correctly or you could face major problems down the road. There are plenty of roofing types available to fit your budget and needs. Choosing the right kind and hiring a professional installer will provide you with peace of mind that your home is protected for years to come. So for your Great Bend roof, contact Shull Construction trusted Roofing Specialist today for a free estimate!
Shull Construction in Emporia is proud to offer Decra and DaVinci synthetic tile options for your next roofing project! Synthetic tile shingles are a modern improvement on a construction classic. Made from combinations of plastic and rubber, synthetic tile is designed to mirror the beauty and uniqueness of authentic tile without the expense of installation headaches, all while being a longer-lasting shingle. Synthetics are made by injection-molding petroleum-based materials into metal forms that are cast from authentic tile. Some brands of synthetic tile shingles are manufactured with virgin rubber or plastic, while other products incorporate recycled rubber or plastic, mineral dust, or cellulose fibers. Recycled content usually consists of high-quality post-industrial materials; only a few incorporate post-consumer recycled materials.
Here’s a look at the benefits that synthetic tile provides without sacrificing the aesthetic value of traditional tile:
Cost and Longevity
On a scale comparing the costs of conventional roofing materials, the initial cost of installing synthetic tile shingles falls in the middle—it’s more expensive than asphalt and architectural shingles and less expensive than authentic materials. Unlike less expensive asphalt shingles, however, synthetic tile roofs can last for up to 100 years, and the majority of synthetic tile shingles have 50-year warranties. The long life expectancy of this material means that a roof doesn’t have to be replaced in 15 or even 30 years, and also that fewer repairs are needed during the roof’s lifetime.
Safe and Energy Efficient
Synthetic tile is considered a “green” building alternative—even those that use virgin materials—because all types of synthetic tile can be recycled at the end of a roof’s usable life. Synthetic tile shingles are more durable than authentic tile, as they contain advanced ultraviolet inhibitors to reduce wear from the sun.
Safety is never an afterthought with synthetic tile. Synthetic tile typically contains impact modifiers to help withstand storm damage; in fact, most are certified by Underwriters Laboratories for Class 4 impact resistance, the highest level for roofing materials. Many synthetic tiles also have a Class A fire-resistance rating, which means they’re the most effective against severe exposure to external fires, are not readily flammable, and do not spread the fire.
Smooth Transportation and Installation
Transportation and installation of synthetic tile shingles are easier and less expensive than other roofing materials. Synthetic tile shingles are lighter than all asphalt shingles and are only a quarter the weight of authentic tile shingles. Their light weight also means that a standard roof structure can support synthetic tile shingles with no special reinforcement, making them practical for mainstream residential construction. During installation, synthetic tile shingles can easily be field-cut with a utility knife and nailed into place with standard roofing nails and a pneumatic nail gun. These characteristics are in sharp contrast with those of authentic tile installation, which requires precision cutting and nailing of heavy shingles that chip and crack easily.
Conclusion
It’s easy to see how you can maintain the pleasing aesthetic of a traditional tile roof without having to sacrifice key features, such as durability or energy efficiency, and even save time and money while doing so! That said, synthetic tile roofing material may not be right for everybody or every roof. If you’re ready to see if synthetic roofing is right for you, contact Shull Construction best roofing company in Emporia today for a free estimate. Our team is ready to help you take your roof to new heights, so don’t wait, give them a call!
