Author Archives: Quality Exteriors

Other times you may need a roof inspection is from the insurance company that has your homeowner’s policy. If you’re getting new or additional coverage, or if you file an insurance claim. 

You may need a roof inspection after a weather event that included hail and high winds. Or as your roof ages, it has been exposed not only to the weather, but it is exposed to the sun and its UV rays, trees, and animals 24/7. An annual roof inspection is recommended to make sure the integrity is still sound and stable. 

What does a roof inspection consist of?

A roofing inspection will have some variances based on what material the roof is covered with, but there are some basic that are the same. For example, with a shingled roof, a roofing professional is looking for the following: 

• Indications of water damage – They look for loose or missing shingles and flashings, the stability of the gutters and drain spout. If anything looks questionable, they look further at the decking and inside the attic.
• Mold – They examine the insulation in the attic for possible mold, around the chimney, skylights, plumbing vents, and other roof protrusions. 
• Deteriorating shingles – in addition to loosened or missing, they look for granules missing, or algae and moss growth. 
• Clogged gutters – As they inspect the gutters and drain spout for stability, they also look for any excessive shingle granules, especially if they find balding shingles on the roof.  

During a metal roof inspection, a roofing contractor will be looking for the following: 

• Loose seams – Because a metal roof contracts and expands with the temperature, the seams can separate as the screws loosen. This is setting your roof up for leaks and major water damage. 
• Flashing, gutters, downspouts  – Flashing on a metal roof is just as important as an asphalt roof. The inspector will check for any loosened or missing flashing around the roof valleys, chimney, vent pipes, and other roof protrusions. On a metal roof, corrosion and rust around flashing indicates it is loose, and this can lead to rust under the panels. 
• Rust – Any rust around or under the flashing as described above as well as any areas that rust may can eat away at a metal roof. That can lead to a small hole, then a larger hole and water leaking under the panels, into the attic, etc. 

What do insurance adjusters look for on roofs?

In general, an insurance adjuster will look at the following areas and specifics: 

• Roof age
• Installation
• Balding, broken, missing shingles
• Sun and water damage
• Tree causing damages 
• Loose or missing nails 
• Loose or missing flashing
• Damage, moisture to attic insulation 

How long does it take to inspect a roof?

There are some factors that can affect the time it takes for a professional roofing contractor or insurance adjuster to complete a roof inspection: 

• Square footage of the house
• Accessibility to the entire roof
• Accessibility to the attic(s)
• The number or protrusions on the roof
• Roofing materials

The professional roofing contractor’s inspection report is generally available immediately. An insurance adjuster’s roof inspection report may not be available for a few days, usually 2 to 7 days, depending on the insurance company’s protocol and the adjuster’s workload. Today’s technology, a roof inspection may include a drone inspection with a camera attached. This eliminates an inspector having to use a ladder to inspect the roof top.  

What will fail a home inspection?

A roof inspection is detailed and focused on the roof alone. A home inspection is intended to give a potential buyer or insurance company a comprehensive inspection report that details problem areas with a home.  Areas that can cause a home inspection to fail are: 

• Rundown roofing: A roof that is at its end of life stage, usually at the 15 year mark, is likely to fail the inspection.  
• Poor Drainage: The surface’s grading around the home that could cause drainage issues, leading to foundation problems. 
• Faulty foundation: Any foundation issues that can lead to expensive problems, i.e., drainage and more. 
• The  Plumbing: Any damaged pipes, aged, or malfunctioning water heater. Sewage backing up and other common plumbing matters, like dripping faucets or running toilets. 
• Pest infestations: Most home buying inspections will require separate pest control inspection. Either way, this part of the inspection is looking for wood-destroying pest infestation like carpenter ants and termites.
• Mold: Any discovery of mold, hidden or obvious, will fail a home inspection. This can be visible mold or indication of mold by odor.
• Heat system: An old heating system will fail an inspection.
• The Electrical Wiring: A home inspector that encounters any electrical wiring issues or problems will fail the inspection as fast as they do if they find mold. 
• Structural damage: This is more than the foundation or roof inspection. This includes any sagging floors, sagging roof, or sagging door headers.
• Poorly maintained home: A home inspection that find cracked caulk or peeling paint, it is assumed the basics of maintenance and upkeep are lacking. 

What fixes are mandatory after a home inspection?

A potential buyer will usually request the following repairs or replacement: 

• Peeling paint or paint in a house built prior to 1978.
• Broken gutter runs and unpainted downspouts.
• Exterior doors that don’t open and close correctly.
• Exposed electrical wiring and open junction boxes.
• Major plumbing issues.
• Aged or damaged roofing.

What is considered roof maintenance?

A routine roof maintenance should include cleaning, clearing off any debris like leaves and limbs. A general roof inspection that includes shingle conditions, the eaves, fascia, and soffit as well as the gutters and downspouts. Inspecting the flashing around the chimney, venting, skylights, solar panels, and other roof protrusions. 

What happens if a roof fails inspection?

If the roof inspection was for selling the home, the potential buyer may offer a negotiated lower price or require the roof be repaired or replaced before closing. If the roof inspection was for homeowner’s insurance purpose, the insurance company will require repair or replacement before they approve your application. A general roof inspection for your own purpose as a homeowner, the decision what to do next is entirely up to you. Your roofing contractor will make suggestions and advise accordingly. 

• COST-EFFECTIVE:  Copper roofing is a durable roofing material, far exceeding that of asphalt shingles or slate roofing. With proper routine care, maintenance, and upkeep, the copper roofing has a lifespan of over fifty years. It has a strong resistance to hail, mildew, rain, and is fireproof too. Because it has a strong thermal resistance, it won’t deteriorate as quickly as other materials, meaning it won’t need repairs or replacing as often.
• ENVIRONMENTALY FRIENDLY: Architects, builders, designers, and homeowners are constantly seeking more ways to be energy efficient with environmentally-friendly materials and ways. Copper roofing offers all of that with its sustainability and heat reflecting ways. Since it doesn’t absorb heat, it helps keep the interior cooler, easing the workload of the HVAC system. Copper is a recyclable material too, so when copper roofing is replaced, the copper that is removed is used for other things. 
• FLEXIBLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT Copper roofing is a lightweight material, making it easier for transporting and copper roofing installation. When totally supported, copper roof covering weighs half what a lead roof and even less than half of a tiled roof. This eases the stress on the structure too, and copper roofing experts like working with copper because it is a flexible material, shaping it for irregular roofs is easy. 
• PREMIUM QUALITY: Copper roofing is attractive, elegant, and available in several other finishes including period brown, bright milled, pre-painted green, and others so that you can match it to your current architecture. From modern structures to traditional structures, copper roofing has a high sheen that adds character and with age, its appearance improves with patina. 

Why do copper roofs turn green?

The change in color for copper roofing is a natural layer of protection from the elements. It naturally changes  from the shiny brownish color to a darker brown, and with time, it turns to shades of blues and finally shades of greens. This happens slowly over time as it is exposed to the  elements like rain and wind. 

This natural oxidation occurs in the same manner that iron rusts. The copper sulphate interacts with oxygen around it. However, where rust will corrode iron, patina is a protection layer that preserves copper. 

How long does it take a copper roof to turn green?

Without any assistance, it takes copper roofing up to 20 years to get that patina that is so desired and popular. There are methods and products that can accelerate the process without damaging the material. If you want to speed up the natural process and that patina faster, follow these steps: 

• Clean Your Copper Roofing: Clear all the debris, dirt, and dust from your copper roofing with a diluted detergent and a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly with clear, lukewarm water.
• Remove the Oxide Layer: For copper roofing that is over 6 months old, you need to remove the oxide in order for the patina agent to work. This is done by using a diluted sulfuric acid while wearing rubber gloves, goggles, and a mask. 
• Make the Patina Agent: You can buy the cuprous chloridelhydrochloric acid already mixed. 
• Applying the Patina Agent: With a clean brush or sponge, apply the patina agent to your copper roofing while wearing the same protective gear we mentioned earlier. 

How do you keep a copper roof shiny?

Your new copper roofing can be kept shiny by cleaning the oil and contaminants cleaned off the metal surface. You can do this by simply wiping  with denatured alcohol or a solvent cleaner, using a clean, soft rag. 

• Requires Repainting: Aluminum siding has to be repainted every ten years and vinyl siding, the biggest competitor in siding, is resistant to the oxidization that aluminum siding experiences. That oxidization must be removed before the professional aluminum siding painter can paint it, which is a labor intensive step. Vinyl siding can be installed and with occasional soft power washing,  it can be forgotten.
• Out of Style: Homeowner’s today aren’t finding the charm and aesthetics of aluminum siding today as they did in the earlier years. Because of the industrial appearance, aluminum siding today is more likely to be visualized on barns and sheds, not homes. There are other options available in siding materials today that blend in with modern communities and appearances.
• Dents and Scratches: Aluminum siding is easily dented and scratched, leading to quick deterioration and unappealing appearance. Because the dents and scratches aren’t easily repaired, usually required replacement, this is considered a large disadvantage over the other types of siding that are available today.

Is aluminum siding good for a house?

For its downfalls and faults, you have to wonder Is aluminum siding good for a home, right? Every home needs some form and style of siding, it provides aesthetics, a dynamic that makes a home complete and provides protection from the climate and elements. It is important to choose a siding that is the right style for your home because of the many different benefits and functions it offers.

Vinyl siding is made from a PVC material (polyvinyl chloride plastic resin) and the technology used in manufacturing it has improved greatly over the years. Some of the benefits of vinyl siding you can expect from having it installed on your home are:

• Less expensive compared to other popular options like brick, steel, stone, stucco, or engineered wood.
• Endless options in colors and textures that copy the look of cedar shake or other siding choices.
• Element strong, able to withstand hail, high wind, humidity, rain, and air pollution. The construction of  PVC material has proven to be one of the most durable in the construction industry.
• Insect resistance makes aluminum siding more durable than wood siding along with the moisture resistance it offers, eliminating the threat of structural damage. It doesn’t corrode or rust like other metal type sidings.  
• Easy to care for, aluminum siding doesn’t require the time-consuming for maintenance and upkeep of other siding materials.
• Provides a layer of insulation for your home, making it more energy efficient year round.

Which is better vinyl siding or aluminum siding?

This is a personal choice based on the style of your home and your budget. Homes in developed neighborhoods may have restrictions on building codes as well that can determine your choice between aluminum siding or vinyl siding.

The installation of aluminum siding includes the expense of having all old siding materials removed, but vinyl is a choice that is longer lasting and more superior. The energy efficiency and durability of vinyl siding gives it a lower cost overall with a higher ROI over the years.

Is it OK to paint aluminum siding?

Yes, with proper preparation, aluminum siding can be painted to look as good as it did new. It should be thoroughly cleaned and use only 100 percent acrylic latex paint product. Painting should not be done in direct sunlight because aluminum siding absorbs the heat and will dry unevenly.

Is it cheaper to replace aluminum siding or replace it?

Vinyl siding is a more affordable siding material than aluminum siding in general, but there are higher-end versions of this product that cost as much as $2.00 per square foot. Aluminum siding can cost can run as high as $6.00 per square foot.

Are foam roofs any good?

When looking into foam roofing as an alternative to roof replacement, you’re going to want to weigh its pros and cons.

Pros

• Exceptional insulating properties will improve energy efficiency and lower your utility expenses.
• The closed-cell material keeps water off the roof and the seamless barrier it forms over the roof further prevents water penetration.
• It’s easy to apply and can go over new as well as existing roofs. While it’s commonly used on flat roofs, it can also be used on sloped roofs and applied over metal roofing as well.
• It’s flexible and expands and contracts with the roofing system as temperatures change. It weathers well, holding up against high winds, rain, and snow.

Cons

• Without a protective coating, it will not hold up to UV rays and will quickly begin to deteriorate.
• It has to be applied in certain weather conditions, preferably when it’s warm, dry, and not windy.
• While it’s generally low maintenance, it should be inspected regularly for damage, especially after severe weather events like hailstorms.
• It is also vulnerable to punctures, especially from hail.

What is the greatest disadvantage of an SPF system?

While foam roofing has several advantages, one of its primary disadvantages is its vulnerability to punctures. This leaves it especially susceptible to damage from hail or debris like tree branches falling on it. When it is damaged, you’ll want to have skilled professionals like those at Quality Exteriors, Inc. working on it to ensure repairs are done right. Because of this vulnerability, you’ll also want to regularly inspect the roof for damage.

How long does a foam roof last?

If you keep foam roofing well maintained, it will last between 10 to 15 years before it needs to be recoated. As far as maintenance goes, the roof should be checked for any damages at least once per year and after severe storms. When properly maintained and regularly recoated, a foam roof can last up to 50 years. 

Will spray foam stop water leaks?

One of the best aspects of foam roofing is its waterproofing ability. While major leaks will need to be repaired before spray foam is applied, the material will seal over smaller leaks. It also creates a seamless barrier over your roof and protects vulnerable areas like the seams from water penetration. The foam itself doesn’t absorb water, so moisture doesn’t pass through. But, the foam isn’t puncture-resistant and can be damaged by hail or debris. Punctures can lead to leaks and need to be repaired as soon as possible after they are discovered.

Can I spray foam my roof?

While it’s not impossible for individuals to apply foam roofing themselves, it’s often impractical, especially for commercial and industrial roofing, just given the size and often irregular shape of the roof. You also have to have the right equipment and materials for installation. At the same time, it is easy to install as outlined below:

How to apply foam roofing

• Any repairs to the roof are made.
• The foam is sprayed on the roofs as a liquid and allowed to solidify.
• An elastomeric roof coating is applied over the foam.

Can you paint foam roofing?

Because foam roofing is normally white, some might want to paint it to match the color of their building’s design. Foam roofing should not be painted. However, it is normally coated with an elastomeric coating after it is installed. You can purchase coatings that come in various colors, although various colors may affect the ability to reflect heat and sunlight.

Can you use OSB for roof decking?

Yes, and there are several types of materials used for roof decking: 

• OSB Sheathing is the most common material used for roof decking. It comes in sheets that are sixteen feet long or longer, and is made by bonding interweaved wood strands together, creating uniform boards. It is a moisture-resistant, rigid material, ideal for roof decking purposes.  
• Tongue & Groove is typically 2×6 boards that have a “tongue” on one edge and fits into the “groove” the next board, sliding them together for strength. It is often used for an architectural element to the rafters in home where there isn’t a ceiling. 
• Plank Sheathing  are spaced about 18” apart and usually used with wood shingles that re installed in layers. This roof decking material is found in homes built before 1970.
• Step Sheathing are boards that run perpendicular and have a space separating them so that air can circulate under the shingles. The space created is dependent on the type of roofing shingle to be used, frequently paired with cedar shingles.
• Plywood Sheathing usually comes in 4’x8’ sheets. Made form mature trees, creates a moisture- resistant, strong base for roof decking. 

Is roof decking treated?

Roofing contractors typically will use a treated plywood because of the possibility of rot that can happen due to moisture building up on roof decking. Pressure-treated lumber is improved untreated plywood to create an insect resistant, water resistant material.  

What is roof decking code?

Every jurisdiction will have its own building code requirements, including the roof decking code that builders must adhere to when constructing new structures. Manufacturers of roofing materials also have their own recommended roof decking code, and while that may not be adhered to as strictly as the codes in each jurisdiction, it can affect the warranty of the product.  

An example of a manufacturer’s roof decking detail code is Owens Corning  as follows: 

• Owens Corning requires the following roofing manner be followed for all asphalt shingles to be installed in the following manner on solidly-sheathed roof decks: 
• Use minimum 3/8-inch plywood sheathing
• 1 – Minimum 7/16-inch OSB
• Installed with 1/8-inch spacing at all panel edges and end joints

Should roofing nails go through the sheathing?

Roofing nails should penetrate the chosen roofing material (asphalt shingles) and go 19 mm into roof decking. The thickness of the shingles, flashing, underlayment should be considered when determining the nail length.

Does roof sheathing go over fascia?

The order of how soffit, roof decking and fascia should be installed is confusing for most people that are not in the house construction industry. The soffit is the board that lays horizontal between the outer part of the house and the edge of the roof decking. The fascia is even with the roof decking and on the most outer side of the soffit. 

Another option is to insulate both, the attic floor, and the roof decking. This gives you both scenarios above, but it is an extra expense of insulation, but that is extra insulation that keeps the outside temperature outside and inside of the living space cool or warm as needed. This should only be done through when adequate and proper attic ventilation is installed to make sure any moisture build-up is evaporated thoroughly so as not to mildew and grow mold under the insulation. Need help with your roof decking? Call (651) 796-2341 today for your expert service needs.

What is a soffit in construction? 

In the construction industry, a soffit is described as an architectural feature found on the exterior or interior of a home, installed up and under, horizontally. In an archetypal form, is sometimes incorporates or implies the projection of beams, the eave’s underside to connect the retaining wall to the projecting roof edge. 

When should I replace my fascia? 

Soffits and fascia are like the rest of your roof, they are exposed to the elements 24/7/365 and will need to be replaced at some point. From critters, humidity, rain, sun, and wind, like the roof, the soffits and fascia are abused, which is why you need to inspect them every six months. A good time to do this is while you’re cleaning your gutters, which recommendation by experts is at the start of spring and again at the start of fall. 

However, if you notice they are starting to look weather-worn in between those six-month inspections, check them over and make any repairs or replacements that are needed. Sometimes, soffit and fascia cleaning are needed like your roof and siding need cleaning, and all this can be done at the same time. 

So, how do you know when they need replacing versus cleaning? Deteriorating soffits and fascia will have one or more of the following: 

§  Wood rot

§  Algae, fungus, mold growth

§  Chipped or cracked sections

§  Chipped or peeling paint

§  Sections sagging

§  Rodent bite marks

§  Lose or missing boards

Often, when you’ve spotted any of these in one or two areas, a repair job is sufficient. If there are several areas, you should contact professional soffit and fascia installers provide you a quote to replace them. 

Should I replace soffit and fascia?     

Sometime cleaning them is enough, sometimes repairs are enough. Eventually, they will need to be replaced. The following are indications that the soffits and fascia need to be replaced:

• Paint Cracking and Flaking: Because soffits and fascia are functional and important to your home and provide aesthetics. Cracked or flaking paint can indicate damaged soffits and fascia, and that damage can lead to water leaking into your home. 
• Sign of Pests: Pests in the home are annoying and damaging. While the Soffits and fascia are there to protect your room from them, they can find a way in and then the damage begins. 
• Asbestos: This is a material that has been outlawed many years ago because of the dangers to human health. If you suspect your Soffits and fascia have asbestos, call a professional for inspection and have it dealt with immediately. 
• Roof Void with Water: Water damages Soffits and fascia, as we’ve mentioned earlier. From mildew, mold, and rot, they will damage your roof often unnoticed until it is too late. With twice a year inspection, this is one of things a professional will catch before it becomes a bigger problem. 
• Ventilation: If you’ve noticed the attic doesn’t have as much ventilation as it should, you need to have a professional inspect the Soffits and fascia and the roof. 

Is it a Good Idea to Power Wash a Roof?

When it comes to specifically power washing your roof, regardless of the typing, a certain amount of care should be applied. Power washers are used to break down build-up on surfaces like concrete and solid steel, when used on your roof it needs to be at a low setting in order to not cause damages to shingles, flashing, and so on. It is therefore recommended that when you want power washing for your roof, you rely on professionals to get the job done so that you do not gain any damages on your roof. For a commercial roof, especially a metal one, damages are not necessarily a worry thanks to how they are built. However, for others that may apply, like certain flat roofs, power washing may not be the best option. Being that you will want to maintain your roof to last as long as possible, you should converse with your professional roofer. Those found at Quality Exteriors, Inc. would be happy to offer services and advice as to why one service is better than the other before being applied onto your roof.

Does Cleaning Your Roof Damage it?

When you clean your roof incorrectly, there is a chance to cause damages that need repairs or may come up down the road. However, both commercial and residential roofs should have professional roof cleaning at least every year. This would coincide with regular roof inspections, which would find anything that could afflict or is afflicting your roof on occasions the service is implemented. As mentioned before, a roof cleaning can be seen like anything else that you own. Regular cleaning with reasonable products that may have bleach or are power washers can prevent: 

• Algae and mold
• Rotting that can extend to your roof
• Standing water
• Debris weighing down on your roof
• Leaks

Particularly when you are also extending your roof cleaning to your gutters will you see your roof last years longer than the maximum most roofs are expected. While too much bleach or too high of pressure in a power washer can be damaging, both options when used responsibly can be effective on your roof.

How do you apply roof coating?

Roof coatings are applied after thoroughly clearing the roof surface from debris and cleaning it from dirt and dust. Make sure that any repairs that are necessary are conducted such as with roof penetrations, open seams, or tears. Roof coatings can act as a roof maintenance cure for minor roof wear and leaks but if roof penetrations are bigger than a given amount or damages are too extensive repairs will need to be made prior to a roof coating. Once these tasks are done and the roof is dry and sealant has set you’ll be able to apply your roof coatings. 

Do reflective roof coatings work?

Reflective roof coatings are a great option to ensure that your HVAC systems are not running on overdrive from building temperature fluctuations. Reflective roof coatings increase the roof’s thermal emittance which will allow your roof to radiate absorbed heat back into the atmosphere instead of back into your home. This is ideal in keeping homes cool and energy costs and use down. It will also protect your roof from premature wear that’s caused by harsh sun exposure so your roof won’t have as much need for repairs.

Does roof coating stop leaks?

Roof coatings will seal up roof leaks as they are applied in liquid form which will fill up any cracks and then expand as they cure and dry. As they are applied at once multiple issues can be covered instead of needing to individually address each problem.

How long do roof coatings last?

Roof coatings will last up to ten years or more depending on if you properly care for your roof, the conditions of the area, as well as the thickness of the coating film. Roof coatings will add to the life of your roof and can be reapplied after the initial application so you can enjoy your roof well before the time comes to ultimately replace it.

What is the best roof coating?

Roof coatings will vary in what they are composed of in order to better match with specific roof applications. There are however roof coatings out there that are made for specific roofing materials. Therefore, there will be one that is best matched for your roof over another. There are generalities like acrylic roof coatings being the best for sloped roofs yet this is a matter of benefits that can be derived from one coating that might not be there from another. Acrylic is popular for the reason that it’s environmentally friendly and can last longer. For EPDM roofs polyurethane is considered the best as it is great for rubber roofs.

Does a rubber roof need to be coated?

Roof coatings can work well with rubber roofs as they won’t need to be re-roofed for decades and will have minimal maintenance duties in the meantime. It’s important to realize that a rubber roof coating is often retailed as roof insulation yet it will prevent roofs from infrared radiation and UV rays. 

What is the best roof coating for a flat roof?

What’s considered the best roof coatings for flat roofs are the four main types of elastomeric roof coatings like butyl, acrylic, polyurethane, and silicone. These types of roof coatings can work well with single-ply roofs, built-up PVC, and low-sloping roofs. 

Is elastomeric roof coating good?

Elastomeric roof coatings are a widely popular option due to the ability they have to stretch about 300% more than standard acrylic. This will allow the roof to expand and contract safely from daily temperature changes.

Roof Coatings For Metal Roofs

Metal roof coatings are typically done with elastomeric acrylic roof coatings as they will protect the roof from the elements, UV radiation, hail storms, and ice. It will even encapsulate existing rust and keep the roof weather tight by repairing and seams, cracks and repairing small leaks.

Contact A Professional Roofing Company

Roof coatings are cost-effective solutions for a variety of roofs and will save you on maintenance duties as well as costs. They are good for most climates and can protect your roof from the elements as well as daily wear. From water protection to blocking sun rays, the life of your property will be extended beyond its natural life span with roof coatings. Get in touch with your local roofing company today to get connected with the right roof coatings for your commercial property.

 If you’re interested in roof coatings in St Paul, MN call (651) 796-2341 with Quality Exteriors, Inc.! 

Can I put a deck on my flat roof?

We’d like to say, sure, no problem! However, that may not be the case for the structure your restaurant is located in or it could be in violation of city codes. Sometimes those codes can be voided by taking proper steps to have the zoning changed, but that may not happen in time for you to open that rooftop patio this summer.

So, nothing ventured, nothing gained, get busy and head to City Hall and find out what the zoning laws are and what it would take to have it changed that would allow you to have a rooftop patio and deck installed. Chances are, you’ll have submitted your plans with all the rooftop deck construction details. This will go before the City Council who will do their due diligence and then vote and give you their decision.

With a flat rooftop patio and deck, there are important factors that you need to take into consideration as you present your plans and submit a request to the City Council and your budget.

• The rooftop patio and deck need to be attractive and inviting for your customers.
• You want to rooftop patio and deck that is low maintenance and weather resistant.
• The rooftop patio and deck must be waterproof so you don’t have costly repairs to the building below from rooftop deck leaking.

Can my roof support a deck?

This is definitely the first question to ask and to get a clear answer because you don’t want to go to the expense and time of having a rooftop patio and deck built, only to have it “break” the building and cause thousands of dollars damage.  

The contractor you hire to do the job should take your plans that the City Council approved and have an engineer look them over.  This will include an engineering inspection where the estimated weight of the plans will be compared to the age and stability of the structure as it is now.

Sometimes, the answer is no, you cannot safely install a rooftop patio on this structure, so be prepared for that, and ask for an explanation. Then sometimes the engineer will come back with a “yes, but…. “, and that but is that there are some steps to be taken to secure the building for holding that extra weight.

For a rooftop patio to be installed safely, the average roof can support up to fifty-five pounds per square foot. This calculation may vary based on what your plans are for this rooftop patio. For example, will you have a baby grand piano out here or a band? Will there be dancing? The fire department will issue an occupancy limit, and you must adhere to this at all times or risk getting fined, even shut down.

What size deck can I build without a permit?

You can, but the risks you’ll take with fines and penalties may not be worthwhile to build that rooftop patio or deck without a permit. You may be required to remove it too – all that expense, planning, and trouble will be gone.

The best business move you can make is to contact the city planning and zoning and inquire about your desire and ideas for rooftop patio.  Once they give you the nod to present your plans and designs to the City Council, follow the process all the way through.

What if the P&Z doesn’t give you the nod? Most cities have an appeal process where you or your attorney can go before the City Council and present your side with more details. This doesn’t always guarantee you’ll be approved, but there is a protocol, no matter the size of the city.

What are your ideas for seating and tables – going bistro style with high stools or chairs? What are your rooftop deck flooring ideas? Consider these:

• Sand Terrace: Indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining atmosphere with sand for flooring. 
• Private Escape: Create a place for your patrons to get away and relax with faux wood floors and matching walls.
• Maximum Coverage: A contemporary tuck away with maximum views with light-colored wood decking.
• Enhanced View: A spectacular view of the city below and Mother Nature around with sustainable wood decking to blend in naturally.

Looking for help in getting a rooftop patio in St Paul, MN? Reach out to Quality Exteriors, Inc. at (651) 796-2341 today!

Roof Restoration vs Replacement

Roof restoration and repairs will almost always be less expensive than a replacement service, but there are several things to consider first. If there are a number of things seriously wrong with your roof, as in the decking is severely damaged, then restoration wouldn’t be a good investment. In that case, it may be better to consider replacing the roof instead. We understand that commercial roofing in Cincinnati, OH or anywhere can get very expensive, very fast. Anyone would want to choose the cheaper option, but it’s important to know the best option for you. To get a clear idea of that, contact Quality Exteriors, Inc. for more information. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does a roof restoration cost?
  • The total cost will depend on the size of your roof, current condition, and type of restorative material you choose. Generally speaking, though, you should prepare to pay at minimum, $4,500 or more for a restoration service.
• Will restoration stop leaks?
  • Restorations will help to prevent future leaks, however, it will likely not fix the problem. That will need to be addressed before restoring your roof. While it can be dealt with during the process, it could add time and money to the overall project timeline. 
• Should I replace or restore my roof?
  • It really depends on your needs and current situation. If your roof is in an overall good condition, then you may want to consider restoring it and extending the life. However, if your roof is starting to lose effectiveness, it may be time to consider replacing it. 
• What is a roof restoration?
  • Unlike replacing the entire structure, restoration involves cleaning, repairing, and ultimately restoring your roof. Contractors won’t be pulling up the entire thing and starting from scratch. Instead, they’ll correct areas of concern then apply a restorative material overtop, restoring the condition of your roofing structure. 
• How long does a roof restoration last?
  • Depending on how exposed your roof is to the elements, a well-done application can last anywhere from 15-25 years. This will generally extend the overall condition of your roof even further, so you’ll likely experience even longer periods.