The Importance Of Roof Repair

The Importance Of Roof Repair

by with No Comment Roof Repair

When you wake up after a particularly hard rainfall, the last thing you want to hear is the dripping sound of water leaking into a room from your roof. A roof is an often overlooked component of your home’s structure, even as it’s one of the most important aspects. A good roof keeps Vancouver’s famous rain from getting in and damaging the interior of your home. Let’s see below The Importance Of Roof Repair.

Roof Maintenance

Replacing a roof is a major expense that, of course, no one wants to shell out money for. Thankfully, if you maintain your roof and get regular inspections it is something you shouldn’t have to more than once or maybe twice in a lifetime.
Depending on the type of roof, it can last anywhere between 30 to 70 years. And is easily replaced if well maintained, but a roof that’s been neglected can lead to finding a lot of new problems with your home. When you put off roof repairs, they continue to get worse and deteriorate over time to the point that you’re forced to purchase a new roof far sooner than you should.
Unfortunately, most people don’t think about a roof until it’s too late and in need or a repair. We’ve put together somethings you should know about roof repair so when those leaks do occur, you know what to do.

Don’t Ignore Small Problems

We all tend to procrastinate but it’s important not to ignore small leaks, rot or mold. These issues will only get bigger (and more expensive) over time. As we’ve previously stated, it often doesn’t take a lot for those small problems to balloon into bigger ones and become full-blown emergencies.
When a homeowner only sees a small leak, what he or she may fail to realize is that the problem is rarely limited to just that leak. Moisture damage and rot can cause water to leak into the walls and floorboards causing major damage. Water can also damage your home’s insulation and electrical systems, not only causing structural issues but even fire hazards.

Knowing When It is Time For a Roof Check

You should always know how old your roof is. If you didn’t replace it yourself, try and track down the previous owner or real estate agent. And ask him or her when they last redid the roof. Next, you should figure out when it should be replaced and budget accordingly. For example, asphalt shingle roofs last between 20-25 years while metal ones last up to 40-60 years on average. If your roof is somewhere in between, it’s the best time to do some checking so you can plan ahead.

Repair or Replace Your Roof?

When a homeowner spots a leak, they will have to figure out if they can simply repair the roof or if it needs to be completely replaced. Of course, with any roof issues, there usually needs to be a big problem for it to be worth while to rip it up in its entity. To answer this question you’ll need to ask a reputable roofer with years of experience. Don’t try and figure out how much damage is done by yourself. Without experience, you most likely won’t be able to get to the root of the problem.

Resell Value

If you’re considering selling your home, you’ll really want to put some effort into fixing your roof. The condition of your roof is one of the first questions a potential homebuyer is going to ask. And it gives them a really good bargaining chip to lower the price. An old, neglected roof is very apparent to any real estate agent and will likely use it to his or her advantage.

Inspection of Other Areas

After checking inside and outside of your home, you will need someone to look closer into other areas of your roofing system. We advice you to call an experienced roofing contractor like Cambie Roofing for a comprehensive inspection. Cambie Roofing will inspect the gutters, drains. And remove any debris.  Next the roofing contractor will inspected the seals to see if the water goes to the drain.
The next areas to inspect are the flashings, roof edges, terminations, and expansion and control joints. As a trusted roofing contractor, we are aware that problems are likely to be found in these areas. There should not be any cracks or splits. At Cambie Roofing, we will also look for split, cracked, or broken shingles.

The Importance of Roof Repairs

We understand that roof repair can be a pain and isn’t something that you can do yourself. And of all the maintenance work that a homeowner has to do, home roof repair is one of the most important but also the least thought about. Nobody likes to think about it. However, a well-maintained roof will keep your family safe and dry.
If you are in need of a local roof contractor or just need some help figuring out the best way to maintain your roof, give us a call. It can be a challenge for a homeowner to stay on top of everything they need to, but this is why we should do regular checkups so you don’t have to think about it. Contact Cambie Roofing today for a free inspection.

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Roofing Safety: Steps to Protect your Staff

by Roofing

Roofing Safety: Steps to Protect your Staff

Being a reputable roofing company doesn’t just mean you provide top-quality services, it also means you take steps to protect your staff. Before you can properly serve your clients, you must have safety measures and standards in place for your workforce. Here at Cambie Roofing, our family-owned and operated business takes the health and safety of our employees seriously which is why we are constantly looking for ways to improve. Our work is always done in accordance with the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia and our risk management is influenced by WorkSafe BC regulations. Being in business for more than half a century, we couldn’t have made it this far without prioritizing the safety of our staff. In this blog post, we are going to highlight the steps that roofing professionals must take in order to keep their staff protected.

Training and certification

Job safety is a primary focus at Cambie Roofing and it should be prioritized by all professional roofers in this industry. With this comes the opportunity for education, training and certification. Whether you’re searching for a reputable company to do business with or you have your own company, it is important that all employees carry certifications such as first aid, propane dispensing and safety, fall protection, mobile equipment operation and torch safety. Those who have worked for the company for longer should also go through regular re-certification processes as this ensures all employees carry the same up to date knowledge. Cambie Roofing follows in depth policies and procedures to ensure our staff, clients and the public remain safe and we are always looking for new educational opportunities offered by qualified instructors. Because roofing is a Red Seal Trade, we can offer apprenticeships to new employees!

Clear communication

Another important factor needed to protect your staff is clear communication. You can have a large team of certified roofers but without good communication you won’t succeed. No matter how big or small a project is, it is imperative to hold a safety meeting beforehand. This will ensure each team member knows exactly what their responsibilities are and it gives them a chance to prepare for any potential risks. Having a team that you can trust and rely on will come in handy when trying to establish clear communication with one another. You’re only as strong as your weakest link so make sure all of your employees are on the same page!

Consider the weather

Running a professional roofing company has its challenges but throwing Canadian weather into the mix makes it even more difficult. If extreme weather conditions are in the forecast such as heavy rain, lightning storms, high winds and blizzards, it’s best you don’t start or continue a roofing project until the weather improves. Working in harsh conditions is an extreme safety concern for your staff and everyone in close proximity to the job site. And while it might cause some customers to become impatient, you cannot risk your staff’s safety just to get a job done sooner. Get everyone back on schedule once mother nature says it’s okay to do so.

Audits and Inspections

Cambie Roofing is Certificate of Recognition compliant. This means that annual audits are carried out on our company’s safety program to ensure it is effective. In addition, safety reports and site visits are also carried out frequently by those in management roles. Our safety coordinator is continuously observing our work sites to ensure the safety measures we have laid out are strictly being followed. These are responsibilities that cannot be ignored if you are operating a reputable company.

Always use proper protective equipment

When it comes to protecting yourself on the job, you have to be equipped with all the right protective gear! This includes but is not limited to hard hats, non-slip boots, safety glasses, gloves, masks if necessary and clothing that isn’t too loose. These essentials could mean life or death if you’re faced with the unexpected. Roofing can be a dangerous job even if you’re properly trained which is why using protective equipment is a must.

Don’t overwork

For our last tip, we are going to highlight the importance of taking breaks! Roofing is a physically exhausting job which means your staff are going to burn out if they aren’t taking care of themselves. While you’re on a break, the next important thing to do is hydrate yourself. Water and regular rests are going to lessen workplace fatigue and stress – ultimately lowering the chance of a workplace incident.

Conclusion

Cambie Roofing has been in business for more than 75 years. That wouldn’t have been possible if we hadn’t prioritized the safety, wellbeing and overall happiness of our staff. The steps to protect your staff which we have laid out in this blog post are some of the main reasons we’ve been so successful. These are also things you should look for when considering who to hire for your next roofing project. Because aside from being comfortable on a ladder, the experts at Cambie Roofing carry the highest standards when it comes to their work and prioritizing safety.

Is Solar Roofing Worth It?

Is Solar Roofing Worth It?

by Roof Systems

Unfortunately, much of North American still runs on nuclear power, coal and other fossil fuels. If we could get a cleaner source of energy, for example solar power it would have a big impact on the environment.
You’ve seen solar power roofs in the news, most notably when Tesla made a big splash recently with an advanced panel system that is more efficient and more powerful than the traditional technology.
But how viable is solar power in Vancouver? Is Solar Roofing Worth It? Let’s See.

Is Solar Roofing Worth It?

The main challenge is that Vancouver tends to have too much cloud cover for much of the year, especially in the winter months when electricity is most in demand. The northern latitude of the city also means days are shorter and solar radiation is less intense which of course, means less sunlight is converted to energy.  When we look in comparison to some States like California, New Mexico and Arizona which are sunny all year round and demand is highest in the summer when power generation is at its peak, solar energy makes more sense.
But that doesn’t mean that solar power will never work in British Columbia and we should write it off totally.
Lets’ have a closer look at the technology and see if the technology is and can ever be useful in Vancouver.

What If You Want A Solar Panel?

If you believe solar power is the best option for you there are multiple variables to consider when seeking out the best solar panels on the market. While more high-end panels will have higher efficiency ratings than others, investing in the best solar equipment doesn’t always result in the higher savings. The only way to find the “sweet spot” for your home is to evaluate quotes with varying equipment and financing offers.
For any homeowner in the early stage of shopping for solar that would just like a ballpark estimate for an installation, do some research online before calling anyone. There are a lot of different tools to help you estimate long-term savings and the upfront costs. You will want to compare quotes from multiple companies and multiple sources before making a final decision.

How Much Does The Solar Panel System Cost?

While there aren’t a lot of companies to choose from in Vancouver, installation prices will vary significantly depending on the solar company you choose and the equipment you install. Keep in mind installing cheap solar panels might feel like the easiest way to save some cash and get rebates, your total savings will often be higher if you invest in top-of-the-line equipment.
Don’t forget to research the solar incentives and rebates available. In British Columbia they can reduce your net cost by 50 percent or even more. In addition, the Canada government offers a 30 percent solar tax credit. Do your research as cities like Nanaimo offer additional tax incentives.

Is Solar Power Worth it?

The average cost of solar power system in Canada is currently between $15,000 and $30,000 which is far more than the average Canadian is willing to pay. The average household uses 7,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) but of course that changes on the time of year and the price of electricity. You can certainly save money if you plan on using solar power in the long run but you will have to do some calculations to figure out how much you spend on electricity to see if it’s worth it.
In some parts of the country, you can pay as little as 8 cents per kWh; in others, you’ll pay 20 cents or more. In British Columbia, you pay 8.29 per kWh for the first 1,350 kWh you use and 12.43 cents per kWh for everything above that.
When you go solar, you effectively install a small power plant on your roof to replace the electricity you get from B.C. Hydro. That means homeowners with high electricity rates from their utility are the ones who save the most when they switch to home solar power. For people who don’t want to rely on a centralized power source this may be important. If there is a black out and if you have a solar power generator you may not be effected.

Solar Roofing In Vancouver

If you want to install solar power because you want to reduce your carbon footprint there won’t be much difference if you live in British Columbia because over the long term, the carbon footprint of hydro power isn’t much different from solar. Hydro power uses water and floods entire valleys while solar panels requires large amounts of energy and toxic chemicals for the manufacturing process.
According to scientists, solar panels in a rooftop installation produce about 41 grams of CO2 equivalents per kilowatt hour over the lifetime of the system, mainly due to the energy required to manufacture the equipment while hydroelectricity produces 24 grams of CO2 equivalents per kilowatt hour.

Conclusion

For all solar electricity’s advantages, Vancouver is not the best place to install and use solar roofing system. The technology really works best where there is more sun for longer periods of time. In addition, power is not very expensive, so you won’t get much savings.
That’s not to say that solar electricity will be a bad idea forever. The technology will improve and become more affordable so sometime in the future it might replace hydro power as B.C.s number one electracy source. More forward-thinking companies like Tesla will find creative solutions that will benefit cloudy cities like Vancouver.

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Emergency Roof Repairs

by with No Comment Roof Repair

Emergency Roof Repairs

Vancouver gets its fair share of extreme weather conditions, especially during the winter months. This too is the worst time to have an emergency of any kind, but especially a roofing emergency. Leaks are more likely to happen when your home is subjected to heavy rain, snowstorms, strong winds and/or hail.
A leaky roof is one of the worst situations that a homeowner has to face. Immediate intervention is critical since water damage can directly affect the stability of the entire structure. As well as destroy furniture, flooring, appliances.
In the midst of a severe storm, a professional roofing contractor may not be immediately available because, let’s face it, you’re probably not the only one looking for help from a professional during this time. So what should you do to prevent further damage to your roof before a professional arrives? Emergency roof repairs – this can help to minimize water damage until a roofing contractor is available to permanently and correctly handle the repairs.

What To Do When You Have An Emergency

If you’re faced with serious weather conditions that impact your home and cause a leak in your roof, the most important thing you can do is stop the flow of water. Placing buckets under the leak can help prevent damage to flooring while also ensuring you don’t slip and injure yourself. Even if you do have experience looking for roof damage, it may not be smart to do so during a storm. Wait until a professional is available. If the storm does let up and you can safely check your roof, try to clear away any snow, puddles or stagnant water forming. If left unattended, these things can cause even more damage and can cost you even more in the long run. Next, you can try to locate the exact source of the leak. This may be tedious but checking both inside and outside should help determine the location of the leak. If you have a skylight or chimney, look around the edges first as those areas could be the culprit.

Emergency Roof Repairs

Aside from skylights and chimneys, roof vents are one of the most common causes of a roof leak. Air vents are used to allow outside air to enter into attics and other ventilation spaces. Rusty and cracked vent pipe collars around their base allow the water to first pool around and then seep through the interior walls of your home.
Occasionally, vent pipe leaks can also occur at the collar surrounding the base of the vent pipe, where it breaks through the surface of the roofing material. When this occurs, rainwater can seep in between the rubber boot and the vent pipe while accumulating in your home and causing damage. If the rubber boot collar is cracked or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Talk to a roofing contractor about this because this isn’t something you can fix on your own. If you have determined that the issue isn’t a skylight, chimney or roof vent, then you should consider inspecting the attic to see if you can find the source of the leak.

If you are able to find the leak, plug it if possible. Use plastic sheets or tarps as temporary methods until a professional arrives. A good method is to enclose a piece of wood (a two-by-four is an ideal size) in an end section of plastic sheeting. Wrap the board several times to ensure it will stay covered and then secure the plastic to the wood with staples.

Plastic Sheeting

Lay the wood down on the roof and place the plastic sheeting over the leaky area. Wrap a second two by four in the other end of the plastic sheeting. Do not staple or nail the wood planks or plastic to the roof as you might risk creating more leaks or other damage.
Contact a roofing company as soon as possible and explain your problem. Let the customer service representative know if your roof is made of shingles, tiles, wood shakes, metal or if you have a flat roof. This information will help the contractor know what repairs will be required before sending out the most knowledgeable expert.

The Dangers of Ice Damming

With the prolonged presence of snow in the Lower Mainland, many homeowners may be at risk of ice damming and not even know it. Ice damming occurs when a thin layer of ice pools at the edge of your roof, preventing melting snow from draining off. Ice is heavy and can cause severe damage to your roof if not addressed. In order to prevent ice damming, you can purchase a roof rake. This is basically a sideways shovel with a long handle that you use to reach up and remove snow from your roof’s edge before it turns to ice. When the weather drops, you should use this rake at least once a week to clear the ice.

Where Do Ice Dams Come From?

When snow is allowed to accumulate on your roof, the heat from inside your home can cause it to melt. However, if the outside temperature is still below freezing, the snow will instead turn to ice. When ice develops around the edges of your roof, it can quickly build up into increasingly large blocks, also known as ice dams.
If too much ice accumulates on your roof, it can damage the shingles and lead to leaks and water damage. In severe cases, roofs have been known to collapse under the weight of ice dams. However, such instances are rare, especially in Vancouver where the weather doesn’t stay below freezing for long. With the proper precautions and routine roof maintenance, you can prevent ice dams from taking a toll on your home.

Conclusion

In the event of a storm, knowing these quick fixes could save your roof. Being able to perform an emergency repair quickly could save you thousands of dollars. If you’re concerned your roof is damaged, don’t hesitate to call the experts at Cambie Roofing for a free inspection.

Originally published June 2017.
Updated and republished March 2023.

A green roof - one of the many ways to make a commercial roof more eco-friendly.

How Can I Make My Commercial Roof More Eco-Friendly?

by commercial roofingRoof Types

How Can I Make My Commercial Roof More Eco-Friendly?

Every construction project whether it’s big or small has some sort of impact on the environment – roofing included. If you’re the owner of a commercial property, choosing an eco-friendly roof upon building or replacing your current roof will not only lower your carbon footprint but it can also save you money down the road. As a business owner, the impact your roof has on the environment should be something you consider. In 2023, many builders are taking into consideration things like climate change and increased prices on supplies and energy costs. Because of this, many people with both residential and commercial buildings are seeking eco-friendly options when it comes to their roofs. In this blog post, we are going to discuss eco-friendly roofing options for commercial buildings.

Roof coatings

If you are looking for ways to make your existing commercial roof more eco-friendly, a great option to consider is adding a sustainable roof coating. These coatings are designed to reflect sunlight which means you’re spending less money to keep the inside of your building cool, especially during warmer months. There are various types of coatings but the most common ones are silicone and acrylic. Restoring your existing commercial roof is a lot less expensive than replacing the entire thing so if you’re looking for a cost effective treatment, roof coatings are the way to go. Installing a roof coating not only makes it cheaper to regulate the temperature inside of your building, it will also increase your roof’s lifespan and reduce your carbon footprint. A win-win for a commercial building owner looking to be more eco-friendly! Some roof coatings are specifically designed in lighter colours so they can reflect even more sunlight while lowering your energy bills. These simple techniques are also known as cool roofing methods and oftentimes you can find them from recycled materials which makes it even better for the environment.

Green roofs

Recently, green roofs have gained popularity among commercial building owners. These roofs are typically installed on flat roofs and when complete, they have numerous positives on the environment. Similar to roof coatings, green roofs can moderate your building’s temperature. They also promote clean air, beautify areas that might lack greenery, collect rainwater runoff and promote biodiversity. If your building can accommodate a green roof, there are plenty of things you can do with it such as creating a park for customers to enjoy, a garden to grow fresh fruit and vegetables or just a place to unwind on your own. Green roof installations are complex and require plenty of upkeep which can be costly but if you are willing to take on the challenge, you will benefit greatly from it while also making your building eco-friendly.

Consider installing skylights

A roofing addition that many people often overlook is skylights. Compared to a normal window in your building, a skylight can produce three times as much natural light. If your skylight is installed in an area that gets plenty of sunlight, this can improve energy costs as you won’t need to rely so much on artificial lighting. Depending on how they’re installed, skylights can also improve your heating and HVAC efforts. In addition, skylights provide a great opportunity for people wanting to benefit from natural sunlight throughout the work day. More natural light means happier employees and lower energy bills!

Solar panels

Converting sunlight into energy and not having to rely solely on fossil fuels is one of the best ways to make your roof more eco-friendly. This is done through the installation of solar panels, one of the largest growing trends when it comes to constructing and restoring both commercial and residential roofs. While solar panels can be pricey during initial installation, they will give you the power to produce your own energy without any greenhouse gases. Depending on where you’re located, many areas have started providing incentives and rebates for people looking to turn to solar energy because of the importance of renewable energy when it comes to fighting climate change. A good thing about solar panels is that once they’re installed, they don’t require a ton of maintenance.

Conclusion

By being more eco-friendly with your commercial roof, you are guaranteed to reduce your energy costs, increase the lifespan of your roof, see a positive return on investment and lower your carbon footprint. Sustainable roof coatings, green roofs, skylights and solar panels are just a few of the ways you can make your existing or new roof more eco-friendly. While the population starts doing their part to combat climate change, the focus shouldn’t just be on making residential roofs eco-friendly because commercial roofs are just as important. So what are you waiting for? If eco-friendly commercial roofing techniques is something you’re interested in, reach out to the experts at Cambie Roofing to learn more and discuss your options.

How To Protect Your Roof From Pests

How To Protect Your Roof From Pests

by with No Comment Roof Repair

Many types of animals including birds, rats, insects and other pests can be a nightmare for homeowners, especially if they make your roof their home. They can have a significant negative impact on the quality and durability of your roof. Not only can their droppings make a considerable mess, but they also expose your home to parasites such as worms and mites. Let’s find out below about How To Protect Your Roof From Pests.

Large pests especially rats, raccoons and birds can also cause damage to roof tiles and shingles which not only make a lot of noise but can also cause costly repairs. Still, preventing pests from damaging your rooftop can be difficult. So what are some safe methods for protecting your roof from animals and, if you have them, how do you get rid of them.

Know the Signs of Infestation

The first step is to figure out if you have a problem to begin with.  Pests leave visible signs of their presence in a variety of ways. Once you know what to look for, it’s easy to tell if you’ve got unwanted animals in your attic or on top of your roof.

The first thing to do is a visual inspection of your roof. This can be done from the ground but it is better if you use a ladder for a closer inspection. Mammals like rats, squirrels and mice leave droppings wherever they go. Small pellets of feces are an obvious sign that rodents are near. Where there are feces, there is also urine.

If you look in your attic, you might not detect a smell immediately, but practice safety by using gloves and wearing a face mask before you poke around in areas where rodents have been. Their droppings can contain harmful bacteria.

Another sign to watch for chewed areas, holes or tunnels bored in the attic or roof. Rodents and insects often chew their way through wood, plaster and other materials.

Pest Removal Methods

Depending on what type of pest you’re dealing with, different methods may be more effective. Here are some common removal methods that could help you get rid of those pesky animals.

Trapping: Using a trap and some food is a great way to catch unwanted pests inside and around your roof. This is a common method for rodents such as mice and rats.

Decoys: Placing plastic statues of predators, like owls and hawks on your roof are a great way to trick birds into staying away and can prevent them from starting a nest.

Destroy The Nest: If birds are constantly trying to make your home their home, there might be a nest somewhere either on or inside your roof or chimney. Removing it is fairly straightforward, just watch out for eggs or small birds.

One removal method we don’t recommend is poison. The reason being is that often the pest will crawl into an area of your home that may be unreachable for you or an exterminator. If this is the case then the dead carcass can really stink up your home and even lead to the growth up other unwanted pests.

Best Methods For Preventing Pests From Coming Back

So let’s say you finally get the pests to leave, but how do you stop them from returning? This step is just as important as getting rid of them. It’s beneficial to take some time to work with a local pest patrol agent to determine a plan of action. In order to prevent pests from returning, here are some of the most effective methods to try.

Seal it Tight:

When you’ve identified the source or the entry spot, seal it tight with non-chewable material so the pests can’t use it again. Pests cannot get into your home if it’s properly sealed. Sometimes roof shingles or flashing will come loose, giving critters a way to tunnel in. If you have missing shingles or roofing tiles, they need to be replaced as soon as possible and the underlying layers should also be checked for damage.

Clean Your Gutters:

When gutters aren’t cleaned regularly, they can become a home for all kinds of creatures. You can get bugs, squirrels, rats, and even birds’ nests in them. In addition, because backed-up gutters are also a common cause of leaky roofs, you’ll definitely want to make sure they are kept clear.

Trim Back Foliage:

Tree branches that touch or overhang your roof could act as a bridge for all kinds of pests. To keep your roof protected, trim back any foliage that touches your home. This will make it harder for pests to gain access. You should put at least several inches between your house and any tall bushes or trees.

Protect Your Roof With Nets:

While this may seem unconventional, your local home and garden supply store usually sells netting you can use to stop pests from getting too comfortable. You can lay this netting over your roof and this will prevent pests from access. The netting does not harm the pests and it’s not intended to catch or tangle the pest.

Conclusion

Now I hope you understand How To Protect Your Roof From Pests. You can keep your home free of unwanted guests by regularly inspecting your roof or having a roofing professional do it for you. During one of the inspections, it’s important that you don’t procrastinate and let the pest reek havoc, otherwise, you’ll end up with a bigger problem down the line. However, before you take action, do your research and see what the habits are for your particular pest as each can vary and will likely dictate how to get rid of it.

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Asphalt Shingles Repairs

by with No Comment Roof Repair

Asphalt Shingles Repairs

Repairing or replacing the most common type of roofing-asphalt or asphalt fiberglass shingles is relatively easy. A professional roofer can work safely to ensure that you get the highest quality repair job.
You can repair your roof yourself, but the repair may stick out like a sore thumb if you don’t know what you’re doing, or if you don’t have an exact replacement product for your type of roofing. There’s also the potential to do more damage to your roof if the repair is not done correctly. For those reasons, we don’t recommend you do the repair job yourself, but rather call a professional like Cambie Roofing to do the job for you.

Types of Shingle

Organic is the current word used to describe traditional asphalt shingles, which differentiates them from the up-and-coming alternative called fiberglass shingles. The two types of shingles look the same on your roof: coloured granules held together by hardened tar. Both types are flexible and both are applied in the same way. The difference has to do with what the tar is bonded to.
Organic shingles are built on a substrate of heavy felt, while fiberglass shingles have a foundation of non-woven glass fibers. This difference doesn’t sound like much, but it actually leads to substantially different performance, especially in particular situations.
The main advantage of fiberglass shingles is their resistance to heat and durability. They’re much less likely to curl up than organic shingles, even when used on hot, unventilated roof structures. This means they will last longer, especially when you use higher-end products. Fiberglass shingles can carry up to a 50-year warranty. They are also less susceptible to catching fire or melting from the heat of a fire below.

What To Look For In Asphalt Shingles

These are some of the common things to look for to see if your Asphalt shingles need to be replaced:
Curling or crawling shingles are signs of both an aging roof system and excessive heat. In Vancouver, we don’t have to necessarily worry about heat, so if a shingle curls, it means that it is worn and at the end of its life span. Curled shingles are highly susceptible to water damage, wind uplift, and ice damage. These shingles will become rigid and can break easily and lose edges.
Broken or missing shingles greatly weaken a roof’s ability to shed water and can be an entry point for leakage. Buckling shingles are visible waved distortions that can run vertically or horizontally across the roof. Overall, roof age and wet or poor installation are common causes of buckled shingles.
When your roof has multiple leaks or a lot of damaged shingles, it usually means it’s time to replace the roofing entirely. Although a greater expense up front, it can be more cost effective than repairing the shingles all the time. When you put on a new roof, make sure to store a few extra shingles in your garage or somewhere safe so you’ll have matching replacements for repairs.

The Loss of Protective Granules

Aging roofs or physical damage can cause bare spots and a loss of granules. When the protective granules of a shingle are lost, the shingles begin to harden from heat and sun exposure. Granule loss on a roof will accelerate aging and shingle decaying.
Roofing problems make themselves known in the form of leaks and drips. You should repair a leaky roof before ceiling and walls are damaged. We recommend you get your roof checked by an expert at least twice a year in Fall and Summer.

Finding The Leak

The source of most leaky roofs is hard to find because it ordinates away from where the leak shows up. To find the source of the leak follow the slop of the roof. You will need to “think like water.” This may seem like strange advice but will actually help you find the area you need to repair. Water typically comes through worn, or missing shingles, or where nails are loose. Other entry points for water are at poorly sealed roof flashing around vents, skylights, or chimneys.

The water from a leak often travels down the rafters and shows up down-roof from where it begins. Once water passes the roof, it flows along the rafters or topside of the ceiling until it finds a place to drip down. Look for roof leaks during the day because they will be much easier to find. Scrambling around in the dark is usually a futile endeavor.

Go into the attic with a bright flashlight. Remember to step only on secure framing beams and never on the insulation or top side of the ceiling below. They will not hold your weight. Start above the place where the drip has occurred and work your way up the roof, looking for wetness along the beams.
If the weather has been dry for a while, look for a watermark stain or discolouration on the wood made by moisture. Then switch off the light and try to find a hole where the light shows through the roof. With a wooden shingle roof, you’ll see many such places but while the overlapped shingles let light show through they shed water. If it’s raining put a bucket under the leak in an area with proper support.

Shingle Warranties

You should know how long your roof warranty is good for and if your repair still falls within that warranty period. When you replace your roof, ask the roofing company about the warranty.
Some warranties cover only the cost of materials, while others will cover both the materials and labour. The most common reason for a warranty claim is incorrectly laid shingles and poor attic ventilation, not because of faulty material. Heavier shingles are generally more durable and will come with a longer warranty, while lighter shingles wear out faster.
If you need to replace your asphalt roof or get it repaired, it’s best to trust a professional who knows what they’re doing. Call Cambie Roofing today and we will come out to assess your roofing needs.

Originally published on May 7, 2017.
Updated and republished on Feb. 14, 2023.

Synthetic Roofing

What is Synthetic Roofing and Should I Use it for My Home

by with No Comment Roof SystemsRoofing Services

With the aid of modern technology and scientific innovations, it seems like there’s no limit to what synthetic materials can do. This, of course, includes roof materials. Synthetic roofing products include rubber, plastic, and polymer roofing have been developed to provide the colour, look, and even texture of natural materials like slate and wood without the heaviness and fragility of natural roof materials.

For many modern roofing systems, synthetic membranes are installed between the roof deck and the shingle to provide protection to the deck. The underlayment acts as an important second line of defense from leaks, storms, and ice damage which can save your home from costly repairs.
Traditional underlayment is commonly referred to as felt or tar paper, and is made of paper saturated in asphalt. Synthetic roofing is traditionally used in commercial and industrial buildings. However you might consider synthetic membrane for your home because it generally lasts longer and provides better protection.

Types of roofing

Membrane roofing usually comprised of five layers which provide secured redundancy and improved durability for your roof. The woven scrim layer adds strength to prevent wrinkling and tears over time. The advanced back sheet adheres to the deck for easier installation for roofing contractors and provides an additional non-slip surface improved walkability.

Membrane roofing is a system of roofing traditionally used for flat or nearly flat roofs – roofs with less than a 14 degree slope. Here on the west coast of British Columbia, however, it’s a really good question as to why anyone would construct a building with a flat roof. More and more we’re seeing synthetic membranes on all types of residential roofing and with Vancouver’s heavy rainfall, synthetic membranes provide that extra protection you need.

Synthetic roof materials have been specially designed for optimal strength and durability. They’re also incredibly easy to maintain and many are fire-resistant. In fact, many synthetic materials are less expensive than their traditional roof material counterparts.
Many roofing material manufacturers are coming out with eco-friendly synthetic materials. That emit the sun’s energy back into the atmosphere, reducing the cooling load on homes and businesses, as well as the heat-island effect in heavily populated areas. While perhaps not as important as in somewhere in California or down south, it can add an extra layer of protection in the hot summer months.

Types of Synthetic Membrane Roofing

Synthetic roof materials are generally made with propylene. Propylene is an organic compound. At room temperature, it is a gas. When mixed with other compounds it reacts and changes. This is one of the ways plastic is made.
These synthetic roofing materials are so neat not only for their green capabilities, but also because they can mimic the look of other types of materials including wood, slate, concrete, terra-cotta and more.
There are a few different types of membrane system is made. One is a synthetic rubber, also referred to as Thermoplastic where the rubber is welded together to create one large seamless membrane which provides protection.

Thermoplastic membranes are a type of synthetic rubber. The difference is that the seams of the roofing membrane overlap and they are bonded together by either melting or dissolving the membrane. The bonding process creates a seam that is as strong as the rest of the membrane roofing.
Another is the Modified bitumen which is a type of roof that really evolved from the traditional asphalt roofing system. The seams are joined together in a variety of ways. Heat is used to melt the asphalt and form a seal. A cold application can be used and there are several self-adhesive systems.

The last type or synthetic membrane roofing is called Thermoset. This type of membrane roof is made of large, flat pieces of synthetic rubber or similar materials. These pieces are bonded together at the seams to form one continuous membrane. Thermosets are widely used roofing materials due to their ability to withstand damaging effects of sun-rays and chemicals found on roofs

Advantages of Synthetic Roofing

Using synthetic membrane roofing has many advantages over asphalt roofing. Membrane roofing is far easier to create a perfect seal and a truly continuous membrane. All membrane roofing systems include properties that allow for expansion and contraction and UV resistance. With membrane roofing systems seams do not exist or are very strong. When the roofing system experiences expansion or contraction the roof does not form leaks or cracks in the membrane.

The fact of the matter is that there are many building in the Lower Mainland that use flat roofing. Traditionally the roofing system used has been tar and gravel roofing systems or asphalt.
This type of roofing can be loosely considered a membrane roofing system but it does have some disadvantages. In Vancouver we can experience freezing temperatures in the winter and this can damage the tar and gravel roofing system. Ice damns can form and this can prohibit water from flowing off the roof. Pooling water can lead to sagging which then leads to poor drainage overall.

Membrane roofing is an ideal solution for flat or nearly flat roofing systems. The membrane roofing is applied to the entire surface area and sealed to form a seamless barrier. That prevents water from leaking in and helps to move water to drainage ports. Membrane roofing is made of a variety of synthetic materials. Commonly the roofing system is made of a synthetic rubber, thermoplastic or modified bitumen.

1. High Impact Resistance
2. Wind Resistance
3. Increased Fire Resistance
4. Resistance to Pollution
5. Longer Life Spans

Conclusion

While synthetic roofing has many advantages, it isn’t something that can be completed by an amateur roofing contractor. You need a professional who knows what they are doing which is why you should call Cambie Roofing. If you have any questions or need an estimate on your roof call the experts. At Cambie Roofing, we have been in business for over half a century – so we feel confident in saying we are your best roofing choice.

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2023 Roofing Trends You Don’t Want To Miss

by Roof Types

2023 Roofing Trends You Don’t Want To Miss

Techniques used to shelter and shield against the elements have been around since the beginning of human existence. As humans have evolved, their sheltering methods have also improved drastically. This goes all the way back to when mankind stopped sheltering in caves and began making structured shelters with roofs. Today, we rely heavily on advanced building techniques. Our condos, single-family homes, apartment complexes and townhouses all have something in common – roofs. Over the years, some roofing techniques have failed while others have proven to work. Luckily for home owners today, there are various roofing techniques to choose from based on a person’s budget, taste and geographical location. Cambie Roofing has compiled a list of roofing trends you won’t want to miss in 2023.

Solar Shingles

It’s 2023 which means being environmentally friendly is in style! Solar shingles are gaining popularity quickly among homeowners looking to make less of an environmental impact as well as bring value to their home. This type of shingle is not to be confused with solar panels which are also very popular across North America. Solar shingles are relatively new to the industry which has its ups and downs. They come from photovoltaic sheets which once installed, will collect electricity from sunlight. Solar shingles look relatively similar to normal shingles and based on how they are installed, they can give the outside of your home a modernized feel. While solar shingles are designed to lower electricity bills, the costs of the initial installation can be out of reach for many homeowners. These costs are expected to continue to lower as solar shingles become more available and common.

Synthetic Thatch

If you’re in need of a vacation somewhere warm, you’re not alone! Luckily, there are ways to make your home feel more tropical and you can achieve that through synthetic thatch roofs. While this trend might not be for everyone, it sure does make a statement for those willing to try it out. Originally, thatch roofs consisted of dried straw, reeds, palm tree branches and other types of vegetation. This historic style of roofing has been around since before the 11th Century and remained popular until the Industrial Revolution when it began getting replaced with other techniques that used materials such as slate. Today, thatching remains a low-cost roofing technique in rural areas and third world countries and it is also used in tropical climates and places looking to make less of an environmental impact. As a homeowner, you can achieve the same beautiful and tropical look of a thatch roof using synthetic materials that don’t pose fire threats. Are you adventurous enough to try this rustic yet urban trend out in 2023?

Green Roof Trends

In today’s day and age, being eco-friendly is something many homeowners strive for especially with large issues such as climate change and the rising costs of living looming over their heads. Green roofs which are largely popular in European countries are gaining traction here in North America, especially in condensed urban areas that lack green spaces. Green roofs can be installed on both residential and commercial buildings, offering plenty of social and private benefits to owners and people nearby. The installation process of a green roof will include water-proofing, drainage and a root repellent system, and based on the type of green roof installed, some will incorporate irrigation systems. There are so many benefits to having a green roof including the fact that they actually lower energy costs since they act as insulation which in turn, moderates your home’s temperature. Another great benefit to green roofs is they promote clean air and absorb carbon dioxide. In addition to this, they’re very stylish and can transform boring urban buildings into beautiful green spaces while also offering agricultural opportunities and habitat for native species.

Metal Roof Trends

If you’re not the type of person to invest in a wild trend like synthetic thatch, you might be more interested in a modern metal roof. In recent years, metal roofs have become available in a multitude of colors and styles so there are options for homeowners looking to make a statement or those wishing to keep it simple. One of the biggest benefits of having a metal roof is its durability and long lifespan. Metal roofs don’t curl up and break apart like shingles do over time. They also do exceptionally well in harsh weather conditions which is something that homeowners need to consider living in North America. As they’ve become more popular, manufacturers have discovered ways to keep metal roofs from being overly noisy compared to other roofing materials. Unfortunately, metal roofs can be on the more expensive side which may deter some homeowners from investing in the technology.

Conclusion

The current roofing trends have one thing in common – a focus on the environment. So much so that standard shingles are starting to be manufactured with reflective coating in order to reduce the amount of heat being absorbed by peoples homes. Whether you’re looking to install a new roof on your current home or you’re in the process of choosing a roof for a new build, there are so many 2023 roofing trends you don’t want to miss!