nast-roofing

Tile, Metal, or Shingle? Choosing the Right Roof for South Florida Heat, Salt Air & Hurricanes

Tue, 20 Oct 2026 18:32:02 GMT

Replacing a roof in South Florida is one of the single largest investments you’ll ever make in your home or commercial property. In Broward and Miami-Dade counties, our roofs don't just shield us from rain, they must endure unrelenting ultraviolet (UV) radiation, severe salt-air corrosion along the coast, intense summer thermal bake, and ultimate wind speeds exceeding 170+ mph during hurricane season.

With so many choices on the market, choosing between Spanish/Concrete Tile, Standing Seam Metal, and Asphalt Architectural Shingles often feels overwhelming.

At Nast Roofing , our roofing services have been trusted across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida for decades. We believe in giving property owners honest, straightforward advice, no high-pressure sales pitches, just real contractor facts. Below is an unbiased, side-by-side material breakdown comparing upfront cost, hurricane performance, salt air resistance, lifecycle value, and energy efficiency.

1. Concrete & Clay Tile Roofing: The Classic South Florida Standard

Tile roofing is practically iconic across South Florida neighborhoods, from Victoria Park to Coral Ridge. Available in barrel, S-tile, and flat profiles, concrete and clay tiles deliver timeless Mediterranean curb appeal combined with heavy-duty structural mass.

Upfront Cost: Moderate to High
Lifespan: 40 to 50+ Years (Tile shell); 20 to 25 Years (Underlayment)
Wind / Hurricane Rating: Excellent (Up to 150–175+ mph when mechanically fastened or foam-adhered)
Salt Air Resistance: Exceptional (Inert to saltwater corrosion)

Pros & Considerations

Thermal Envelope Efficiency: Because tiles are heavy and elevated slightly off the roof deck, they create an air gap that naturally insulates your home, keeping attic spaces cooler and cutting summer AC bills.
Corrosion Immunity: Unlike metals or wood, clay and concrete tiles will never rust, rot, or decay in coastal salt spray.
The Underlayment Reality: While the tile shell itself can easily last 50 years, the underlying waterproof underlayment (the true barrier keeping your home dry) breaks down over 20 to 25 years under Florida heat. Replacing tile underlayment requires a full "tile lift and relay" service.

2. Standing Seam Metal Roofing: The Ultimate Coastal Fortress

Metal roofing has surged in popularity across Fort Lauderdale and Miami in recent years, particularly Standing Seam profiles where fasteners are hidden beneath interlocking vertical seams.

Upfront Cost: High
Lifespan: 45 to 70 Years
Wind / Hurricane Rating: Superior (Proven wind uplift resistance matching peak HVHZ codes)
Salt Air Resistance: High (Provided the proper metal alloy & finish are selected)

Pros & Considerations

Unbeatable Wind Uplift Resistance: Interlocking standing seam panels shed wind smoothly, leaving virtually no edges for hurricane gusts to catch and tear off.
Material Matters Near the Coast: If your property is within 1,500 feet of salt water (Intracoastal, canals, or oceanfront), Aluminum standing seam with a Kynar 500 coating is essential. Steel or Galvalume panels will eventually rust at cut edges when exposed to constant salt spray.
Reflective Energy Savings: Metal reflects up to 70% of solar radiant heat away from your roof, drastically reducing thermal transfer into top-story rooms.

3. Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Budget-Friendly Versatility

Modern dimensional or architectural shingles offer an attractive, cost-effective option for property owners looking for strong protection without the higher upfront investment of tile or metal.

Upfront Cost: Low to Moderate
Lifespan: 15 to 20 Years (Real-world South Florida lifespan)
Wind / Hurricane Rating: Good (HVHZ-rated shingles offer wind warranties up to 130–150 mph)
Salt Air Resistance: Excellent

Pros & Considerations

Upfront Affordability: Architectural shingles are the most budget-friendly option to install, making them popular for rental properties, quick renovations, or budget-conscious homeowners.
Faster Permitting & Installation: Shingle installations require less labor time than intricate tile or metal projects, minimizing household downtime.
Heat Sensitivity: Darker asphalt shingles absorb immense solar heat, causing granules to bake off faster over time and shortening total lifespan compared to northern climates.

Get Honest Advice for Your South Florida Property

Choosing the right roofing system isn't about picking the most expensive option; it's about choosing the material that fits your building's architecture, location, budget, and long-term goals.

At Nast Roofing , we bring 30+ years of local experience , top-tier craftsmanship, and transparent pricing to every residential and commercial project in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Whether you need subtle roof repairs or are ready to explore options for a total replacement, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Need help deciding which material is best for your home or commercial building? Contact Nast Roofing today at (954) 782-7500 or visit us online to schedule your free estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Commercial Flat Roofs in Fort Lauderdale: Tackling Ponding Water & Thermal Expansion

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 17:41:41 GMT

Managing a commercial property in Fort Lauderdale comes with a unique set of structural demands. Between torrential tropical downpours, high humidity, and intense year-round sunshine, low-slope and flat commercial roofs take a relentless beating.

If you oversee a retail strip, warehouse, office building, or multi-family complex, two major environmental forces are constantly working against your roof field: ponding water and thermal expansion .

Left unaddressed, these two challenges can cause premature membrane degradation, severe structural stress, and costly tenant disruption. At Nast Roofing , a licensed and insured commercial roofing company , we’ve spent over 30 years helping South Florida property managers protect their commercial investments. In this guide, we break down why these issues occur, the long-term damage they cause, and the proactive drainage and restoration solutions that keep your building leak-free.

The Dangers of Ponding Water on Low-Slope Roofs

While "flat roof" is a common term, no roof should ever be completely flat. Every commercial system requires a slight pitch to direct rainfall toward internal drains, scuppers, or gutters.

According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) , ponding water is defined as water that remains on a roof surface 48 hours or more after precipitation stops. In South Florida's climate, allowing standing water to sit on your building triggers a fast chain reaction of structural issues.

Why Standing Water Destroys Flat Membranes

Magnified UV Beam Aging: Standing water acts like a magnifying glass under the intense Fort Lauderdale sun. The pool focuses solar radiation along the water line, rapidly breaking down single-ply TPO, PVC, or modified bitumen membranes.
Massive Structural Dead Load: Water weighs approximately 5.2 pounds per square foot per inch of depth . A 500-square-foot ponding area filled with just two inches of standing water adds over 5,000 pounds of unplanned weight to your roof deck. This weight causes the roof structure to deflect (sag) further, creating a bigger bowl that holds even more water.
Seam Submersion & Adhesive Breakdown: Membrane lap seams are engineered to shed water, not remain continuously submerged. Prolonged submersion softens adhesives and heat welds, giving wind-driven rain a direct path into your insulation board.

Thermal Expansion & Contraction: The "Thermal Shock" Cycle

South Florida commercial roofs endure extreme surface temperature swings every single day. A dark modified bitumen or aging flat roof can easily reach 150°F to 180°F during an August afternoon. When a sudden afternoon thunderstorm dumps 75°F rain across that baking surface, the temperature drops dramatically within minutes.

This rapid cooling causes thermal shock .

How Thermal Movement Damages Commercial Buildings

Membrane Fatigue & Splitting: As the roof membrane continuously expands under heat and contracts under rain, the material loses its elasticity over time. This leads to hairline cracks, seam pulling, and splitting at wall flashings.
Fastener Back-Out: The daily expansion and contraction cycle causes mechanical fasteners beneath the insulation or membrane to gradually work themselves loose. Backed-out screws can puncture single-ply membranes from underneath.
Parapet Wall Cracking: Thermal movement doesn't just affect the flexible membrane; it exerts force against rigid structural perimeters, causing masonry parapet walls, metal coping caps, and wall terminations to crack and leak.

Proactive Drainage & Restoration Solutions

Fixing ponding water and thermal stress doesn't always require a multi-million-dollar, full tear-off replacement. Property managers have access to modern engineering methods and fluid-applied systems that restore positive drainage and reflect heat.

A. Installing Tapered Insulation Crickets

If low spots are caused by localized roof deck settling or improper original slope, installing tapered polyisocyanurate insulation crickets creates a custom slope toward your primary drains or perimeter scuppers. This eliminates standing water pockets and satisfies the Florida Building Code's minimum slope requirements.

B. Upgrading Drainage & Overflow Scuppers

Blocked or undersized internal drains are the leading cause of sudden ponding. Adding secondary (emergency) overflow scuppers through parapet walls ensures that if a primary drain gets clogged with storm debris, water still exits the roof before reaching dangerous weight loads.

C. Fluid-Applied Cool Roof Coatings (Silicone & Elastomeric)

To combat thermal expansion, property managers frequently turn to fluid-applied roof restoration coatings. High-solids silicone coatings create a seamless, monolithic layer across the existing membrane that:

Reflects up to 85% of Solar Heat: Drastically reduces surface temperatures, eliminating thermal shock and lowering top-floor AC cooling bills.
Seals Every Seam & Penetration: Forms a joint-free barrier that resists permanent ponding water.
Extends Service Life: Allows property managers to restore an aging roof for a fraction of full replacement cost while extending the system warranty by 10 to 20 years.

Flat Roof Health Inspection Checklist for Property Managers

Use this quick checklist during your routine quarterly walkthroughs:

Protect Your Commercial Property Investment

Don't wait for a minor ponding spot or thermal seam split to turn into an expensive indoor emergency for your tenants. Proactive evaluations and timely commercial roofing inspections keep your building fully protected year-round.

At Nast Roofing , we bring over 30 years of local commercial experience, top-tier craftsmanship, and honest recommendations to every property in Fort Lauderdale.

Ready to evaluate your commercial roof's drainage or explore fluid-applied restoration options? Contact Nast Roofing today at (954) 782-7500 or visit us online to schedule a Free Estimate / Inspection.

Ponding Water & Thermal Expansion FAQs

Understanding South Florida Roofing Codes

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 20:29:06 GMT

What Broward & Miami-Dade Homeowners Need to Know in 2026

If you own a home or commercial building in South Florida, you already know our weather puts roofing materials to the ultimate test. Between blistering summer heat, heavy tropical downpours, and severe hurricanes, a roof here isn't just an architectural accent, it’s the single most critical structural shield protecting your investment.

Because of our unique climate risks, Broward and Miami-Dade counties are classified as High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) . These two counties enforce the strictest building codes in the entire nation.

At Nast Roofing , we’ve been providing code-compliant roofing services across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida for over 30 years . We know that navigating building codes, permits, and product approvals can feel like reading a foreign language. To help you protect your home and avoid costly enforcement pitfalls, here is a practical guide to what South Florida property owners need to know about roofing codes in 2026.

What Makes HVHZ Roofing Codes Different?

The Florida Building Code (FBC) sets the baseline for the entire state. However, because Broward and Miami-Dade fall within the HVHZ, roofs in these counties must be engineered to withstand ultimate wind speeds exceeding 170 mph to 175 mph .

When you install a roof in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, or Miami, standard "coastal" roofing methods simply won't cut it. Every component of your roof system must work as a unified, wind-resistant barrier.

1. Mandatory Miami-Dade NOAs (Notice of Acceptance)

Outside the HVHZ, products only need general Florida Product Approval. Within Broward and Miami-Dade, every single material installed on your roof, from the shingles or tiles down to the underlayment, nails, vents, and edge metal, must hold a valid Miami-Dade NOA . This seal proves the product has passed rigorous laboratory testing for wind uplift, impact resistance, and water infiltration.

2. Enhanced Fastening Patterns

In non-coastal areas, installer crews often use four nails per asphalt shingle. In our HVHZ region, the code strictly mandates a minimum of six ring-shank nails per shingle , fastened in specified high-wind schedules. Staples are strictly prohibited. For tile roofs, mechanical attachment methods (screws, clips, or specialized adhesive foam) must meet precise wind-uplift calculations specified in the Uniform Roofing Permit.

3. Full Secondary Water Barriers (Peel-and-Stick)

One of the most important protective standards in the HVHZ involves the underlayment layer beneath your tile, metal, or shingles. The code requires a self-adhered (peel-and-stick) secondary water barrier applied across the entire roof deck, not just along eaves or valleys. If severe winds tear off your outer shingles or tiles during a hurricane, this self-sealing membrane keeps water out of your home.

The Florida 25% Rule: What Homeowners Must Know

A common source of confusion for South Florida property owners is the 25% Rule found in the Florida Existing Building Code.

Historically, if more than 25% of a roof was damaged or being repaired within a 12-month period, state code required the entire roof to be torn off and brought up to current code standards.

Important Exception to Keep in Mind:

Under updated Florida statutes (SB 4-D), if an existing roof was built or replaced in compliance with the 2007 Florida Building Code or later (which took effect March 1, 2009), a partial repair covering more than 25% does not automatically force a total roof replacement, provided the remaining portion is structurally sound and compliant.

However, if your roof predates March 2009 or has widespread structural decay, a full tear-off and replacement down to the plywood decking will still be legally required to meet modern HVHZ uplift standards.

The Permit & Inspection Workflow in Broward & Miami-Dade

Skipping a permit to save a few bucks is one of the most dangerous mistakes a property owner can make. Unpermitted roofing work can result in heavy municipal fines, void your homeowner’s insurance coverage, and halt the sale of your home during a future title search.

When you partner with a licensed, certified contractor like Nast Roofing (FL License #CCC057134), we manage the complete permitting workflow:

Key Takeaways for Homeowners & Property Managers

Never Allow Overlay Roofs: Florida code strictly limits overlays, and in the HVHZ, stripping down to the structural decking is essential to inspect for rotted wood and re-nail the plywood to meet wind uplift requirements.
Verify License & Insurance: Always ensure your contractor holds an active State Certified Roofing Contractor license and carries full Workers' Compensation and General Liability insurance.
Save Your NOA Documentation: Keep copies of your permit package, Miami-Dade NOAs, and final inspection sign-off. You will need these documents to qualify for valuable Wind Mitigation Discounts on your Florida homeowner's insurance policy.

Partner with South Florida’s Trusted Local Roofing Experts

Building code compliance isn't just about passing city inspections, it's about making sure your family or business stays safe when the next major hurricane makes landfall.

With over 30 years of hands-on experience in Fort Lauderdale and across South Florida, Nast Roofing delivers code-exceeding craftsmanship on every residential and commercial project. Whether you need proactive roof maintenance or a full code-compliant roof replacement , we are here to help.

Have questions about your roof’s condition or local code requirements? Contact Nast Roofing today at (954) 782-7500 or visit us online to schedule your Free Inspection / Estimate.

South Florida Roofing Codes FAQs

Navigating Roof Damage Insurance Claims in Florida... Without the Stress!

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 21:26:01 GMT

A severe storm sweeps through Fort Lauderdale and across South Florida, leaving behind broken tiles, lifted shingles, or active leaks. While addressing physical damage is priority number one, filing an insurance claim often feels like a daunting second storm. Between navigating complex policy language and managing deductibles, homeowners face significant friction during an already stressful time.

Documenting damage thoroughly, understanding state-specific insurance regulations, and working directly alongside your adjuster helps secure a fair claim outcome without unnecessary headaches. Our friendly team at Nast Roofing is dedicated to helping our neighbors so we’ve put together this guide to help you reduce stress and navigate the complexities of filing a roof damage insurance claim with confidence.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Stress-Free Roof Insurance Claim

1. Document Everything First
Before cleanup begins, take clear, well-lit photos and videos of all visible exterior and interior damage. Focus on missing tiles, water stains on ceilings, damaged gutters, and debris in the yard. Prompt documentation establishes a direct timeline linking the damage to a specific weather event.

2. Secure the Property to Prevent Secondary Damage
Insurance policies require policyholders to mitigate further loss. If water is entering the home, arrange for temporary tarping or minor containment right away. Keep all receipts for emergency services, as these are typically reimbursable under your policy.

3. Schedule an Expert Roof Inspection
A licensed roofing contractor can identify subtle storm damage that non-experts easily miss, such as hairline tile fractures or compromised underlayment. Having an expert evaluate the scope early ensures no hidden issues are left off the official claim submission.

4. Review Your Deductible & Policy Terms
In Florida, hurricane deductibles operate as a percentage of your total home insurance coverage (Coverage A) rather than a fixed dollar amount. Reviewing your declarations page before filing helps clarify your out-of-pocket obligation before the claims process moves forward.

5. Attend the Adjuster's Inspection
When the insurance adjuster visits your property, ensure your roofing professional is present. Having a qualified expert on-site allows for an open, technical conversation about the true extent of the damage, ensuring the written estimate reflects realistic scope and local repair costs.

Navigating Key Florida Insurance Regulations

Florida’s Matching Tile Law: Under Section 626.9744 of the Florida Statutes , if damaged roofing materials (such as specific clay or concrete tiles) cannot be matched with items of "like kind and quality," the insurer may be required to replace non-damaged areas to ensure a uniform appearance.

Filing Timelines: Notice of a claim must be submitted promptly following a storm event. Delaying your report can give insurers grounds to question whether the damage was caused by the storm, long-term wear and tear, or something else.

The 15-Year Rule: If your roof is 15 years or older, you have the right to perform a professional inspection. If the inspection proves your roof has 5+ years of life left, the insurance company can’t legally refuse to renew or issue your policy just based on the age of the roof.

Team Up With Trusted Fort Lauderdale Roofing Experts

If your home recently sustained storm damage or you need help evaluating your roof's condition before filing a claim, get in touch with Nast Roofing and our friendly experts will help you navigate the process. We’ve been helping homeowners throughout South Florida for decades and the reviews from the community speak for themselves, check out a few of them below:

- “ Needed help very quickly for insurance and Nast roofing came through for me in a matter of days. They were great! ”

- “ The work was scheduled and completed quickly. The inspection report with accompanying repair pictures were extremely useful for insurance purposes. ”

- “ ...provided invoice with repairs and pictures for my insurance company. They even did this without me being home. I highly recommend them… ”

Storm Damage Insurance Claims FAQs

The Complete South Florida Pre-Hurricane Roof Inspection Checklist

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 21:37:10 GMT

Don't be caught unprepared this upcoming hurricane season South Florida!

Living in South Florida means enjoying year-round sunshine, warm ocean breezes, and gorgeous tropical weather. But every long-time resident and local business owner knows that paradise comes with a seasonal trade-off: hurricane season. From June through November, our skies can shift from calm to treacherous in a matter of hours.

When severe storms roll through Broward and Miami-Dade counties, it’s time for your roof to put its game face on as the primary line of defense. High winds, torrential downpours, and flying debris will aggressively test every square inch of your roofing system. At Nast Roofing , we’ve spent decades helping our South Florida neighbors protect their homes and commercial properties. We know firsthand that the best time to handle storm damage is before the storm hits.

To help you prepare, we’ve put together this comprehensive, step-by-step pre-hurricane roof inspection checklist. Use this roof maintenance guide to spot vulnerabilities early, to ensure the interior of your home stays dry, and safeguard your investment when heavy weather hits.

Phase 1: Safe Ground-Level Visual Inspection

Before you jump on a ladder, start from the ground. You’ll be surprised how many warning signs you can spot with a pair of binoculars and a walk around the perimeter of your property.

Scan the Roof Line: Look for sagging sections, uneven lines, or dip spots. Any noticeable drop along the ridge or deck suggests structural weakness or hidden wood rot beneath the surface.
Examine the Exterior Walls and Fascia: Check directly beneath the overhangs. Discolored wood, peeling paint, or dark water stains on your soffits and fascia often point to existing water intrusion.
Inspect the Surrounding Trees: Overhanging branches act like battering rams during 100+ mph wind gusts. Trim any limbs within 6 to 10 feet of your roof line to prevent heavy impact damage and reduce leaf debris accumulation in your gutters.
Check the Ground for Debris: Finding loose gravel, shingle granules, or broken pieces of tile around your flowerbeds or parking lot after a minor rainstorm indicates that your roofing material is actively deteriorating.

Phase 2: Exterior Roof Surface Check

If you’re comfortable safely accessing your roof (if not, play it safe and hire a professional) focus on the key materials that shield your structure.

Pitch Roofs (Tile & Shingle)

Check for Loose, Cracked, or Missing Tiles: Concrete and clay tiles are exceptionally popular across South Florida, but a single cracked or slipped tile gives wind a foothold. High uplift pressure can easily tear away adjacent tiles once one gives way.
Inspect Shingle Edges and Granules: Look for curling, buckled, or missing asphalt shingles. Excessive granule loss exposes the underlying mat to harsh UV rays and heavy rainfall, leading to fast leaks.
Examine the Ridge Caps: The very top of your roof takes the brunt of initial wind forces. Ensure ridge tiles or shingles are fully secured with intact mortar or approved fasteners.

Flat and Low-Slope Roofs (Commercial & Modern Residential)

Look for Blistering or Bubbling: On modified bitumen or TPO membranes, trapped moisture or expanding air causes raised bubbles. High winds can snap these weak spots open like a balloon.
Identify Ponding Water: If standing water remains on your flat roof longer than 48 hours after a rain, your drainage is compromised. Standing water adds immense weight load and quickly degrades seam integrity.
Check Open Seams: Walk the lap seams across the roof field. Any peeling or lifting seam will allow wind-driven rain to siphon directly into your insulation layer.

Phase 3: Perimeter, Flashing & Penetrations

Flashing is the thin sheet metal installed to direct water away from critical areas of the roof. Statistically, the majority of hurricane-related leaks occur not through the middle of the field, but around perimeters and roof penetrations.

Inspect Flashing Around Chimneys, Skylights, and Vents: Ensure the metal flashing is tightly sealed against the wall or curb. Cracked, rusted, or lifting flashing requires immediate sealant touch-ups or replacement.
Examine Metal Drip Edges: The drip edge secures the perimeter of your roof. Ensure it is firmly fastened to the decking. Florida Building Code emphasizes strong perimeter attachment because wind uplift easily catches loose metal edges.
Review HVAC Equipment and Roof Curbs: For commercial property owners, check the curbs and flashing surrounding rooftop mechanical units. Ensure panels are screwed tight and base tie-ins are watertight.

Phase 4: Drainage & Gutters

Even the sturdiest roof will fail if heavy rainfall has nowhere to go. During a South Florida tropical storm, your drainage system must move thousands of gallons of water away from the building every hour.

Clear All Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, silt, pine needles, and trash. Clogged gutters overflow, driving water upward under your lower edge tiles or shingles and causing rotted fascia boards.
Flush Flat Roof Scuppers and Drains: Make sure primary roof drains and overflow scuppers are completely free of trash, balls, or vegetation growth.
Verify Downspout Extensions: Confirm that downspouts discharge water at least 3 to 5 feet away from your foundation wall to prevent soil erosion and slab settling.

Phase 5: Interior & Attic Signpost Checks

What happens inside your building often tells the true story of your roof’s health. Take a flashlight and head up to the attic or top-floor ceiling.

Look for Daylight: Turn off your flashlight while in the attic during daylight hours. If you see light piercing through the roof deck, water will find the exact same path during a storm.
Inspect Decking and Rafters: Look for dark streaks, water rings, or soft wood along the underside of the plywood sheathing.
Check Insulation Health: Damp, matted, or discolored insulation is a clear sign that a subtle leak has been dripping overhead for weeks or months.
Look for Interior Ceiling Stains: Check the drywall ceiling and upper corners of top-story rooms or offices for yellow or brown water rings.

Pre-Hurricane Checklist Summary

Don't Wait for the Warning Flag: Schedule Your Professional Inspection

Catching small issues early is always dramatically cheaper than dealing with sudden storm damage restoration. Routine maintenance and timely roof repairs are your best line of defense to keep minor wear and tear from turning into a major disaster when severe weather strikes.

If your inspection reveals loose materials, age-related wear, or leaks, addressing them right away is essential. Comprehensive roof maintenance helps protect your property investment, extends the lifespan of your roof, and gives you complete peace of mind when storm warnings are issued.

At Nast Roofing , we treat every home and business as if it were our own. We bring years of local experience, top-tier craftsmanship, and honest advice to every job across South Florida.

Need an expert set of eyes to inspect your roof before hurricane season heats up? Contact your trusted roofing contractor in Fort Lauderdale today at (954) 782-7500 or visit us at 138 W SR 84 (the Marina Mile) to schedule your professional roof evaluation.

If you're in doubt as to the safety of climbing onto you own roof, it's time to call a professional. Contact us today !

Hiring A Contractor

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:22 GMT

Hiring a roofer can be c omplicated...but it's NOT impossible!

When you are considering hiring a roofing contractor, there are many things to look out for. By using some common sense and a little investigative know-how, you can avoid some of the issues common to most bad experiences. Within this article we will provide many of the questions you need to ask, and some of the best moves to make to ensure that your roofing experience is a good one.

Are Roofers in Your Area Required to be Licensed?

Many states and local municipalities require roofing contractors to be licensed. This typically means that they will take certain tests to prove that they have a working knowledge of roof systems, and also the code requirements and other laws in your area.

Are the Terms of the contract clearly defined?

The proposal that you receive from any contractor should be clear, easy to read, and define all of the work to be done. It should also be clear when payments are to be made by you, and how much each of those payments are to be. Keeping you informed is a big part of our job, but having everything in writing protects both parties.

Are You a Licensed Contractor?

If a license is required in your area, be sure that you find a contractor that is licensed, and that license is in good standing. You can check state or local authority websites to find out a lot about your potential contractor.

Do You Carry Insurance?

Most roofing contractors will carry insurance that will cover any accidental damage they may inflict on your property, as well as employees who may be working on your project. Many licensing agencies will require certain levels of insurance based on the projects they take on. A good contractor carries a current insurance policy that can be verified with a phone call to the agent.

How Long have you been in Business?

A general rule of thumb is that the longer a contractor has been in business, the better they are. But this is not always the case. Oftentimes a contractor who is just starting their business is a talented installer who decided to go out on their own. So while length of time in business can be helpful, you will need to decide if you are comfortable with someone who is just starting out.

Do you have references?

Past customer experiences are a great way to learn more about a roofing contractor. If they have a long list of great testimonials, you are more likely to be happy with their services. If you are happy with the service you receive, take the time to write a testimonial for the contractor. They will greatly appreciate it.

Does the Contractor have Online Reviews?

It is becoming much easier to find reviews of companies online, and roofing contractors are no exception. Doing a bit of research on a company in advance can save you a great deal of headache in the future.

Ask For Photos of Past Projects

Ask to see photos of past projects, whether they are on their website or simply on their phone. This is a great way to see what they have done in the past, and to ensure that they have actually completed the projects they have undertaken.

Use Common Sense.

Putting some thought into your decision in advance can save you a great deal of difficulty in the future. You should hire a company who meets your expectations and with whom you are comfortable.

Cheaper Is Not Always Better.

Contractors who offer a price that is substantially lower should be given a great deal of scrutiny. Make sure that they are going to be installing the same quality products, and doing it in the same way. Money is only saved by cutting corners, not carrying insurance or a license and can often have a profound effect on the outcome of your project.

Roof Safety for Homeowners

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:21 GMT

Should you Leave it To Roofing Professionals?

If you are asking yourself this question, then the answer is probably yes. It may seem like an easy thing to walk on a roof, but if you are not experienced with negotiating different pitches, and if there is any question at all about the roof's ability to handle the weight you are adding, do not attempt to climb on your own roof.

Slipped Shingles:

Shingles that have slipped out of place or those that are loose will always pose a threat to your safety while on the roof. It is very easy to step on a loose shingle that will take your feet out from under you increasing the chance that you will slide off the roof. The older your roof is, the riskier it becomes.

Rotten Decking:

If your home has a roof leak that you see inside, your roof decking is already being damaged. As shingles are installed, the nails penetrate the wood. If water is added to that mix, the decking can deteriorate from the inside out. This leads to weak spots that can literally collapse as you step on them, causing a risk of falling, even death. Trained roofers know how to walk on a roof, testing their steps before they take them to ensure that the roof can handle the weight they are about to place on it.

Steep Roofing:

It takes special training to walk or negotiate steep roof planes and it is never a good idea for anyone without this training to attempt to walk on a steep roof. The fall risk is simply not worth anything you need to accomplish, and this should only be left to trained professionals.

If you are in doubt as to the safety of climbing onto you own roof, it is time to call a professional. Contact us today !

Avoiding Ponding Water

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 16:38:20 GMT

Ponding water on a low-slope roof can lead to premature degradation of the roofing material, and structural damage from the weight of the water standing on the roof. A ponding water situation should be addressed as soon as it is discovered because a leak is most likely to occur exactly where the water is ponding.

What Causes Ponding Water?

While your low-slope roof was likely designed with a slight pitch to drain water, over time the building settles and lessens the effectiveness of the slope.

Why Does My Roof Leak Long After The Rain Ends?

When it rains, a ponding area on your roof will fill with water. When the rain stops the pond either evaporates or drips into the building after a leak develops. The water that has accumulated on the roof will continue to drip into your building until is is gone or the penetration is above the water line. Ponding areas will develop leaks, and those leaks are very much like a funnel pointed directly at the interior of your structure.

How do We Remedy a Ponding Situation?

Every roof is completely different and we will need to see yours in order to devise a plan to keep it from leaking and remedy the ponding situation. Don't hesitate to call us today for a free inspection.

nast-roofing

Tile, Metal, or Shingle? Choosing the Right Roof for South Florida Heat, Salt Air & Hurricanes

1. Concrete & Clay Tile Roofing: The Classic South Florida Standard

Pros & Considerations

2. Standing Seam Metal Roofing: The Ultimate Coastal Fortress

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Pros & Considerations

3. Architectural Asphalt Shingles: Budget-Friendly Versatility

Pros & Considerations

Get Honest Advice for Your South Florida Property

Frequently Asked Questions

Commercial Flat Roofs in Fort Lauderdale: Tackling Ponding Water & Thermal Expansion

The Dangers of Ponding Water on Low-Slope Roofs

Why Standing Water Destroys Flat Membranes

Thermal Expansion & Contraction: The "Thermal Shock" Cycle

How Thermal Movement Damages Commercial Buildings

Proactive Drainage & Restoration Solutions

A. Installing Tapered Insulation Crickets

B. Upgrading Drainage & Overflow Scuppers

C. Fluid-Applied Cool Roof Coatings (Silicone & Elastomeric)

Flat Roof Health Inspection Checklist for Property Managers

Use this quick checklist during your routine quarterly walkthroughs:

Protect Your Commercial Property Investment

Ponding Water & Thermal Expansion FAQs

Understanding South Florida Roofing Codes

What Makes HVHZ Roofing Codes Different?

1. Mandatory Miami-Dade NOAs (Notice of Acceptance)

2. Enhanced Fastening Patterns

3. Full Secondary Water Barriers (Peel-and-Stick)

The Florida 25% Rule: What Homeowners Must Know

The Permit & Inspection Workflow in Broward & Miami-Dade

Key Takeaways for Homeowners & Property Managers

Partner with South Florida’s Trusted Local Roofing Experts

South Florida Roofing Codes FAQs

Navigating Roof Damage Insurance Claims in Florida... Without the Stress!

Step-by-Step Guide to a Stress-Free Roof Insurance Claim

Navigating Key Florida Insurance Regulations

Team Up With Trusted Fort Lauderdale Roofing Experts

﻿ Storm Damage Insurance Claims FAQs

The Complete South Florida Pre-Hurricane Roof Inspection Checklist

Don't be caught unprepared this upcoming hurricane season South Florida!

Phase 1: Safe Ground-Level Visual Inspection

Phase 2: Exterior Roof Surface Check

Pitch Roofs (Tile & Shingle)

Flat and Low-Slope Roofs (Commercial & Modern Residential)

Phase 3: Perimeter, Flashing & Penetrations

Phase 4: Drainage & Gutters

Phase 5: Interior & Attic Signpost Checks

Pre-Hurricane Checklist Summary

Don't Wait for the Warning Flag: Schedule Your Professional Inspection

Hiring A Contractor

Hiring a roofer can be c omplicated...but it's NOT impossible!

Roof Safety for Homeowners

Should you Leave it To Roofing Professionals?

Avoiding Ponding Water

What Causes Ponding Water?

Why Does My Roof Leak Long After The Rain Ends?

How do We Remedy a Ponding Situation?

Storm Damage Insurance Claims FAQs