News and Updates

Commercial Roof Inspection: Questions You Need to Ask

October 24, 2019 Scott Patnode

The roofing system of a commercial property is deemed an important asset because it is the first line of defense against extreme weather or structural damage. As such, property owners and managers must make sure that it is regularly monitored and maintained. Hiring a roofing company like Fields Roof Service that has what it takes to preserve the life span of the whole system through a thorough inspection is imperative.

In today’s blog post, we provide a list of questions you need to ask when getting a roof inspection.

Important Facts You Need To Know About Asphalt Roofing

August 16, 2019 Scott Patnode

From structural details to roof maintenance requirements, knowing how asphalt shingle roof inside out can help you make informed decisions on critical roofing concerns. Fields Roof Service shares important facts about asphalt shingle roofing that homeowners need to know.

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF BACKING MATERIAL

Asphalt shingles are comprised of two parts: an asphalt-saturated backing material, and the granules made from crushed rock. The backing material can either be made of “organic” shingles made of recycled paper, or fiberglass. Each has its own set of advantages: organic shingles tend to be more saturated with asphalt, and therefore is more rigid and has better waterproofing. Fiberglass shingles, on the other hand, are more flexible, and has additional resilience against high winds.

GRANULES PROVIDE MORE THAN JUST COLOR

The outer granule layer is made from rocks and minerals infused with color, then crushed and embedded on hot asphalt-soaked sheets that are later cut to shape. These granules primarily protect the asphalt shingles from UV rays, but it can be mixed in with other features depending on the roof replacement requirements. For example, copper granules can be added for protection against algae growth, or reflective granules can be added to reduce the heat absorbed through the roof. Roofing manufacturers such as GAF and Malarkey offer asphalt shingle options with such features.

TRADITIONAL VS. LAMINATE SHINGLES

Traditional shingles are made with one layer of material, the most well-known variety of which is the three-tab asphalt shingles. This affordable option can withstand most weather conditions, and typically last about 20 years. Laminate shingles are composed of two layers of material, with the top layer cut differently to create a textured look. Also known as “architectural” or “dimensional” shingles, these extra-thick shingles provide additional protection against wind tear-offs.

ASPHALT SHINGLES ARE RECYCLABLE

Asphalt can be recycled many times without deteriorating. This is why discarded asphalt shingles should not be sent straight to landfills. Asphalt shingle recyclers can extract asphalt and process them so they can be used for roads.
Fields Roof Service is your leading provider of asphalt shingle roofing systems, as well as commercial roofing systems such as modified bitumen roof. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Ways That You Can Extend The Life Of Your Commercial Roof

August 13, 2019 Scott Patnode

While roofing work should always be left to professionals, you, as a property owner or manager, can help extend the service life of your commercial roofing system. In this post, roofing company Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the things that you can do that can benefit your roof’s life span.

LEARN HOW TO RECOGNIZE ROOFING PROBLEMS

You’re expected to perform roof inspections and inform your roofing contractor in case you find problems. Therefore, you should learn to recognize problems commonly found on the type of roofing your property has. For example, if you have a single-ply roofing system installed on your property, then you should be able to recognize blisters and punctures by sight. You should likewise know that calling your roofing contractor for repairs as soon as possible can help prevent further damage.

CONDUCT REGULAR INSPECTIONS

Depending on your commercial roofing type, you may need to conduct roofing inspections as often as every six months, or as infrequently as every three years. In either case, you should not neglect inspection schedules. As we mentioned above, the sooner your roofing contractor addresses a roofing problem, the less chances of further damage there will be. Also, such small problems typically cost less to fix.

KNOW THE ROOFING STRUCTURE INSIDE OUT

There are different commercial roofing systems, each with their own unique set of features, advantages and disadvantages. Roofing contractors will be glad to explain how the roofing structure is or will be built, if you ask. A detailed knowledge of the work structure can help you decide on factors such as whether or not repairs will disrupt the occupants’ operations. Knowing the roof structure can also help you isolate problems. It can also help you with the decision-making process, such as whether or not you should call for repairs, which can help save on time and resources, in the event of a false alarm.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your leading provider of commercial and residential roofing services. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

4 Most Common Single-Ply Commercial Roofing Problems

August 12, 2019 Scott Patnode

Single-ply roofs feature a single layer of roofing material installed on a substrate. Depending on the installation method, this roofing material can be installed using a combination of adhesive, fasteners, and heat welding. In this post, commercial roof contractor Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the most common roofing problems unique to single-ply roofs.

Seam Failure — As with most roofing materials, single-ply roofing expands and contracts with temperature changes. A typical single-ply roof is installed as a monolithic layer, which means it covers the entire roof as a single piece made of sheets welded together, much like a quilt covering a bed. Roof shrinkage can cause stress on the seams, which may pull apart over time and allow moisture to penetrate this layer. Proper installation techniques, which allow enough slack for shrinkage, can help minimize seam failure.
Blisters — Single-ply roofing that’s adhered to the substrate may develop blisters from moisture trapped under the outer layer. The moisture could come from using wet substrate, or if moisture has somehow found its way from the indoor space. In either case, blisters may noticeably form on the roofing surface. Make a note of how big the blisters are and check back every week. If the blisters are increasing in size, contact your commercial roofer for repairs.
Punctures — Single-ply roofing isn’t designed to handle foot traffic and impact from hard objects, both of which can puncture the roofing surface. Fortunately, punctures or single-ply roofing can be repaired using patches. Proper roof planning is important if your roof is up for replacement: if you’re expecting moderate to high foot traffic on your roof, consider built-up roofing (BUR) or other types of multi-ply roofing systems.
Ponding Water — Inch-deep ponding water can exert up to 5.2 pounds per square foot of pressure. This is why you should never skimp on proper roof design; “flat” roofs are not really flat, but are rather slightly sloped to allow proper drainage. If rainwater on your roof does not dry up after 48 hours, call a roofing professional, as the stagnant water could allow algae growth.

Fields Roof Service, Inc. is the roofing contractor to call when you find a roof leak in your commercial roofing. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Questions You Should Ask During a Roof Inspection

August 8, 2019 Scott Patnode

If this is the first time you’re having your roof inspected, there are certain things you should know for later on in case you need to have it repaired or replaced. In this blog roof service company Fields Roof Service, Inc. shares the questions you should ask during a roof inspection.

HOW OLD IS THE ROOF?

Knowing the age of your roof is important, especially if you’re not your home’s first owner. It gives you a better understanding of your roof’s age, which can help you decide whether your roof is due for replacement, or if it’s prematurely failing. A capable roofing contractor can give an estimate of the roof’s age based on normal wear and tear. This means, there is a chance the roofing contractor may recommend a roof inspection if it’s too old.

WHAT ARE THE ROOFING MATERIALS?

There are many varieties of the same roofing type, each with its own set of roof repair and maintenance requirements. For example, fiberglass asphalt shingles can better withstand moisture than “organic” cellulose ones. Knowing the difference can help with decisions such as estimating repair and replacement costs.

IS MY ROOF DAMAGED?

A thorough roof inspection should reveal any part that may require repair. Part of a roofer’s training is knowing how to recognize signs of damage. Water stains are but one of many signs of a damaged roof. Other signs include warped structural components, clumping insulation and the presence of mold and mildew. A hot and humid attic space is an indicator and afterr inspection, you will receive recommendations on what kind of repairs are needed to restore your roof.

HOW SOON BEFORE I NEED A NEW ROOF?

Whether or not you need a new roof depends on many factors. This includes the roof’s age, the amount of wear and tear it has endured, and if it has been receiving regular maintenance and timely repairs. Knowing how much time your roof has will help you plan for its inevitable replacement and perhaps give you time to explore various roofing designs and options.
Fields Roof Service, Inc. is your leading provider of every roof service you’ll ever need, including maintenance inspections, repair and replacement. Give us a call at (253) 200-5981 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.

Testimonials

Fields Roof Service is the BEST - from the first phone call to the last shingle! I got 3 bids. One was far below Fields, but I didn't feel confident that they would do the job correctly, and the other one was about the same as Fields. But I chose Fields because Jason was so knowledgeable. I felt that the job would be done right. He was organized and took care of every little detail. And the crew who worked on my roof were great, too. The roof looks great, and I love my 2 new skylights in my living room. I highly recommend Fields Roof Service!!!

Valerie T. | Auburn, WA

Steve came out to help us investigate a potential leak. He was not only thorough in checking for the leak (which he verified was not coming from the roof) but was also extremely friendly and gave us suggestions on where the leak could be coming from as well as general roofing tips. This was my first time working with them, and will be highly recommending them to my friends and coworkers. Thanks Steve!"

Solomon C. | Seattle, WA

Estimates provided upfront. Great work and new Sky Light installed as expected. They also offer if leaking again, call them any time.

Tu N. | Tacoma, WA

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