Author Archives: Keystone General Contracting, LLC

What is Window Repair?

Window repairs are any service that patch, update, or maintain the window structures in your home. This could involve replacing glass panes, resealing damaged caulking, or installing new weatherstripping. It could also mean removing and replacing the window frame after it has been damaged by weather or rot. Keeping up with repairs when they are needed will ensure you have a safe, healthy and efficient space. You may want to try and save money by trying to find examples of how to do window repairs on your own, but that is not always advised. Though many services seem easy to complete, they are just as easy to mess up. Instead, it’s best to rely on professional contractors, like those with Keystone General Contracting, LLC. We can help with most home repair needs and services. Give us a call today to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does it cost to replace a broken window in a house?
  • The final costs will depend on a number of things. The extent of the damage, if only the glass is broken or if the window pane also needs replacement. On average, homeowners should expect to pay between $300 and $1,000 per window for replacement.
• Can home windows be repaired? 
  • Yes, most windows and be repaired or resealed so the operate as good as new. The extent of your repairs will be determined by the damage, the type of window glass your have, and more. 
• Can you reseal a window?
  • If there is no water damage but there is air leaking in through your windows, you can reseal the windows. You’ll need someone to either use caulk to reseal the area or install new weatherstripping. Either way, professional services are advised to guarantee quality results. 
• Why do my windows leak when it rains?
  • More often than not, your windows are leaking because of faulty or improper installation. It could also be because the weatherstripping or seals have been damaged. Regardless, if they windows are leaking, they will need to be repaired or replaced to avoid future damage.
• Are broken window seals a big deal? 
  • It ultimately depends. Most of the time, broken window seals are not as big of a deal as you may think. What will happen is that air will be allowed to leak in and out of the home, resulting in higher than normal energy bills. It’s not a terribly serious situation that needs to be addressed, but if you are wanting to save money, repairing broken seals as soon as possible will help with that.

In this article, we will discuss the spray foam roofing benefits and answer the question is foam roofing good for all commercial buildings or only for certain applications? When put to the test, which is better, foam roofing vs. TPO? Read on for the answers to these questions and more.

How long do foam roofs last?

Possibly the ultimate advantage of spray foam roofing is longevity. Where most commercial roofing systems promise a 40 to 50-year life expectancy, foam roofing may be the game-changer that commercial building owners have been wanting.

An original spray foam roofing application has a life expectancy of 20 to 35 years if properly maintained. Other factors that can affect this are the climate, foot traffic, weather, and the elements it is exposed to. While that isn’t a long time, it is a respectable length of time and when you factor in a recoat in 20 years, that longevity extends past other commercial roofing materials.

Because spray foam roofing has only been around approximately 50 years, there isn’t a solid reference to reference for comparison. What commercial roofing experts will tell you is that it has had drastic improvements since it was first introduced to the commercial market. With the weather testing available in the roofing industry, experts expect it that foam roofing might last 80 years or longer.

Can you walk on a foam roof? 

Yes, you can walk on spray foam roofing according to National Roofing Contractors Association and the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance. Spray foam roofing has been tested and proven to sustain up to fifty pounds per square inch. The downside to this type of commercial roofing material, it is easily damaged, thus compromising its integrity, if poked with a sharp object that creates a hole. 

With this being noted, your HVAC or plumbing contractor can have access to the roof as needed, without special temporary flooring placed, no problem. However, if they drop anything with a sharp edge or poke a hole into the foam roofing, it will need to be repaired promptly. 

Can spray foam rot your roof? 

This is a reasonable question, and the answer is straightforward – no spray foam roofing will not rot the original roofing. The polyurethane substance that is used for spray foam roofing is an open-cell material that is breathable, meaning that air flows and moisture pass through it. Foam roofing ensures that any water will not sit there and rot your roof. Instead, this spongy foam absorbs the water and then it passes on through.

Does spray foam stop leaks? 

Because spray foam roofing expands as they apply it, it fills in cracks. It will bond to any roofing surface, effectively and quickly resolve roof leaks. A polyurethane spray foam roofing has many benefits for a commercial structure:

• Easy to Install: Polyurethane spray foam roofing is easy to install, which means the roofing contractor installing the material will get the job quickly. This saves the commercial building owner money because it is done so fast and because it doesn’t disrupt the daily business. Spray foam roofing will fit even the most irregular, odd shape of a roof, eliminating the need for the contractor to make special cuts. Even better, they can apply spray foam roofing over existing roofing materials after they have cleaned it.
• Energy Saver: Foam roofing provides air and moisture barriers at the highest R-value, providing a commercial building better insulation. Polyurethane foam keeps heat in during the winter and out in the summer, easing the strain on your HVAC system which lowers your energy costs. With an added silicone top coating, it will resist UV light and protect the foam roofing while absorbing heat.
• Ease of Maintenance: Once foam roofing is installed, there is minimal upkeep, and if maintained properly, industry experts expect it last 50 years or longer. A roof inspection should be performed semiannually, typically in the Fall and in the Spring, with additional inspections recommended if there was a harsh weather event that could have damaged the roof, like a hailstorm or high winds. Should there be any damage caused, they can reapply the spray foam roofing without having to remove the old roofing.
• Seamless, Waterproof: Because foam roofing doesn’t have any seams, there is little to no possible penetrations typical of roof leaks with other roofing systems. They apply it in liquid form, fills any cracks, gaps, or seems of the existing roof.  An experienced roofing contractor will work the polyurethane foam to level the roof, which minimizes water ponding common to commercial roofs. The polyurethane will expand, contracting to fit the building and roof, and is less likely to crack or split. 

There is very little waste during its lifespan and because it can be applied on top of other roofing materials, there is no material waste with the old roofing being removed. Dial (318) 300-3660 today for quality foam roofing in Shreveport, LA from Keystone General Contracting, LLC.

How do you know if you have roof damage?

Your home is like your vehicle. Preventive maintenance is a must, especially a roof. You may feel fortunate when you see homes destroyed by a tornado that are miles, even blocks away. However, that doesn’t mean that your home didn’t have any roof storm damage.

Roof repairs or replacement are less expensive when you catch problems before a leak begins. Besides, finding a roof leak is challenging, almost impossible even. If you wait until you see a sign of roof leak, like a wet spot on the ceiling, that doesn’t mean that is the actual area where the roof leak is. Of all the damage a roof can sustain, roof storm damage can be the trickiest.

Water will enter the roof at a weak point and make its appearance somewhere else. So, by doing a regular inspection of the roof, you can find problem areas and repair them before the leak begins. This couldn’t be truer when there is roof storm damage. Besides the visual inspection, here are other tips you can follow to avoid surprises.: If a visual inspection finds any of the following, you need to call a professional roofing contractor to repair or replace as necessary:

• Broken, cracked, curled, missing, or split shingles
• Gutters filled with roofing granules
• Decay, mildew, mold (indicated by black spots and streaks)
• Blisters, cracks or tears on a flat roof
• Loose, missing flashing
• Decayed, missing, or stained fascia and soffits
• Bent, clogged, loose, or missing flashing or vents
• Broken, loose, missing gutters and downspouts
• Leaning chimneys
• Tree limbs on the roof

What causes roof damage?

There are many things that can create problems with a roof, which is why experts recommend a regular inspection. By doing this, you can find minor issues before they are major problems. When it comes to your home, there several aspects to be watchful regarding structure improvement. Having a high significance is the roof, which is why finding roof storm damage is important, as well as other damage that can weaken your roof.

Five of the most common causes of roof damage are:

• Maintenance. It can’t be stressed enough – regular roof inspection is very important. Not only is structural saving, but it can often be a lifesaver too! An inspection can find minor roof storm damage that turns in to small leaks. Those small leaks can create mildew and mold, infecting the air your family breathes, and eventually, can grow into a large leak that requires all new roofing.

• Ice. Ice and snow are not a friend to roofing. As they melt and thaw on the surface of your roof, small particles will settle under the shingles. Then when it refreezes, it will lift the shingles as well as the flashing, all in the progress of creating water damage. This will eventually create corrosion, causing the roofing and the underlayment to deteriorate. With ice storms, there are usually high winds, sometimes hail. Always inspect for possible roof storm damage.

• Wind. Even the daily gusts of winds will weaken the nails, shingles, and other roofing components that keep the roof in place. A regular inspection will help you spot these things and you can have it repaired before it turns into a larger problem. After a round of bad weather, it is important to check for possible roof storm damage.

• Mother Nature. While she is nurturing, she can also be destructive, especially to roofs.  Mother Nature can cause a plethora of issues when it comes to roofing. The UV ray alone can slowly contribute to the deterioration of the roof, more pointedly, to asphalt shingles. After this damage had taken place, the interior sheathing can’t be protected, exposing the roof to the raw elements.

• Poor Installation. Any time you have roof repairs or replacement done, make sure to hire only a certified, licensed, and insured roofing contractor. This will give you peace of mind that all is secure and if there are any issues, you’ll have leverage and recourse, and don’t forget that it is better for your property value.

What wind speed causes roof damage?

Roof storm damage includes high winds, with or without hail, broken limbs, trees, and more. In a high wind, shingle roofs can take a pounding up to 90 mph, but it takes only up to 50 mph to damage it even. Again, we can’t stress enough, the need to inspect your roof after the lightest high winds for damage.

Is a leaking roof an emergency?

A leaking roof is not good, but it is an emergency if it happens during ice, snow, or rain. With that in mind, roof storm damage can become a major problem that can affect the stability of your whole home and your content.

Take all the precautions you can, such as the electricity turned off and the gas. Place tarps over what you can and take shelter as needed. A phone call to your insurance agent should be the first thing you do. Some will have their own emergency crew to send out or they will advise you to call a roofing contractor.

How Often do You Need to Clean Your Chimney?

There is no need to bother cleaning your chimney at the same frequency as you clean your home’s floors, bathtub or cookware.  Chimney maintenance should be performed once per year.  Otherwise, the chimney sweep will not be able to properly remove soot, creosote, blockages and other gunk.  Abide by a regular schedule of chimney maintenance/cleaning and you will be able to use your fireplace in full confidence.  At the very least, your chimney should be professionally inspected at least once per year to ensure everything is in worker order and functioning as it should. 

When in doubt, have your chimney cleaned once per year even if it is not egregiously dirty.  The venting systems connected to your home’s stoves and furnaces should also be cleaned once per yer to boot.  When in doubt, rely on our heating services for assistance with home heating maintenance and cleaning.  Even if you do not use your chimney as often as expected, it should still be cleaned as animals ranging from birds to raccoons might have ventured in, making the use of the fireplace unsafe.  However, it might be necessary to clean your chimney more than once per year.  According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, if more than 1/8” of soot has accumulated within the chimney/flue system, a cleaning will be necessary.  Furthermore, if you spot any glaze within the flue, cleaning should be performed sooner rather than later.

How Much Does It Cost to Have Your Chimney Swept?

Do not let the potential cost of cleaning a chimney stop you from having this important part of your home tended to.  Chimney cleanings are worth every single penny.  Most chimney cleanings cost between $150 and $400.  This is money well-spent as the inspection and cleaning of a chimney will prevent potentially costly repairs and the buildup of creosote that causes fires. 

If you are intimidated by the prospect of spending upwards of $400 for a chimney sweep, consider the cost of a home fire.  The little bit of money necessary for a chimney sweep is significantly less than the cost of building a new home destroyed by a fire.  Furthermore, most chimney sweeps do not run in excess of $250.  In the end, you will likely end up spending between $100 and $250 for your chimney sweep.  The final cost ultimately hinges on the type of chimney at your home and the roof’s accessibility.

What Happens if You Don’t Clean Your Chimney?

The failure to clean a chimney is likely to result in the gradual buildup of creosote.  The burning of wood leads to the formation of creosote within the chimney or its liner.   Creosote spikes the chances of a chimney fire.  The rate at which creosote accumulates is higher if improper burning practices are used or if the fireplace is not functioning as designed.  If enough creosote accumulates, it will eventually decrease the fireplace’s draw, reducing efficiency and posing a legitimate fire hazard.

Abide by a few key chimney maintenance tips and you won’t have to pay for the comprehensive cleaning of a creosote-filled chimney as often as those who neglect their chimney.  Every homeowner in Shreveport, LA should adhere to the following chimney maintenance tips:

• Check the damper a few times per year to ensure it properly closes
• Take a look at the mortar bricks and joints to see if they have been compromised
• Pay for a chimney inspection and cleaning at least once per year
• Ideally, the chimney should be cleaned every 50 burns
• Waterproof your chimney with the addition of a water sealant to the exterior that guards against moisture and mold formation

Chimney cleaning logs will decrease the buildup in the chimney yet industry experts are adamant such logs are merely supplemental to professional chimney sweep cleaning.  A chimney sweep’s specialized chimney cleaning equipment is necessary to perform a truly comprehensive cleaning of this structure.  As an example, a chimney sweep will use a chimney inspection camera to get a clear look at chimney damage, plan the cleaning and execute it to perfection. For your chimney services in Shreveport, LA, dial (318) 300-3660 for Keystone General Contracting, LLC!

What Are Metal Roof Shingles

Metal roof shingles are a variety of metal roofing that encompasses the popular design of asphalt shingles with the strength of the metal. Metal roof shingles can blend easily into any neighborhood and require less maintenance and more longevity than their asphalt shingle counterparts. On the roofing market today, there are many different varieties of metal shingles. These varieties encompass different colors and shapes and are well-adapted for many climates. 

Which is Better A Metal Shingle Roof or a Shingle Roof?

In terms of sheer longevity, design, and maintenance, metal shingle roofs far outpace their asphalt shingle competition. This is because while asphalt shingles are composed of hardy asphalt and paper, metal shingles are made of a far more tough substitute: metal. Metal roofs, particularly those engineered to be corrosion resistant, typically produce exceptional results when faced with strong or extreme weather patterns. Because roofs tend to take a battering, it’s important for roofs to be made out of the strongest, lightest material possible.

Metal Roof Shingles vs Asphalt

Please allow the facts to be clear: asphalt roofs are far more popular and affordable than metal roof shingles. Asphalt shingles were first introduced in America at the turn of the century. Since then, they have dominated the market. Some of the first metal roofs were made of tin. While tin roofs still exist, they have fallen by the wayside due to the driving force of modern technological advances in metal roofing materials. Metal roofs are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they more than make it up in terms of longevity, durability, and lack of need for excess maintenance. What does this mean? This means that your metal shingle roof will perform better and for longer than a regular shingle roof.

Is a Metal Roof Better?

There is a lot to consider in terms of making a true comparison between a metal roof and other types of roofs. As previously discussed, asphalt shingle roofs are more popular and more affordable, however, they are not as durable as metal roofs. Clay and concrete tile roofs represent one of the most formidable forms of roof competition. This is because tile roofs can last as long, if not longer, than metal roofs, and with similar amounts of maintenance. A well-maintained metal or tile roof can last as long as a century. In terms of better, homeowners should look for a roof that performs well for a long time with a minimal amount of roofing maintenance.

Metal Roof Shingles Disadvantages

It’s time to talk about the disadvantages of a metal shingle roof. Weighing both the advantages and the disadvantages gives a more accurate and appropriate approach to any roofing material on the market today. One of the main disadvantages is the lack of affordability. Metal roofs can be as much as two or three times more pricey than other roofing materials. Noisiness is another potential detractor. With proper insulation, homeowners shouldn’t have to worry too much about noise, however, it is a factor that should be weighed. 

What are the Benefits of Having a Metal Roof? 

Would you like to review the benefits of having a metal roof? Please consider the following advantages.

• Longevity. Metal roofs can last forty to seventy years or longer, with proper care and treatment. 
• Environmentally friendly. Metal roofs are typically made of 25%-95% recycled content. This means huge positive effects on the environment. Additionally, metal roofs are 100% recyclable at the end of their life as a roof. In contrast, though asphalt shingles can be recycled, not all of these such roofs are.
• Energy efficiency. Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat. This reflective property can reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. 

While the benefits of having a metal roof are remarkable, so is having a well-performing air conditioner. Please consider a reputable HVAC company for your air conditioning services. 

Metal Shingle Roofing Materials

The most common metals that are used to manufacture metal shingles are G90 galvanized steel and aluminum, though copper and zinc shingles exist. Amark Metals is a metal roof manufacturer that provides custom metal roofing materials and metal fabrication products. Many excellent roofing companies utilize these remarkable roofing products. Through a stamping press, metal shingles are produced. These metal shingles come in a wide selection of colors and styles.

Do you have metal roof shingles on your agenda? Our friendly staff at Keystone General Contracting, LLC are ready to take your phone call at (318) 300-3660. Receive quality metal roof shingles in Shreveport, LA!

Can siding be painted?

Home siding can be painted depending on the material yet applying paint to certain materials such as vinyl will actually improve the durability. As home siding doesn’t retain the moisture it’ll be fairly easy to clean and will dry quickly.

Siding vs Painting

In the home siding vs painting debate, you can expect a larger investment in siding material than with paint. Paint typically runs between $1-$3 per square foot while say vinyl siding can cost $3-$8 per square foot.

How much does it cost to fix siding on a house?

The cost of home siding will vary depending on such factors as siding materials, the size of the house, the region of installation services, contractor prices and more. On average you can expect the range to fall between $297-$1,052.

How do you fix gaps in vinyl siding?

Gaps in vinyl siding tend to occur from impacts of inclement weather, insects, wear from the sun and other factors. No matter the case, a hole in your siding can prove detrimental to your overall home’s systems. You can invite water damages from rain, mildew, wood rot, bug infestations and more which can cost greatly if left to progress over time. When you see there are gaps in your vinyl siding take action as soon as you can with some simple DIY tasks. Although a caulking gun may be your first thought, hold off on it this time around if the holes are more than ¼ inch thick as this won’t properly solve the problem. As of such, simply getting a new piece of siding may or may not match the surrounding siding so if possible try sliding the panels together. Your first step to making this happen is to make a trip to the hardware store and purchase a zip tool. After this is secured, it’s time to unlock the overlapping materials. (Steps can be found on the back of the zip tool packaging that can be helpful in this step.) You’ll free the pieces on each side of the gap and then slide them back together until they overlap slightly. Make sure not to cause another hole on the opposite ends of those panels by sliding them in too far. Lastly, you’ll secure the siding by driving a nail through the right side of the flange and on the end of the left-hand panel. Be sure not to drive the nail in too deeply as vinyl tends to contract and expand throughout the year with temperature changes.

When should you replace siding?

Similar to signs of needing electrical services, home siding can prove to show as either fairly obvious or hidden when damaged depending on the case. That’s why it’s important to have a roof or home inspection done with your home after particularly bad inclement weather has come around as that is when damages are most likely to occur. Pay particular attention to home siding near windows as this can be an area of particular sensitivity. As of such, some signs that it may be time to replace your home siding involve the following. Some signs are particularly easy to catch such as pealing, cracks or chipping while others like dry rot occur beneath the top layers of the surface. Yet both of these cases are clear indications that a home siding replacement job is necessary. It’s important to have a visual and tactile inspection done when you suspect rotting as sometimes you’ll see warped areas or feel a softness when touched. A particular visual clue can be seen near the seams of the siding as this is where mold and mildew are likely to grow.

When you need help with your home siding in Shreveport, LA call (318) 300-3660 with Keystone General Contracting, LLC!

While this roof is known for being a commercial roofing style, standing seam metal roof for residential properties has become more and more popular. Since it is becoming more and more popular for homeowners, a lot of them want to know how-how is standing seam metal roofing installed and other typical questions. A pretty common question that is asked is, “How much does it cost to install a standing seam metal roof?” The cost of standing seam metal roof installation is going to be anywhere between $800 to $1,000 per square inch. Another question that many homeowners ask is, “How long will a standing seam metal roof last?” Depending on the material that is used for a standing seam metal roof installation, will determine how long the roof will last. If the standing seam metal roof is made of aluminum or steel last 50 years, whereas copper and zinc will last 100 years or more.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Issues

While standing seam metal roofs have a lot of great qualities like great warranties, long lifespans, no restriction on thermal movement, energy efficiency, lots of metal roof material options, and unique style, it can also have its drawbacks. Its important that if someone is considering standing seam metal roof installation for their home, they know the cons as well as the pros. We tend to only talk about the advantages of a roof, but its essential to know what could go wrong with a roof or what are some potential setbacks.

• Can Be Used On Flat Roofs: If you have a roof pitch that is very low, a standing seam metal roof is not going to work with that type of roof pitch. This is because water that gets on the roof won’t be able to flow off properly, causing a lot of issues with the roof.
• Difficulty Repairing or Replacing: Another thing to be aware of is that this kind of metal roof is harder to repair and replace because the panels will need to be separated as well as have the sealing removed in order to repair or replace one or several panels.
• More Expensive: Standing seam metal roofs aren’t the most expensive metal roof on the market, but they are more expensive than most metal roofs.
• Very Complex Installation: Even when you have a roofer who has years of experience installing this type of metal roof, the whole standing seam metal roof installation process requires a lot of attention to detail and it can take a while.

If you are interested in a standing seam metal roof for your home, know that it will be a little more expensive than most metal roofs, you have higher pitched roof, and you actually want a warranty for your roof. Even though one of the downsides for standing seam metal roofs is that it can be hard to repair or replace, hiring a roofer who has experience working with these roofs will make it less of an issue–this can also help if you have a roof warranty.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Vs. Asphalt Shingles

Deciding on a new roofing system for your home can either be really fun or really overwhelming. It’s fun because you are upgrading to a new roof, but it can be overwhelming because there are a ton of choices to choose from. The most classic residential roofing material that homeowners gravitate towards are asphalt shingles. This is because they are cost-effective, they are easy to install, they come in a wide range of colors, and they are pretty durable. However, a lot of homeowners who are looking for something different might be torn between metal roofing, such as standing seam metal roofing and asphalt shingles.

If you are wanting a metal roof installation for your home, it’s important that you call a professional roofer. You wouldn’t call an amateur for AC services in New Orleans, LA, so why depend on someone who doesn’t have the roofing experience needed to install a metal roof? To get the best metal roof installation in Shreveport, LA, call Keystone General Contracting, LLC at (318) 300-3660 to talk with their roofing experts.

Winter comes with many responsibilities for a homeowner. Depending on where you live, you may need to shovel your sidewalk and driveway, attend to ice dams, and regularly scrape your car’s windshield. Though we don’t get much snow here in Norco, LA, heating maintenance plans still represent an important annual requirement. As for your roof, the season doesn’t put repair, replacement, or roof restoration needs on hold. You will still need to tend to roof repair in winter, schedule inspections after heavy storms, and weigh the necessity of replacement for particularly old or damaged roofs.

At Keystone General Contracting, LLC, we aim to keep our customers informed. We get a lot of questions about the necessity, and even the possibility, of roof service once temperatures begin to drop. Safety issues around icy roofs aside, the winter does present some special challenges in regards to roofing. If you ever find yourself confronting the need for roof replacement or roof repair in winter, you will benefit from a little prior knowledge. First of all, however, you will need to know the nature of your need, and whether to pursue repair or replacement.

Do I Need Roof Repair or Replacement?

The need for roof repair in winter is just as plain as in the summer. If you notice any of these signs, you need repair.

• Missing or Displaced Shingles
• Cracked, Creased, Broken, or Otherwise Damaged Shingles
• Damaged Flashing
• Sagging Roof Line
• Water Stains on Your Ceiling

Of course, the more significant your repair needs, the more likely that replacement makes more sense. Generally speaking, if any of the above problems have developed to an extreme, you might want to simply spring for a new roof. For example, multiple leaks or an abundance of missing shingles mean you should consider the possibility of replacement. A few of the most common signs for roof replacement include the following.

Multiple or Especially Serious Leaks: Though leaks generally represent an easy repair, multiple leaks can indicate a fundamental problem with your roofing. They can also cause your decking to rot, a serious situation that calls for a new roof.

Ice Dams: If you live in an area with regular snow and ice storms, ice dams are a big problem. They develop due to temperature differences across your roofing, and usually indicate a design flaw. Worse still, they allow moisture to easily penetrate down to your decking and insulation, and create the necessary conditions for rot and mold.

Lost Roofing Granules: If you notice an abundance of roofing granules in your gutters, you likely need a new roof. Granules protect your shingles from sunlight and impact. When the shingles begin to lose their granules, it showcases either defective products, or those that have simply aged beyond the point of usefulness.

Comprehensive Hail Damage: Few things can devastate a roof to the extent of hail. A fairly common winter occurrence, it often batters roofs into a state of uselessness.

Roof Repair During Winter: What Temperature Is Too Cold for Roofing?

If you need winter roof repair for a leak, you may wonder about how the temperature and weather affects the possibility for service. Asphalt shingles become vulnerable in extreme weather. If it’s too hot, the shingles are liable to lose their granular covering. If too cold, they become very brittle. So, if you’ve ever wondered, can roof shingles be installed in cold weather, it simply depends on how cold.

The ideal temperature for the installation or repair of an asphalt shingle roof is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything below that, and the adhesive used to seal your roof shingles will not function effectively. The special adhesives used for roofing rely upon heat from the sun to seal. Any temperature below 70 degrees can negatively impact the quality of the roofing job. At lower temperatures, roof shingles can become brittle and difficult to work with. Anything lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and a reputable roofer will not accept the job at all.

Commercial roof repair in winter can also suffer from the season’s low temperatures. EPDM, a popular type of commercial roofing, is especially affected. EPDM relies on a thick adhesive that’s difficult to work with even at high temperatures. If the mercury ever falls below 45 degrees, EPDM becomes virtually impossible to install or repair.

Roof Repair in Winter FAQ

How Long Does a Roof Usually Last?

This depends on your roofing material. Asphalt shingles that receive the benefit of timely repairs and inspections can last 15 to 20 years. If you have an EPDM commercial roof, it can last for 25 to 30 years. Concrete tiles can last for 40 years, while clay tile can last up to 80. Metal roofing can also persist for many years, starting at 40 and increasing with the quality of installation.

Can a Roof Be Repaired in the Winter?

It’s possible to repair a roof in the winter, though it becomes more difficult as temperatures drop. It also depends on the nature of the repair. If your roofer needs to replace a large number of shingles, or a panel of EPDM material, the temperature needs to remain north of 45 degrees Fahrenheit to make the work possible.

Is it OK to Put a New Roof on in the Winter?

This depends on the type of roofing system you want installed. As mentioned above, you should not try to have asphalt shingles installed if the temperature falls below 40 degrees. For EPDM, 45 degrees represent the limit. If you want PVC or TPO, these materials are less affected through cold temperatures. As for metal roofing, it can install at virtually any temperature, as it does not rely on adhesives or sealants.

What Temperature Does it Need to Be to Seal Shingles?

Ideally, between 70 an 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If hotter, the shingles become too pliable and easily damaged. If colder, they will not seal properly.

At Keystone General Contracting, LLC, we’re the local expert for roof repair in winter in Shreveport, LA. Whatever your need may be — and whatever the temperature — don’t hesitate to call us if you need service. We’re always available for the aid of our clients, so give us a call now at (318) 300-3660.

If you are looking for ways to save money monthly while also cooling down your building, get cool roofing! Cool roofing is a type of flat roofing that has extreme reflective properties in its white coating that reflect the sun’s UV rays that help prevent your building from getting hot. Cool roofs do more than just cool down your building; they also take the load off of your air conditioning unit from having to do so much work to once cool down the entire place. You will not need to constantly call for air conditioner repair anymore after getting cool roof installation because the reflective roof puts less strain on your HVAC unit by reflecting heat, which cools down your building. For installation of cool roofing in Shreveport, LA, call Keystone General Contracting, LLC at (318) 300-3660 today.

The Benefits of a Cool Roof

• • white coating prevents sun damage by reflecting UV rays
  • reflective coating cools down building, which lowers your energy bills
  • can come in multiple coating or single ply systems with different base materials
  • also available as a green, environmentally-friendly roof
  • quick and quiet installation allows your business to stay open while roof installation is going on
  • all cool roofs have a seamless and waterproof base that help to prevent water ponding and leaks
  • helps to reduce roofing landfill waste as cool roofs can be reapplied on top of each other
  • cool roofing can come in single ply membrane, roof coating, metal roof, or green roof forms