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All You Need to Know About Roof Flashing

need know roof flashing

There are a few components within many roofs that it’s worth knowing about as a resident or building owner, and one of these that sometimes doesn’t get enough attention is flashing. Flashing is a component that plays a major role in preventing leaks and related issues on the roof area, and knowing about it will help you understand how it works, when it might require repairs, and more.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to offer a huge range of residential roofing services, including anything you might need involving your flashing. What exactly is roof flashing, what are its top purposes, and what are some various types of flashing that might be useful for your roof? Here’s a basic primer.

Basics on Roof Flashing

For those unaware, roof flashing refers to a component that acts as a preventive seal between the joints in your roof. These joints are particularly vulnerable to leaks, as they provide potential spaces for water and other materials to enter. Flashing is installed over these joints in order to make sure that they’re well-sealed and won’t cause any issues.

Flashing is made out of a variety of different materials, including metals like aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. In some cases, flashing might also be made out of asphalt-based materials, plastic, or even rubber. The specific material used will often depend on the location and purpose of the flashing itself, and may also be dictated by the type of roof that you have.

The Purpose of Roof Flashing

There are a few key purposes that roof flashing typically serves. First, as we’ve noted, it helps to seal up any joints in the roof and prevent leaks. In addition, flashing can also help to direct water away from areas where it might cause damage, such as near the chimney. Flashing can also help to hold shingles in place, and may even provide additional support for gutters or other components.

In short, roof flashing plays a vital role in protecting your home from water damage, and making sure that your roof lasts for as long as possible. It’s important to keep an eye on your flashing and make sure that it’s in good condition, as any issues with flashing can lead to significant problems down the line.

Areas Where Flashing is Typically Used

In addition to roof joints, there are a number of specific parts of a roof where flashing will often be used. These areas are those where leaks are more likely than in other areas of the roof, and they include:

  • Dormer wall roof surfaces: These are the slanted walls that project outwards from a pitched roof, and they often have windows. This kind of roof surface is particularly vulnerable to leaks.
  • Chimneys: The base of a chimney is another spot where water can enter, and flashing helps to seal it off.
  • Valleys: A valley is the point where two sloped roof surfaces meet, forming a V shape. These are also prone to leaks if not properly sealed. Luckily, using flashing in these areas can help.
  • Skylights: Skylights are another potential leak point, as they’re essentially holes in the roof. Flashing helps to seal them off and prevent any water or other materials from getting inside.

Types of Flashing

When it comes to the types of flashing available, they’re broken down in a few different ways. Some are based specifically on the area of the roof they’re meant to go in, while others are just a general type that can be attached to multiple different roof areas. Here are some of the top options available:

  • Chimney: One of the more specific types of flashing, chimney flashing is installed around the base of a chimney. It’s usually made out of metal, and can help to seal off this vulnerable area.
  • Valley: As we touched on above, valley flashing is installed in the valleys of a roof. Again, this is usually made out of metal, and can help to prevent leaks in these areas.
  • Vent pipe: Vent pipe flashing, on the other hand, is meant to be applied over pipes and flues on your roof, with a cone-shaped design that helps to seal them off. It also has a base flange that fits into the shingles of the roof.
  • Step: If you have a sloped roof or vertical wall that needs flashing, step flashing is a good option. This type of flashing is installed in sections, with each section overlapping the one below it. This helps to create a watertight seal that can prevent leaks. The step seal often contains drip edges to prevent water seeping under the surface at the eaves.
  • Integral: Integral flashing is often used alongside step flashing, particularly when skylights or other openings are present. This type is usually made out of the same material as the rest of the roof, and helps to seal off these vulnerable areas.
  • Saddle: For things like railing attachments, joists and beams, and other such areas, saddle flashing is a good option. This type of flashing is usually made out of metal or plastic, and helps to seal these areas off to prevent leaks.

As you can see, there are a number of different types of flashing available, each of which can be used in specific areas to help prevent leaks. Knowing which type is right for your roof will help you make sure that it’s properly sealed off and protected from the elements.

For more on roof flashing, or to learn about any of our roofing or related services, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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How to Identify Missing Shingles on Your Roof

identify missing shingles roof

There are several important components to most roofs, and shingles are among these in nearly every case. Shingles serve as your roof’s primary form of protection against various elements, from moisture on down the list, and one of the more common roof issues out there today is shingles that are missing from the roof area.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to offer a wide variety of roof repairs and roof replacements, and shingles are a common theme we assist clients with on a regular basis. As a home or building owner, you can play an important role here: Identifying when shingles are missing or otherwise having issues, so that you can call our team for help with replacing or repairing them. What are some of the simplest ways to identify missing shingles on the roof? Here are several basic themes to consider.

Visual Inspection

The simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles is also the most obvious: Take a look at your roof. If you can see any large patches of exposed roofing material where there should be shingles, there’s a good chance shingles are missing.

The easiest way to do this is to stay on the ground and utilize a pair of quality binoculars, which will help you get a closer look at the roofline without putting yourself in any danger. If you don’t have binoculars, see if there’s somebody else who does (maybe a neighbor or family member) that can help you out.

Another way to do this is to physically get on the roof, which we do not recommend unless you’ve been up there before and are comfortable with the safety themes required. This route should only be taken if you have trouble seeing the roof from the ground, and even then we recommend having somebody else on the ground to help guide you and make sure you’re safe.

If there are any large bald spots or patches where shingles are definitely missing, take note of them. If possible, try to find any smaller areas too, as they may not be as immediately noticeable but still indicate that shingles need to be replaced.

Now, if you find a few missing granules that should be present on your shingles, this usually isn’t anything to be overly concerned about. Shingles will lose some of their granules over time as they protect your roof, and a few missing granules here or there isn’t going to cause any serious damage. Just make sure you’re monitoring the situation so that it doesn’t escalate, and if you ever find a large number of granules in your gutters that’s definitely a sign you should give our team a call as soon as possible.

Other Possible Missing Shingle Indicators

While visual inspections are by far the simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles, they aren’t the only ones. In some cases, certain other signs taking place within the structure, or even on the surrounding property, may give you some signs that this is happening. Here are some examples:

  • Large quantities of granules: If you’re finding lots of granules, either on the ground around your roof or in your gutters themselves, this is a good indicator that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. As we noted above, just a few missing granules aren’t anything to worry about, but larger quantities definitely are.
  • Leaks: If you’re starting to see leaks in your roof, or even just water stains on the ceiling, this may be a sign that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. In some cases leaks can also indicate other roofing issues as well, but this is definitely something to have our team take a look at as soon as possible.
  • Missing insulation: If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been rising for no apparent reason, it’s possible that shingles are missing and heat or cold is escaping from your home. In some cases, you may even be able to see the insulation itself missing if you take a look in your attic.
  • Light shining through: This one’s a bit more difficult to notice, but if you go into your attic on a sunny day and see sunlight shining through, it’s possible that shingles are missing and need to be replaced.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or anything else that you believe may indicate that shingles are missing, don’t hesitate to give our team a call. We’ll be more than happy to take a look and let you know for sure, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that may need to be done.

Professional Inspection

If you’re confident something is going on with your roof, but you’re having trouble really nailing down what the problem is, our team here at The Roof Doctor would be more than happy to come out and take a look. We’ll be able to quickly and easily identify any issues that may be present, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that need to be done.

Professionals like ours utilize several methods for identifying missing shingles, including both visual inspections and special infrared cameras. We may even utilize drones, which can view the roof from above without risking anyone’s safety. In most cases, we’ll be able to find any areas that are missing shingles and provide a detailed report on what needs to be done to fix the problem. We can also work with your insurance company if necessary to make sure you get the coverage you need.

For more on how to identify missing shingles on your roof, or to learn about any of our roof repair or replacement services, speak to our team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Modern Roofing Advancements for Your New Roof

modern roofing advancements new roof

If you’re in need of a new roof, whether for new home construction or for an existing home or building, your options are far more robust than they would have been for someone in your position even a decade or two ago. Improvements in roofing materials and technology have come a long way in a short time, and you now have a wide range of modern choices for the way you go about installing a new roof.

At The Roof Doctor, we can’t wait to assist you with these and any related needs. We offer roof installations and roof replacements for a variety of homes and structures, utilizing many modern themes and materials that can benefit you in a whole host of ways. What are some of the newer roof advancements that you might consider for any new roof you’re in the process of having installed? Here are several.

Cool Roof Shingles

When we talk about “cool roof” shingles, we’re actually referring to a form of reflective paint that’s applied to your roof’s surface. This paint is specially formulated to reflect solar energy back into the atmosphere rather than absorbing it, which is what typically happens with darker shingles. Your indoor cooling bill can be greatly reduced by replacing an old, dark roof with a newer cool roof alternative.

Early on in its uses, this paint may not have been very cost-effective — it was messy and may have interfered with shingle operations. Today, however, this paint has been refined to a point where it’s an undeniable and sensible option for those who are in need of a new roof. It can lower the surface temperature of your home’s roof by as much as 40 degrees Fahrenheit, which not only keeps your home cooler but is also a major benefit to anyone who lives within its walls.

Synthetic Underlayment

An important but often-underplayed element of any roof is the underlayment, which is the material that’s installed beneath your shingles or tiles. It serves a crucial purpose in keeping your roof watertight and in mitigating the effects of any possible damage between the time when your roof is installed and when you have it replaced a few decades down the road.

Traditional underlayment, though effective, has typically been made from organic felt paper. The advent of synthetic underlayment, however, has changed the game in a few crucial ways. First, it’s much more durable than felt paper, which means it can better protect your roof over the long haul. Second, it’s also lighter and easier to work with, which makes installation quicker and less labor-intensive.

Furthermore, this form of polyurethane underlayment is far better in terms of moisture resistance and any possible water damage, as it can be designed to be waterproof. The result is a longer-lasting underlayment that’s more resistant to mold, mildew, and rot. It’s also resistant to UV rays and other outdoor elements (which means you’ll have less work to do in terms of maintenance) — and maybe best of all, tends to look better than other underlayment options due to its thinness.

If you’re in the market for a new roof, there are several reasons to strongly consider a synthetic underlayment instead of an older felt option.

Architectural Shingles

Another shingle variation that’s exploded in popularity in recent years is the architectural shingle, which refers to a lamination of two or more traditional asphalt shingles together. This creates a 3-D appearance that’s far more attractive, along with a stronger roofing surface that can better handle the elements.

Architectural shingles also tend to be less expensive than their traditional counterparts, and they’re thinner as well — which means you’ll have an easier time installing them and getting the job done in a shorter amount of time. Thus, if you’re looking for a roof that looks great and will also save you some money in terms of installation costs, architectural shingles are definitely worth considering.

In fact, when homeowners are preparing to list their homes on the market for sale, it’s often recommended that they upgrade their roofs by installing architectural shingles. This can not only improve the curb appeal of a home, but it can also raise or restore its resale value — which helps homeowners sell their homes faster, with less hassle and for more money.

Storm Preparation

Especially if you live in any area where severe storms are common, you need to be sure your roof is up to the task of protecting your home against high winds and heavy rains. There are a few different ways to do this, but one of the most effective is to choose impact-resistant shingles for your new roof. These types of shingles have been shown to withstand significant impacts from both wind and hail, making them the perfect option for homeowners in areas where high winds are frequent.

Another way you can make sure your roof is ready for whatever may come its way is to install impact-resistant gutters and downspouts. This can limit the amount of water that accumulates on your roof during a storm, which in turn helps to reduce the likelihood of any damage being done by high winds or heavy rains.

Finally, you should also consider having your roof inspected by a professional before every major storm season. This can help you identify any potential weak spots or areas of concern, so you can address them before they become a bigger problem down the line.

For more on some of the modern roof materials or themes you might consider when installing a new roof on your property, or to learn about any of our roof installation or roof repair services, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Dealing With Storm Damage to Your Roof

dealing storm damage roof

The roof of any given home will naturally take the brunt of the beating during any major storm event, and in certain severe cases this can lead to damage to the roof. Such damage may in turn cause leaking, mold issues and many other concerns within your home, making storm damage repair a very important theme for any homeowner who deals with this form of damage.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help with this. We provide storm damage roof repair services to clients around Utah, whether they’ve dealt with hail damage, wind damage or any other type that’s impacted their roof. We help not only with actual repairs for your roof, but also with making insurance claims to get these repair costs covered. Roof storm damage is a type that should generally be addressed immediately — if you notice it following a storm, here are some of the immediate actions you should take, including when to call our team for help.

Wait Until the Storm Has Passed

Even if you’re quite sure your roof has been damaged in some way by a storm, it’s vital for your safety and that of everyone else in your home that you not attempt to inspect or repair the damage while the storm is still going on. If you can, wait until it has passed and then take a look at your roof. If you have any questions or concerns about what you see, don’t hesitate to give our team a call for help.

Once the coast is clear and the storm has passed, you can do a bit of very basic inspection of the damage. Here are some tips and precautions to take while doing so:

  • Never go up on the roof: If you think damage has occurred, your first instinct might be to go up on the roof and see exactly what happened. But this is extremely dangerous and not something that you should ever do. If possible, view the damage from the ground or from a ladder placed against the house at a safe distance.
  • Use binoculars: If you can’t get a good view of the damage from the ground, you may be able to use a pair of binoculars to get a better look.
  • Don’t try to fix anything: Again, any repair work should only be handled by professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself, you could end up making the damage worse or even injuring yourself.
  • Estimations: If possible, try to estimate the size of the damaged area, the extent of the damage and anything else that may be relevant. This can help you when it comes to making an insurance claim later on.
  • Photographs: Once you’ve done a basic inspection of the damage, it’s also a good idea to take some photographs. These can come in handy as well and will give you something to refer back to later. If it’s possible to take some pictures, do it.

Calling the Pros

Once you’ve confirmed that there is significant damage to your roof following a storm, and have documented that damage in basic ways, it’s time to call in the professionals. Here at The Roof Doctor, we’re experienced in dealing with all sorts of storm damage and can provide you with the repairs and assistance you need to get your roof back in good shape.

Our team will come out to inspect the damage and give you a free estimate for the repairs that are needed. We’ll also help you with making an insurance claim, as this can sometimes be a difficult and confusing process. We’re here to help you every step of the way and will work diligently to get your roof back to its original condition.

Immediate Damage Mitigation Measures

While you should not attempt roof repairs on your own unless you’re a trained roofing specialist, as we mentioned above, there are a few basic things you can do to mitigate the damage while you wait for our team to arrive. These include:

  • Place buckets or garbage cans under leaks: This will help to prevent water damage to your ceilings, walls and floors while you wait for repairs to be made.
  • Remove valuables: If leaks are present and you have valuables in the area that could be damaged by water, it’s a good idea to remove them if possible.
  • Cover furniture: Again, if leaks are present, you may want to put some plastic sheeting over any furniture in the area to help protect it.
  • Turn off water and electricity: If possible, it’s also a good idea to turn off the water and electricity in the areas that have been affected by the damage. This can help to prevent further issues from arising due to conductivity.

Don’t Delay

We need to stress the importance of immediate action when it comes to dealing with any kind of roof damage. The sooner you can get repairs made, the less chance there is of further issues arising, such as leaks, water damage and mold growth. So if you think your roof has been damaged in a storm, give us a call right away and we’ll send someone out to help you.

Simply put, damage caused by a storm on your roof will not remedy itself and will only get worse with time. Don’t wait around and hope for the best, call The Roof Doctor today!

For more on this, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof replacement services, contact our team at your nearest convenience.

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Home Fire Protection and Roofing: They Go Hand-in-Hand

Home-Fire-Protection-and-Roofing-They-Go-Hand-in-Hand-2

 

While it may seem unlikely that it will happen to you, you should always go the extra mile when it comes to home fire protection.

Did you know that the type of roofing you have can actually make a difference in fire suppression? If you’re cautious around fire, you may think that there’s no way a fire can affect your home. But you should still consider that home fires easily spread from home to home when proper precautions are not taken. During the summer months in Utah, fires become increasingly more likely due to the extremely dry conditions we live in, so it's essential to make sure your home is protected.

Today, we're going to talk about how roofing shingles can better protect your home in the event of a fire. Keep reading to learn more. 

How Roofing Shingles Fight Fires 

Shingles are an essential tool you can use to protect your roof from spreading a fire. Shingles were once developed to help waterproof the home, but it was quickly realized that the material used to make shingles, fiberglass, is much more fire-resistant than the once used asbestos. 

Don't be confused, though; not all shingles are fire-resistant. The key here is to pick the Class A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles. This type of shingle is known for being the best for fire-resistant roofing. While not completely fireproof, these shingles are essential because they won't contribute to the spread of the fire, which will make all the difference when it comes to home fire protection. Class A-rated shingles won't break off during a fire, won't crack or warp, and most of the wall of shingles won't risk exposing the underlying parts of the roof. The flames of the fire will be contained only to the shingles themselves, which also won't give off burning embers that spread the fire elsewhere.

Other Home Fire Protection Tips 

While you should definitely take precautions and use A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles, there are other steps you can take to protect yourself and your home from fires, both in your home and outside your home. Since it's currently summer and fire can travel fast, here are some essential tips that you can use from Safety: 

  • Avoid smoking in your home
  • Never leave cooking food unattended 
  • Install and maintain your smoke detectors
  • Trim overhanging branches from trees in your yard, especially ones near power lines
  • Collect all fallen leaves and other debris from your yard
  • Keep bushes, trees, and other shrubbery cut back, away from the side of your home

The Roof Doctor is Ready to Re-Roof Your Home

If you think it's time to start with your home fire protection plan, contact The Roof Doctor right now. We do all kinds of roofing and specialize in roofs with shingles, especially for the A-rated fiberglass-asphalt shingles. In Utah, summers are dry, and fire spreads faster than ever, so don't hesitate to add new shingles to your home. If you live in Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, or in the surrounding area in Utah, we invite you to get in touch with us. Ready to get started? Contact The Roof Doctor today!

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5 Major Signs of Roof Wind Damage to Watch out For

5-Major-Signs-of-Roof-Wind-Damage-to-Watch-out-For

 

While your roof is designed to withstand the elements, some intense storms can wreak havoc resulting in roof wind damage.

When severe winds persist, it’s important to know which types of impairments you should check your roof for. Continue reading to learn more about these signs as they pertain to wind damage.

 

1. Missing or Damaged Shingle

Strong winds threaten the defense of your home and this usually starts shingle damage. This type of destruction is usually visible, especially if any shingles are missing. You should check all existing shingles for any that are loose, flapping in the wind, peeling, or clearly missing material. 

 

2. Granule Loss

Granules are the sandpaper-like part of the shingle, which adds a layer of protection to your roof. Major wind storms can cause a loss of these protective elements. To check your roof for missing granules, start by inspecting your gutters, as this is where they tend to collect.

 

3. Indoor Water Leakage

If you notice any interior water leaks after a storm, this could be a sign of a serious roof problem. You might also notice discoloration on the ceiling or walls and moldy odors that you can’t identify. Roof leaks usually start small and gradually become larger, so it’s essential to seek help from The Roof Doctor the moment you notice anything troubling.

 

4. Scattered Debris

Debris is a common consequence of wind storms. You’ll probably notice trash, leaves, or branches strewn throughout your neighborhood, but be on the lookout for anything that resembles shingles in particular. Even if you don’t locate any stray shingles, debris is always a good indicator that you should inspect your roof after a storm.  

 

5. Divots

Another sign of roof wind damage lies within the edges of your shingles. High winds can send items banging into your roof, which often results in divots forming on the shingles’ edges. All of these tiny holes promote the natural erosion of your roof. Divots can also easily break the seals, leaving your roof vulnerable to more problems.

The Roof Doctor Can Help

When you notice roof wind damage, it’s essential to call in professional help. The roofing experts at The Roof Doctor are here to help with any necessary roof inspections, repairs, or replacement. We serve Salt Lake City, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and neighboring cities in Utah. Reach out to us today to learn more!

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Best Way to Repair Asphalt Shingle Roof Leaks

 

When your roof is leaking, you'll find yourself searching "how to repair asphalt shingle roof leaks." 

When that's the case, you need to ensure that you know exactly how to repair your roof the right way. No need to worry though, we have you covered with a guide on repairing asphalt shingle roofs. Keep reading to learn more.

Common Causes of Roof Leaks

Roof damage and leaks are often caused from the outside. HomeAdvisor warns homeowners that "Weather, such as high winds and hail, can damage your shingles either directly or by knocking dead and dying branches from overhanging trees." Here in Utah, hail storms, snow, and the occasional high winds are no stranger to us. Because of this, we recommend checking your roof for damage after any major storms. If you're about ready to replace your roof, make sure to work with a roof specialist specializing in working with weather-resistant materials, like The Roof Doctor. Weather-resistant shingles are more likely to hold up against the elements and keep you from having to make frequent repairs.

Locate the Leak 

Locating the leak from inside the home is typically your best bet, especially if it goes unnoticed on the roof's surface. Start by measuring from the leak to the nearest outside wall. Once you're outside, carefully climb a ladder to your rooftop and retrace your steps to that leak. For example, if the leak indoors was 20-feet away from the house's leftmost wall, start at that wall and walk about 20-feet, then inspect the area around you. Check your shingles for cracks, tears, curling, and displacement. 

Repair Shingle(s)

The cause of all asphalt shingle roof leaks is due to damaged shingles. When you're in a pinch, it's okay to fix the shingle itself as a temporary fix before replacing the shingle entirely. To do this, make sure you have the right tools in hand. Here are the things you'll need: 

  • A narrow putty knife
  • A caulk gun
  • A tube of roofing sealant

To repair the shingle, use the putty knife to gently lift the shingle from the bottom, keeping the shingles top intact. Apply a bead of the sealant to the crack's underside, just enough to seal the crack. Now that you've taken care of the underside, press the shingle back into place against the roof. Now you can apply another bead of sealant to the top of the shingle over the damaged area. Using the putty knife, guide the adhesive into the crack for a complete seal. Then you're done with the repair. Again, this is only a temporary fix; if the damage is bad enough, it's worth it to replace the shingle all together or get in touch with The Roof Doctor. 

The Roof Doctor Can Help 

When a storm hits, the toll that your roof takes can catch you off guard. That's why we're here to help fix all your asphalt shingle roof leaks. At The Roof Doctor, we do it all. From minor repairs to full-blown roof replacements, our roofing specialists are highly trained to take on anything. Serving Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah County and their surrounding areas, We work hard to give Utah-based homeowners the roofing service that will exceed their expectations. Contact us today for a free estimate!

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Here’s What You Need To Know About Flat Roofs

Here is What You Need to Know About Flat Roofs

However, this special roof type is no longer limited to just commercial buildings, and it is ideal
for people who are working on a new, custom build. At The Roof Doctor , our experts know how
difficult selecting the perfect roof type can be. Below, we will help you make the most educated
decision for your new build.

Everything You Need to Know About Flat Roofs for Your Home

Flat roofs are pretty much self-explanatory: they are surface-leveled roofing that is laid on top of
the roof and can resemble an interior’s flooring. It differs from standard elevated roofing, which
has high slopes and materials that are laid on top of each other. Ultimately, this roof type does
not have arches, unlike its sloped counterparts.

It is important to note that flat roofs are not entirely flat but rather have a lower slope than
average. The most popular flat roof type are ones made of membrane. Here at The Roof
Doctor, our professionals are GAF Master designated , meaning that we have the knowledge
and experience to install a flat membrane roof the right way.
Still indecisive about this type of rooftop? Here are a few of their many benefits.

The Advantages of a Flat Rooftop

Easy to Clean: It is no secret that flat roofs are easier to access compared to other systems,
making maintenance simple. If you need to climb on your rooftop to remove mold, algae, and
unsightly stains and debris to prevent buildup, then it does not get easier than getting atop a flat
roof. However, regular maintenance and checkups are best left to our well-equipped and trained
professionals.
They Are Durable: If you are like most homeowners, then durability is of the utmost
importance. When you opt for our flat roofing system, you can rest assured that it will stand up
to heavy gusts of wind and snowstorms, which is especially crucial in this unpredictable winter
the nation has experienced in 2021.
Repairs Are Affordable: Even the strongest roofs will endure wear and tear after a few
decades. If a problem does arise, our technicians can easily repair your roof’s problems at an
affordable rate. We are committed to fixing your roof without breaking the bank or causing more
stress to you.

The Roof Doctor is Here to Help

If you are looking for a contemporary option that also helps you stand out from your neighbors,
then you cannot go wrong with a flat roof for your new home. At The Roof Doctor, our flat
membrane roofs have been engineered to have extremely strong seams that are completely
waterproof.
We serve several cities throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton,
Orem, Provo, Bountiful, and neighboring areas. Please get in touch with us to learn more about
our services.

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4 Myths About Flat Roofs You Should Know

4-Myths-About-Flat-Roofs-You-Should-Know

If you are looking into building a new home or business, you may have heard a few myths about flat roofs, despite all of their advantages. 

If you were to tell your friends that you are considering a flat roof for your new property, you might be met with a blank stare. These roofs do not have the best reputation, particularly in areas susceptible to heavy snowfall. However, as roofing experts, we know that flat roofs are one of the best investments a home or business owner can make. 

In today’s blog, we will debunk four of the most common myths about flat roofs so that you can make the most educated decision for your new property. 

Myth #1: Flat Roofs Are Completely Flat

Perhaps the most common myth we hear about this roof type is that they are completely flat. After all, the name says it all, right? Wrong. Professional roofers construct each roof with a slight pitch so that it can shed water; otherwise, there would be excessive pooling. 

Myth #2: Flat Roofs Cannot Support Heavy Snowfall

If flat roofs cannot handle snow, then why are they so popular? When professional roof designers, such as architects and engineers, plan out roofing, they must consider local building codes. Every structure must be strong enough to support excessive weight, including local snow loads. 

Myth #3: Flat Roofs Are Susceptible to Leaks

Some people spread this tidbit of misinformation because they believe flat roofs do not have a pitch, but as we discussed above, that is not true. Although flat roofs can leak, this is not exclusive to them. In most cases, the minimum recommended pitch for these roofs is a quarter of an inch for every one foot of horizontal run. We know this sounds oddly specific, but this pitch allows proper drainage to occur. 

Myth #4: Flat Roofs Cost Too Much

The cost of a roof installation depends on several factors, including materials and your roof’s surface area. However, a flat roof may cost less compared to other roof types because it requires fewer materials. 

The Roof Doctor Can Help

The Roof Doctor boasts years of experience helping property owners plan and install flat roofs. Our roofers were awarded the GAF Master designation, which means we have the knowledge and experience to install a flat membrane roof the right way. 

We serve the following Utah cities: Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Orem, Provo, Bountiful, and the surrounding area. Reach out to us today for a free estimate. 

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Top 6 Components of an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Top 6 Components of an Asphalt Shingle Roof

Although a roof might seem like it is all one unit, there are actually many components of an asphalt shingle roof system. 

Asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of colors, textures, styles, and profiles. With so much versatility, it is no surprise they cover about 80% of homes in the United States. 

Here is a quick guide to six of the key components of this popular roofing option.

 1. Asphalt Shingles 

Asphalt shingles are sometimes referred to as composite shingles. In its basic form, an asphalt shingle consists of a base of either organic felt or fiberglass materials. Its full components vary by manufacturer, but most singles only contain 5 to 35 percent asphalt.

There are organic, algae-resistant, and fiberglass asphalt shingles to choose from. Organic shingles are made from waste paper that is saturated in asphalt, making them waterproof. Algae-resistant shingles are ceramically coated to protect your roof from algae discoloration. Fiberglass shingles provide more fire resistance than other shingles.

 2. Starter Strips 

Starter strips are essential components of an asphalt shingle roof. They serve many purposes, including:

  • Ensuring that your shingles are properly installed
  • Aiding the water-shedding function
  • Increasing your roof’s wind resistance
  • Providing a straighter line 

3. Underlayment 

Your roof underlayment adds a layer of protection between your shingles and your home. This water-resistant material provides: 

  • Added protection against severe weather
  • A seal that prevents water infiltration
  • More stability 

    4. Ice and Water Barriers

    During the winter season, ice and water barriers play a crucial role in protecting the areas of your roof that are most vulnerable to water damage. These areas include valleys, asphalt shingles, and the chimney.

    5. Hip and Ridge Shingles 

    The “hip and ridge” is the point in your roof where two slopes intersect. Hip and ridge shingles add an aesthetic appeal to your roof by covering up that intersection. These products also protect against water infiltration.     

    6. Ventilation System 

    Roof ventilation systems are designed to provide continuous airflow in attic spaces. They balance the intake of cool air and the outflow of warm air. In turn, this prevents heat and moisture buildup, which can cause mold growth. A well-ventilated attic prevents roof deterioration and prolongs the lifespan of your shingles. 

    Contact The Roof Doctor 

    The roofing specialists at The Roof Doctor are fully trained on all of the components of an asphalt shingle roof. These shingles are the most popular roofing option for a reason, and The Roof Doctor offers a wide variety of materials, sizes, and designs to suit your needs and style. 

    We are proud to provide quality roof installations and repairs throughout Salt Lake City, Tooele, Ogden, Layton, Bountiful, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between in Utah. Contact us for a free roofing estimate today!