Affordable Quality Roofing

Roofing Repair and Cleaning

Terry Stone — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:44:04 +0000

Last week, we discussed some of the issues that we roofers face here in Vancouver. This is a green and rainy city, and we have seen many a roof fall victim to moss, lichens, or algae. We are proud to offer some shingles that utilize the latest technology to repel plant and fungal life, but they are not always enough here in our part of the world.

If you want a strong and long-lasting roof, some maintenance is required. There is just no way around that.

The Flora And Fauna Of Vancouver Roofs

Our climate can nurture a variety of different plant life on our roofs. Lichens are chalky colored, frilly blotches, while algae can be green or black and is recognizable by the streaking stains that it leaves behind. The sight of lichens or algae growing on their roof alarms many people, but in truth the harm that these organisms cause is mostly cosmetic. Often, people create more damage by brushing or scrubbing their shingles in an attempt to clean them than if they had just left them alone.

Moss presents a more serious problem. It grows in furry clumps, trapping and holding much more moisture than algae or lichens. This significantly shortens the lifespan of your roof.

Cleaning Your Roof

Before you do anything, it is important to make sure that your shingles are sturdy and firmly in place. If your shingles are not in good enough shape for cleaning, it is time to start thinking about repairs or the possibility of a new roof.

You can gently apply a hydrogen peroxide based cleaner to kill algae, moss, and lichens and clean any stains. Avoid using a power washer or any vigorous scrubbing, you don’t want to wreck your shingles. Bleach is sometimes recommended, but it can leave blotchy marks, especially on cedar shingles. It is also bad for the environment, unlike hydrogen peroxide.

Affordable Quality Roofing has seen what can happen in Vancouver when roofs aren’t taken care of. Taking good care of your shingles can prevent expensive roofing repair costs later on.

The Challenges Of Roofing In Vancouver

Terry Stone — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 21:14:02 +0000

Affordable Quality Roofing could not be more at home here in Vancouver. We have been here since 1986 and have established ourselves in the community, growing to become one of Vancouver’s top choices for its roofing needs.

Being locals of Vancouver, we recognize that our part of the world does present unique challenges for our roofing. Our mild, humid climate leads to the spectacular, giant plants and trees that we have growing everywhere. Unfortunately, this does not bode well for our roofs. Algae, moss, tree sap, fungus, lichens, as well as all of the excess moisture are just facts of life for our roofing in Vancouver.

Algae and Fungus and Moss, Oh My!

Not all of us may find the appearance of greenery on our shingles displeasing, but the fact remains that these substances hold moisture and prevent rainwater from draining properly. This can dramatically lower the life expectancy of the roof. So, the roofing materials we use at Affordable Quality Roofing are top quality and made by our trusted manufacturers. We offer several options that effectively combat some of our west coast hazards.

A 3M Scotchgard coating consisting partly of copper granules protects many of our asphalt shingle options. This makes the shingles resistant to black green algae, a common problem in Vancouver causing unsightly black streaks and fostering decay. Cedar shingles have natural anti-fungal properties and can also prevent unwanted things from growing on our roofs.

Some of our shingles do have a built in resistance to this, which is definitely a good thing for our roofing in Vancouver, but they don’t eliminate the need for regular maintenance. You may still notice moss sprouting here and there or debris piling up, especially if your house is in a shady, forested area. If that is the case, it is time to clean your roof. Next week, we will go over some steps to do that in detail.

Flat Roofs Aren’t For Everybody

Terry Stone — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:03:22 +0000

Flat roofs are quickly becoming a popular choice for builders, and it is easy to see why. Businesses have known for a long time that there are distinct advantages to flat roofs, and now homebuilders have caught on to them as well.

Designers creating stylish modern houses often prefer flat roofs and have created some prolific architecture utilizing them. Frank Lloyd Wright built his famous Fallingwater house, with its iconic horizontal roofline, in 1935 and it has been inspiring homebuilders ever since.

There are some issues that can come up with flat roofs, however. Anyone considering constructing or renovating a building should consider both before they make a decision.

Rain or Snow

Flat roofs that do not take into account their local climate are recipes for disaster. Though they do have somewhat of a slope (flat roofs are not actually flat, they just look like it) they are not as efficient at draining rainfall as traditional peaked roofs. Of course, they are even worse at displacing snow. We can all remember hearing about a mall or a stadium roof collapsing after a blizzard. The weight of the built up snow was too much.

Reinforcement

Similarly, the building the roof is covering has to provide enough support. Flat roofs are not as stable as peaked ones and need to be backed up with more load bearing walls. They are not suitable for every building, you would need to consult a qualified roofing expert before you’d know if a flat roof would work for your project.

Maintenance

It should also be said that flat roofs do require more of your time than other roofs do. Their coating, whether it is torch-on or roll roofing, doesn’t last as long as shingles and pitched roof alternatives. It will need to be reapplied on a regular basis. They also need to be inspected frequently, probably once a year, to make sure that water isn’t pooling anywhere and the gutters are clean.

Flat roofs can be great for some people, but a bad idea for others. At Affordable Quality Roofing, we will help you decide if they will work for your project.

Roofing Requires Care

Terry Stone — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 21:57:59 +0000

As Featured In North Vancouver’s: North Shore News On February 24, 2013 – By Jeremy Shepherd

Diligent research is paramount when picking out a new roof, according to Terry Stone, the owner of Affordable Quality Roofing.

“Most people’s houses are the most important, most expensive asset they own, and they don’t get that a cheap roof can destroy it,” he says.

Located on Mountain Highway, the North Vancouver company has been putting lids atop houses since 1986.

“At the end of the day, roofing is not a cheap thing to do,” says Stone.

The overall costs can be eased by choosing a high-quality roof and a high-quality roofing company.

Stone says there are a lot of companies out there that have a pickup truck, a name and a cellphone, and undercut everyone because they don’t have the insurance and the liability.

Simply checking the roofing company’s phone number and address to make sure they’re based in the community can be worthwhile, according to Stone.

Once a company’s track record is established, few things are as revealing as customer referrals. Stone recommends trying to track down a customer who hired the company several years ago in order to see how the roof has fared over years of snowfalls and rainy seasons.

“Check with the (Better Business Bureau), make sure they’re accredited and how long they’ve been with the BBB,” Stone recommends. “Make sure they have a WorkSafe BC account. You can actually phone (the Workers’ Compensation Board) with their number.”

If a company doesn’t have the proper insurance in place, the homeowner can be on the hook for more than the price of the roof.

“If they hire someone who doesn’t have all those things, when they come onto the house (the homeowner) becomes the actual general foreman,” explains Stone, adding if anything happens to a worker the homeowner could be sued and

held liable because they contracted them. Affordable Quality Roofing regularly keeps safety staff on the job site to monitor the roofing crew, says Stone.

While shingles can come with warranties ranging up to 50 years, those guarantees can be voided if the wrong roofers do the installation,

Make sure the guys are ticketed and trained to do that product,” says Stone.

The installers should have a diploma or ticket from the roofing manufacturer, proving they’ve been trained to install that particular shingle, according to Stone.

He advises customers to phone the manufacturer and confirm the roofing company is an approved installer.

“When a customer comes into our place, our diplomas are all sitting on the wall,” says Stone.

Roofers should also be mindful of the importance of ventilation, noting without proper ventilation, homeowners can lose a third of the life expectancy of the roof.

Minimizing the temperature difference between inside and outside will extend the life of the roof. Good air flow will also reduce condensation in the attic.

A homeowner can usually extend the life of their roof with regular maintenance, says Stone.

“A couple of times a year, they should have someone go up with a leafblower, blow the leaves off.”

Stone counsels his customers to not use a broom, which can strip the granules, a ceramic-coated rock, used on shingles.

“Just keep the roof clean and free of debris,” says Stone. “Things can grow on it and actually embed into the shingle.”

Why Most Businesses Choose Flat Roofing

Terry Stone — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 20:13:55 +0000

Have you ever noticed that Vancouver businesses seem to prefer flat roofs on their buildings? The next time that you stroll down any one of our shop-lined streets you’ll notice that they all have this in common. Most companies in and around Vancouver have flat roofs.

To roofing companies, it is easy to understand why. Flat roofs have a lot of advantages.

Easy Access

This is probably the most obvious advantage of flat roofs. While care should always be taken any time a person accesses their roof, the relatively level surface of these roofs mean that you can walk around easily when you are up there. The risk of falling off is minimal, especially when you compare it to the slopes and angles of the alternative roofing types.

As you know, operating your own building requires regular inspections, both by local officials and by yourself. These are a lot easier to perform with a flat roof, allowing you to conveniently keep an eye on your property and stay ahead of any problems.

If maintenance is required, this is similarly a lot simpler to address. It can be completed quickly and more efficiently, saving you time and money.

Heating

Flat roofed buildings are actually easier to warm up in the winter. There is less wasted space to heat because there is no pitched attic. The flat roof also absorbs warmth from the sun and distributes it through the building. This can really have an effect on your energy bill in the winter.

Great Value

This is what probably stands out most to companies. Flat roofs are significantly less expensive to construct. This is because they require fewer materials than pitched alternatives and can be completed faster because of their simple design.

It is critical however, that flat roofs be built with quality materials and by expert professionals. There are some problems that can arise with flat roofs that a trusted company like Affordable Quality Roofing can help you to avoid. We will outline some of those next week.

Shingles That Suit Vancouver

Terry Stone — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:38:42 +0000

Here in Vancouver, we pride ourselves on a sense of west coast style. Why not reflect this in our homes? Keeping our houses up to date is a great way to express our refined personal taste, while also adding value to our investment. So what kind of roofing is in style right now in Vancouver?

Cedar Shingles

Cedar Roofing will never go out of style here on the West Coast. No other material fits in better to our local landscape than Cedar, it instantly calls to mind our magnificent rainforests and wild surroundings. Cedar shakes contribute to the craftsman style of architecture, another trend that doesn’t go out of fashion. They are complemented by fine woodwork, natural tones, and rustic features. Cedar is also often a feature in modern west coast design, though. Here the clean lines and open concepts allow it to really stand out. Cedar is really a versatile roofing material and will always add curb appeal to your home.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are often the first choice for people considering a new roof. They are popular for our classic mid-century suburban homes because they reflect the simplicity of that era. The can also be used on our heritage Victorian homes because they won’t overpower the more elaborate decorations that often characterize these buildings. Asphalt shingles are available in all sorts of colours and styles, so you can usually find the right one to match your home, no matter what architectural type it is. The algae-resistance of asphalt shingles also adds to its popularity in our wet climate, and will add to your home’s value.

Vancouver BC is a pretty great place to live. People move here to enjoy our scenery and our culture, and want to live in homes that harmonize with that. Our homes exterior can reflect this, and become a real commodity.

HST Is Coming To An End!

Terry Stone — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:29:39 +0000

The failed experiment that was the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) in BC is finally coming to an end on March 31. Beginning in April, all services will be charged a 7% PST instead of the 12% HST. This is hardly news for many of our customers, as renovations and new builds have been scheduled to accommodate the HST transition for months. What should be mentioned though, is the necessity of scheduling ahead if you are planning on your own build.

Get Your Roof Before the Rush!

Tax season is synonymous with procrastination, but if you find yourself needing the services of a roofing company, then it’s time to call. Home maintenance providers (and not just roofers) everywhere are being booked solid.

This is particularly necessary on larger jobs, like a slanted roof replacement or installation. If you’ve been holding back due to tax concerns, make the call and explain your goals to one of our experienced staff. We will provide you with a schedule of service for your project.

We rely on the quality of our work, and will not rush a job. After all, our work is relied on to last for 25 years. This can leave less room on the schedule for simultaneous projects, so call today to book your spring roofing plans.

Here’s to a happy April!

Signs of a Ventilation Problem

Terry Stone — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 22:58:28 +0000

A well-ventilated attic can be the solution to a lot of potential headaches. There are some clues to look for to see if you have a ventilation problem, though.

On Your Roof

Your roof’s surface should remain cool during the winter. Snow will melt on a warm roof, causing it to trickle to the colder edges where it will refreeze. This is called an ice dam, and it is problematic as it traps moisture behind it where it will seep under your shingles and in to your house. If you notice an ice dam forming on your roof, or if you notice mildew or rotten shingles that result from one, you may have a ventilation problem.

These problems should be visible from your yard with a pair of binoculars. Shingles are often wet and slippery, especially in the winter, so we recommend staying safely on the ground.

In Your Attic

If you aren’t feeling like going outside, you can also check your attic for common warning signs. Insufficient attic ventilation will cause moisture to build up under your roof leading to some serious problems. Look out for blackened or water-stained wood. This signifies mold or rot, which can be dangerous. If you see that the insulation is matted down or soggy, or if you notice rust developing on nails or other metal surfaces, this indicates too much moisture. In the winter, you can also check for frost or ice.

In Your Wallet

Poor ventilation can increase the cost of cooling your home in the summer, as warm air becomes trapped inside. A common misconception is that increased ventilation will also increase heating costs. If the vents are properly installed and the attic well insulated, this won’t be being the case.

In fact, the cost of many of these problems can be astronomical. Considering that, many are surprised by the relatively inexpensive price tag associated with installing air vents. Contact Affordable Quality Roofing if you think you might have an attic ventilation problem. One of our experts will be happy to offer professional advice during a free consultation. Replacing your attic insulation is actually the most cost effective heating upgrade you can make.

Vancouver: Greenest City in the World by 2020

Terry Stone — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 01:08:13 +0000

Vancouver is setting itself up to be the most environmentally sound city on the planet. Dubbed “Greenest City 2020″, our city’s plan will make Vancouver an example for the rest of the world to follow.

As part of this enormous undertaking, Vancouver intends to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to below 1990 levels, reduce the amount of waste heading to our landfill by half, and greatly expand our city’s famous parks and green spaces. The city will plant 150,000 trees before 2020, which is the equivalent of one tree for every four Vancouver residents. We will have the cleanest air and the cleanest water of any city in the world and our city’s ecological footprint should be reduced by 33%.

To reach its Greenest City 2020 goals, Vancouver has implemented the greenest building code in North America. All new construction projects will be required to be carbon neutral by 2020, and existing bylaws will be updated to reduce energy use by 20%. This means it will be more important than ever to have energy efficient windows, insulation, and roofing.

Of course, making your home more energy efficient is not only good for the environment, it is great for your budget. It is estimated that many people could shrink their utility bills by up to 40% per year by making some simple upgrades. Additionally, many banks and utility companies offer incentives or special deals for upgrading your home. The city of Vancouver has listed some here.

We are proud to live in an innovative and forward-looking city like Vancouver and are happy that it will be a beautiful green city for many generations to come.