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What should I do if I think my roof has been damaged by hail? 

It is important to take the right steps when it comes to experiencing roof hail damage on your lake house or permanent home. Either way, you want the end result to be your home or lake house is dry and safe. Three things you should do when you believe you may have roof hail damage are:

• Perform a Visual Inspection

Once the hailstorm has stopped, they’re usually quick downpours, then walk around your home or lake house and perform a visual assessment for possible roof hail damage. Standing on the ground with binoculars, check for loose or missing flashing, shingles, roof discoloration, and any wood exposure along the fascia. Check the gutters and downspouts, and inspect your siding, and windows, including the window frames. 

• Schedule a Roof Inspection

After you complete your own roof hail damage visual assessment, if you find any, schedule a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roof. These are often free when you use their services for any roof repair or replacement. Why call a roofing contractor first? Because they are on your side! The next step will get an insurance adjuster out to inspect your roof and they are on the insurance company’s side. 

• Call the Insurance Company

Now is the time to call your insurance company for a roof hail damage claim. As we stated above, an insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case. The adjuster will contact you to schedule an appointment. If possible, have your roofing contractor present for the inspection. 

What are the signs of roof hail damage?

If you’ve never experienced a Texas hailstorm, you may be wondering how you can tell if you have proof to file a roof hail damage claim. It can vary based on the type of roofing material your home has, but for the sake of this conversation, we’ll review what asphalt shingled hail roof damage looks like: 

Random damage with no discernable pattern.

• Black pot marks on the shingles
• Soft spots on the roofing shingles
• Shingles with missing granules
• Exposed roofing felt
• Shiny asphalt

How long does it take to repair roof hail damage? 

This will depend on how much damage your roof has sustained and what type of roofing materials your roof requires.  In most cases, roof hail damage repairs can be completed within one to four days if the materials are accessible. If the hail damage is widespread, there may be several other houses needing the same materials, creating a shortage, which will delay your roof repairs. 

What type of roof is most resistant to hail damage? 

A standing seam metal roof is the most hail-resistant roofing material. This includes resisting the large-size hailstones that Texans experience, (everything in Texas is bigger), and remain weather tight.

Can hail damage cause a roof leak? 

Absolutely, depending on where the roof hail damage is located and how severe the damage is. A roof that is close to its end-of-life can be damaged more than a newer roof, which is why an insurance adjuster would deny any hair roof hail damage claims. The thinner and worn the existing asphalt shingles are, the more likely the roof hail damage will be extensive.

Pitter Patter On The Roof Top

As much as we think of pitter patter being a delicate sound, when it comes to hailstones, that pitter patter is probably going to leave you needing roof hail damage. Stay on top of keeping your roof clear of debris and tree branches, keep trees cut back from the roof, and keep the gutter clean are all things you can do to minimize the chance of needing to file a roof hail damage claim.  In addition, get roof repairs done as soon as you notice they are needed, as well as getting a new roof in a timely manner can help too. 

If you need help with a roof hail damage in Osage Beach and Lake Ozark, MO, the team at Thompson Roofing & Reconstruction is here to help! Give us a call at (573) 789-8367 for assistance.

How important is emergency roof repair? 

As we said, any size roof leak should be treated as an emergency. However, some roof leaks may be noticed as water spots or water stains on the ceiling or walls. They shouldn’t be ignored, but you can make a temporary emergency roof repair yourself that will stop the leaking after notifying a roofing contractor. until the roofing contractor arrives. 

How soon should you contact a roofing professional? 

Immediately as soon as you notice the roof leak! Delaying an emergency roof repair, even a temporary emergency roof repair, can lead to further damage to your home. What other damage can happen by delaying an emergency roof repair?  Several things can result from delaying emergency roof repair or non-emergency roof repairs, such as the following: 

1. The Costs 

Even the smallest of roof looks will damage the interior, which isn’t always visible right away. o your home’s interior. Water is destructive to the frames of a structure starting with the roof decking, rafters, and joists. It is also destructive to the drapes, drywall, electronics, flooring, furniture, and any personal items that may be in the area. 

2. Mildew & Mold 

When moisture and water are left unattended, the surfaces start to mildew, then mold forms. Mold is ugly in appearance and can be a major health hazard if not promptly removed and remedied. This results in more than needing emergency roof repairs!

3. Insects, Rodents, Vermin 

The older a roof gets, the less likely is able to keep unwanted insects, rodents, vermin, and other unwelcome guests out of your home. Once these have access to the roof, they will spread throughout your home, leaving bacteria behind from their feces and urine. They get into animal and human food supplies, chew through the electrical wiring, the walls, and more. 

4. Roofing over Roofing

If the exterior roofing material was installed over the previous roofing material, this adds weight to the structure. The two layers telegraph between them, making the outer layer raised, allowing moisture to seep in, causing roof leaking, often leading to an emergency roof repair.

5. Storm Damage 

When minor roof repairs are delayed, this puts the roof susceptible to more severe damage, leading to emergency roof repair needs.

6. Denied Roof Insurance Claims

Another risk of delaying non-emergency or emergency roof repairs is any future insurance claims being denied, possibly your policy being canceled due to homeowner neglect. 

7. Structural Damage 

When water is able to seep under damaged, loose, or missing roofing shingles, over time, roof rot will form. This will cause the structure of the roof subjective to collapse. 

8. Energy Efficiency Reduced 

A roof in need of non-emergency repairs is less energy efficient. Air conditioning and heating are leaking through the roof, making the HVAC system work harder. This causes the energy bills to increase. 

Other factors to consider when non-emergency roof repairs are delayed include the property value decreasing and the increase of liability risks, which can affect the cost of homeowner insurance. 

What steps should you take for a temporary emergency roof repair? 

The first thing you need to do if the water is dripping into your home is to place a bucket under the leak with a tarp or towels under it. Then you need to determine where the leak is coming from. This will require going to the attic with a flashlight. 

Look for moisture on the insulation and the roofing beams above you in the attic. When you find where the water is dripping, follow that drip up with the flashlight to find where it is coming from, remember water runs downhill. 

Once you find the leak, measure the size of the leak, and then take a piece of plywood cut to size along with roof sealant and screws. Spread the roof sealant around the edges of the wood then position it over the leak. Next, install screws every 2” around the outer edge of the wood, and last, spread roof sealant over the screw heads. Remember, this is only a temporary emergency roof repair, you still need to have a professional roofing contractor inspect the roof. 

How much does professional emergency roof repair cost?

The size of the damage will be the first factor that determines the cost of emergency roof repair. Roofing contractors have different rates for repair, some will have a flat rate. The roofing contractor you contact should inspect the entire roof while inspecting the leak. If the roofing contractor determines that the damage is more than 25% of the roof, or depending on where the damage is located, they will recommend a complete roof replacement. 

What are the signs that roof repair is needed before it is an emergency? 

As a homeowner, you should do monthly roof inspections to watch for possible signs that roof repairs are needed. You don’t have to climb up on the roof either, just simply walk around your home, looking at the roof for visible things like loose or missing flashing or singles. Look for any shingles that are curled. 

Topping Off This Subject

Your home is an important investment and taking steps to care for it from top to bottom, inside and out is the best way to get a long lifespan and returns. This includes following through with non-emergency and emergency roof repairs when they are discovered. When it comes to your roofing emergency in Osage Beach and Lake Ozark, MO, you can rely on us to help! Please reach out to us at (573) 789-8367 to learn more!

What is the difference between fascia and soffit?

The eaves of a roof are self-explanatory, right? That is the part of the roof that hangs out past the exterior of the house. Some houses have wood, other houses have had siding installed over them so they won’t need painting again. But what are the fascia and soffit, are they the same thing? 

First, no, fascia and soffit are two different things, but one needs the other to function as needed. The soffit is installed under the rafter tails, which creates the roof eaves we just mentioned.  

The fascia is what is installed on the ends of those rafters. The fascia is the final piece that encloses the roof so that the elements, critters, and insects can’t get into the attic. While it is part of the architectural element, providing that finished look, it is an important part of the roof. 

What is the purpose of fascia? Is fascia needed?

As we said, the fascia is the finishing piece to your roof. It closes off the open rafters and keeps the elements, critters, and insects out. It gives the roof a completed, finished appearance aesthetically.  To summarize the purpose of fascia on a house in addition to closing of the roof eave’s underside: 

• It is where the gutter system is secured, providing the gutter runs stabilization.
• It keeps water off the roof deck so that it can’t get in the attic.
• Adds to the curb appeal by hiding the rafter ends 

So, yes, it is needed. Will your roof collapse without it, no, but your home will be subjected to the climate, mainly rain, ice, and snow, getting into the attic and under the roof decking and causing mildew, mold, and other types of damage. 

Where does fascia go?

The fascia is a long, straight board that is installed by the roofing contractor along the low part of the roof edge. It is installed directly to the roof trusses’ lower ends, with the primary job of supporting that lower edge and the bottom row of roofing material. 

Are there different types of fascia?

At one time, wood was the only type of facia, and it is still widely used. However, because it needs to be repainted or stained every few years, it tends to age prematurely if it isn’t. Today, there are other types of fascia materials that are more popular: 

• Aluminum or Vinyl 

Since aluminum or vinyl siding has become the go-to for most homeowners, the wood fascia is covered as well. This allows the homeowner to select a color that matches the siding and completes the curb appeal they desire. Aluminum or vinyl wrapped fascia benefits include: 

• Minimal maintenance required
• Curb appeal is enhanced
• Weather resistant
• Longer lifespan than wooden fascia

• Composite 

Composite fascia is made from recycled wood chips and sawdust that are bonded with epoxy resin. They are more expensive than the aluminum or vinyl-covered wood fascia, but they aren’t rot-resistant and must be painted. 

• Fiber-Cement

Fiber-cement fascia is rot and warp-resistant and available in a smooth finish, or you can choose a wood grain and texture simulation. They come unpainted or prefinished. 

• PVC 

When we think PVC, we typically think of plumbing, but PVC is actually a material that can be molded into many things, including fascia. PVC fascia is found on newer buildings or for replacing wood fascia. 

How is fascia installed?

The fascia board is attached to the rafter ends, usually by being nailed in place. Most fascia boards will have a lip where the soffit fits, and then the fascia is affixed to the house in a means suitable for the exterior of the house, depending on if it is brick, siding, wood, etc. 

What are the benefits of fascia?

We’ve talked about various benefits of fascia, but let’s recap it as we wind down this article: 

• Protects the home from the weather 
• Prevents critters from nesting in the attic 
• Improve the aesthetics of the home 
• Reduces roofline maintenance
• Avoids more damage to the home 
• Help the energy efficiency of the home 

Is storm damage covered by insurance? 

Storm damage roof insurance isn’t a separate policy, it is included in a homeowners insurance policy to provide you financial protection when your home has suffered damage by storms. In most cases, most homeowners’ insurance policies have coverage for certain storm damage.  The roof insurance coverage includes damage caused by hail, lightning, and wind, but what is not covered is damages that were caused by earthquakes and floods. 

After you have had your roof inspected by a contractor for storm damage to the roof, insurance company should be called, and they will send an adjuster out to inspect the roof and other possible damage.  The adjuster will use a formula to determine how much damage is within the roof insurance limits and advise you of the amount they are approving. 

After you have paid the deductible, they will either pay your mortgage holder or send a check made out to you and the mortgage company. After the repairs are made, any funds that are left will be yours to keep. Or if the amount doesn’t meet the exact cost of the roof and other repairs, you’ll be liable out-of-pocket for the balance. 

What types of roof damage are covered by insurance?

In general, your homeowner’s insurance should provide cover for damage caused by falling tree limbs or trees, ice storms, hailstorms, high wind, tornadoes, or wildfire within a certain amount of coverage as stated in your policy. 

Something is considered storm damage when it’s the result of destructive weather events. This includes any interior or exterior parts of your home other than roof insurance coverage. The other aspects that insurance can provide coverage include: 

• The exterior siding
• The doors, windows
• Gutters and downspouts
• Power surges that caused damage
• Fire from lightning strikes

Is hail damage covered by insurance?

Yes, any Texas homeowner’s insurance policy should include hail damage roof insurance claims or hail damage to any part of your home. From the roof to the siding to the windows, gutters, and more, your insurance policy should cover hail damage. 

Will insurance replace my roof if a tree falls on it?

Yes, a standard homeowner’s insurance policy will provide roof insurance for repairs or replacement should a tree fall on it, or any structure that is covered under your policy. This includes garages, storage sheds, etc. The same holds true for any damage sustained by hailstorms, high winds, or lightning.

Regardless of who the tree belongs to, if it falls on your roof, insurance on your property will pay for removal up to a limited amount, and then they will work with the tree owner’s insurance for reimbursement. If your insurance company is reimbursed for the roof insurance claim, you will be refunded any deductible you paid.

Will insurance cover my roof replacement?

A typical homeowners insurance policy does cover all perils, including roof insurance for replacement costs if damaged by acts of nature or by accident that you have no control over happening, like vandalism. 

Where roof insurance problems come into the picture is when the roof is aged or has normal wear and tear that is damaged by hail, lightning, wind, or other weather issues. The insurance adjuster will deny the claim citing that if the roof had been replaced when needed, the damage wouldn’t be at the roof insurance claim level. 

Will insurance cover my roof repair?

The insurance industry has regulations, rules, and standards and if your roof insurance claim doesn’t fall within those things, your claim could be denied. Some of the reasons roof insurance claims are denied could be any of the following: 

1. Age: Every roof will eventually age, no matter the quality of the material or the installation. A roof insurance claim on a roof that is 10 years old will be approved before a roof that is 20 years old. Chances are, if you apply for homeowner’s insurance and the roof is old, it will have to pass inspection before any insurance company will cover it anyway. 
2. Neglect: Most insurance companies are going to look for the fault of the homeowner to avoid paying for any roof insurance claim. If a limb from a tree on your property falls on your house, they’ll blame it on the tree not being trimmed back from the roof.  If the insurance adjuster sees that repairs have been neglected when the hailstorm hit, they’ll deny your roof insurance claim. 
3. Material: There are some roofing materials that insurance companies won’t cover, specifically wood shingles. Any roofing material is considered at high risk for fire or water damage, and if they do provide coverage, it will be expensive. 
4. Type: If you file a roof insurance claim and the adjuster determines the type of damage isn’t as claimed, they will deny the claim. For instance, you claim hail damage, but they find the damage caused by foot traffic. 

Can you repair a roof without replacing it?

Certainly, but if you file a roof insurance claim and it is approved for replacement, but you only make repairs, then the next time you file a roof insurance claim, it could be denied. It is always best to fulfill what the insurance company approves.

Should I hire a professional for roof repair?

It is recommended to have a professional roofing contractor do any roof repairs or roof replacement.  The insurance company will expect to see invoices or receipts where the work has been done and is guaranteed. If anything is wrong with the work according to the insurance company, the roofing contractor will need to make good on the work. 

When you have a standing seam metal roof installation, you are getting one of the most common and popular metal roofs. Once found only on large commercial or industrial structures, they are now installed on homes too. 

Defining a standing seam metal roof is a concealed fastener metal panel roofing system. There are two vertical legs with a wide, flat area in between them. The vertical legs are also described as raised seams or standing seams because they are above the flat panel. 

The key factor that makes a standing seam metal roof installation popular is the hidden fasteners. While the wide flat panels are attached directly to the roof decking with a clip under the standing seam, aka vertical legs. 

How is a standing seam metal roof attached?

A standing seam metal roof installation won’t be done with exposed nails or screws. Instead, there is a clip that that fits over the ‘male’ leg’s top, and the clip is then screwed down to the roof decking to hold the wide flat metal panel in place. 

Are standing seam metal roofs noisy?

Not any more than a vacuum cleaner!  Yes, a vacuum cleaner is just as noisy as a standing seam metal roof installation will be, up to 70 decibels. Surprised? The key to this low-level noise is quality of metal and quality process of installation. 

A flat surface is going to reduce the sounds of anything hitting it hard, like the wide, flat metal panel of standing seam metal roof. Installation of a flat, uncoated sheet metal cannot shorten the sustained sound reflection, aka reverberation. 

So, therefore, the roof’s structure is a key component to noise reduction, meaning a solid roof decking with insulation and underlayment, will minimize the sound of rain hitting the standing seam metal roof. Installation of advanced metal roofing products with a thicker the coating and an irregular surface texture, will be even more effective dampening the reverberation. 

Is a standing seam metal roof impact-resistant?

Some advantages of a standing seam metal roof installation on a commercial or industrial structure are:   

1. Weather-resistance
2. Durable and Long Lifespan
3. Fire Resistance
4. Minimal Maintenance
5. Energy Efficiency
6. Ideal For a Low Slope Roof
7. Impact Resistant!  So, that means you can you walk on a standing seam metal roof?

Absolutely!  A standing seam metal roof installation is ideal for commercial structures where foot traffic is expected on the roof. Whether is the HVAC system, ventilation system for factories and restaurants, electricians, plumbers, or infrastructure, a standing seam metal roof installation can withstand it all. 

Can you repair a standing seam metal roof?

Yes, once you have your standing seam metal roof installation completed, if there is any issue that needs to be repairs, it is recommended to call the roofing contractor that installed it to do the repair.  If the roof existed and you don’t know who that was, your maintenance team can use a polyester fabric seam tape to create a patch. 

They should cut the polyester fabric tape to be up to five inches longer than the damaged area. Then laying the tape over the area, they should press firmly on both sides of the standing seam then apply an elastomeric coating.

Do standing seam metal roofs leak?

 If a standing seam metal roof installation is done by an experienced roofing contractor that knows how to install standing seam metal roofing, there shouldn’t be any problems with leaking. Quality installation job is essential for installing a metal roof of any style.

With routine inspections and maintenance, any possible areas that have appear to be prone for leaking, like pooling or puddling water, can be caught before it happens. Then the steps can be taken to fix the issue before the leaks happen. An annual professional inspection is recommended and monthly visual inspection by your maintenance team are key in getting a long lifespan of a standing seam metal roof installation. 

What is a standing seam on a metal roof?

A standing seam metal roof installation system can be used in a range of applications and building projects. With interlocking seams featured that connect the metal panels give a commercial or industrial building roof an attractive and distinct appearance. Because this type of roofing is made from high-end aluminum or steel, you can expect a long lifespan with low-maintenance, ideal for any owner of a commercial or industrial structure. 

How does a standing seam metal roof work?

A product from the metal roofing family, a standing seam metal roof consists of panels that have legs. The legs engage and are installed with clips to the substructure, or there is the clipless style of standing seam panels. 

Regardless of how the standing seam metal roof installation is attached, the fasteners will not be exposed in the panel plane. And the project specifics will depend on whether exposed fasteners are used for trim applications or not. There are several benefits of a standing seam metal roof installation in addition to no visible clips including:

• Designed for Contraction and Expansion: A standing seam metal roof installation will contract and expand with the temperature changes because of the clips used to attach the roofing. The clips keep the metal from buckling or tearing as they move, which makes them watertight sealed and keeps them from leaking. 

• Parts and Pieces Interlock: This is a key feature to a standing seam metal roof installation is how the panels and trims interlock via a “Hem”, the 1” to 1-1/2” fold in the metal that hooks up to another piece of the roofing system.

• Elevated Ribs Keep the Seams Dry: The standing metal rib keeps the metal roofing elevated off the surface and reduces the chance of ice, snow, or water from entering the joints between the metal panels. 

• Metal Thickness and Painted: The thickness of the steel used in a standing seam metal roof installation and the type of paint used can extend the lifespan of the roof. The smaller the gauge, the thicker the metal. 

What are standing seam metal roofs made of?

The panels used in a standing seam metal roof installation can be made from various types of metals including, aluminum, copper, or galvalume-coated steel.  Most manufacturers of standing seam metal roofing materials will use Kynar paint or siliconized polyester paint.  The thicker steel will ensure a longer lifespan and with a quality top-notch paint, the roof will look for years without the color fading.

Can you paint a standing seam metal roof?

Even though a metal for standing seam metal roof installation will have a baked-on factory finish, after many years, the paint can begin to fade, or the owner/occupant may desire a different color. Painting is possible with either an airless paint sprayer or a roller that is designed for corrugated panel roofing or a regular paint roller for a standing seam panel system. Be sure to follow the instructions on the paint container, including a thorough cleaning and preparation.

How long will a standing seam metal roof last?

A standing seam metal roof installation will last up to 50 years, even longer, when well maintained and careful with footwear for any foot traffic.  Yes, you can walk on a standing seam metal roof when wearing proper footwear that will grip (the metal can be slippery) but not footwear that will scratch and scuff the metal.

Are standing seam metal roofs noisy?

Today, a standing seam metal roof installation won’t be any louder than other roofing materials. That is because the process of the installation is different than years ago. What do you put under a standing seam metal roof? 

Today, roofing contractors use insulation and solid decking with airspace in between the rooftop and the ceiling. All of this absorbs and muffles the sounds that could make it noisy otherwise. An underlayment of felt or a synthetic material over the decking provides not only additional protection from heat, ice, and water but sounds. 

Can a standing seam metal roof be reused?

Yes, the materials used in a standing seam metal roof installation are often made from recycled materials. Then, when they have reached their useful roof life, the metal can be repurposed.

What does EPDM roofing stand for and what is EPDM roofing? 

EPDM roofing material is an abbreviation for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, a terpolymer synthetic rubber roofing membrane that is widely used on flat or low-slope roofs. Ethylene and propylene are the two primary ingredients, both being derived from oil and natural gas. It is sold in widths measuring between 7.5 feet up to 50 feet and with a thickness of 45mil or 60mil. Known for strengths rather than aesthetics, EPDM roofing typically only comes in black or white. 

Why use EPDM roofing? 

EPDM roofing is a rubber membrane that is known and chosen by building owners for its several benefits, including: 

• A long lifespan, averaging between 25 years and 30 years. 
• Flexibility that makes it more durable because it can move with the building
• Lightweight, making the material easier to install
• High resistance to hail, UV rays, wind, hail, and more
• Resistant to extreme temperatures and thermal shock 
• Watertight when installed by an experienced contractor that knows how to apply EPDM roofing
• Comes in varying widths, minimizing the number of seams on a roof
• Reflects heat from penetrating rays, keeping the interior of a building cooler leading to less need for air conditioning and more energy efficiency
• Almost 100% recyclable

What goes under EPDM roofing?

An experienced roofing contractor that has worked with EPDM roofing before and understands the material will take the following steps prior to installing the EPDM material:

• A new wood-framed roof will have an exterior-grade plywood or OSB (oriented strand board) sheathing attached using non-popping fasteners. 
• An existing wood-framed roof will be stripped, with new plywood or OSB installed over the existing sheathing. 
• If the roof appears to be in good shape after stripping, ring-shank nails will be installed adjacent to the original fasteners, overlapping them to prevent popping of the original.
• A new concrete roof will be steel troweled and allowed to cure for 30 days before the waterproofing is applied. 
• An old concrete roof will be stripped, pressure washed, and then patched. 
• Prior to starting the EPDM roofing job, the contractor will inspect the roof and caulk any edge transitions or large gaps. They will also grind or sand down any protrusions, and round off all external edges to a half-inch radius.

What sizes does EPDM roofing come in?

EPDM roofing membrane comes in widths as small as 7.5 feet and as wide as fifty feet. There are three different thicknesses to choose from: 45 Mil, 60 Mil, and 90 Mil. A Mil is one/thousandth of an inch – for comparison, the 45 Mil thick EPDM roofing membrane is almost equal in thickness to a dime.

Is EPDM roofing flammable?

No. In fact, EPDM roofing is highly fire-resistant, being virtually impossible to ignite and able to impede a fire’s progress. This makes it an incredibly safe roofing material overall.

Which is better – EPDM or TPO?

When you need commercial roofing that needs dimensional stability, TPO roofing is the better choice because EPDM has a higher chance of shrinking, which can lead to leaking and other problems. Other reasons some building owners may find TPO to be the better roofing choice include: 

• ENERGY EFFICIENCY: TPO has high reflectivity. This can save money for buildings with either electric or gas heat and cooling. Whereas EPDM is generally installed on darker surfaces, TPO is always a light color to help reflect the heat. This is a big bonus for those in southern states. 

• INSTALLATION CONVENIENCE: TPO is versatile with its installation. It can be adhered, installed mechanically, or welded. 

• REPAIRS: TPO can be repaired by heat-welding after cleaning the membrane. Repairing EPDM is dependent on the weather. If it is too cold, welding or re-taping requires a primer and adhesives instead, or building owners will need to wait for warmer weather.  

What are the fascia and soffit?

The fascia and soffit are what completes the roof. The exterior soffit is installed on the span under the rafter tails, and fascia is the horizontal piece of wood (or vinyl) installed on the end of the rafters. These are thought to be nothing more than architectural elements that are installed along the eaves and rafters, providing a visual appearance of completed roofing. However, they are more than just a finished look for the roof. 

What is the fascia on a house?

As described above, the soffit is what closes in the eaves or rafters, creating a finished look. The fascia is the wood that runs along the side of that overhang and completes the roof. The fascia is where the gutters are installed, and the holiday lights are hung. It is the transition trim that is installed between the house and the roofline. Often, when soffit repairs are needed, the fascia will need repair or replacing in the same area. 

Why are soffits vented?

There are two soffit vent types:

• Continuous: The newest soffit vent system and most popular today because of the volume of fresh air they allow inside the attic. 
• Individual: Still a popular way to vent a soffit, especially in challenging areas of a roof like a partitioned attic or the kitchen. 

Soffit venting is needed on the underside of the eaves and rafters and work in coordination with other venting system to keep fresh air flowing through the attic. Fresh air is needed in an attic to prevent moisture build up that is natural to an attic. Keeping moisture minimal in an attic, the HVAC system doesn’t work as hard, and it keeps the roof structure healthy. Soffit repair is critical in the soffit doing its job of keeping the roof cool in the summer. 

What is soffit repair?

Soffit repair is done when there is water damage to the eaves, gable overhangs, and rafters. This damage usually happens because of any of the following: 

• Ice dams
• Improper flashing
• Damaged or faulty gutter system
• Missing or torn shingles

When these any happen, it allows water to seep in, which starts the process of rotting the wood, which will spread quickly inside the dark space of the attic that has now become soggy. 

Until soffit repair is completed, the damaged wood will allow small animals and critters to enter the attic through the eaves. Once in there, they start building nests and chewing the electrical wiring and more, causing more damage. 

You can call a professional roofing contractor to do any soffit repair, or you can learn how to repair rotted soffit by following these steps: 

Step 1: Remove shingle mold using a pry bar. This is the narrow piece of wood installed as shingle molding along the fascia. If it comes off without splitting, save to reuse.

Step 2. Remove the rotted fascia taking care not to damage the flashing or shingles. 

Step 3. Remove the old soffit by pulling it down carefully, be prepared for nesting from small critters. 

Step 4. Remove the rotted rafter using a reciprocating saw to cut it out, then replaced with pressure-treated lumber.

Step 5. Attach a cleat to support the new overhang you’re installing.

Step 6. Attach the new rafter by clamping a 1×1 board for backing in place and fastened to the rafter with screws. Then screw the rafter into the cleat. 

Step 7. Seal the replacement soffit with a waxy sealer to keep water from penetrating the wood. 

 Step 8. Attach the replacement soffit by fastening the plywood soffit underneath the eave. 

 Step 9. Replace the crown molding along the wall beneath the rear side of the new soffit.

Step 10. Attach the replacement fascia by sliding it into place and secure with galvanized nails. Then seal the nails with putty over the top. 

Step 11. Attach the shingle mold you removed in step one.

What material is used for fascia?

In most homes, the fascia is made from wood, an effective material for the purpose of a fascia. A fascia board can be made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) of non-corrosive sheet metal as well. Some non-residential structures have a fascia made from ornately carved stone.

What are the different fascia and soffit types?

There are four different types of materials used for the fascia and soffit: 

• Wood Affordable, multifaceted, and with the right finishing treatment, it is water-resistant. Painted will increase its lifespan. 

• Composite: Made from recycled wood chips & sawdust then bonded with epoxy resin. A most expensive option than wood but is colorfast, durable, and rot-resistant.

• Vinyl: A durable material that is easy to install, maintain, and repair. Less expensive than wood and cleans easily by spraying. 

• Aluminum: A popular choice and considered an upgrade from wood in all aspects. Durable, flexible, and weather-resistant with low maintenance needs. 

What is the purpose of a soffit?     

The soffit has two purposes: aesthetics and functionality. The aesthetics of a soffit give the home exterior character in a variety of colors and designs. The soffit creates an interesting façade from a distance as well as close. The functionality of the soffit is to provide protection from the elements for the rafters. It keeps moisture away, thereby reducing the possibility of mold and extending the overall lifespan of the roof. 

There can be a third purpose for a soffit depending on the roof system’s design; this is natural ventilation from the soffit to the attic. While the soffit installation itself isn’t vented, it does camouflage the vents found in a roof’s overhang. It is in this part of the roof where the intake vents are located, allowing air to exit through the roof’s peak vents. 

Modern homes are constructed with attic ventilation, improving indoor air quality and increasing energy efficiency with natural cooling. This additional venting has proven to be another way of offering moisture management to prolong the lifespan of the materials used in the construction of a roof. 

What material is used for a soffit?

The soffit on your home can be constructed from a variety of materials, with each having its own attributes. The better choice for your home will depend on what your home needs, taking these attributes into consideration. Choices in soffit materials include: 

• Wood: This material has been around forever in features such as wood siding, and is still used today. Soffits made of wood will have wood grain and texture, a visual many homeowners desire. They often come perforated or have vents in them from the factory; some will come completely solid.
• Wood soffits can be painted, but like wood siding, they will need constant care and maintenance. They can be attractive to look at but are attractive to insects and wood rot, too, especially if left unpainted. 
• Vinyl: This option came along in the 1950s and is a low maintenance choice that can be painted or not, as there isn’t any wood rot to worry about. Vinyl soffits have a wood grain appearance and come in perforated and vented styles. However, vinyl is susceptible to cold weather as it freezes and cracks, and in intense heat they can melt. So with that in mind, they may need replacing more frequently than you want to worry about. 
• Vinyl soffits can look like plastic as well, and have overlapping seams instead of a flush fit. That overlap can cast a shadow that takes away from a home’s appearance.
• Aluminum: This material has also been around for decades. It doesn’t rot and is almost maintenance free. It’s available in a variety of colors and textures, including simulated wood grain capable of mathing any architectural design. They come perforated for venting or solid and are insect and rot-resistant, as well as flame retardant. This choice will weather better in the cold or heat. 
• Do note the color will fade unevenly and can become chalky, which can minimize the beauty of a home. Aluminum also dents easily and if the paint is scuffed off, it tends to rust. To minimize this chalky surface, frequent repainting is needed. 
• Fiber Cement: Soffits made from fiber cement are durable like the siding made of the same material. This material is made from cellulose fiber, sand, silica, and Portland cement blended together, creating a non-porous material that is insect and moisture-resistant. It is a flame retardant material that is rot-resistant and won’t fade like painted wood or get a chalky surface. Fiber cement soffits are available in a cedar-look or smooth surface, perforated or solid, and natural wood stain or a range of colors that will complement any exterior appearance. 

Do I need a soffit?

Yes. The most important reason your home needs a soffit is for the purpose of ventilation. The soffit covers the roof’s underside and a portion of the attic space. Heat then builds up inside the attic from the sun above and the energy inside the home. That heat needs to be vented or it can create wood rot on the rafters and decking.

A soffit also provides the roof a more finished appearance. Without soffits, your home’s exterior would show the roof rafters in the overhang, which is not an appealing look for any home.

What is the difference between an eave and a soffit?

The key difference between the eave and the soffit is what they do and where they are located. The eaves are the edging of the roof where it overhangs, facing the walls of the house. The soffit is structural, located under the fascia where it fills the space between the roof edging and the walls of the house. 

Are vented soffits necessary?

Soffit vents aren’t the only air intake method, and the other methods are sufficient. However, the more ventilation your roof has, the better. If the soffit is sagging, it may be from rainwater collecting behind it. Removing a few pieces of the fascia will allow you to see what is going on and make any needed repairs. Leaving it as-is can lead to roof or siding damage as well as costly repairs or replacement. 

Is tpo roofing good?

Yes, when it come to puncture resistance and tear resistance, TPO roofing is incredibly good for flat structure roofing.  It is dirt build-up resistance as well, which will help lower cooling costs because it isn’t holding heat in with the dirt. TPO roofing benefits include: 

• TPO Roofing is Economical – this is one of the main attractions for commercial structure owners. As efficient as its biggest competitor, PVC, with energy efficiency and hot-air weldable seams, but cost less. 

• TPO Roofing is Durable – when you compare TPO roofing to other thermoplastic membranes, it holds up better to dirt accumulation, mold growth, punctures, and tears.  When it comes to tpo roofing and hailstones, TPO comes out the winner. 

• TPO Roofing Installs Easily – For your roofing contractor, this is important and for your cost of installing a new roof, with TPO roofing being easier to install, you’ll find quotes for installation are usually cheaper. 

• TPO Roofing is Energy Efficient – TPO roofing is highly attractive to commercial building owners because of the savings on energy costs. Additionally, the reflective nature of TPO roofing reduces the building’s carbon footprint. 

What is the difference between PVC and TPO roofing?

When we look at tpo roofing vs pvc roofing, we see that both are thermoplastics materials and have some of the same characteristics. Yet, the have significant difference too with their composition and properties.

TPO roofing membrane is made up of ethylene or polyethylene thermoplastic that is then bound to ethylene propylene rubber. PVC roofing membrane is made from polymerizing vinyl chloride monomers, then plasticizers are added to increase its flexibility.

The original design of TPO roof was intended for it to be the superior over PVC roofing, but to date, there isn’t a definitive statement to that end. Both are an optimal commercial roofing solution. Both roofing membranes offer advantageous characteristics such as chemical resistance, grease resistant, oil resistant, and puncture resistant in different degrees. To decide which is the better, TPO roofing or PVC roofing, you’ll need the advice and input from an experienced roofing contractor. 

Is TPO roofing fire resistant?

The products used to create TPO roofing material are flammable, but TPO roofing itself, as single-ply roofing material, is a sub-specialty category. Meaning, it is combustionable and flammable.

How do you maintain a TPO roof?

An experienced roofing contractor will know to start cleaning TPO roofing with a low-pressure wash that will remove dirt and dust.  Next, using a long-handled, soft-bristled, brush, they will scrub a cleaning solution on and over the entire surface, then rinse thoroughly with clear water.

If you don’t have a current roofing contractor, get several quotes. The lowest isn’t always the best deal, you will likely get what you pay for. However, the higher priced contractor and material isn’t necessarily the best or the right roofing material for you and your commercial building. 

Be sure you get a warranty on the material and the workmanship, then follow through with a routine maintenance program with your own maintenance staff or the roofing contractor. The quote and the warranty should be in writing before the job starts. Call (573) 789-8367 today for your TPO roof installation in Osage Beach and Lake Ozark, MO.