Planning Your Phoenix Arizona Roofing Project

October 14, 2013 – Phoenix, Arizona

Weather conditions tend to effect roofing projects more than any other type of construction project. The roof is more exposed to the effects of the weather than any other part of a structure. In Arizona you must mainly be prepared to deal with the heat, unless you are so unlucky as to be forced to do your roofing project during the short lived rainy season. Of course, people do their best to avoid that time of year.

The hot desert climate in Phoenix Arizona may influence your choice of roofing materials. Slate or clay tiles and metal shingles are all popular choices in Arizona roofing materials, though asphalt composite shingles are still the most common choice. A roofing contractor or building supplier can advise you on the best points of each material along with the type of warranty coverage available. Often to receive the best warranty your roof must be installed by a professional roofing contractor.

To calculate how much roofing material is needed will require you to climb on the roof and take some measurements. First measure the length and width of the entire roofed area. Now multiply the two numbers together and this will give you the total square footage of the roof. If you have more than one roof line you will need to measure all sections. You will also need to know the pitch of your roof. If you have the knowledge you can measure the pitch with a tool called an inclinometer. If you are not sure about this you can measure the peak which is the highest portion of the roof and take this number with you when you go to purchase materials. A roofing contractor or building supplier can help you determine the pitch and advise you how many squares of shingles you will need according to the square footage and the pitch. It’s always best to purchase an extra square of shingles just in case. Later you may be glad to have them if you need to repair any type of damage.

Additionally you will need to purchase tar paper, the label on the roll will tell how many rolls you’ll need to cover the amount of square footage you have determined. You will also need to purchase vents, shingle caps, and flashing, along with any tools you don’t already have such as, hammers, nails, shingle removers, ladders and roofing knives. One more thing you will need is help. Roofing is not a one man job!

Post by Arizona Native Roofing.

Once you have chosen the roofing material and set a date to begin your roofing project your next step should be to find out what building permits you will need and familiarize yourself with the building codes and requirements in your area.

Next you must make the decision whether to tear off your old roofing or to roof over it. Some contractors believe that its best to remove old roofing on every project, but in general many believe it’s OK to go over one previous layer of roofing if that roof is lying flat and there is no evidence of prior leaks, rotting wood or dips, and if the ventilation is adequate.

If you are doing a tear off, you can rent portable dumpsters to be delivered on the morning of the job and set them near the roof so that you will be able to toss the roofing materials into the dumpsters as you remove them. If you plan to recycle, the easiest way to do so is to sort materials as they come off the roof. You can recycle asphalt shingles, underlayment, and nails, so it’s best to place them in a separate container. Other materials such as metal and wood must be kept separate, so having two containers is handy. Depending on the recycler, they may allow you to cover the recyclables with a tarp and then place the non-recyclables on top of the pile in the same container. Check with your individual recycler as to their requirements. Search the internet or phone book for a recycler near you.

Safety is the most important consideration when working on a roof. Avoid falls by wearing the proper safety equipment such as a safety harness attached to something sturdy. That way if you slip, the harness will prevent you from falling off the roof. Additionally, it’s wise not to walk on the roof when it is wet as that will make it more slippery, and always wear proper shoes with good traction.

When using a ladder be certain it is on a level, solid surface. Extra care must be taken with ladders around power lines, many people are killed when their ladder accidentally touches live wires.

Video: Does My Roof Need To Be Repaired Or Replaced?

Arizona Native Roofing will complete a roof inspection or evaluation, look at the roof and determine whether we
can do repairs and maintenance on it, or secondly, if it needs to be removed and we need to install a new roof system.

For safety’s sake don’t work alone. You should always have some one there in case of accident or emergency.

A new roof is a major undertaking. Should you decide to have a professional Phoenix roofing contractor install your roof they can help you choose the best of materials for your type of home and climate.

It’s always a good idea to check that a roofer is licensed, bonded, and insured. Ask if they are a “Green Roofer” meaning they use sustainable materials and recycle old materials.

A new roof is a face lift for your house! It can also save you money on heating and cooling bills while protecting you, your family and your valued possessions from the elements.