Monthly Archives: January 2023

What Should I Know About Slate Roofs?

Are you asking yourself what should I know about slate roofs? Sugar Land Premier Roofing can fill you in. Choosing a new roof is a critical choice. Your roof is your home’s major defense against the sun, wind, precipitation, and other weather concerns. So, you need reliable protection. You want something durable and low maintenance.

What-Should-I-Know-About-Slate-Roofs?

In this sense, slate roofs are attractive and one of the longest-lasting roofing materials. People have used them for ages in houses, castles, and cathedrals. Many consider slate the best roofing material.

What Is Slate?

Slate is a fine-grained, foliated, metamorphic rock with chlorite, plagioclase, muscovite, and quartz. Through the metamorphism process, heat and pressure compress shale buried deep in the earth’s crust, transforming shale into slate. 

Usually, people think of slate as grayish-blue, although it can have a wider spectrum of hues based on its mineral makeup and particle size.

Slate is a solid substance with a low water absorption index. This material is waterproof and simple to thin out. 

When coupled and positioned appropriately, thin slate plates can provide adequate roofing protection.

The Benefits of Using Slate

How well does the slate roof work? Why should you consider slate roofing? 

Slate’s advantages include:

  • Insulant properties

Slate is a naturally insulating roofing material. Slate’s hardness and density make it harder for warm and cool air to pass through. This feature makes your house more comfortable in all seasons. Slate conducts heat and cold like other stones. When combined with the right underlayment and insulation, a slate roof may increase your home’s energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs.

  • Safety/performance

In our geology lecture, we learned that slate is waterproof. If the roofer correctly lays slate, moisture cannot permeate it. Slate’s density and weight make it more wind-resistant than other roofing materials. Besides, slate is inflammable and non-conductive, protecting against fire and lightning.

  • Lifespan

Slate roofs are durable and long-lasting. Because slate is a natural stone, production faults are unlikely. If the slate is correctly installed and your roof doesn’t sustain any damage, it should last a long time. 

Slate roofs are normally assured for 75-100 years, although several have lasted centuries. To equal the lifespan of one slate roof, you’d need to replace numerous asphalt shingles.

  • Visual appeal

Many homeowners are drawn to slate’s natural beauty. Natural slate adds charm and elegance to your house with its distinct style, texture, and color.

Natural Slate’s Downsides

Here are some slate roof disadvantages:

  • Resistance

Slate is weatherproof, pest-proof, and fireproof. But direct impacts can damage it, fracturing, breaking, or splintering slate tiles. A slate roofer can replace individual tiles rather than the entire roof.

  • Roof Weight

Slate is durable yet heavy. If you have a solid, reinforced roof structure, slate shouldn’t be an issue. Yet, some roofs can’t withstand the added weight. Consult with a specialist to see if slate is a realistic option for your roof’s infrastructure.

  • Material costs

Slate is one of the priciest roofing materials available. No concerns if money is not a problem! But, if you want a budget-friendly roof, skip slate. Also, consider the cost’s worth over time. While slate has a high initial cost, its longevity can help you save money in the long term by preventing you from having to repair your roof many times.

  • Requires expert installation

Slate is tough to deal with since it’s heavy. Slate roofs aren’t DIY projects, and few roofing companies are experienced with them. You can still use slate if you find a roofer with the right tools and skills. Sugar Land Premier Roofing is a reliable slate roofer in TX.

Natural Slate Alternatives? Try Synthetics Like DaVinci!

Looking for a lightweight, cheap roofing material that mimics natural slate? If so, consider DaVinci Slate. Davinci Slate is a synthetic roofing material created from virgin polymer resins and UV stabilizers. 

You can’t tell the difference between a synthetic and a genuine slate roof. 

DaVinci Slate’s additional benefits include its ability to replicate genuine slate. UV stabilizers make DaVinci’s colors fade resistant. It’s as durable as real slate but requires less upkeep. Likewise, DaVinci tiles are resistant to Category 5 hurricane winds, fire, and impact hazards. The DaVinci Slate is now available in ENERGY STAR-certified Cool Roof choices.

Looking for a TX slate roofer? Sugar Land Premier Roofing is It!

Natural or synthetic slate is a lifelong roofing material. Sugar Land Premier Roofing installs both, fortunately. We work with Owens Corning shingles, bespoke metal roofing, tile, wood shakes, and more. We can also custom-make and install gutters on-site.

For more information, contact Sugar Land Premier Roofing at 832-621-4770. We service areas in Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston, TX.

What Are the Different Types of Roofing Tiles?

If you need to know what are the different types of roofing tiles? Allow Sugar Land Premier Roofing inform you! No matter which roofing you choose, you will have to replace it one day, and it will be one of the most difficult days of your life.

The big question is: which roofing material should you choose and why? Tiles are widely considered in this regard because of the variety of designs, colors, and materials. As mentioned above, too many choices have also made the decision so difficult. To choose the perfect roofing tiles, you must consider some factors. 

What-Are-the-Different-Types-of-Roofing-Tiles?

Here are all the tile materials available in the market today, along with their qualities. 

What Are the Different Types of Roofing Tiles?

You can choose roofing tiles according to your tastes, but materials make a pretty big difference. One wrong choice will ruin the overall appearance of your dream home. Materials also vary in budget, weight, and durability. Whether you want to give your house a modern look or an old look, tiles can get it right for you. 

1. Concrete Roof Tiles 

Sand, water, and cement are put into specialized molds at a preset pressure and temperature to create concrete roof tiles. For a polished look, baked tiles and then painted with the color of choice while black is the most widely used color. Concrete roof tiles are surely heavy, but their other benefits overcome this drawback. 

For concrete tiles, you must talk to the contractor first to start the structure from the base accordingly. They have been quite popular in the past few years. Choosing the right roofing company to install these tiles is also very important. The crew to install these tiles is different. Working with the wrong company can lead to a lot of problems, and a simple replacement will cost you thousands of dollars. 

2. Clay Roof Tiles 

Clay roof tiles perform better against extreme weather conditions as well as heat. They are durable, strong, and rot-resistant, which means you don’t have to worry about replacing them anywhere soon if you maintain them. Clay tiles have been used for centuries. They are also heavy and can easily break if not handled with care. 

3. Slate Roof Tiles 

Slate roof tiles are made from natural slate stone which gives them their unique appearance. The new generation like these tiles a lot, and it is available in a lot of different colors and designs. Slate doesn’t catch fire and is a go-to option for houses in high-heat areas. Slate tiles require a good base, given their heavy weight. 

4. Metal Roof Tiles 

Metal roof tiles have been on the trending list since their release, and they will stay the same for decades. Some of the most common metals for roof tiles are given below. 

  • Copper
  • Zinc
  • Steel
  • Aluminum 

Out of these metals, aluminum and steel are the most popular. Metal tiles are available in various patterns, shapes, and colors. With the right tools, workers can also change their shape. Metal roof tiles are very lightweight and can be installed with simple tools. 

On the other hand, they can be noisy if a hailstorm is blowing outside. They aren’t heat resistant at all, so good luck to those living in hot areas. Metal tiles also require heavy maintenance because they are easily damaged, and this maintenance itself will be in thousands yearly. You can give the shape of slate, wood, or asphalt to enjoy the benefits of both types. 

5. Composite Roof Tiles 

Composite tiles are new to the market, but more and more homeowners are choosing them now. These tiles are made up of layers of stone, metals, and acrylic. Only a few colors of these tiles are available, so you must settle with them for now. 

The Best Roofing Tile for Your Home

Weight, temperature, weather, budget, and aesthetics are some factors that impact your choice of roof tile. With the above-given information, you can now choose the most suitable option for you. The choice will be you at the end of the day but having all these options will give you a bit more clarity on the topic. 

For more information, contact Sugar Land Premier Roofing at 832-621-4770. We service areas in Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston, TX.

What Should I Know About Residential Flat Roofs?

Are you wondering “What should I know about residential flat roofs?” Sugar Land Premier Roofing is here to help you. A flat roof may give your home a sleek, contemporary appearance. They may not be the most aesthetic option, depending on your opinion. But there is no denying the benefits they provide. 

What-Should-I-Know-About-Residential-Flat-Roofs?

Are you considering a flat roof for your house? Great! Continue reading to see a complete guide to the flat roofs available.

  1. BUR, or Built-Up Roofing

Despite their widespread use on commercial buildings, BURs are being phased out slowly from the residential market in favor of newer, more attractive flat roof options.

This roofing method involves applying hot asphalt over a layer of roofing felt. There are typically between three and five levels in a BUR. 

We can increase the roof’s longevity by many years for each additional layer. Multi-layer BUR shields buildings from harmful sun rays and increases thermal efficiency. Besides, they significantly improve the efficiency of a home’s energy consumption.

  • Pricing per square foot is between $ 2,50 and $ 4.
  • It is up to you how many layers your BUR has, but it will last a long time.
  • The highest layer shields the house from the sun’s rays and helps keep the below layers safe.
  • These roofs keep homes at a comfortable temperature and reduce energy costs.

BURs have several drawbacks, including that they require a lot of time and effort to install, and the installation process releases toxic fumes.

  1. MBR, or Modified Bitumen Roof

When it comes to MBR, there is just one layer involved. Bitumen is polymer-modified asphalt further strengthened with substances such as fiberglass or polyester.

Any experienced roofer can install MBR with little effort. You could even perform it on your own! However, you will need torches to melt material to create a seal in some MBR models.

  • Prices per square foot are between $4 and $8. Employing a contractor is cheaper ($3-$7).
  • When compared to traditional roofing materials, MBR requires less effort during installation and even offers adhesive choices.
  • These roofs come in a variety of colors and have high reflectivity.

Short lifespans are one of the main drawbacks. But, with proper maintenance, an MBR may serve you well for ten to twenty years. Such roofs can deteriorate rapidly due to windborne debris, foot traffic, and the elements.

  1. Single-Ply Membrane (SPM)

SPM roofs, or single-ply membrane roofs, consist of a single sheet of material installed on a base (you must consider it if you choose this roofing option). These roofs last far longer and perform much better than their predecessors. 

When it comes to SPM roofing, you can choose between PVC, EPDM, and TPO, depending on the material used.

  1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Single-Ply Membrane Roofing

  • PVC roofing may run you anything from $8 to $12 per square foot.
  • PVC roofs last far longer than other types of roofing and require very little upkeep during their lifetime.
  • There is a wide range of colors to choose from. Choose the patterned fashion look end if you like!
  • PVC roofing is highly reflective of the sun’s rays.

On the negative side, PVC’s plastic nature means it might shrink over time, perhaps leading to leaks or corner artifacts. PVC roofs, especially older ones, are prone to cracking and damage when exposed to freezing temperatures.

  1. Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Single-Ply Membrane Roofing

  • The price per square foot for a TPOP roof is $5.50 to $6.00
  • This material’s flexibility makes it ideal for roofs with unusual shapes and cuts or to use over or around obstacles.
  • These recyclable roofs also have low costs and superior reflectivity.
  • TPO roofs are impervious to the growth of fungi, algae, dirt, rust, and mildew.

As a drawback, extreme heat can weaken or break down a TPO roof. Likewise, they have a short lifespan that can endure anywhere between ten to twenty years.

  1. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Single-Ply Membrane Roofing

  • Typically, prices for EPDM roofing range from $6 to $13 per square foot.
  • You can use EPDM roofs to replace BUR roofs. You have your pick of either a black or white version, with or without reinforcement.
  • This material is highly reflective and impervious to UV rays.
  • An EPDM roof is simple to install.
  • EPDM resists flames, impacts, high temperatures, high winds, or temperature changes.

Some chemicals and oils can cause swelling in EPDM roofing. Besides, water can delaminate EPDM-reinforced sheets.

Wrapping Up

Are you sure you have made the best possible choice for your flat roof?

If you are not, get the help of a reputable, local roofing company. These professionals can assess your situation. Likewise, they will offer you a detailed proposal for your next home improvement project.

For more information, contact Sugar Land Premier Roofing at 832-621-4770. We service areas in Sugar Land, Katy, and Houston, TX.