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Is it Recommended to Insulate Under Metal Roof?

Insulation is incredibly important for building and roofs, and this is no less true for metal roofs. Providing a layer of insulation under a metal roof is important because metal conduct heat better than wood. That means that without insulation, a structure can get remarkably hot. When a roof or building has great insulation, then the structure will be able to retain heat in the winter and be cool in the height of summer.

What are the Different Types of Commercial Roofs?

Are you wondering what the different types of commercial roofs are? If so, please review the following bullet pointed list to discover more.

• Built Up Roofing. These roofing membranes are also known by the acronym, BUR.
• Modified bitumen.
• Metal roofing.
• Green roofing systems.
• EPDM roofing.
• PVC and TPO roof membranes.

Can I Put a Metal Roof on Top of a Metal Roof?

While it is true that a roof can be installed over another roof, it is never an optimal occurrence. This is because roofs are heavy and place a lot of weight on a structure. When the roof is no longer in use, it should be removed before another roof is put on in its place. A professional roofing company is an excellent resource when it comes to discussing responsible roofing decisions.

Can a Metal Roof Be Repaired?

Commercial metal roofing services continue to be massively important for commercial business owners. This is because, as a matter of fact, metal roofs can and must be repaired. With a proper metal roof installation, your metal roof will perform well for many years. It is important to remember, however, that all roofs need maintenance at one point or another. When you do secure roof repairs, it will be critical for you to secure the services of a reputable, insured roofing company. The better the repairs, the longer your roof system will last. 

Commercial Metal Roofing

Are you interested in commercial metal roofing for your property? If so, it will be important to consider all the advantages and disadvantages. One of the advantages of a metal roof is its sheer durability. When high speed winds rumble through, your commercial metal roof will be far more resilient than an asphalt shingle counterpart. Another important advantages is the longevity of metal roofs. With the proper amount of maintenance and repairs, your metal roof can last over a lifetime.

Commercial Metal Roofing Near Me

One of the most important features that Google provides users with is its location services. By typing relevant search terms, such as “commercial metal roofing near me,” you can utilize Google’s location services to list several different commercial roofing companies near you. Once you have a great list of roofing companies, you can review their services and their reviews.

Commercial Metal Roofing Supplies Near Me

Professional roofing companies have access to supplies that the regular populace does not. This is because professional roofing companies have established relationships with vendors. A handyman will not have access to the same materials in the same manner as an experienced, insured roofing company.

Are you in need of commercial metal roofing in Frisco , TX? If so, please reach out to us today at 214-471-6210. Our friendly, professional roofing team would be happy to discuss your options.

What happens if you don’t fix foundation problems?

It isn’t right! Among the things that can happen: 

Can a house collapse from foundation issues?

The purpose of a home is to have protection from the elements of rain, snow, wind, and UV rays. It is those elements that can also be destructive for a home if regular maintenance and upkeep aren’t done. That maintenance and upkeep includes the electrical, plumbing, and structural matters like the foundation and roof. 

A short delay in repairing the roof or having the foundation repair done does not mean your house will disintegrate immediately.  There several factors that must take place before your house will collapse. 

When you start seeing things like significant cracks in the walls or ceiling, though, your house is in impending danger, and you should become concerned at that point. Structural defects are an indication the house is collapsing, if not today. It will, at some point shortly.

Can a sinking foundation be fixed?

In most cases, yes, using the following foundation repair methods. 

• Helical Piers: There are ‘flights’ within these piers that serve the house as end-bearing plates and are welded to a central steel shaft. That shaft acts like a screw that is rotating into the soil. These types of piers provide a large surface that can bear the weight of a house and are typically used where the bedrock goes deep. 
• Resistance Piers: Hydraulic pressure pushes piers down in the soil with one of the many steel piers that are available based on the foundation, load requirements, and soil content. These are used where the bedrock is shallow and transfers the load to the end bearing. 
• Slab Piers: These piers are used where the foundation is settling by creating holes in the foundation; then, a helical anchor is drove into the soil to get the right depth. A steel bracket is inserted into those holes then a helical anchor is installed and secured to the slab. This transfers the house weight to the soil that is now load-bearing safe. 

What is the best foundation repair method?

Up until the 1970s, foundation repair was done by using concrete. Today, engineering, trial, and error have found other methods to perform foundation repair. The geographic area, site conditions, and other factors will determine which is the best method of foundation repair. The most preferred method is the steel piers. This method revolutionized the process of foundation repairs. The repair job is faster, less landscaping is disturbed, and as time as progressed, so has the use of this type of foundation repair. 

What is the foundation repair process?

Understanding the process of foundation repair can ease the mind of what to expect. The following are necessary steps, each having a little more detail than what is noted here: 

1. Pilings are placed around the entire perimeter, aka the foundation edge.
2. Tunnels are then dug under the home that will run under the slab from end to end of the house in intervals to give the contractors working space.  
3. Exterior HVAC components are lifted. Electrical and plumbing services are exposed. These steps enable the contractor to make any repairs needed during the foundation repair process.
4. The tunnels that were dug earlier are 3 foot wide by three foot deep, and the technician will now crawl through these tunnels and place the pilings every eight to ten feet along with hydraulic jacks. 
5. The house is lifted under the foundation beams to the proper level, and support cylinders are positioned under the beams and shims used to get the house level at the correct height. 
6. After the house is at the right level all the way around, the crew will begin cleaning up and returning any components and objects in place.

The foundation of your home is essential, even more, important than the roof. Having it maintained and upkeep with foundation repairs is essential to the well-being of your home and your family. Any of the following are indications your home needs a professional foundation repair: 

• Cracks in foundation, walls, ceiling
• Settling or Sinking foundation
• Upheaved foundation
• Doors sticking and won’t close
• Exterior doors and windows have gaps
• Floors sagging, uneven
• Crawl space damp
• Cabinets and counters are pulling from the wall 

Foundation repair is a great way to keep your home stable. Need help with your foundation in Frisco , TX? Call 214-471-6210 today!

The same is to be said about the roof of a commercial building. With a regularly scheduled roof inspection, you have an opportunity to catch small issues before they become expensive and large problems, and that extends the lifespan of the roof. 

When Should I Get a Roof Inspected?

Having windshield wipers inspected should take place every time the oil is changed.  The National Roofing Contractors Association recommends when to do roof inspection with a professional roofing contractor is twice a year: Just after winter and at the end of summer.

A monthly roof inspection is recommended by the building maintenance and owner, and after a hailstorm, heavy rains, high winds, after any type of significant weather event.

How Much Does a Roof Inspector Cost?

Roof inspection costs will vary from region to region and each building can vary due to the size of the building and access to the roof.  A commercial roof inspection can start around $200 and reach upwards of $1,000 or more.  

There are differences between a commercial roof inspection vs residential roof inspection, starting with the cost of the inspection and the time it takes to complete the roof inspection.  A roof inspection for commercial structures is more expensive than for residential roof inspection due mainly to the size and type of material. 

A residential roof is typically a steep-slope and often constructed with asphalt shingles, or other types of stylish roofing material to match the architectural design of the home. Commercial roofing, as well as industrial and institutional roofing, are typically flat and covered in various roof coatings designed for flat roofing. These differences are the reason for the cost and time of the roof inspection being different between commercial and residential roof inspection. 

Commercial roofing has more regulations and stipulations than residential roofing, like OSHA guidelines, city or state regulations, and industry standards for the type of business contained inside the building. There is special consideration because of additional weight from mechanical equipment that is frequently found on commercial rooftops. A commercial roof inspection requires specialized equipment and tools to perform the roof inspection and the details involved in a commercial roof are more complicated. 

How Often Should Your Roof Be Maintained?

A commercial roof needs regular roof inspection and roof maintenance to assure it is in top condition and providing the type of coverage and protection the building and its contents need. There is a lot at stake in a commercial building in addition to the employees, guests, and visitors. The equipment and inventory of a business can be valued into the millions.

The following are areas that should have specific attention during the inspection and if any part of it is amiss, call a professional commercial roofing contractor to do repairs or even replacement if needed. 

• The Roof Coating: Check for and remove any debris and limbs; Check for loose or missing roofing materials on a regular basis, monthly is recommended, after a significant weather event, and after any contractor has had access to the roof like an electrician, HVAC, plumbing, satellite, telecommunications, etc. If there is bubbling, cracking, or peeling of the roof coating, have a professional commercial roof inspection and quotes for repairing or replacing the coating. 
• The Drainage System: Inspect the drainage system on the roof each month, keeping it clean and clear of any blockages. Check around the drainage system for cracks and make repairs as needed. 
• Perimeter Flashing: Check the roof flashing around the perimeter and refasten, repair, or replace any loose or missing flashing. This is especially important after high winds. Inspect the flashing around all roof-mounted equipment, the curbs, and any hatches, making sure all are secured in place with bolts or welding as designed. The flashing should be inspected after any type of weather event. 
• The Skylights: Inspect skylights for any breaks, cracks, or leaks, and make sure they are secured around the curb. Any missing flashing, rusted metal, or rotting wood around the skylight should be replaced. 
• Inspect HVAC units: Regular inspection for roof-mounted HVAC units includes making sure the metal panels and the unit itself is secure, flashing is in place and roof coating is in good condition. 

We can’t stress the importance of roof inspection and roof maintenance enough. Your commercial building is valuable, and the people and contents are more valuable. Proper timing of inspections and keeping maintenance and repairs up to standards is important in protecting the roof so that it can protect the contents and people. Need commercial roof inspection? Call 214-471-6210 today.

Vinyl Rain Gutters

Vinyl rain gutters are the most popular choice because of the snap together installation, which makes them the most cost efficient, and they are rust-resistant. For the DIY homeowner, this is the rain gutter installation for them.  

Aluminum Rain Gutters

Aluminum rain gutter installation is another popular choice. They are lightweight, rust proof, available in seamless style, and easy installation too. Where vinyl gutters don’t do well in cold weather, aluminum are good in cold climates.

Stainless Steel Rain Gutters

Aluminum and vinyl rain gutters are the best and most popular choices, because of pricing and ease of gutter installation. Stainless steel rain gutters are great option too. They are sturdier and rust resistant, but they are also the most expensive. 

How long do gutters last on a house?

Your rain gutter installation system has one main purpose: lead rainwater off the roof. to the downspout, through the gutters pipes, and away from the foundation of your home.  This is all a wonderful system, until the gutter installation has reached its prime and quits working. Once a gutter installation has reached its lifespan and begins to show damage on the roof, it is time to get replacement. 

Fortunately, this isn’t something you need to worry with every year. Aluminum or galvanized steel gutter installation have a lifespan up to twenty years while copper gutter installation has a lifespan of fifty years. Regardless which type of rain gutter installation type you go with, their longevity will be affected by different factors like the weather conditions and maintenance frequency, including knowing when the time is right for your gutters to be cleaned.

Do roofers install gutters?

Which came first, the chicken or the egg?  That is the same scenario when you’re considering a new roof, new windows, or new siding, which should you have done first? There isn’t necessarily a right way or wrong way, and every contractor has their own philosophy. When it comes to a new roof and gutter installation though, roof first, gutters next. 

The primary reason the roof should come first is because when you have a gutter installation in place, it has to be removed before the new roof can be installed. If you’re having both replaced, have the new roof installed first and follow up with the gutter installation. 

Now, the question asked was if roofers do gutter installation, and the answer is yes and now. Many roofing contractors do gutter installation too and some have a third-party gutter installation company they partner with. 

Are Seamless Gutters worth it?

Compared to traditional rain gutter installation, seamless gutters are more expensive, because they have to be cut on the job site before the gutter installation job, it doesn’t make a DIY project. However, once they are installed, the maintenance is minimal, which is a plus for any homeowner on a budget. They also have a longer lifespan because there is less chance for leaks.  

A seamless gutter installation is strong than a traditional gutter installation, making them a good idea for a home that has problems with clogged gutters, like a house with a lot of trees. Because they are seamless, except at corners and where the downspouts are connected, you’ll never have to worry about leaking gutter installation.

What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?

A commercial roof is large and is just waiting for debris, hail, ice, rain, snow, and whatever else Mother Nature throws out, not to mention the constant UV rays from the sun. All of this can cause do significant commercial roof damage without you’re even knowing what is happening. Let’s not forget about the foot traffic a commercial roof has with other contractors doing their jobs like an electrician, HVAC, and plumbers. 

Therefore, a routine roof inspection by your maintenance team once a month is recommended and a routine schedule of a professional commercial roof inspection. With these inspections, they can catch issues before they become a problem and create an expensive commercial roof repair or re-roofing. 

The following is a 10-Point checklist for commercial roof inspections:   

Detailed Roof Inspection

A professional commercial roof inspection will check the following problem areas: 

• Decking – any signs of rot that could indicate commercial roof damage
• Surface Membranes – any tears or loose edges
• Roof Vents – making sure flashing and rubber boots are in place
• Flashing – checking around HVAC and plumbing pipes, vents, other protrusions
• Gutters and Drainage – make sure gutters are in place and connected, drainage is adequate with no water pooling on the roof 

How Often Should a Roof be Inspected?

Commercial roofing should be professionally inspected every autumn/fall. This is before chilly rains, ice, snow, and winds arrive for the winter. A new commercial roof should be inspected every five years, then again at 10 years, 13 years, 15 years, and every 2 years until replaced.

How Long Does it Take to Inspect a Roof?

As big as a commercial structure is, a professional roofing inspection doesn’t take much longer than a residential roof inspection.  For a 20,000 square foot sized commercial building, a professional roofing inspection can take up to one hour.

How Many Years Does a Roof Last?

There are several factors in determining the lifespan of a commercial roof, such as the climate and environment. A TPO commercial roofing has a life expectancy for up to 30 years and an EPDM roof system has a life expectancy of up to 35 years. The climate and environment have a lot to do with the life of a commercial roof, as does a monthly inspection by the maintenance staff.

Commercial buildings are expensive on their own, and when you consider the maintenance for one, it is apparent that the monthly and annual roof inspections are key. A healthy roof means a healthy building and that can be an overall money saver. Call 214-471-6210 today for your commercial roof damage repair in Frisco , TX.

Before filing a roof damage claim, get in touch with a reputable roofer to give you an estimate of the damage. If the estimate for the repair doesn’t exceed your deductible, it’s better not to file a claim. The amount of damage should exceed the deductible or be a total loss. More often than not, an insurer will deny a claim that does not meet the deductible. You also don’t want to file a claim if the damage is caused by normal wear and tear, and lack of maintenance on your part. Lack of maintenance is not considered a covered peril like hail or fire would be. You may also want to reconsider filing a claim if you’ve filed a claim in the last three years.

If you are looking for roof damage insurance claims help in Frisco , TX, reach out to the team at Kilker Roofing and Construction, LLC. We can help you with your claim by inspecting your roof and giving you an estimate. Find out how we can help by calling 214-471-6210. 

What kind of roof damage is covered by insurance?

To best way to learn what kind of roof damage is covered on your insurance is to check your policy or contact your insurance provider. For the most part with roof insurance claims, insurers will cover what is known as covered perils. These perils often include events outside of the homeowner’s control such as damage from hail, wind, or fire. Roof insurance claims for storm damage, for instance, will probably be approved as long as the repair exceeds the deductible Other coverage might include such things as vandalism. 

You might wonder, “Does insurance pay for new roof?” If your roof appears to be a total loss and needs to be replaced, it’s likely the insurance company will pay at least part of the cost for the replacement. The damage has to be covered under perils. Rarely, if ever, will insurance cover damage from normal aging and wear, especially if poor maintenance is involved. The level of coverage for perils may change depending on the roof’s age. Again, your insurer will be able to give you the most information about coverage.

How do I file a new roof claim?

Filing a roof insurance claim is actually relatively easy, but you must go about it carefully. Here’s how you can do it to ensure everything goes smoothly:

• Before filing get an estimate from a reputable roofer like Kilker Roofing and Construction, LLC.
• Follow your insurer’s guidelines on filing a claim and file it if the estimate exceeds the deductible.
• After filing the claim, you will meet with an insurance adjuster to go over damages and verify the estimate.
• The insurance company will, if the claim is approved, issue you a check.
• Have the roofing contractor make the repairs.

How does an insurance claim on a roof work?

As with other insurance claims, once the claim is filed, you will typically meet with an insurance adjuster who will verify the damage to determine the amount the company will pay out for repairs. If you’ve had a roofing contractor provide an estimate beforehand, that information will also be considered by the insurer. After an amount is determined, the insurance company sends you a check so you can pay a contractor to make the repairs. If the amount provided by the insurance company isn’t sufficient to cover the repairs, you may want to file a supplemental claim. The insurance adjuster may have missed some damage, so the settlement may be lower than expected. If you haven’t gotten an estimate from a roofing contractor before then, you should do so. The roofing contractor can often provide you with a more complete estimate that you can provide to the insurance company.

Will a roof insurance claim increase insurance

Roof insurance claims may not necessarily cause your insurance to go up. Insurance rates could go up, though, under certain circumstances, especially if you make a second claim within a certain time period, within, say, seven years. The amount of payout will not affect what you pay in. If several claims are filed in one area, for instance, after a major disaster like a tornado, insurance rates may go up.

Roof insurance claim denied

Not all roof insurance claims are accepted. Sometimes the claim is denied. One main reason a claim will be denied is that it does not meet or exceed the deductible. You may also have your claim denied if the damage wasn’t caused by a covered peril like hail or fire. There are certain perils that may be excluded on your insurance. Common exclusions include earthquakes and floods. If another party is liable for the damage, your insurance company may not pay. However, the person liable for the damage, or their insurer, will usually have to pay for damages. Insurers will also deny claims if the damage was caused by your negligence. For instance, if you haven’t maintained your roof and a leak develops because you neglected repairs, the insurer will not pay out.

Benefits of EPDM Roofing

If you have been on the fence about a single ply roof or EPDM roof installation, there are some things to consider. While this is one of the most efficient roofing systems, it isn’t the best option for everyone. That in mind, there are a number of advantages and benefits that come with this roofing material. 

• Price: One of the biggest advantages of EPDM is the fact that it is significantly inexpensive in comparison to other options. The product itself is cheap to manufacture, purchase, ship, store, move, and install. It is a great option for those that want to save money without compromising integrity. 
• Longevity: Not only can this material last a while on its own, but it can help extend the life of your existing roof. If you have an EPDM roofing installation done over an existing roof, then your current roof will likely last 5-10 years longer than expected. 
• Fire-Resistant: An advantage that many may be unaware of is the fact that EPDM is fire-resistant. No matter how hot the material gets, it will not catch fire. This is incredibly ideal for commercial buildings that may experience intense sun, heat, steam, and smoke exposure. 
• Environmentally Friendly: Because EPDM membranes can be installed over existing roofs, there is no material waste. This helps to reduce the amount of waste in landfills, making it an eco-friendly option. EPDM is also usually white in color, helping to reflect UV rays, reducing energy and heat registers.  
• Energy-Efficient: As mentioned, EPDM is usually white in color. This helps to reflect heat rather than absorbing it. In turn, this will help your HVAC system to operate more efficiently. You’ll notice a reduction in your energy bills a few months after an EPDM roofing installation. 

EPDM is highly sought after and for good reason. It is an incredibly durable and trusted roofing option for many. As easy as it may seem with how to adhere EPDM roofing videos but attempting an installation by yourself is discouraged. There is still quite a bit that can go wrong. Rather than take your chances, rely on Kilker Roofing and Construction, LLC for expert and professional services. We are available at 214-471-6210 now. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is EPDM roofing any good? 
  • In terms of roofing, EPDM membranes are considered one of the best roofing options on the market. It is lightweight, durable, and dependable. This material won’t put any extra weight on your decking and it can be applied directly over any other material.
• How long do EPDM roofs last?
  • According to manufacturers, EPDM can last upwards of 50 years. However, when used as a roofing material, that life span is cut significantly short. That’s because it is constantly exposed to the elements. Most EPDM roofs last between 20 and 30 years. 
• Can you walk on EPDM roofing?
  • For the most part, yes, you can walk on an EPDM roof. It will depend on the type of roof you have, the brand, the application and more. But generally speaking, it is usually safe to assume you can walk on an EPDM roof. 
• How much does EPDM roofing cost?
  • It’s between about $5 and $8 per square foot for installation. That would make your total for a complete flat roof installation anywhere between $7,500 and $12,000. The final cost will vary based on a number of things, but generally, that’s what property owners should budget for. 
• How do you maintain a rubber roof?
  • The best way to maintain a rubber roof is making sure it is clean. Take time to clear any debris, leaves, trash or anything that has piled up. Doing so will ensure that the rubber roof can’t become punctured or damaged, resulting in problems.

Where we often make our mistake though, is looking at the cost of having window replacement or repair done. Not at what they could save us over time, or the value-add to the property they provide. Window replacement, locks, and doorknobs updated, vinyl siding, insulation update, roof replacement are all costly endeavors. However, if you plan to sell your home, you’ll get a good portion of your money back. If this is your forever home, then the benefits you’ll get will come in the way of energy savings.   

How do you know when a window seal is broken? 

Time marches on they say, and that is obvious when you look at your windows. Windows are exposed to the outdoor elements 24/7/365. With that in mind, windows that are fifteen years old or older probably have broken or worn window seals. To confirm this, some characteristics indications would be any or all the following:   

• There is condensation or fog between the double pane glass.
• The distorted view through the glass panes.
• Efforts to clean the exterior side is useless.
• The glass is cracked.
• With the windows closed, you still feel air coming in.  

What are the best replacement windows? 

Window replacement can enhance your home’s appearance, enhancing the curb appeal. It will make it less drafty, quieter, and will help your energy bills by making the HVAC system work less. Double-hung style windows are the more common now, and they have improved over the years! They are much easier to clean yourself in between the times you have them professionally cleaned. 

When it comes to which brand is the best in window replacement, this must be a personal decision, with your budget being the foremost concern. The key features you want to focus on as you shop window replacements are: 

The materials and construction of the frame is the first decision to be made for your window replacement project. Fiberglass and wood are better insulators. Vinyl frames are the most popular, offer good insulation too, with aluminum frames coming in last for insulation but high in the inexpensive category. 

The number of panes is your next choice with a window replacement job. Standard today is double-pane glass which comes with a spacer and an argon gas-filled cavity for added insulation. Triple-pane windows are available today, and why they do cut back the noise drastically, the cost is drastically more too. Single-pane windows are not recommended and becoming harder to acquire. 

You should talk through each of these decisions for a variety of brands. Consider the aesthetics and functionality of each. The pricing can have a wide range, so as you gather bids, ask for them in an itemized list with details on the features of each window replacement product you’re considering.   

The better the window replacement, the more they will cost, and the installation cost will depend on the complexity of the job and the number of windows. Two things of, you will recoup the cost in energy savings now and your home’s value for the future if you sell. 

Window replacement is expensive, so do your homework and research. The more you know, the better able you’ll be to make the right choice for you. The contractor you choose to work with may have a preference, but that should not be your decision. 

Can you replace your own windows? 

Perhaps you’re thinking, how hard could this be to do? Well, if you haven’t done it before, could be harder than you’re thinking. First, you need to have a clear and complete understanding of the original window installation. Then there are the measurements, and the unplanned, unseen installation issues. 

Installing window replacements can be complex and monotonous, even without any issues or problems. There are two ways to replace a window: 

• Pocket replacement installation
• Full-frame replacement installation 

Most window replacement jobs are the pocket type installations. The full-frame replacement includes replacing the exterior and the interior trim is left in place and the original opening before putting in the window itself. 

It is common for the windows to be moved strategically in the opening because of shifting over the years. This requires using shims to make the new window fit correctly and work properly. Another thing to consider, when you have our window replacements by a professional contractor, the exterior casing is wrapped to match and make it watertight. 

Do you install replacement windows from the inside or outside? 

In most cases, window replacements are installed from the exterior side of the house. There are some situations where an interior install is necessary. Most companies install from the outside, but there isn’t a wrong or right way, but there are factors that can decide. 

Exterior window replacement installation requires the contractor to cut the blind stop trim out on the exterior where the current window is attached. This piece can be difficult to remove and will need to be replaced to give your window replacement a finished look. The preference to do this on the outside is to not disrupt your home on the inside. 

Sometimes there isn’t a choice because of the window type and the interior trim. Once the window replacement is complete and the contractor correctly caulks around the window, it will be airtight. 

Window replacement is an expense, nobody will argue that. As a homeowner, you need to review the positives that window replacement will bring to you, and while it won’t refill your bank account soon, it will. Want to learn more about window options for your home in Frisco , TX? Call Kilker Roofing and Construction, LLC at 214-471-6210 and speak with our professionals today!

Do uneven floors mean foundation problems?

Yes, uneven floors show that your home needs foundation repair. Here are three issues causing it:

House Settling

In some parts of the country, the ground will settle under the weight of a house and the house will become uneven, causing foundation problems and others. You will notice cracked bricks along the exterior or around the fireplace, the drywall cracks, and squeaky floors.

Meager Support Design

The floor joists and support columns’ purpose are to hold the weight of a house. When support to columns isn’t set the proper distance or the floor joists are spanned too far apart, it can cause problems. Those problems can range from sagging floors, squeaky floors, and gaps between the floors and walls.

Standing Water

When a home has dampness, standing water, and other problems that are water and weather-related, it can damage the structure and plumbing issues. This can be water leaked into the basement or crawl space, where more than just structure problems happen when the wood there begins to rot and sag. This can become a health hazard with mold growing under your home.  

What are the signs of a bad foundation?

Your home is an expensive investment and do anything you can to protect that investment. The foundation is an important part of that investment, so knowing what indicators you should be watchful of will tell you if your home needs foundation repair:

• Cracks in chimney, floors, walls
• Settling or sinking floors
• Upheaval in floors
• Doors sticking or won’t open/close
• Exterior doors and windows have gaps
• Floors sag or are uneven
• Crawl of pier and beam damp
• Cabinets and counters separating from wall

How do you fix foundation cracks?

No matter where you live if your house sits on a concrete slab or is on a pier and beam, it will move with the ground, even a fraction. While that small of a movement won’t make any difference, when you’ve had several of these movements, it adds up. Fortunately, there are foundation repair services, or you can try a DIY production that you’ll find in any big box store.

The DIY kits are usually a vinyl concrete patch and can repair cracks that are more 1/8” thick or thicker. If your home as a structural slab and there are several small cracks or cracks that are bigger than ¼” wide, a professional foundation repair is the better choice.

Can a sinking foundation be fixed?

As we have already covered earlier, a home’s foundation is important to structural integrity. When it is weak, the whole house is weak.  While it is not a cheap fix, a foundation repair is possible if you are familiar with the load-bearing importance and how it is right, or it is wrong. There is not an in-between.

Once you notice that your foundation is sinking, using the indicators we have mentioned earlier, call a professional structural engineer. They will have specific education and training in diagnosing foundation problems, but not an interest in the foundation repair itself. Once they have assessed the matter, they will advise you what they can do.

Your next phone call should be to several foundation repair companies that will do their own inspection and then advise you what needs to be done and provide you a price. Foundation repair is not cheap, so get pricing from several contractors. Review their certification, experience, licensing, and referrals.

Ask them which technique they will use for the foundation repair and what their warranty is on the job. They may use a high-pressure grouting method or plant load-bearing piers under the house to raise the house and stabilize the foundation.

Whenever you have a severe storm pass through the area, whether or not it’s hailed, it’s always a good idea to get your roof checked out for damages. Even just heavy rains can cause problems like leaks to occur. If your roof has been damaged by a storm in the Frisco , TX area, and you need roofing storm damage repair, call on the experienced professionals at Kilker Roofing and Construction, LLC. We provide a full range of repair services, and you can reach us at 214-471-6210.  

What does roof damage from hail look like?

If a recent storm has dumped hail along with it, and you are wondering how to spot roof hail damage, unless there are obvious holes, it isn’t always easy to tell if the roof is damaged. Hail damage to roof of house will also vary depending on the type of roofing material on your home.

Hail damage is usually random. There is no discernible pattern to it. One section of shingles may have no damage at all, while a nearby section may be rife with dents. Asphalt and architectural or composition shingles will usually show black or shiny spots where missing granules have been knocked away. 

In some cases, without close inspection, the damage may not be discernible. With standard asphalt shingle roofs hail may make the shingles soft to the touch. A professional roofer will be able to spot these damages and other signs of hail damage. Because spotting roof hail damage isn’t always easy here are a few tips to help you as a homeowner find it.

Roof hail damage 4 tips for Homeowners

• Look for damage like water stains or drips from the ceiling inside your house. If leaks have developed shortly after a hailstorm, you probably have hail damage.
• Inspect your property for evidence of hail impact marks. If you see impact marks on decks or siding, your roof may have damage as well.
• Have a trusted roofer that provides free inspections and estimates to inspect the roof. Make sure the roofer will speak with your insurer to help with the claim.
• Go over your insurance policy to see what’s covered and let your insurer know you want to file a claim.  

In the same way hail damage can be hard to spot, some plumbing problems can be hard to spot because the pipes run underground. In older many of those underground pipes, as well as the rest of the plumbing could be out of date and cause so many problems it may require whole home repiping to ensure the plumbing is working properly.

How do you know if your roof is damaged?

Not all damages to your roof will be caused by hail damage or by storms. Some damage just comes from wear and tear. Besides damage from severe weather, below are some other damages roofs have that will need repair.

• Curled, cracked or missing shingles: Indicates it’s time to repair or replace your shingles.
• Dark, dirty or wet shingles: These shingles are trapping moisture and risking leaks.
• Large amounts of shingle granules in the gutters: This indicates the shingles are worn and need to be replaced.
• Stained ceiling and walls: This is an indication you have a roof leak that needs to be repaired as soon as possible.
• Outside light streaming into the attic: You probably have damaged or missing shingles that need to be replaced to avoid leaks.
• Sagging roof deck: This indicates moisture has penetrated through the roof and caused the decking or rafters to sag. 

Is hail damage to roof covered by insurance?

For most insurers, roof hail damage is covered by homeowners policies. The coverage may depend on where you live, and the frequency with which hailstorms occur. In areas like Kansas or Oklahoma, where hail is frequent, insurers may only cover hail damage to the structure of the roof. Some damage may be considered cosmetic. Insurance will cover damage caused by certain perils such as wind, fire, and hail damage. Damage caused by age and neglect are normally not covered. Individual policies may differ, and the amount covered may vary. You will also normally need to pay a deductible before the insurance will pay for the repair. Check with your insurance company to find out exactly what your policy covers when it comes to roof hail damage.

How long do you have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?

Insurance policies will vary, but for roof hail damage the standard for most insurers is that you must file a claim within one year after you’ve determined your roof has been damaged. That said, it’s normally better to file the claim as soon as possible, because the longer you wait the more serious the damage can become. The wait may also affect how much is covered by your insurer.

Do I have to pay a deductible for hail damage to my roof?

With most insurance policies, homeowners will have to pay a deductible for roof hail damage. The amount of the deductible will depend on where you live, and the frequency in which hail storms occur. In high-risk areas a separate deductible may established specifically for this type of damage.