Pros and Cons of Roofing Systems with Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)

Posted on June 27th, 2018 by Applied Roofing Services

Spray polyurethane foam roofing or (SPF) is a roofing system that is designed to offer the best in both weather protection and sustainability. An SPF roofing system has negligible drawbacks when compared to its utility and it is usually favorable for use on most types of buildings. It provides long-lasting results with minimal maintenance or repairs.

Pros of SPF Roofing

Spray foam roofing has many benefits that makes it a viable alternative to other roofing methods. A few benefits of SPF roofing to homeowners include:

Easy to Install – Professional SPF roofing involves easy and quick application of the foam and coating.
Control Potential Leaks – All the seams and grooves are sealed by the application of liquid SPF mixture to reduce the possibility of leaks.
Energy Efficient Alternative – Lower the energy cost during every season and help to maintain the internal temperatures of the building.
Easy to Maintain – Requires very minimal upkeep after installation and can prove to be a longstanding option with correct maintenance and semi-annual inspections.
Allows Waterproof Roofing – Polyurethane foam allows for leveling out the roof to reduce the possibility of damage due to water accumulation.
Offers Sustainable Roofing – SPF roofs are renewable and cost-effective as they produce no waste when the foam is re-applied because their application involves negligible stripping of old roofing.
Environmentally Friendly Option – Being free from ozone-depleting CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons) and producing minimal VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds), SPF is environment-friendly.

Cons of SPF Roofing

Spray foam roofing also has its drawbacks. If you have questions, you should always bring them up to your contractor to make sure you still have the most accurate information possible. Drawbacks can include:

Chances of Overspray – The potential to overspray an area or the spray being carried by the wind onto other surfaces is always there.
Requires Annual Maintenance – SPF roofs must be inspected at least twice a year even if there is no apparent damage.
Needs Accurate Repairs – SPF roofs are extremely vulnerable to puncture and other types of damage; only certain types of materials can be used to make necessary repairs.
Has Limited Installation Window – Installation is determined by the weather, and extreme temperatures and moisture need to be avoided.

While weather and wind seem to be the determining factors when it comes to the drawbacks of SPF roofing, they are minimal when compared to the benefits.

SPF roofing offers distinct advantages over other roofing materials. Before you make a decision, however, make sure to talk to your roofing contractor to find out if it is a feasible option for your building. For many, it’s an investment that will pay itself off in both time and money.

Also Read:  Insulation Basics of Spray Foam Roofing You Should Know
Also Read:  The Versatile Benefits of Spray Foam Roofing

About Applied Roofing Services

Applied Roofing Services is a full service roofing company located in CA. We offer durable and high quality residential and commercial flat roofing. We provide roof installation as well as roof repair services, roof maintenance and inspection services. We specialize in low slope roofs, energy efficient, zero maintenance, and green roofing. We have 20+ years of experience in the roofing industry.

8 Roof Care Tips to Keep It Safe During Summers

Posted on June 10th, 2016 by Applied Roofing Services

Your roof is literally the roof over your head, and it protects you from the elements year round. While most people think of maintenance as something they need to do before the cold season begins, summer roofing maintenance is important as well.

Use these eight roof care tips to keep your roof safe from the summer heat. If you don’t, you could wind up with big repair bills and an unstable roof for the upcoming cold season.

Inspect Your Roof

It might seem obvious, but the first thing you need to do when it comes to summer roofing maintenance is to simply inspect it visually. Take the time to walk around on your roof if you’re able and find cracked, damaged or dry spots.

If you can’t do this on your own, hire a roofing company that will provide you with an inspection.

Fix Damage

Damaged roofs are just asking for trouble, so you need to fix yours right away if you find any bad spots. Ask a roofing contractor how much fixing is needed before you consider getting a new roof.
Update Your Roof

When possible, updating your roof to a cooler material is ideal if you live in a warm climate. Brighter colors can keep your roof 50 to 100 degrees cooler in the summer months.
Consider Waterproofing

If you live in a wet climate, consider a waterproofing layer before summer. The combination of heat, humidity and water can result in collapse quite quickly.
Hire Regular Service Providers

To maintain your roof, have somebody inspect it at the beginning of each season. Biannual inspections are an easy and inexpensive way to make sure you don’t experience roof collapse.
Clean Your Gutters & Drains

Many things can clog up your gutters and drains, including plant leaves, birds’ nests, and more. If these things block your gutters, water accumulation can occur on your roof, leading to severe water damage even in a short period of time. Therefore, get your roof cleaned of any lingering debris or hire a roofing service provider to do the job for you before the summer.
Inspect Your Attic Ventilation

If you observe a regular increase in your energy bills, when compared to the previous year’s costs, seek professional help to inspect your attic’s ventilation. Also, get the insulation inspected to ensure that you have everything in order. Proper maintenance of your insulation and ventilation systems not only keeps your roof in proper condition but also helps you save a lot of money on your energy bills.
Review Your Skylight

Regular inspection of the skylight in your home, especially, after every major storm is needed to make sure it’s not leaking. Additionally, hail storms can also damage window glasses, and cracks can often be invisible as the window is very far away. Make sure to have a good review of your skylight a couple of times during the summer to make sure it’s holding up suitably.

Your roof is not only the most significant investment for your home but it also provides the necessary protection to your family from external elements. That’s why it’s essential to take care of it and to make sure it’s well maintained.