A lot of townhouses line the streets of neighborhoods in and around the Mukilteo area. These residences are often a part of a gated community and belong to a homeowner’s association (HOA). With that in mind, we’ll consider the question: Does the HOA cover townhouse roof repairs, or are you stuck with the bill?

The HOA’s Responsibility

Townhouse and condo owners pay a monthly fee to their HOA. This covers the cost of community maintenance, such as lawn care and upkeep of recreational areas. In some instances, the fees may also include roof repairs of individual residences. Every HOA has its own regulations, so read the fine print of your contract.

Townhouses Vs Condos

A distinction should be made between townhouses and condos. The latter consists of multiple homes physically adjoined together. Homeowners own the interior of the condo but not the outer portion or the surrounding land. The HOA fees for a condo community usually include master liability insurance not unlike that of a conventional home insurance policy. This often includes roof repairs. As such, condo HOA fees tend to be higher. In addition, you may also require permission to make certain roof upgrades, such as changing shingle type or colors.

A townhouse, by contrast, is a single-unit home. You own the entire building and the plot of land. The HOA fees go toward public areas, such as the parking lot, swimming pool, and other areas shared by the greater community. It typically does not cover individual home repairs. As we mentioned, though, every HOA guideline is different; there are exceptions, so always read the fine print.

We do Townhouse Roof Repairs

Aside from commercial roof repairs, we also do repairs for homes located in HOA-run communities. We often do repairs and other services for both townhouses and condos, whether the HOA covers the cost or not. Call Urbizo Bros Roofing if you require townhouse roof repair.

Townhouse and Condo Roof Repair

Quality roof replacement & repair in Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood,
Mill Creek, Mercer Island, Mukilteo & South Everett

A ceiling leak is usually, though not always, caused by an opening in the roof. This can be dangerous, especially if the water gets close to the ceiling lights. A ceiling leak around a light fixture is a major safety hazard and warrants your immediate attention.

Why Do I Have a Ceiling Leak?

First, let’s explore the causes of a ceiling leak. As mentioned, this is usually due to a hole in the roof. You will need to consult with a residential roofer. This happens when a shingle peels away and a puncture occurs in the underlying roof membrane.

The water may also be from a plumbing leak. If the leaky water appears dirty, then it’s probably rainwater that entered through a compromised roof. If the water is clear, then it’s probably a plumbing issue. Phone your local plumber to pinpoint the burst pipe.

The Dangers of a Ceiling Leak Around a Light Fixture

Water and electric fixtures are a dangerous combination with the risk of injury and death from electrocution. Minerals from the water can transfer the electrical currents from the fixture to the wiring located at ground level. In addition, wiring exposed to water for prolonged periods is at risk of developing mold and corrosion. This increases risk of a fire or electrical short. Continue Reading →

One of the most common forms of roof damage is peeling shingles. Some homeowners attempt a DIY fix with a hammer and nails. Unfortunately, the fix is not that simple; proper shingle nailing requires a specific process.

Why Nailing Shingles Isn’t a DIY Job

Nailing down shingles actually needs to be done in a manner that conforms to the International Building Code (IBC). All residential and commercial roofers must abide by guidelines set forth by the IBC. The organization has specific regulations regarding how shingles must be nailed down. This includes but is not limited to:

• The number of nails required per shingle, and their placement
• The type of nails, which differs depending on shingle type
• The depth to which nails must be nailed down

Do You Know the Requirements?

The guidelines are quite complex. To give you an idea, most shingles require four nails. However, if you reside in a high-wind area or the roof slope exceeds 60-degrees, then it requires six nails. Nails must also not be within two-inches of a joint of an underlying shingle. Continue Reading →

The roof is far more than just a grid of shingles. The shingles are just the outermost surface that’s visible. Other components are actually more prone to damage. We identify these common roof problem areas and why they could deteriorate because of their exposure to the weather.

1. Roof Flashing

The flashing is the steel or copper component that seals the edges of the roof and the holes caused by various kinds of vents. It’s a vital component in both residential and commercial roofs. The flashing, though, can deteriorate due to weather and oxidization. Periodically inspect the seams around the chimney, the vents, the dormer, and the roof valley where two slopes meet. Damaged flashing may be visibly warped or peeling away.

2. Roof Fascia

The fascia is a wood board that connects to the rafters and parallels the roof line. It has the all-important job of preventing water and pest penetration. This area can begin to rot due to damp weather conditions. In turn, this can affect the soffit vents. Continue Reading →

Tapered roofing is a mainstay in many commercial roofing applications and even in some residential homes. Here are some basic information about tapered systems, insulation, and why the design is necessary for roof longevity.

What Is Tapered Roofing?

Tapered roofing is a form of low-slope roofing. Contrary to popular perception, commercial roofs aren’t actually flat. They are sloped, just very slightly at a quarter-of-an-inch slope per foot. This is necessary for preventing pooling water after heavy rainfall. This gentle taper is vitally important because 40% of all roofing problems stem from water intrusion. Tapered roofing is not only beneficial but also mandated under the International Building Code. Continue Reading →

Asphalt shingles are one of the most common forms of residential roofing. Unfortunately, older asphalt shingles are also prone to damage from UV radiation. What exactly are the damaging effects of UV radiation on asphalt shingles and what can homeowners do to minimize the damage?

How Do UV Rays Damage Asphalt Shingles?

UV rays cause the asphalt’s surface layer to dry up. Over time, this can lead to cracking and warping. UV radiation does this by altering the shingle’s chemical makeup. The intense heat also causes the asphalt’s oil to evaporate, making the material brittle.

In addition, shingles are also more prone to thermal shock during summer. This is due to the constant flux between daytime’s heat and nighttime’s cooler temperatures. This leads to rapid expansion and contraction, causing the shingles to pull away. Continue Reading →

Most modern residential roofs have a drip edge. This is an invaluable yet often overlooked component that protects the shingles from puddling water. Like other roofing parts, the roof drip edge requires routine care. Find out how you can prolong the life of this all-important component of your roof.

What Is a Roof Drip Edge?

The drip edge is a piece that connects the edge of the roof to the gutters. It slightly overlaps the gutter to jettison water off the roof shingles.

Without a drip edge, a gap will exist between the roof edge and the gutter, allowing moisture to accumulate. This can damage the area where the shingles and fascia boards meet. In addition, the drip edge also seals the small opening in the fascia board, preventing pests from entering.

How to Protect the Drip Edge

Review your roof warranty. It should cover drip edge repair. Nevertheless, go over the terms and conditions to be sure. Even with a warranty coverage, the drip edge shouldn’t just be an afterthought.

One way you can protect the drip edge is by painting it. Painting the drip edge sounds strange and unnecessary since the piece is mostly out of sight. However, painting over the piece serves a two-fold purpose. First, the primer seals the drip edge and protects it from water damage. Keep in mind that the component designed to protect the roof from moisture is itself prone to moisture damage. Secondly, using a matching color allows the drip edge to blend with the roof façade if it extends beyond the overhang.

We Restore and Replace Roof Drip Edges

We inspect drip edges for both residential and commercial roofs. We repair and replace components pertaining to the gutters and related components as part of our additional services. Call Urbizo Bros Roofing to be sure the roof drip edge is operating as it should be.

Residential Roof Gutter and Drip Edge Repair

Quality roof replacement & repair in Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood,Mill Creek, Mercer Island, Mukilteo & South Everett

Modern residential and commercial roofs are sturdy and can withstand most of nature’s assaults. Depending on the quality of the construction, though, it may or may not be able to handle thermal shock. In this blog, you’ll learn about thermal shock and why protecting your roof is necessary.

What Is Thermal Shock?

Thermal shock refers to sudden temperature changes. A rapid drop or rise in temperature can cause the roofing materials to contract or expand. This causes them to gradually lose their elasticity. Different materials, such as the shingles and the membrane, expand at different rates. The simultaneous movements cause damage, especially in vertical-to-horizontal areas.

Thermal shock typically occurs during a seasonal transition period, though it can occur year-round. Thunderstorms, fairly common in the Mukilteo area, can cause temperature fluctuations by as much as 30-degrees within minutes.

The Damage

The different rates of contraction and expansion of the shingles, membranes, flashing, insulation, and underlayment can cause fissures. Materials that are brittle from old age can split wide open, leaving an entry point for water and invasive pests.

Is Your Roof at Risk?

Newer roofs are usually safe from thermal shock since the materials are still relatively flexible. As the roof ages, though, it begins losing elasticity, making it vulnerable to thermal shock. If you have an older roof, about 20 years or older, then we recommend periodic inspections. A roofer can determine the roofing material’s susceptibility to thermal shock and suggest what to do if the material is in danger.

Commercial and residential roofs are susceptible to thermal shock. Both business owners and homeowners should keep this in mind. 

Does Your Property Require Thermal Shock Protection for Your Roof?

Our additional services include fortification to protect the roofing materials from thermal shock and other natural elements. Call Urbizo Bros Roofing for a thorough inspection and survey. Roof thermal shock protection may be necessary to prevent fissures and splitting.

Residential and Commercial Roof Fortification

Quality roof replacement & repair in Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood,Mill Creek, Mercer Island, Mukilteo & South Everett

If a roof inspection reveals damage, should you repair or replace a commercial roof? Factors, such as age, material, and extent of damage, all need to be taken into consideration. Find out when a roof is no longer salvageable and requires a replacement.

Age of Roof

Commercial roofs typically have a shorter lifespan than residential roofs. Most last for about 15 to 20 years, depending on material and quality of construction. Once the roof reaches that age, you may need to replace it the next time an inspection shows damage.

Leak Damage

How often does the roof leak? If the roof is 10-years-old and only had a single instance of a leak, that does not warrant an entire replacement. However, a roof of the same age that has had multiple leaks, saturation, and cracks around the walls may no longer be reliable.

With respects to leaks, we usually apply the three strikes rule. Three separate instances of leaks probably mean a replacement is necessary. This is especially the case if the leaks occurred within close proximity and within a short timeframe. 

Membrane Damage

The roof membrane causes water to slide off the surface. Over the years, the membrane may begin to give way as cracks and blisters form. Too much damage to the membrane may make the roof irreparable. 

Overall Damage

Experts typically recommend a replacement if more than 25% of the roof is damaged. We also advise replacement if the roof was previously recovered. We generally don’t advise recovering the same roof more than once. See our previous post on roof recovery.

We Replace and Repair Commercial Roofs

Much of the above also applies to residential roofs. Contact Urbizo Bros Roofing for your next roof inspection and other services. Only an in-person examination can determine definitively whether you need to repair or replace a commercial roof.

Mukilteo Roof Repair and Replacement

Quality roof replacement & repair in Edmonds, Seattle, Lynnwood,Mill Creek, Mercer Island, Mukilteo & South Everett

Seeing evidence of water on the ceiling is definitely worrisome. Most homeowners automatically believe this is a sign of a leaky roof. However, the problem may lie in the attic and not the roof. In any case, a wet ceiling indicates you either have a leaky roof or attic condensation.

What Is Attic Condensation?

A leaky roof is pretty self-explanatory. However, fewer people are familiar with the term ‘attic condensation.’ Many homeowners contact us for a residential roof inspection when they suspect a leak. Often, the problem turns out to be condensation in the attic. This is more common in cold weather. In frigid temperatures, frost can form in the attic. When homeowners heat the home, the frost melts and forms condensation. In some cases, this may cause wet spots to form on the ceiling.

How to Distinguish Between the Two

So, how do you know if your home has a roof leak or attic condensation? To make a determination, you should see if condensation is also forming around the windows, light fixtures, or skylight? If so, then you probably have attic condensation. Continue Reading →