Lengthen Your Roof Life With a Tile Lift and Relay

 By Go Roof Tune Up.  

How the lift and relay process repairs your roof without replacing it.  

To understand what a lift and relay is, you must first understand tile roofs. Tile roofs offer exceptional wind, hail and even fire resistance, and are an energy-efficient option for homeowners. Tile roofs can add value through curb appeal with the wide array of colors available.    

Tile roofs are typical in the Southwest United States, but their popularity has spread. Initially, the investment is higher, but the return on investment is greater. Clay or slate tile roofs can last between 50-100 years (and longer) when installed by a local roofing professional. With proper maintenance, there's a good chance your tile roof will outlive you.  

For most commercial property owners, the first clue that you have a roof problem is a leak. Ceiling stains (and certainly dripping water) should be investigated as soon as possible. If it's determined you need roof repairs, before you consider installing a new tile roof, learn how a lift and relay can repair roofing without replacing.  

Lift and relay: repair a roof without repairing  

A wood deck is constructed, and a moisture barrier – underlayment – is applied to the deck.  

Underlayment materials can vary, but they must meet international ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards to ensure they'll protect the roof for many years. Unfortunately, the lifespan of underlayments is less than the tile. Materials often used include:  

• Asphalt-felt – aka "felt paper."  

• Rubberized asphalt – most expensive  

• Synthetic – better wear-and-tear/water resistance  

A "lift and relay" is the process of raising the tile layer of the roof and removing the underlayment material. The wood deck should be thoroughly inspected to determine if any repairs or needed. Then the new underlayment is placed and the tile re-installed.  

The most common roof lift and relay procedure is for properties between 20-30 years old. Some roofing companies (circa 1990) cut corners and used inferior materials for underlayments. The tile is still in great shape, but repairs are needed underneath.  

Advantages of lift and relay  

One advantage of a roof lift and relay is the work can be done in sections. If your budget is tight, we can determine an affordable way to complete the work over time, beginning with the most problematic section.  

Another advantage is reputable roofing companies will guarantee their work. And the best area roofing contractors are invested in your community. They not only guarantee their work; they'll be in business and able to address any issues which may arise.  

If it ain't broke; don't fix it  

It's a shame to toss perfectly good tile with many, many years of attractive durability left. A lift and relay preserves quality tile and gets to the root of the problem – the underlayment. But the main advantage of the roof lift and relay method of roof repair is: It saves money.  

How to preserve the life of your roof  

Your residential or commercial property may very well be your biggest financial investment. Maintenance is necessary to lengthen its "shelf life" and increase property value. Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), plumbing, and yes…your roofing systems need "tune-ups."  

Your roof's effectiveness and lifespan are determined by:  

• Design  

• Installation  

• Materials  

• Preventive maintenance  

When you develop a roof maintenance program, one benefit will be the creation of a historical file. Later, this can give you the seller's edge in a competitive real estate market. If possible, your historical file should include:  

• Maintenance record  

• Material samples  

• Original installation date  

• Original plans/specs  

• Repairs/changes  

• Warranties  

Your roofing company may recommend a checkup following an extreme weather event. Once your maintenance agreement is in place, each visit and what is inspected depends on your specific requirements. Bi-annual visits (spring/fall) are standard. Your local, licensed roofing contractor will:  

Create a unique checklist for your property (Does your commercial roof have foot traffic? Membrane protection may be recommended).  

Examine the condition of windows/walls abutting roof system.  

Inspect field – Check for:  

• Degradation  
• Overlap integrity  
• Surface wear  

Inspect flashing – Most leaks originate here. Flashings should be inspected at:  

• Drains  
• Equipment curbs  
• Penetrations  
• Perimeters  
• Skylights  
• Walls  

During a maintenance visit, your roofer may notice threats to your roof, like overhanging tree branches or leaf-filled gutters. This is work your roofing company doesn't do. (Commercial buildings often have maintenance personnel for these jobs).  

Experienced service  

Roof inspections are nothing new and often mandatory during a real estate transaction. But if you're unfamiliar with roof maintenance programs, let's discuss the possibilities and advantages. The service and the cost are you-specific.  

As a commercial property or multifamily dwelling owner/manager, your decisions can impact many lives. It's a smart decision. 

Have a question? AskARoofer. 

Find your local roofing contractor in the RoofersCoffeeShop® Contractor Directory. 

Original article source: Go Roof Tune Up