Residents of South Florida know the harsh effect direct sunlight can have on the surface of their homes — cracks, fading, melting, etc. The heat is great in the wintertime when other family members and friends are shoveling snow, but when it comes to outside maintenance the sun can be brutal.

However, consistent roof maintenance is crucial when it comes to elongating the lifetime of your roof. Shingle roofing can last upwards of 25 years and metal roofing can last up to 50 years. But when the blazing sun is beating down on it 365 days a year, the lifetime of your roof can significantly decrease.

Roof inspections and continual upkeep are two ways you can maintain your roof year-round. Read on to find out the best roof maintenance tips for your home.

Inspect Shingles

Homes with shingle roofing need consistent inspections, especially in South Florida as damaged shingles can cause a roof leak. Luckily, shingles have two distinct signs of trouble: buckling and curling. Curling shingles will curl at the edges, lifting away from the roof. Buckling shingles buckle in the center creating a gap between the shingle and the roof.

As for metal roof maintenance, continual inspections are still important. You should look for scratches and abrasions from trees, as well as any grease or dirt buildup. As long as you are inspecting your roof on a seasonal basis (and anytime a major storm hits) then you can identify the problem and contact a roof maintenance company before it gets worse.

Clean Your Gutters

Another roofing maintenance tip is to clean your gutters. It’s recommended to inspect your roof every fall and spring, and when you do so make sure to clean your gutters, too. During this time, you can check your roof for algae, as this is a sign that there is water build-up. Additionally, check for rust and examine the flashing to make sure it’s solid.

While cleaning your gutters is a helpful tip for aesthetic curbside appeal purposes, it is also a good time to check your roof for anything out of the ordinary.

Check Insulation

At first glance, insulation and roofing do not seem to match. However, your roof and attic work together to properly insulate your entire house. Proper ventilation comes up and through the roof, but improper insulation can cause moisture and heat to become trapped in the attic. This added condensation can lead to roof leaks and energy loss of up to 25%.

There is “winter weather” in South Florida, and because of this, proper attic insulation is very important. Whenever you perform a roof inspection, take the time to inspect your attic, too.

Plan, Plan, Plan

While this can apply to residential homes, it more so applies to commercial roofing maintenance. Commercial roofing upkeep can seem overwhelming, but a set plan can help ease the burden. Similar to residential roofing, inspect your business’ roof at least twice a year. During these inspections, check for any signs of damage, as well as any foul play like vandalism, fires, or any other destruction.

Also, make sure to fix any problems right away. Many business owners make the mistake of putting off repairs, which often leads to worse and more expensive damage long-term. Our qualified roofing contractors can quickly inspect and fix the issue, working with contractors and architects to ensure that any commercial roof maintenance remains in-line with your building’s architecture.

Improper roof maintenance can cost you in the long run. If you find anything questionable or concerning, contact the roofing contractors at Aastro Roofing. We can perform a professional inspection, and tailor a solution to match. Contact us today at (561) 409-3280 for a free estimate!

Once September rolls around, the rest of the year seems to approach at full force. With school back in session and routines kicking in, time flies. Don’t blink, because before you know it, the decorations will be out and it will officially be the holiday season!

Planning for the holidays this early might seem like a lot of work. But don’t worry, our team at Aastro Roofing has done the work for you so that you can simply add these events to your calendar and enjoy your time. Read on to find out some upcoming holiday events in South Florida.

Holiday Tree Lighting in Boca Raton

The city of Boca Raton’s annual holiday tree lighting is taking place on Wednesday, November 21 at Mizner Park Amphitheater from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. In addition to the tree lighting, there will be a stage show, rides, games, “snow”, and pictures with Santa. Admission is free and open to the public.

In alignment with the tree lighting, the Boca Museum of Art offers free admission to commemorate the official start of the holiday season. There’s something for kids and adults of any and all ages to enjoy during this festive night in Boca Raton.

Thanksgiving Day Dinner On The Biscayne Lady in Miami

For a more luxurious South Florida holidays celebration, spend Thanksgiving day dinner on the Biscayne Lady in Miami on Thursday, November 22 from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. This dinner cruise is both festive and high-class and is a unique alternative to the traditional Thanksgiving Day activities.

Dinner on the Biscayne lady consists of family-style seating, buffet courses, and an open bar. This dinner cruise provides you with the Thanksgiving Day fixings you know and love, but with a sophisticated twist. Ticket prices range from $65 to $95, and seating is limited.

If you prefer spending Thanksgiving at home, there is also a Christmas Day dinner option instead. Ticket pricing, buffet courses, and the open bar all apply during this dinner cruise, too.

Family Fun Day in Fort Lauderdale

The annual “Panthers In The Park” Winterfest Family Fun Day is taking place on Sunday, November 25th in Las Olas. From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, your kids or grandkids can enjoy an ice skating, winter experience courtesy of the Florida Panthers. Of all the holiday events in South Florida, this free Winterfest is a must-do for families.

This fun-filled day offers kids the ability to go on the unofficial “Polar Express” train, a fair super-slide, face painting, a petting zoo, and more. And don’t worry, there’s something for the adults, too— massages, live music, and sampling. Of all the holiday events in South Florida, this free Winterfest is a must-do for families.

Tree Lighting in West Palm Beach

The annual Clematis by Night Tree Lighting is taking place on Thursday, November 29 in West Palm Beach on Clematis. This tree lighting is unlike any other because this holiday tree is made entirely of sand! This sand sculpture—referred to as Sandi— lighting kicks off a month-long series of events including nightly light shows, mini golf, additional sand sculptures, trivia night, and more.

This year, Sandi the holiday tree has a new addition: a foster dog! As showcased on Instagram, this new addition is a hit for kids and adults of all ages. Spend your holidays in paradise and visit West Palm Beach!

Holiday Parade in Delray

This year’s holiday parade in downtown Delray Beach is happening on Saturday, December 8th starting at 6:00 pm. This year, over 70 floats have entered the parade, including the Delray Beach Fire Department. All of which will be entered into a contest for awards including best float, best marching band, best business, etc.

The theme for this year’s Holiday Parade in Delray is “Holiday Season in Candyland”. This festive parade is enjoyed by all and is a great way to ring in the holidays.

For a more comprehensive list of South Florida holiday events, click here.

The South Florida holidays are unlike any other. A cool 75-degree breeze matched with the festive, holiday spirit is what makes South Florida so desirable this time of year. As you hang lights or begin making a new year’s resolution list, take time to inspect your roof and see if you need to add that to the list! For all of your roofing needs, contact your South Florida roofing experts at (561) 409-3280.

Metal Roofing Systems: Which One Should Your Get

All types of metal roofing are strong, durable, and long-lasting. Not only that, but metal roofing is both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, too. It reflects solar heat, reducing energy costs between 10% and 25%, and the metal roofing materials can be fully recycled at the end of their lifespan.

Because of its longevity, curb side appeal, and resilience to the elements, metallic roofing is the second most common type of roofing. At Aastro Roofing, we highly recommend Florida residents install metallic roofing into their home for its energy and cost savings. But before you do decide to replace your roof, familiarize yourself with the three different types of metal roofing systems we’ve outlined below.

R-Panel Types of Metal Roofing

Of all the different types of metal roofing, r-panel roofing is installed in the shortest amount of time. This type of roofing is applied over any existing roofing materials, which is why it is so quickly installed. It is fire-resistant, wind-resistant, and has tremendous durability in all conditions.

In addition to being durable, r-panel roofing comes in a variety of colors to keep the architectural style of your house consistent. Whatever color you do choose, you can rest assured that it will reduce solar heat to keep your home’s energy costs down.

R-panel roofing has ribbed steel and is used in both residential and commercial roofing alike.

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Corrugated roofing is the best metal roof for residential homes and is often called the “original” metal roof, with uses dating back to the 1800’s. This type of metal roofing is either galvanized or made from galvalume, stainless steel, or aluminum. Galvanized roof panels on corrugated roofing are the most common, as they give houses and commercial buildings that elegant style.

Corrugated galvanized roofing has gained traction and popularity over the years since it offers the most protection from corrosion and rust. The wavy construction on this type of metal roofing allows for added strength so that they are more durable in any weather.

This metal roofing is available in copper, aluminum, and stainless steel, all of which differ in cost and longevity.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing has metal panels that interlock at the edges to form a seal. It’s divided into two different categories, architectural and structural. Architectural standing seam roofing is the best type of metal roof for steep-sloped roofing. Depending on the design, the panels are either mechanically seamed or snapped together. And, unlike r-panel roofing, architectural roofing requires materials to be laid down beforehand.

As for structural standing seam roofing, no materials are laid down beforehand. This is the best metal roof for high-wind conditions, making it extra durable during the hurricane season. In addition, structural roofing has unlimited thermal movement when expanding in high-heat conditions like the temperatures so often felt throughout South Florida.

Of the two, structural standing seam roofing is the best type of metal roofing in South Florida. Architectural roofing is better in snow-like conditions but is prone to water leaks so it’s not recommended in Florida. Structural roofing, however, is watertight and much stronger and durable than its counterpart.

With over 30 years of experience, Aastro Roofing Contractors, A Boca Raton Roofing Company has extensive knowledge of metal roofing in South Florida. Understanding what’s best for each type of home, our team of experienced roofers can guarantee that we will effectively and properly install any metal roofing you choose. Get a free estimate today when you call us at (561) 409-3280.

Your home’s roof is one of, if not the, most integral components of your house. It protects you and your family from the elements, while also influencing the architectural style of your home. Properly inspecting your roof while also performing continual maintenance is necessary if you want to maximize its lifespan.

At Aastro Roofing, we understand that a roof replacement is overwhelming and scary. However, it is a necessary step to take to make sure your home is safe and up to regulations. When you perform your upcoming roof inspection, look out for these three signs that you need to replace your roof.

The Roof Is Old

Whether you’re a new homeowner or you’ve lived in your current house for years, the thought “how often should I replace my roof?” has probably crossed your mind. And if it hasn’t, it probably should. With high-heat climates, hurricanes, and daily thunderstorms, roofs in South Florida experience more wear-and-tear than the average home.

How often a roof needs replacing depends on the type of roof it is as well as the conditions in which it endures. Most homes down here experience those rainy, windy conditions that deteriorate a roof and as such, they should be made with the highest quality roofing materials.  

The lifespan of a roof is as follows:

• Composition shingles: 12 to 20 years
• Asphalt shingles: 15 to 30 years
• Wood shingles: 20 to 25 years
• Metal Roofs: 50 to 75 years

If your roof is over the average lifespan, it’s recommended that you consult roofing contractors to inspect your home as soon as possible.

Shingles Are Missing, Curling, or Cracked

When should roof shingles be replaced? The answer to that varies because different shingle roofing consists of different materials, as outlined above. But the tell-tale signs that any shingle roofing needs to be replaced are that the shingles are either missing, curling, or cracked.

You should always inspect your roof after a storm since missing shingles are most common during hurricanes or during any high-wind conditions. Shingles that curl up at the edges are caused by old age or improper installation and, if not replaced in time, can cause a roof leak.

To identify cracked shingles you will need to do an up-close inspection, as it’s difficult to see the cracks from the ground. Whether it’s caused by thermal splitting or defective shingles, it can lead to further roof damage and even roof leaks. A roof leak can cause more damage and cost you more money if you are not proactive in replacing your roof.

There Are Granules in The Gutter

Shingle roofing is the most common roofing around, and there’s a good chance your home has it. Granules are extra material that helps protect shingles from UV rays while making them more fire-resistant as well.

Granule loss does not instantly mean that you need to immediately replace your roof. Rather, it’s a sign that your roof is experiencing weathering. A sign that you do need to replace your roof/there is roof damage, is if you notice a collection of granules in the gutter in one area. Uniform granule loss is normal, but a condensed amount of granule loss is a sign that roof damage is likely.

The average cost to replace a roof varies. Whether you want metal roofing, tile roofing, or shingle roofing, the cost will fluctuate. One thing is for sure: the roof replacement cost is counteracted by added safety and peace of mind. You can rest assured knowing your home’s roof is secure for the next 15 to even 50 years.

If you notice these signs that you need to replace your roof, you want the most experienced and trustworthy roofing contractors on your side. The roofing experts at Aastro Roofing understand that a roof replacement is stressful—so let us handle everything for you. Contact us today at (561) 409-3280.