Ask A Roofer Expert Will Lorenz says staying on top of minor repairs puts you ahead of the game. 

Editor's note: The following is the transcript of a live interview with Will Lorenz of General Coatings. You can read the interview below, listen to the podcast or watch the recording.

Lauren White: Hello everyone, I'm Lauren White here with AskARoofer.com and it is time for our August AskARoofer Expert question. And our topic this month is weather preparedness and resiliency. So Will, what do you have to share with everyone out there about preparing their roofs for severe weather?

Will Lorenz: Well thank you, Lauren. I was glad to be a part of The Coffee Shops and and contribute here and learn a lot of good things too along the way. You're great partners here.

What I would say is is there's both internal and external considerations. And what I mean by that is if you own a roof, it's always good to before storm season, before hurricane season, tornado seasons, to get your roofer up on your roof and and take a look at things. Minor things can be repaired, fixed up so they don't lead to to larger expenditures. Something that might have gotten cut on a membrane or loose, or something that's a metal that's  not fully secure. Or, you know, there's areas in which there's ponding that you can repair or drains that you can open up and fix. That allows you then to weather that storm better, and then if you do have damage you know you're likely not to have as much, and so your cost of of repair is is down, and that's good for your budget and survivability. The worst case scenario is the whole roof comes off, the contents of the building get wet, and you're having to deal with stoppage of your business or in your home, the water damage, and all of that.That's just a disaster. You can avoid that by being smart.

The second thing is with regard to externally as a roofer. It's knowing your customers, and the ages of their roof and being in partnership with them, talking to your portfolio people who might have a number of buildings and offering to get up on there, see what they're doing. And make sure their roofs are in a pretty good condition compared to what what might be coming. Category one and category two roofs usually hold up pretty well with the the new technologies like spray foam and other roof systems. But threes and fours kind of come off, and fives are just a total disaster, and it's best that you know people prepare. if they've got an older roof and they haven't dealt with it, they might want to keep just get that roof done before.

Conversely, as a roofer, you know, when you go into the seasons, it's good to have expenditure available for you know additional product and partners with your distribution because, when there's a a large event, product tends to get short. everybody needs it to put on another roof. And you know, it's best to have some stock yourself so you can run out and do roofs and and be prosperous right away, rather than waiting for material supply to catch up to your now skyrocketing demand. And then, work through with your labor force having them trained and prepared and and ready. The thing you don't want is to have everybody on vacation, when you need them out performing as crews, and so incentivize them to be to be ready to survive those things. And then, when you have to get on there, let's say over the weekends or something, they know that you're gonna take care of them to do that extra work, so that it's beneficial for them and for the company and for the building owner. Because weather comes when it it does, and it doesn't choose the best time for everybody. And in my opinion, there are three roofing seasons. There is new construction, there's retrofit when there's time to do it and money to afford it, and then there is what I call disaster season. And disaster season just comes and but it's also tends to be very important and very profitable. So you want to seize that opportunity and take care of your customers and get those roofs back up and and safe. And so be ready both internally and externally and talk to your customers. I think that's the the best path.

Lauren White: Absolutely. Yeah. A lot of great insights there for getting roofs ready for those real world conditions. So thank you, Will, as always.

Will Lorenz: Thank you indeed. l look forward to it every month.

Lauren White: And for those of you who want more insights from Will or want to learn more about General Coatings, be sure to check out their directories on AskARoofer.com. And Will, we will see you next month for our next topic.

Will Lorenz: You betcha. Thank you very much.

Lauren White: Thank you.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Intense summer temperatures can accelerate membrane deterioration, weaken seams and expose commercial roofs to premature failure. 

Extreme heat can take a serious toll on commercial roofing long before damage becomes visible from the ground. Kodiak Roofing & Waterproofing explains that sustained summer temperatures place roofing systems under chemical and structural stress, with dark or aging membranes potentially reaching surface temperatures of 180 to 190 degrees even when the air temperature is significantly lower. 

At those temperatures, roofing polymers can soften, oxidize and lose the flexibility needed to maintain a watertight barrier. Ultraviolet exposure further accelerates deterioration by breaking down the chemical bonds that provide tensile strength and elasticity. The effects vary by membrane type. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) membranes reflect solar radiation, but prolonged heat can weaken seams as the material oxidizes and hardens near welded edges. Surface chalking is an early indication that ultraviolet exposure is degrading the membrane’s protective outer layer. 

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) membranes are particularly vulnerable to heat-accelerated shrinkage. As the material ages, it can contract, pulling away from parapet walls, lifting flashings and opening adhesive-bonded seams.  

Modified bitumen systems face a different challenge. High surface temperatures can soften the asphalt component, causing rippling, aggregate displacement and surface distortion. Repeated heat exposure can also produce alligatoring, a pattern of deep cracking that develops as the material hardens and loses flexibility. 

Extreme heat can also intensify roof blistering. Blisters form when trapped air or moisture expands beneath a heated membrane, separating it from the substrate. Although an intact blister may not leak immediately, repeated heating and cooling can fatigue the surrounding material until it ruptures. 

Property managers should inspect roofs after the summer season for cracking, chalking, lifted edges, separating flashings and blistering. These conditions may indicate declining membrane performance or potential water-entry points. 

For replacement projects, white or light-colored thermoplastic polyolefin and polyvinyl chloride membranes can reduce surface temperatures while providing heat-welded seam integrity. Reflective coatings may also improve the performance of modified bitumen systems. 

Learn more about Kodiak Roofing & Waterproofing’s commercial roofing services and heat-damage assessments!

By Emma Peterson. 

TopShield products balance beauty and performance to create long-lasting roofs.  

Replacing your roof is a big project, both monetarily and structurally. Monetarily, roofs are often the second biggest investment homeowners make (second to buying the home in the first place) and structurally, the roof is the first line of defense between your household and the elements. With both of these factors in mind, it’s important that when you do have to invest in a new roof, you are getting the best possible products.  

What makes a roofing product the best? There are a lot of different factors that guide people’s roofing choices, but in general there are two big ones – durability and aesthetics. The first is the most obvious, as we mentioned a roof’s primary role is protection. You want to make sure you are choosing products that are well equipped to handle your environment and climate. The second is often overlooked as people do not realize how big of a visual impact the roof has on a property. But reports show that replacing a roof is a huge boost to your property’s curb appeal and value, with a return on investment of up to 70%!  

So, where should you start on your hunt for a product that delivers both beauty and performance to your home? Leading roofing manufacturer SRS Distribution has built a brand specifically with that goal! TopShield is known for its products authentic look and unrivaled performance. Their residential roof options include three different lines:  

1. TopShield Residential: This line has the most variety of residential options with products ranging from synthetic underlayments and ice/water safeguards to sealants and roof ventilation systems.  
2. StormGear™: Specifically developed and designed to be used in the aftermath of extreme weather, StormGear underlayments and base sheets are versatile and durable.  
3. Craftgrade™: This is TopShield’s most premium line. It introduces a high level of quality and performance without any compromises on aesthetics.  

TopShield’s residential roofing is just one half of the company's offerings! For building owners and facility managers preparing for a flat roof project, make sure to check out the next article in this series which is all about TopShield’s premium commercial lines. 

With condensation forming inside their home, this person came to our experts for answers.

Elizabeth, a homeowner from Tennessee, recently asked our experts a question about ventilation and moisture management:

I have gable vents on my house and my old roof have wirly birds. When they installed my new roof they put in ridge vents. I’m having a moisture issue in my house and the paneling is starting to welp up from condensation. Could this be because the gable vents need to be covered because they are bringing in and causing moisture. And yes, I do have soffit vents.

Here's what one of our experts, John Kenney from Cotney Consulting, had to say in response: 

Elizabeth, the gable vents may be contributing to the problem, but they are probably not the source of the moisture on their own.

When a roof has continuous soffit intake and ridge exhaust, open gable vents can sometimes interrupt the intended airflow pattern. Instead of pulling outside air evenly from the soffits and exhausting it at the ridge, the ridge vent may draw air from the gable vents. That can leave lower attic areas poorly ventilated. This is often called short-circuiting the ventilation system.

However, closing the gable vents without first checking the entire attic would be premature. Condensation usually occurs when warm, moisture-laden air from inside the home comes into contact with a cold surface. Common causes include bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans terminating in the attic, air leakage around ceiling penetrations, inadequate insulation, blocked soffit vents or excessive indoor humidity.

I would have the attic inspected to confirm that the soffit vents are open, ventilation baffles are in place and the ridge vent has been cut and installed correctly. The contractor should also calculate whether the intake and exhaust ventilation are properly balanced. If the roof now has an effective soffit-to-ridge system, the gable vents may need to be closed, but that decision should follow the ridge vent manufacturer’s requirements.

Overall recommendation: Don’t assume the gable vents are bringing moisture into the house. First identify the moisture source and verify that the new ridge-and-soffit ventilation system is actually functioning. Because the interior paneling is already swelling, I would have this inspected soon before the moisture causes more extensive damage.

Continue the conversation in our Forum! 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Mr. Roofing received recognition for outstanding customer service in residential construction. 

Mr. Roofing has been recognized among top customer service leaders in residential construction, earning the 2026 Guildmaster Award from GuildQuality. GuildQuality, an Atlanta-based third-party customer satisfaction surveying company, has powered the Guildmaster Award since 2005 to recognize home-building, remodeling and contracting professionals in the U.S. and Canada who demonstrate a high level of customer service. 

This year, nearly 2,000 companies were eligible for the award, with more than 400 residential construction businesses recognized. To determine the 2026 recipients, GuildQuality reviewed thousands of survey responses submitted by customers of Guildmaster candidates. The company considered two primary metrics for each candidate: the percentage of customers who said they would recommend the business to a friend and the percentage of customers who responded. 

Mr. Roofing achieved a recommendation rate of 90% or above from customers surveyed by GuildQuality. The recognition reflects the company’s consistent focus on customer service and its standing among leading companies nationwide for customer care. Mr. Roofing has received the award nine times out of the last 11 years, including eight consecutive wins in a row. 

The award also speaks to the company’s broader mission in the communities it serves. Mr. Roofing’s core purpose is to protect and empower families and the community by delivering a peak contractor experience, and this recognition reflects the team’s work to carry out that purpose. 

Since 1989, Mr. Roofing has served Bay Area homeowners with roofing and solar services built around a mission to deliver a stress-free, affordable and guaranteed experience. Its latest Guildmaster Award recognition reinforces that long-standing commitment and highlights the team’s continued focus on protecting and empowering the families and communities it serves. 

Learn more about Mr. Roofing and its 2026 Guildmaster Award recognition!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn the key steps to choosing a qualified roofer and avoiding costly mistakes. 

Choosing a roofing contractor such as Bone Dry Roofing is not simply a hiring decision; it is an investment in the long-term protection, performance and value of a home. Whether repairing an isolated leak or planning a full roof replacement, homeowners who take a deliberate and informed approach are far more likely to achieve durable results and avoid preventable setbacks. 

Step 1: Verify credentials 

The process should begin with verification of qualifications. A reputable residential roofing contractor should be both licensed and insured, demonstrating that the company operates legitimately and is prepared to complete work in compliance with local building codes. Experience is equally important. Homeowners can ask whether the contractor holds certifications from manufacturers such as Owens Corning® or CertainTeed, as these credentials typically reflect adherence to specific installation standards and workmanship requirements. 

Step 2: Clarify scope and services 

Once credentials are confirmed, the conversation should shift to scope and services. Contractors should clearly explain how they approach minor repairs, full replacements and ongoing maintenance. It is also appropriate to ask whether old roofing materials will be removed and properly disposed of during replacement, as this detail directly affects jobsite cleanliness and overall professionalism. 

Step 3: Evaluate reputation 

Reputation offers another layer of insight. Online reviews and ratings help homeowners evaluate a company’s communication style, responsiveness and commitment to customer service. Consistent feedback across multiple sources can reveal patterns that may not be obvious during an initial consultation. 

Step 4: Get everything in writing 

Before committing, request a written estimate that includes a detailed breakdown of materials, labor and related costs, along with payment terms and a projected completion timeline. Clear documentation establishes shared expectations and reduces the potential for disputes. 

Step 5: Confirm workmanship and warranty 

Whenever possible, review completed projects or speak with past customers to better understand the contractor’s workmanship. Finally, confirm that a written warranty covering both labor and materials is provided. 

By asking thorough questions and verifying each detail, homeowners can move forward with clarity and confidence in their decision. 

Learn more about how Bone Dry Roofing helps homeowners navigate the contractor selection process with clarity, transparency and confidence!

By Emma Peterson. 

Faced with increasing wildfire threats, homeowners are discovering the value of installing stone-coated steel roofing. 

For many people the 2025 Pacific Palisades and Eaton Fires were a harsh wake-up call to the risks of living in the fire-prone region of Southern California. And for good reason. These fires not only destroyed over 16,000 structures and burned more than 38,000 acres, they are a part of what experts call a larger increase in fire frequency and intensity. Manzhu Yu, an assistant professor of geography at Penn State, reports that the “annual average burned area in 2020-2023 that is three times higher than in the 2010s" and that more communities are at risk, with, specifically “12.7% of the state's population now residing in high-growth census tracts along the Wildland-Urban Interface (areas where human development meets natural landscapes).” 

In response to this, many homeowners are trying to rebuild or renovate with fire prevention in mind. One such homeowner hired Anaheim-based Western Roofing Systems to reroof their San Juan Capistrano cottage. They explained, “We were replacing a cedar shake roof, and our house has a very French Cottage feel to it. We wanted to keep that feel without the fire risk of the shake.” 

The solution that Western Roofing Systems recommended? Westlake Royal Roofing Products’ Unified Steel stone coated steel roofing. Why? Unified Steel products have been tested against ASTM E108 to protect from fire spread. Further, when installed with the right accessories, like the fire-resistant roof deck protection and SmartVent attic ventilation chosen by Western Roofing Systems on this project, Unified Steel achieves a Class A fire rating! This rating is a systems-based test that examines how well a roofing material handles issues like wind-driven embers. Class A is the highest rating.  

And fire protection is not the only benefit of stone-coated steel! The homeowner also will have increased energy efficiency thanks to Unified Steel’s thermal insulation and less maintenance in comparison to a traditional shake roof. Overall, stone-coated roofing was the perfect product for this homeowner. As she put it, “Our new roof is gorgeous and we sleep better at night knowing we have some extra protection from fire.”  

By Emma Peterson. 

A fan array retrofit helped a children's hospital enhance indoor air quality, maintain continuous operation and save millions. 

With patients coming in every day with different health conditions and often compromised immune systems, clean air is a key part of a successful treatment. As an OpenMedScience article explains: 

Air quality plays a pivotal role in patient outcomes, especially in surgical rooms, intensive care units (ICUs) and specialized wards like oncology or neonatal care...Research published in clinical journals has shown that improved ventilation and filtration protocols have a direct correlation with decreased infection rates in critical-care units. This doesn’t just enhance patient safety; it also lowers the burden on staff, who can then concentrate on essential care rather than responding to preventable infections. 

With this context, it’s no wonder that when an Orlando Children’s Hospital came to the WTI PureAir team needing help with their aging HVAC system, the stakes could not have been higher. When looking at their situation, the WTI PureAir team discovered that five of the facility’s critical air handler units (AHUs) needed help. Complicating the situation were “strict engineering demands, financial limitations, temporary spot cooling and the need to minimize facility downtime.” 

The solution that the WTI PureAir team came up with was a fan array retrofit. This retrofit solution saw the old blowers removed and replaced with multiple smaller Q-PAC fans. This solution met the need to perform the work with little to no disruption to the young patients and dedicated staff of the hospital. Further, it didn't just restore the HVAC system to prior operational levels but improved them. The WTI PureAir team explained:  

The fan array system adapts to its conditions, so if one fan fails, the others compensate to maintain operation. The metal drain pans and exterior of the AHUs were coated in an anti-microbial and corrosion-resistant coating for lasting health and safety.   

Best of all, the restoration came in at a fraction of the cost that a full replacement would require, saving the hospital millions of dollars. The project is a prime example of how a mechanical restoration can provide a seamless solution to even the most demanding, strictly constrained projects.  

Read more about the project yourself!

By DaVinci Roofscapes.

Choosing a roofing manufacturer that supports you.

Andrew Easter was tired of his asphalt roof. It had not worn out… he was worn out of looking at it. He shared, “I was no longer happy with the aesthetic aspect of my asphalt roof and was interested in bringing back the look of cedar shingles that the house originally had. I decided the sooner I made the change, the longer I could enjoy the new roof. And, knowing that I’d be using a synthetic shingle ensured this would be the last roof I’d ever put on my home.”

One-on-one support starts the sale

Andrew has worked in construction for his entire career. He already knew DaVinci® Roofscapes composite roofing products had a strong reputation. Still, he did his homework. He researched DaVinci and other synthetic shingle manufacturers online. His first step was simple. He requested free product samples through the DaVinci website. That connected him with Inside Sales Project Specialist Jessica Baumli.

“I worked with Andrew as he asked for different samples and local installation sites he could visit to see the product installed,” says Jessica. “He was leaning toward our Black Oak color, but was concerned it was too dark. That’s when he expressed interest in using our ‘Ask Our Color Expert’ consulting service.”

Color confidence makes a difference

By the time Jessica connected Andrew with color expert Kate Smith with Sensational Color, he had narrowed his choices to DaVinci Select Shake in Black Oak or Aged Cedar. He sought Kate’s expert perspective on how each color would work with the stonework on his home.

“Andrew was concerned the Black Oak might appear overly dark and monochromatic in certain lighting,” says Kate, who has been offering one-on-one color advise to DaVinci customers for the past 15 years. “While he appreciated Aged Cedar, he also wanted the fresh look of new cedar shingles. And, at one point, he was even looking at the option of DaVinci Multi-Width Slate in various colors.”

Kate focused on two fixed elements: the stonework and the black metal roof over the porch. Andrew planned to keep both. She validated his concern that Black Oak could be too dark. She also agreed that Aged Cedar would complement the exterior. Then one more color became the standout: Blonde Cedar.

According to Kate, “The warm blend of tan, beige and brown provides a striking contrast to the metal roof on Andrew’s home while harmonizing with the stonework.”

Going blonde — Blonde cedar, that is

Blonde Cedar is versatile. It works with both warm and cool palettes. It also gives a home a relaxed, cottage-style feeling that is both inviting and stylish. The hue adds subtle golden tones and creates a comfortable, sun-kissed cedar look that can lighten the entire exterior.

“I was somewhat torn between Blonde Cedar and Aged Cedar,” says Andrew. “What really drew me to Blonde Cedar was the close replication of actual new cedar, which I think looks beautiful… just like the cedar roof on the house originally. Plus, the Blonde Cedar contrasts well with the black metal low roofs and seems to really blend and complement the natural stone walls on the house.”

Success — Down to the blonde cedar roots!

For Andrew, the finished Cedar Blonde roof met his expectations. “Now that the roof is installed, I truly appreciate the color variations — not only from shingle to shingle, but within each individual shingle,” says Andrew. “I’ve also found that lighting has an impact on the appearance depending on the time of day and the differing conditions. This adds interest to the roof’s appearance.”

Choosing a manufacturer that supports the project

For Andrew, choosing the right roof color was a major part of the buying process. The manufacturer’s support made that process easier. He explained:

Part of my decision to go with DaVinci products was the support I received from them. I worked with Jessica for several months in advance of finalizing my decision. She was helpful in every way to make sure I had all the samples I needed and went over and above to make sure all of my specific concerns were addressed.

Then Kate was able to take a photo image I provided of my house and presented a summary narrative of each of the options I was considering. She made very helpful and insightful observations and comments on each color option. Kate knows the products and colors; she was thoughtful and thorough in her analysis. Getting her confirmation on some of my thoughts went a long way in giving me confidence in making a final color selection.

Finally, the overall durability of the DaVinci product and color stability are impressive. It’s very clear to me that DaVinci emphasizes a high level of quality control in manufacturing their products. The overall consistency of quality in field shingles, starter tiles, and hip and ridge shingles was perfect. Even the manner of packaging of the shingles for shipping reflected attention to quality control. This gives me a lot of confidence in their product.

Composite shake versus natural shake: What you need to know
 

AAR Expert John Kenney says maintenance doesn't just help your roof last longer — it helps protect your home, your budget and your peace of mind. 

One of the first questions homeowners ask after installing a new roof is, "How long should it last?" It's a fair question, but after spending more than four decades in the roofing industry, I've learned there's another question that's even more important. 

What are you doing to help it reach that lifespan? 

Two homes can have the same roofing material installed by the same contractor on the same day. Twenty years later, one roof may still be performing well while the other is leaking and needs replacement. The difference often has less to do with the shingles and more to do with what happened after installation. 

A roof isn't a maintenance-free part of your home. Like your heating and cooling system or your vehicle, it performs best when it's inspected regularly, and small problems are corrected before they become expensive ones. 

One thing I've learned over the years is this: 

Most roof failures don't happen overnight. They develop one small problem at a time. 

A loose piece of flashing. A cracked pipe boot. Debris collecting in a valley. A small area where sealant has weathered away. Individually, these may seem insignificant. Left alone, they often become the source of leaks that damage insulation, decking and even the interior of the home. 

That's why I recommend having your roof professionally inspected at least once a year. It's also wise to schedule an inspection after a major storm involving high winds, hail or falling tree limbs, even if you don't see obvious damage from the ground. 

Many roofing problems aren't visible from your driveway. 

During a professional inspection, contractors look far beyond the shingles themselves. They examine flashing around chimneys, walls and skylights, check pipe boots and roof penetrations, inspect valleys where large amounts of water flow and evaluate the condition of sealants that help protect vulnerable areas. 

They'll also look for missing or damaged shingles, exposed fasteners, signs of wind uplift, drainage issues and early indications of water intrusion. If the attic is accessible, they'll often check for moisture staining, ventilation issues and evidence that water may already be entering the structure. 

These are issues that can often be corrected relatively inexpensively when caught early. Unfortunately, they're also the kinds of problems many homeowners don't discover until water begins dripping from a ceiling. 

Preventative maintenance is one of the smartest investments you can make in your roof. It doesn't always involve major repairs. Sometimes it's as simple as clearing debris that traps moisture, cleaning gutters so water drains properly or replacing a deteriorated pipe boot before it allows water into the home. 

Reactive repairs are different. They usually begin after damage has already occurred. By that point, you're often paying not only for the roof repair but also for damaged insulation, drywall, paint or interior finishes. What could have been a routine maintenance item becomes a much larger and more expensive project. 

I've also found that regular inspections help homeowners plan. Instead of being surprised by a roof replacement, they gain a better understanding of the roof's condition and can begin budgeting for future work well before it becomes urgent. That takes much of the stress out of the process. 

Don't wait to see a problem

One piece of advice I always give homeowners is this: Don't wait until you see a leak to call a roofing contractor. Water often travels before it becomes visible inside the home, meaning the actual problem may have started weeks — or even months — earlier. 

Your roof works every day of the year to protect everything underneath it. Giving it a professional inspection once a year is a small investment compared to the cost of repairing water damage caused by a problem that went unnoticed. I've always believed the least expensive roof repair is the one you never have to make because you found the problem early. 

That's the real value of inspections and preventative maintenance. They don't just help your roof last longer — they help protect your home, your budget and your peace of mind.