Revival of Retro Marketing, Where does all that roofing trash end up?

Modified Torch Down roof repair circa Autumn 2006

While this is not a new photo, all of our services remain the same. That is, if one does not count the advances in technology and energy saving methods developed over that last decade.

I started learning to torch this type of roof at the age of nine. If you asked me then, I’d say it was hard, today, I would say, torching is as easy as putting butter on bread.

This repair method is very versatile and can be used on a variety of asphalt based products. Various types of materials react different with fire, and it takes time to learn the ropes of this particular art. It is fun to watch the tar melt into oozing patterns while the flame burns hot.

Not only is Modified Bitumen available in a variety of colors, the smooth sheet (pictured) can be painted for reflecting heat and longer life. This is an excellent flat roof and I’ve installed it on homes and commercial buildings. This is the roof I have a number one success rate with durability, foot traffic and the price is right.

A repair could be a six inch patch or an area nearing 100′ square. Or larger, this repair was about one thousand square feet.

Propane is a very clean burning gas. The VOC content (basically solvents) of glue and thermoplastics contained in other types of roofing are more irritating to the lungs, skin and body. Being derived from asphalt and less processing makes this a “greener” flat roof than some of its counterparts. Rubber roofing requires multiple types of caulking, glues, primer, cleaner and are all solvent rich. Some of these products contain hot solvents and others that burn off over a period of decades. Caulking might be the biggest offender of longterm Solvent/VOC emissions with regards to liquid products.

Rubber and thermoplastics do break down and are further from being organic, meaning their end result is more toxic in the long run. Polymers in plastic and every roof built will eventually end up buried in the dirt of a landfill.

No matter the product, every measure of savings and environmental concern is taken into account for green building practices. Thankfully, some of the landfills are offering seasonal recycling programs for shingles. The need for a place to recycle asphalt, rubber, pvc and thermoplastic roof sheets is a big need. The tire industry does well at recycling tires, but how can the roofing industry save thousands of dollars on dump fees unless programs are available? Many roof contractors have half full trailers of roofing debris, waiting to fill on the next job. The average waste disposal cost for a residential roof is about 3-$500 for transportation and dumping. In Colorado, the material typically goes in with the trash.

Asphalt, rubber and thermoplastics could be recycled to build roads. Some places have these facilities. Our San Jose, California location has an extensively organized dump/recycling center. Wood shake is recycled, nails, metal, asphalt, plastic, rubber etc. It’s a well run operation and the fees were pretty competitive with our local landfills in Colorado.

Each season, we search the local landfills and are constantly looking for opportunities to utilize recycling programs. If recycling is unavailable, our company holds onto trash for a seasonal recycle facility to open.

This year, all of our recycling is done and the equipment is clean. The weather is amazing and it’s time to begin preparing for the monsoon of Spring and Summer. Colorado can get unexpected rainstorms that cause leaks, maintenance and yearly roof check’s are very important. And, if there is nothing wrong, nothing gets fixed.

Getting the roof checked is free.

If repairs are needed, you’ll be provided with up front pricing.

Roof Certifications are often available the same day.

Our prices are low, our overhead is low, our customers save and benefit from better quality.

Our customers are confident in the integrity and performance of our roofs and our word.

It’s a great time to call 303-452-2822 for a free estimate, information or to ask a question.

Highland Denver Colorado Roof and Siding Replacement.

Here is a roof project I completed in 2009. A slightly steep roof and “gingerbread wood siding” gives this beautiful house great curb appeal. It still looks great after 3 years. There have been years when Allied Roofing is busy in the Highland Neighborhood. Many of our customers are part of a group called Highland Mommies. It’s a great network. I’ve enjoyed working in the neighborhood and building such great friendships. The Highland Mom’s have referred Allied Roofing to many of our new and repeat customers. Our great customers keep coming back. Thank you Highland Mommies!

A turn of the century roof replacement.

Skyline park, what’s hiding under there?

Is there a structure under the grass?

A small crew from Allied digs a trench  to lower the sprinkler line where the ice arena is setup annually. Upon digging they found waterproofing with drainage. Is something hiding under the park in Denver??