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What is a Pumice Roof?
A pumice roof is a type of roofing material made from pumice, a porous, lightweight volcanic rock. It is typically used in areas with a hot climate. It provides excellent insulation properties and can help reduce cooling costs.
Pumice is installed in layers and held in place with a binding material, such as concrete or asphalt. It can be molded into various shapes and comes in many colors, making it a versatile and aesthetically pleasing roofing option.
What are the Dangers of a Pumice Roof?
Aside from its cooling and aesthetic benefits, pumice roofs have many disadvantages. Pumice is a relatively soft and porous material, so it can be easily dented or crushed by heavy objects, such as tree branches or hail. This can create openings or cracks in the roof, which can allow water or other debris to enter and cause damage. It is also not as fire-resistant or durable as some other roofing materials, so it may not last as long before needing to be repaired or replaced.
Keep these dangers in mind:
- Easily damaged
- Holds moisture
- Not as fire-resistant as other roofing materials
- Not as durable as other roofing materials
By getting a free roof inspection, our team of expert roofers can determine whether you need pumice removal.
Moisture is a Roof’s Worst Enemy
A major disadvantage of pumice is that it can actually hold moisture. Having a wet, flat roof is no bueno. The moisture can transfer to the structure of the home and begin to rot out roof decking and ceiling joists.
If your pumice roof retains moisture, its weight will make it too heavy for the rest of the structure. In many cases, old pumice roofs have been covered by later roofs, which together could be quite thick. If the later roofs leak, they could actually trap moisture, too. This, and the sheer weight of the roof, can cause the joists to sag, causing further problems and needed repairs.
Pumice Removal
Prior to the last decade or so, pumice was used as a grading and insulating element in roofs across New Mexico. If you have pumice in your roof, it’s essential to keep a close eye on it—pumice can trap and retain water and eventually cause structural damage to your home or business. Fiddler’s roofers are ready to assess, remove pumice, and repair your roof today.
According to the 2009 New Mexico Administrative Code, (14.7.3.17 Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies: E. Section R907.3 (4)) even states that where pumice or other granular fill are present, existing roofing and granular fill must be removed prior to roof replacement. The current code allows for only two layers of roof. The Fiddler Roofing team wholeheartedly agrees with this. Pumice roofs can be catastrophic for the integrity of your home.
Pumice Removal Process
This type of roof can be removed in several ways, depending on its condition and the tools and equipment available. One method is to use a high-pressure water jet to wash away the pumice and loosen it from the roof. Mechanical scrapers or shovels are sometimes used, too. A chemical solution may also be possible to soften or dissolve the pumice, making it easier to remove.
If you are interested in pumice removal, call Jack and the Fiddler Roofing team for a free roof inspection today.
