What types of roofing materials are seen in the Sun City homes (Phase I and II)? What types are better than others? Thanks
Hip roofs were the most commonly used in Phase 1. It wasn't until Phase 2 when John Meeker started pushing the flat roof we see so much of. Coming from the Midwest, a flat roof was an oddity given what huge snow fall accumulations would do to them. So when we were looking to buy in Sun City, the idea of a flat roof was attractive to us. Ultimately we bought the+ Castille model with a flat roof in phase 2. We knew we were going to stucco and we knew the look we wanted the house to become. The flat roof lent itself to that plan. My wife found an adobe style home in a picture and once the stucco job was complete we were delighted with the outcome. Unfortunately, a flat roof is problematic. Drainage and leakage are both issues and throw in the constant sunshine pounding them and there is additional cost to a flat roof that isn't there with a hip roof. In fact in John Meeker's memoires he admits flat roofs were a bad choice. That said, I love the flat roof look and while there is some additional cost, I would still buy the home we have...even knowing what I know now. Hope that helps.
My son works for Ken Meade Realty and remodels homes for them. He is also an independent licensed contractor. I have suggested he get on the Sun City Home Owners Association approved list of contractors, but I don't think he has. When I was looking for a home, he advised me not to get a flat roof for the exact reasons that BP said.
There is a house just east of Del Webb between Thunderbird and Bell that has added a second story. It might be one of a kind in Sun City. Anybody know? Originally some neighbors objected but it was finally built and does not look too out of place.
When I was originally looking to buy a home -- I was also concerned of the types of roofs they had in Sun City...I found out from a couple of builders/contractors that the flat roofs might be damaged due to birds pecking at the material that they use for coating them. Oh, My ! I did not need to think twice when I heard that...and in addition -- the mess that might accumulate on top of the roof - if is it flat - - especially when our monsoon winds blow stuff around -- concerned me. Plus the drainage issue of a flat roof. I have the Shingle roof that peaks at the top and slants down to the bottom. I can see my entire roof from found level - - just to know that, at least the shingles are o.k. and no major wear on them. A few years ago I had my roof re done -- old shingles torn off and new put on. A nice job with a licensed-bonded contractor.
We puzzled our realtor when we told her we actually wanted a flat roofed home here. If they are done right they are not that big a problem. We used foam and the newer ones are pretty good and foam actually strengthens your structure. We found a home with a low pitched roof in front and we added two rooms off the back with a flat roof over both. Love them. Shingles are fine and we will either do foam over the front of our home or just replace the shingles next year. I also love the rock roofs, but they are disappearing. Just don't walk around on them as you will or can cause leaks while you are looking for leaks lol.
If you have a tv antena on your roof and don't need it, it would be a good Idea to remove it. Birds like to sit on it and their droppings damage the shingles. Mine was removed as soon as I moved in and several shingles had to be replaced. I keep telling my "roofmate" to remove his but so far he hasn't.
Interesting conversation. Two years ago many homes in our neighborhood received insurance-paid-for roofs due to hail. Our home had been in foreclosure and no insurance for damage. However, upon inspection, there wasn't enough damage to warrant repairs. It made me wonder if some of the free roofs were actually that bad.
Hail damage I remember that time well -- gill I also had my insurance company come over...they said no hail damage...afew shingles were blown off ..they said they would replace those few --(with me paying the deductible) -- Insurance Co. also indicated my roof was older and had a lot of wear & tear. I did nothing then - just waited a few years -- then had it replaced - -with the cost to me. I think during that time when it seemed everyone was getting new roofs - - due to the hail damage...I think the roofer company contacted the insurance companies. I know many parts of the Valley got damage THAT YEAR -- but Sun City--questionable.
I had my roof replaced approx. 3 yrs. ago. I used Peoria Roofing - - a wonderful company, great job, and nicely priced.... Bonded, Licensed and with an LOC # you can call to verify.
