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How to Install Gutter Guards

If you plan on installing gutter guards around the roof of your home, you should keep in mind there are two options ahead of you. The more expensive option would be to hire someone else to install them for you. The second one would be to get things done yourself. Gutter guards will keep debris, leaves and more from entering your gutters and endangering their integrity. You will get a little dirty in the process, but you will save money, complete the job in a day and overall enjoy a better time.

Installing Gutter Guards

• You should begin by cleaning out your gutters completely and as thoroughly as you can. The easiest way you can do this is by using your hands. Just put some good gloves on, then climb up a sturdy ladder and do your best to remove all leaves, debris, dirt and branches you find up there. If you haven’t had any rain in a while, then you may be able to make things go faster. Use a leaf blower to blow things away from the gutters. You should collect all debris and then throw them away as is appropriate.

• Check for possible leaks in the gutters once you’ve removed all gunk, dirt and debris. Run some water through and observe how it goes, allowing water to flow through the gutter system. As time goes by they may have experienced corrosion or cracks, depending on the materials used. Take note of the areas and make sure you repair them or replace them as soon as possible.

• Measure your gutters while you’re at it. Once you’re done with the replacement or repairs, you can start measuring. Measure the length of each of the gutters and ensure you have the correct measurements written down. You will need them so you can purchase the right amount of materials when you install your gutter guards.

• Choose a gutter guard after measuring. Get to your local hardware store and look at the options available for you. Choose the one that you like best, purchase it and make sure you have enough material to cover the gutters. You could buy just a bit more material in case you make mistakes in the process just to be on the safe side.

• Start installing the gutter guards by checking out the directions from the manufacturer. This will be the easiest way you can do that without any issues. Make sure you follow the instructions closely, testing out the works to make sure you have no damage done to the gutters themselves as you do. If you do see any damage, you should make sure you fix that as soon as possible.

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Residential Roofing Blog

How to Hire Reputable Roofing Companies

With so many people offering roofing services, you might feel a little overwhelmed and uncertain of if you are working with the right company. Your roof is one of the most important features of your house because it protects you, your family and your belongings from harsh weather elements. Therefore, you want to make sure that your roofing contractor in Virginia is reliable. Here are four ways to ensure you hire reputable roofing companies.

Finding Reputable Roofing Companies

When you are shopping around for contractors, one of the first things you should ensure is that they are licensed. That means they are certified to do the work up to code. Additionally, they should carry insurance that protects you from being held liable in the event that an accident occurs. You can ask reputable roofing companies for proof of their license and insurance.

Online Research

One of the best ways to find quality professional roofers is online. You can find thousands of roofers near you online.

On top of that, you can then check out their website and reviews about the company. Does the website look sophisticated and clean? Does it tell you they are licensed and provide you with the license number? Do they have any testimonials on the site?

Do third party reviews have a similar attitude to the reviews on the website? What is the all-around sentiment of the company?

All of these questions can be answered with simple online searches. This is by far the best place to start your search.

Referrals

You can also rely on referrals to find a good roofing contractor. Ask your friends or family if they have used someone they would recommend. If you do not know anyone who has a trusted contractor, you can ask reputable roofing companies you are considering to provide you with references so you can speak to other people who have utilized their services.

Good Communication

A sign of a good contractor is someone who will have good communication with you throughout the entire process. He or she should return your phone calls in a timely manner and address any concerns you might have. Contractors should always provide you a written estimate for the work they are going to do. This will enable you to compare numbers with other companies you are considering to ensure you hire someone who fits your budget as well as your roofing needs.

Hiring reputable roofing companies does not have to be a stressful process. Through doing a little bit of homework, you can ensure you are working with someone who is trustworthy. Make sure they are licensed and insured before they start any work on your home. Ask for references and get as much as you can in writing, especially an estimate for the work.

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Commercial Blog

Commercial Metal Roofing Protects Your Belongings

Metal is a superior material in many ways and has been the preferred metal for building projects for generations. Now you can experience the numerous advantages of metal by opting to add commercial metal roofing to any building that needs protection. There is strength and security that comes from having a metal roof. You can rest easy knowing that your belongings are protected by a solid new metal roof. All you need to do is call a metal roofing company near you.

Commercial Metal Roofing Benefits

Each new roof is created exactly to the client’s specifications. Commercial metal roofing elements are cut and shaped to conform to the structure that the roof will shelter. Small, lightweight roofing panels can be used on compact structures such as garden sheds and storage units. Larger panels are used for homes, commercial buildings, and industrial structures. You can install metal roofs on existing structure. Whether replacing a roof or it can be installing a whole new building, metal provides benefits. Awnings and covered patios can be added to a building and then given metal roofing elements, too. This is an excellent way to greet visitors and keep people safe from the elements. Solid commercial metal roofing will also protect any signage hung from these coverings.

A metal roofing company can show you many excellent examples of how attractive a metal roof can be on any structure. Many of these metal roofing elements are available in a range of designer colors so you can coordinate the look of all your outbuildings. Industrial settings sometimes choose to color coordinate the roofs of different structures in order to designate their use; important buildings can be given bright roofs in order to distinguish them from other nearby structures.

If your metal roof ever needs repaired, all you have to do is call the same commercial roofing company that installed it. Their team of experienced roofing technicians will be able to perform all the maintenance tasks you require.

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Home Improvement Blog

Winter Roofing Preparation Tips

There are things during the winter that need to be addressed if you want to keep the water out of your home.  This is especially true during the winter. Because of this, winter roofing preparation is incredibly important. If you have any issues during that season you will have a lot more difficulties dealing with them during the winter. Regardless of how hard a winter may be, you will need to deal with a few winter preparations ahead of time. It’s especially important to focus on winter roofing preparation. Keep in mind that there is much work that needs to be done and it will not be available for you unless you have no snow on your home, allowing you clear access to its roof.

Roofing Preparation Tips:

The following tips will cover what you need to do for winter roofing preparation:

Roof Cleaning

• Make sure you keep your roof as clean as possible before winter rolls around or when you have a break in the snow. One of the main reasons for leaks and damage to a roof are the debris scattered on it. Get rid of any dead leaves, garbage and branches that may be out there.

• Speaking of branches you should make sure you trim the overhanging ones that loom over your roof. If you have those you must absolutely make sure you take care of them as soon as possible. This will cut down on the debris on your roof, lowering the costs for maintenance and also making sure there will be no piles of snow threatening your roof.

• Clean the gutters as soon as you can, as clogged gutters can be a great danger to your roof. Ice dams can form as well as other issues, so make sure you clear the gutters from leaves and debris before snow sets in or during one of the breaks when it doesn’t snow. If there are too much debris inside the gutters, make sure you spray them carefully with water to clear them.

Ensure Proper Insulation

• Upgrade the insulation of your attic with a better one to prevent roof leaks and to increase the heat efficiency of your home. One of the easiest ways leaks happen is because the heat of your home escapes through the roof and it melts the snow around it. Good insulation will minimize the transfer of heat, thus allowing you to keep things safe and warm.

• Clean the roof with a roof rake, as this is an excellent tool for removing snow from it safely. This will also help prevent the previously mentioned ice dams and leaks. Make sure you do that carefully as to not damage the gutters as you pull the snow down.

Inspect Roofing Material

• Find and fix any loose shingles and reapply roofing cement to hold them back in place. Make sure you replace any missing ones as soon as possible as the roof has constant exposure to water and this may easily lead to rotting and leaks down the line.

• Check out the metal parts of your roof for corrosion, holes and warping and make sure you fix whatever you can to keep things safe and intact. Apply roofing cement if you have to and work out all the issues.

For more tips, visit: http://www.moving-van.org.uk/W4-man-and-van/chiswick-man-in-a-van-W4.html

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Residential Roofing Blog

Roof Protection: Protecting the Roof Over Your Head

The roof over your head is important for many reasons, therefore it’s incredibly important to ensure proper roof protection. It protects you and your loved ones from the elements. It also represents the stability of the household and the shelter it offers. Your roof represents a vital part of the home, the feeling of comfort when you step inside at the end of a day. Which is why having that comfort disrupted by a leak or other damage can be such a concern. Especially during turbulent fall and winter weather, your roof can be at risk for damage from rain, snow, hail, and even falling trees. For others, the wear occurs over time. An old roof can suddenly find itself with multiple leaks to stop up. This is where a roofing repair company comes in. By finding the right one, you can be sure you have proper roof protection that will keep you and your family safe.

Proper Roof Protection

There are a variety of solutions for roofing in Fredericksburg, depending on the customer’s needs, whether they be budgetary, schedule related, or otherwise. Many involve plastic cement which is generally good for repair. However, stronger and longer lasting solutions such as flashing cement may also be available. The right company will often first examine the roof and evaluate its needs. They will determine the proper roof protection needed, and how extensive the repair must be. Some may even offer such an evaluation simply to check up on your roof and anticipate future problems. Though a leak may not seem like a big problem at first, if left unchecked it can result in dangerous mold growing within the structure of your house. It can also lead to rot and decay in the wood, which creates greater problems in the future. Getting your roof diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible is your best insurance against big roof problems.

The Importance of Proper Inspection

The right roofing repair company in Fredericksburg is ready with trained professionals to get your roof back in working order. Not only can this prevent widespread damage to the rest of the roof, but it will keep you secure in the knowledge that your home will continue to protect its inhabitants. No matter what you need, whether it is a full repair or a diagnostic examination, assistance is there for you.

If you are concerned about your roof, or are in need of an inspection, don’t hesitate to reach out!

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Rubber Roofing Blog

Rubber Roofing Installation Tips

Rubber roofing installation is used on flat roofs for the most part. They offer unparalleled protection against leaks and help keep roofs dry, allowing a lot of versatility. These roofs are often made of EDMP or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber. This offers an excellent membrane that acts well, making it easy to maintain and also quite cheap compared to other types of roofing. If you happen to have a roof with a low slope or even a flat one, rubber roofing will be one of the best ways you can handle the situation. One of the first things you will notice is that this type of roofing is very easy to install. Follow these tips to begin your rubber roofing installation process:

Rubber Roofing Installation

The first thing you should do is check out the weather. Make sure you don’t start the project unless there are at least three clear days ahead of you. The adhesives used in the rubber roofing installation will need at least 48 hours to cure properly. The roof will not be waterproof until then. Because you this, you may ruin your installation completely if you have water seeping in while it dries.

Filling the gaps

If you have gaps in the roof that happen to be large enough, you should make sure you fill them. You can fill them with some wooden strips to cover the openings. If you have gaps larger than about a quarter of an inch this may cause your rubber membrane to fail adhering.

Allowing some overlap

You should also make sure you allow enough overlap when you’re placing pieces of the rubber roofing down. At least six inches of the pieces should overlap each other, so they can allow a completely waterproof surface.

Cleaning your roof

You should always make sure your roof is clean before you start with rubber roofing installation. Take away all debris and this will help a tighter, more effective installation. You must make sure everything is clean or otherwise you may not have a level roof which allows water to drop off and away from it.

Checking your roof

You should double-check your roof for leaves, branches and other things to ensure everything is clean and maintained once you install the rubber roofing. Regardless of the fact that it acts like an excellent deterrent to water, this type of roof still needs to be maintained properly just like any other. Thankfully, this type of roof doesn’t add any chemical pollutants to its run-off water, so you can enjoy an eco-friendly home combined with these materials as well. One other thing that may amaze you is that installing that type of roof may allow you to keep a rooftop garden on top or even grow grass on the roof of your home if you feel inclined to do so, and its construction allows it.

 

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Emergency Roof Repair Services Blog

Emergency Shingle Roof Repair Tips

As time goes by there are many ways our roofs can become damaged or worn in some way, and this includes shingle roof repair. From minor leaks and breaks to larger issues, you can fix some of those without professional help. However, for quite a few of them you will need such to make sure your home is safe. The tips up ahead will give you some information on what you can do to assess the situation and fix most of the issues on shingle roofs. Always remember to only work on the roof as long as its dry and safe to walk on. Your roof protects you and your family from the elements. If you think you’re in need of a repair, follow these tips for shingle roof repair.

Shingle Roof Repair: Check for Damage

The first step in shingle roof repair is to check for damage. You should begin by checking for damage to the roofing shingles right above the spot where you have the leak occurring. You will likely have a higher chance of finding the spot when you have to work on a flat roof. However, leaks can sometimes happen some distance away from the place where the real damage is. It’s important to keep your eyes open and analyze the clues. If you have a slanted roof you should expect gravity to take its toll. Look for the damage above the point where you saw the leak first. The points of origin may be hidden compared to other types or roof. If your home has an attic, you should check it out with a flashlight for possible water stains, mold or black marks. If you can, run a hose with some water on the roof to find the leak origins. This will be a two person job, so get some help if you can.

Look for the curled, damaged or missing shingles close to the leak as well as roofing tacks that are exposed. This is a simple, yet crucial part of the process.

Straighten Out Curled Shingles

Straighten out the shingles that have been curled back by the damage. If you’re doing this in cold weather, you should focus on softening them up first with something such as a blowtorch (be very careful). You can also use another heat source that helps in keeping things soft. When you’re using an open flame you should keep in mind that the shingles are flammable due to the asphalt used in their making.

Reattach Missing Shingles

Put back and reattach the shingles after straightening them. You can straighten them with a good amount of roof cement or a similar compound used around its edges.

Replace all damaged shingles by checking out which ones you can lift off the roof with minimal effort. Keep an eye out for those shingles that are crumbling as well. Remove them by lifting their edges and removing the nails. Scrape the area so you can remove the leftover cement and prepare it for reapplication again. Use a sharp and good utility knife to scrape things off and to round the corners of the shingles you need to put in. Slide the shingle into place and put the galvanized roofing nails into the upper corner, then cover their heads with roofing cement.

Now you can protect your home from roof damage and you will know what to do when you need shingle roof repair.

 

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Emergency Roof Repair Services Blog

How to Increase Your Satisfaction with Roofing Repairs

Maintenance is an unfortunate reality in home ownership. Some types of maintenance and repairs are minor enough that you can feel confident performing them on your own. Even if you make a mistake there will not be many consequences. Other types of repairs are serious. If roofing repairs are not done correctly, you may face leakage and mold problems. These can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. The first thing you can do to increase your satisfaction with roofing is to hire a qualified roof repair expert. A second key to your satisfaction in the process is to compare all aspects of the service when deciding between contractors.

How to Guarantee Quality Roof Repairs

Contractors are capable of performing quality work that you can trust to last for a long time. Eventually shingles wear out and other repairs may be required on the roof structure itself. However, these problems can be curbed by good workmanship and quality products. Contractors have more than a claim to being handy with tools. They have real experience and education in roofing repairs that cannot be replicated by a how-to book or video.

Don’t Focus Solely on Price

Too many people look only at price when they compare multiple contractors. This type of selection may not be prudent because there is much to be considered. You are more likely to be happy with the results when you evaluate how and when the project will be completed. The convenience of hiring a contractor who will show up on time and complete the project within a reasonable time frame may be worth paying a little extra. Contractors who clean up the inevitable mess roofing repairs create are even more likely to be worth more money. If you hire someone who saves you a few dollars but then leaves you with a mess to clean up and haul to the dump, you may find that it would have been worth it to hire a better contractor.

Whatever roofing repairs need to be done, and regardless of your specific needs, you can find a qualified contractor. They will leave you completely satisfied with both the work and the timeliness of the process. With the help of a contractor you can also feel confident that the new repairs will hold up a reasonable amount of time. You’ll know that it will protect your home from the water damage and mold that you might otherwise have to deal with.

Categories
Residential Roofing Blog

Ensure that You Have a Qualified Contractor

It can seem overwhelming when you need to find a good roofing contractor. Of course you want someone who will do a quality job and provide you with a roof that lasts. However, you also do not want to spend more than you have to. You may become frustrated because you do not feel qualified to decide who will be likely to do a good job. Luckily, there are two manageable steps to finding a qualified contractor. You can then compare contractors based on your specific needs. First, ask for proof of licensure. Second, research the candidate by seeking information online, asking about insurance coverage, and calling references.

Finding a Qualified Contractor

If you are hiring a contractor to perform your roofing needs, you may want to be sure that he or she is properly licensed along with the team of workers. The required licensure for a qualified contractor may vary depending on where you live, but you can obtain information online from your area’s Department of Professional Regulation. In addition, some roofing products require that installers have certain licensure or certification for the warrantee to be honored. With a little research, you can find the base requirements for your project. Once you know what licenses or certifications your contractor needs, request proof from any candidates that they meet this requirement.

Find Reviews

Next, research all the remaining candidates by evaluating their websites and online reviews. Also, obtain proof of insurance and ask for references. It is possible that a good contractor may not have a company website. Even if they do not, reviews may still be available online. If you either cannot find information online or everything you find seems to be good, you may want to ask for proof of insurance. In some areas, contractors do not need insurance. However, you need to consider any liability that you may have if an uninsured roofer is injured on your property. Insurance can protect both you and the roofers. Do not be afraid to ask for references. Calling others that have hired the contractor can give you quality feedback about what to expect.

With a little research you can find the right roofing contractor for you. If you first eliminate any unqualified contractors, you can then speak to the remaining good candidates to determine which qualified contractor will best meet your needs.

Finding a qualified contractor that is right for the job takes time, but with these tips you’ll be able to find the perfect roofer for all your needs!

Categories
Metal Roofing Blog

Why a Metal Roof is Right for You

After a certain amount of time, installing a new roof is necessary.  Every building will eventually need to have a new roof.  While traditional shingles are the way most people tend to go, there is another option. A metal roof is an amazing and attractive alternative to the traditional option.  There are a few reasons why contacting a metal roofing company may be the right choice for you to make.

Benefits of a Metal Roof

There are many benefits of a metal roof, however the most popular benefits include its attractiveness, eco-friendliness, and low maintenance.

Metal roofing are the strongest most durable material for any roof.  There are usually five options of metal roofing: Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminum, Cooper, and Alloys.  Each type of metal can be used in different styles and colors, making the options to fit your home endless.

Attractive

Metal roofing a gorgeous alternative to traditional, wood shingles.  With an outstanding steel or copper roof, you will be the envy of the neighborhood.  The color of a metal roof, especially a copper roof, is instantly recognizable and eye-catching.  Metal roofing is also more resistant to debris like leaves, branches, or pine needles, so there will not be an issue of people seeing these on your roof or you having to climb up onto your roof to remove them.

Environmentally Friendly

Typically, metal roofs are from recyclable materials.  They are also able to be recycled by a metal roofing company, should you choose to remove or replace your metal roof.  This means that they are more environmentally friendly than traditional wood shingles. Traditional shingles are not made from recyclable materials which means you can’t recycle them after use either.

Low Maintenance

Traditional roofing requires replacing every few years and continual maintenance between replacements.  This is non-existent in metal roofing.  Metal roofs require little to no maintenance over a lifetime.  The most maintenance a metal roof requires is replacement coating, and that is only necessary on certain varieties of metal.  For the most part, you need little maintenance to preserve your metal roof, making it a more cost effective option than traditional roofing.

The option to replace your traditional roof with a metal roof is definitely worth considering.  Metal is an attractive, environmentally friendly, and low maintenance alternative to traditional shingle roofing.  Contacting a metal roofing company will further help you to decide which option is the best for you.

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