Tag: roof repair

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Residential Roofing

5 Things Homeowners Need to Know Before a Roof Renovation

When it comes to home renovations, renovating your roof is most likely the most expensive job you will have to undertake. With that in mind, you want to be sure that you are fully prepared for everything that may happen during the process.

Here are all the things you must know before you start a roof renovation, so you have all the info before you get started.

1. A Roof Renovation Is Not Just Cosmetic

The first thing you need to understand is that when you have your roof remodeled, it is not just to improve the looks of it. Of course, remodeling the roof will make it look better and that will help with your overall curb appeal. However, having your roof remodeled will help improve the overall health of the roof, and therefore protect your home from the elements.

As such, when you are picking the materials and the style of your new roof, you will also have to keep in mind all the benefits of a particular roofing material, professional installation, and so on. All these things are crucial to ensuring the overall health of your home.

2. There Are Many Different Roofing Materials Available

If you are just starting with having your roof remodeled, then you may only consider having asphalt shingles installed, especially if that is what is on your roof right now. However, these days there are numerous different options when it comes to roofing materials. You have so many options available to you, that you will have to do your research before you settle on a specific option.

For example, asphalt shingles are popular for roofs as they are an inexpensive choice, and if you take good care of them they can last up to 25 years. If you want a longer lasting option, then you could go for a metal roof, as they can go for up to 70 years depending on their care. However, you will also note that these are more expensive, so you will have to keep that in mind.

If you are not sure which roofing material would be right for you, you should talk to a roofer to see what they recommend for you.

3. Extra Structural Work May Need To Be Done To Your Roof

Before going ahead with any roof remodeling work, you will have to have your roof inspected. You must hire an expert to come handle your inspection, as they will be able to spot any issues that you may not have been aware of. Of course, this is an extra expense, but it’s one that many roofers will tell you will save you more money down the road. 

For instance, if you have your roof inspected the inspector may discover wood rot in the beams in your attic. If this is not addressed, over time those beams will rot away and cause structural damage to the roof. If you simply have the top layer of your roof remodeled and don’t address that, you will need to pay for more repairs later down the line, as well as the damage to your new roof thanks to those beams failing.

4. Professional Installs Are Always Recommended

Take a look online and you will often see people DIYing their new roof installation. That’s going to be tempting to a lot of homeowners, again because a roof remodel will typically be one of the most expensive jobs you have to undertake on your home. However, no matter how tempting it is, it is always better to spend the money on a professional install.

This is because when you hire professionals to handle your roof, you will also hire their experience in the work they do. No matter how handy you are in the home, you are most likely not experienced in fitting roofs. A professional will have years of experience, allowing them to properly handle the job at hand. 

Also, fitting roofs can be dangerous work if you’re not used to it. A professional roofer will be able to bring the right equipment to carry out the job safely, ensuring that you and your family will be safe during the whole process.

5. Make Sure You Ask Questions When Choosing A Roofing Contractor

Once you are ready to have your roof remodeled, you will need to find the right contractor to handle the job. As this is such a large and involved job, then you’ll need to be sure that you’re finding the right contractor to handle it. 

This sounds rather stressful for many homeowners, but luckily if you know how to find the right one, it shouldn’t have to be. Firstly, it’s a good idea to ask around your friends and family to see if they have any recommendations for local roofers, as that helps you find the right person quicker. You can also search for reviews of local roofers online to see what others are saying about them. 

Once you have found a couple of roofers that look promising, get in touch and ask them to come and inspect your roof. Any good roofer should come and do this before quoting a price for the work. They should also clearly point out anything that they will have to correct or repair before the roof can be replaced. 

The best way to know you have the right roofer is that they’re happy to answer any questions that you have. For example, you should be asking about whether your roof would be suitable for the materials that you want to use, or how long the job should take the roofer to complete. 

Conclusion

These are some of the most important things that you need to know when you’re planning a roof renovation. Keep these in mind when planning your new roof, and you shouldn’t come across any surprises during the whole remodeling process. Remember as well that your roofer should be able to answer any questions that you may have.

If you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Fairfax, Winchester, or Leesburg, Piedmont Roofing will be happy to help you with your roofing needs.

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Residential Roofing Roofing

The Importance Of Professional Roofing Repair Service

When it comes to maintaining your roof, you’ll often be tempted to try and do it yourself. There’s no denying that roof replacement is one of the most expensive home repair jobs you can do. Once you’ve had the roof installed, you don’t want to spend more on any maintenance that has to be done to it. 

While that’s reasonable, you’ll also need to understand just how important it is to use a professional roofing repair service. There are several reasons as to why, so let’s get into it. 

Why Should You Hire The Professionals?

Firstly, let’s talk about just why it’s so important you hire professionals to handle your roofing repair jobs. There are several reasons why you should call them, including:

They’re the experts: This sounds so obvious, but the fact is a professional roofer is going to have a lot of experience tackling roof repairs. As a homeowner, there may be some small jobs you can handle, such as unblocking the gutters, but if it’s anything more complicated than that, then you need to call the experts to help. 

Even if you’re using a good how-to guide to replace those shingles or fix broken gutters, you still likely don’t have the experience in doing these jobs. When you hire a professional roofer, you know that the job will be done right the first time. Remember, if a roofing repair is done incorrectly, you’ll be dealing with more issues down the line, and it can get much more expensive to fix. 

They’re able to do it safely: Doing anything on your roof is inherently dangerous, as you’re doing repairs high up off the ground. If you’re trying to DIY a roof repair, that really does put you at risk.

Instead, it’s a much better idea to get the experts to come handle it for you instead. They’re the people who have the right equipment to do the job safely, such as scaffolding, harnesses, and so on. They also have the correct training in working on roofs, so you can be sure they can complete the job without anyone being at risk. 

They’ll get the job done correctly and save you money: Many homeowners will put off calling experts to help them with their roof as they’re worried about the cost. That makes sense, as you don’t want to spend money if you don’t have to. However, you’ll find that calling in a professional in the first place will save you money in the long run.

Why? Because that professional is going to get the job done right the first time. They are going to have a much easier time diagnosing an issue, and as they’re getting this right they’ll be able to make the right repairs the first time. Plus, they have the equipment and experience needed to do a top-class repair. That avoids the mistakes that can happen when a DIY job is done and ensures that you won’t have to spend more money later on fixing further damage or even having to replace the roof entirely. 

What Roofing Professionals Can Do For You 

So if you think your roof could do with some help, what can a professional roofing service do for you? There are lots of things they can do when your roof needs repair. Here are some things that you can call a service out for when you need help:

Roofing inspections: As a homeowner, it’s important that you have your roof inspected regularly. When you’re checking it over, you’ll be more likely to spot issues quickly and have them put right before they can get worse. That helps you avoid a lot of common issues with your roof and ensures that you’ll save money on repairs in the long run. 

While you can do a lot of inspection yourself, you’ll see that it’s often best to have a professional perform it for you. As they have all the right safety equipment, they can get up on the roof and check it more closely than you can. As they’re professionals, they’ll be able to spot issues that you may miss and put them right before it can get any worse. 

Perform basic maintenance: Again, there are some roofing maintenance tasks that you can do yourself, but there are plenty of reasons why you wouldn’t want to. Firstly, it’s often time-consuming, and you often just don’t have time to do it yourself. Plus, you don’t want to risk doing a repair incorrectly or doing a job without the right safety equipment. 

That’s why it’s often a good idea to have the experts handle basic maintenance. As they have the experience, they’ll be able to do the job right the first time. For example, if your metal roof has developed a leak, they’ll be able to track down the leak and put it right quickly and efficiently. 

Help with insurance claims: If you’ve had a large-scale storm come through your area, it can play havoc with your roof. Whether a lot of shingles got ripped off or you have a tree branch that has gone through the structure, that’s going to be a large-scale repair job. As such, that’s something that you’ll need your insurance to cover, but it’s hard to know where to start with such a claim.

That’s why any good roofer will be able to liaise with your insurance company for you. They’ll be able to handle all the paperwork, so you know it has been handled properly and you’ll be able to concentrate on cleaning up after any storm. That’s one less thing on your mind, so don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals if you need to. 

Roofing Repair Service Conclusion

This is just a sample of what a professional roofer can do for you. Maintaining and repairing your roof is always important, as it’s your home’s first line of defense against the elements. As such, you’ll always want a professional to handle it for you, so talk to your local roofers today. 

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Warren, Middleburg, Winchester, or Leesburg, we’ll be happy to help you with your gutter and roofing needs.

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Commercial Metal Roofing

Commercial Metal Roof Repair: Causes And Why Hire Professionals

Metal roofs have long been the gold standard for businesses, as they offer so many benefits over other roofing types. Like any roofing type though, there’s always a chance that the roof will develop issues over time. 

As a business owner, it’s important that you know how to spot these issues quickly. The sooner they can be handled, the easier, and more cost effective, the repairs will be. Here’s everything you need to know about commercial metal roof repair. 

The Benefits Of Commercial Metal Roofs

There are a lot of reasons why you’ll be using metal roofs on your commercial buildings. Firstly, they’re incredibly long lasting, with some roofs lasting up to 70 years with the proper care. Plus, that maintenance will be less intensive than with other roofing types. You won’t need to do as much to keep it in top condition and protecting your building. 

One of the biggest reasons why businesses use metal roofs is because of their Class A fire rating. With the maximum rating of fire resistance, you know your roof is safe if fire were to ever break out. This is especially important if your business is located in an area that’s prone to wildfires. 

With all this in mind, you’ll see that even metal roofs have problems from time to time. What should you be looking out for?

Common Repair Work Needed On Metal Roofs

When do you need commercial metal roof repair? Here are some of the most common causes of damage that you need to be aware of. 

Water build up: Like any roof, water is the main enemy of a metal roof. A metal roof does have increased resistance against water thanks to the way that they’re manufactured. As they’re made in large sheets rather than individual tiles, there are less potential entry points for water. 

However, even so, water can make its way in if the right conditions are met. For example, if there are blockages in your gutters, then that allows water to overflow back onto the roof and eventually cause leaks. In winter, this also leads to ice dams. 

It could also be because the roof wasn’t installed or designed to properly handle water. If the design doesn’t feature enough drainage, or if it hasn’t been installed by experts, then those leaks can happen. 

Aging: This is a reason why your roof is starting to sag, or leak. While a metal roof can last a long time, they cannot last forever. At some point the roof will be too old to continue keeping the elements out. 

This is why it’s important to know how old your roof is. If you’re doing more and more repair work to keep the roof in decent condition, then you may find it’s more cost effective to replace the roof than repair it. An expert roofer will be able to tell you whether that will be the case. 

Vulnerable areas beginning to leak: There are several areas on a commercial metal roof that are vulnerable to the elements. These include things like the vents, any piping going through the roof, roof lights, HVAC units, and gas lines. 

As these items all sit on or go through the roof, they represent areas that water could get in through. If you’re starting to see leaking around these areas, that’s a sign that the sealant around them is breaking down. 

Damaged roof flashings: Your roof flashings are the metal strips that are used to seal two sections of roof. For example, you’ll see flashing around the roof edges, and skylights. These are essential to the health of your roof as they’ll keep water out, but just like everything else will wear out over time. 

If you’re seeing leaks in areas under the flashing, that’s a sign that it’s worn or broken. You will need a roofer to check the damage and repair the flashing as needed. 

Poor maintenance: There’s a lot of damage that can happen to a metal roof thanks to the elements, but most of the time the damage will happen because it’s not well maintained. 

This doesn’t mean that you need to be up on the roof mending any issues as they happen. Typically, it’s a good idea to inspect the roof twice a year, and call a roofer to check on it. They will be able to diagnose issues fast and fix them before they get worse. 

Why Use Professionals For Commercial Metal Roof Repair

If you’ve seen any of the above problems on your metal roof, then you’ll need to get them fixed as soon as possible. It’s tempting to try and handle them yourself, especially if you’re a small business. However, it’s always better to have a professional handle it.

Here’s why:

Expert repairs: When you hire a professional, they’ll be able to spot damage much faster, and put it right. As someone who isn’t in the trade, you may not be able to carry out the repairs to the same standard, or worse, make it worse than it was before. 

Safety first: Repairing roofs is a dangerous job. Expert roofers have the training and the equipment needed to make it safe. When you leave the job to them, you’ll ensure that everyone involved in the repair is as safe as can be. 

Proper maintenance: If you’re following the procedure of having your roof inspected every two years by a professional, then you’ll be able to reap the benefits of doing so. That expert can catch any issues quickly, and they’ll be able to do a fully expert repair that will keep your roof going for its entire lifespan. 

Conclusion

A metal roof can experience issues over time, just like any other roof. If you’re looking out for the warning signs of damage, and calling the experts to handle it when you do see it, then you’ll keep your roof in top condition. This way, you’ll get the full lifespan and value from your metal roof. 

Categories
Residential Roofing Roofing

The Importance Of Spring Roofing Inspections And Maintenance

Your roof is a major investment in your home, one that will cost a lot to have replaced. Once you’ve had a new roof installed, you’ll want it to last as long as possible. That’s where roofing inspections and maintenance come in. Spring roofing is the best time to give your roof the once over and ensure it’s in good condition.

Here’s what you need to know. 

Why Inspect Your Roof?

Firstly, why should you be doing regular roofing inspections? Once that roof has been installed, it should be able to withstand the worst that the weather can throw at it, within reason. However, heavy storms and other factors can damage the roof, and you’ll want to be on alert for any damage. 

If damage happens, such as shingles being pulled free by wind, then that leaves your roof open to water damage. Rain water can get in through that gap, causing leaks, mold, rot, and more. This is why you want to be inspecting your roof regularly, to spot any damage that may have occurred. 

The sooner you spot the damage, the sooner that it can be put right. That ensures that the risk of ongoing damage is minimized. You’ll also find that it’s much cheaper too, as the repairs will be a smaller and easier job to handle. Call a roofer as soon as you spot damage, to ensure that it gets handled. 

Why Inspect And Repair In The Spring?

So you know that inspection and maintenance on your roof is important, but why would you want to do this in the spring, specifically? The most important reason is that coming out of the winter season, there could well be damage to your roof. High winds, heavy rain, sleet and hailstorms can all do a number on the roof. 

If you try to inspect your roof during the winter though, it can be hard to spot the damage. Heavy snow settled on the roof, for example, will mask any damage. The same occurs if there’s an ice dam, as you won’t be able to see the damage underneath. 

In the spring though, you have much better conditions for inspection and maintenance. As snow melts and the weather dries up, you’ll be able to see what damage has occurred much more easily. Any debris that has piled up, such as leaves, can easily be cleared away too for inspection. 

There’s also the fact that spring offers much better weather for repairs. In the winter, the weather is too cold and wet for roof repairs to be done safely. In the early spring, you have better conditions so the repairs can be done to the highest standard. 

When To Call A Roofer

You can do your own roof inspection, using the guide below. If you do see any damage that needs addressing, it’s important to call your roofer right away. Having a roofer handle the repairs is always the safest option, and so it’s worth the cost of hiring them. Plus, they’ll be able to accurately diagnose the problem and put it right. 

You can also hire your local roofer for you to do the inspection itself. That’s peace of mind for a lot of homeowners, and something that you’ll want to consider. 

When it comes to costs, remember that a repair that’s left too long, or done inexpertly, will cost a lot more down the line to put right. In some cases, it may even require you to have a new roof installed. When you hire a roofer you’ll actually be preventing these large costs, by having an expert handle them in the first instance. 

How To Inspect Your Roof

With all this in mind, you’ll now need to know how to inspect your roof, and ensure that it’s in good condition in the spring. Here’s what you’ll need to do when looking for any potential repairs:

Inspect the roof from the ground: The first thing to do is take a look at your roof, and see if there’s any obvious damage. This is something that you want to do from the ground, as this is the safest way of checking your roof out. If you want to get a closer look, you can examine the roof using binoculars. 

Look for any signs of damage, such as flashing coming loose, or missing roofing shingles. If you see any damage, you’ll want to handle that right away. Small repairs such as replacing shingles can be done yourself, but it’s often best to call a roofer to help you. 

Clear the gutters: Over the winter, debris such as leaves will have blown into your gutters. That can often lead to to ice dams, as water can’t drain away and so freezes in your gutters. Use a trash bag to clean away leaves, and while you do so look for any signs of damage from ice dams the previous winter. 

Check out the attic: Once you’ve looked outside, you’ll want to take a look inside the roof too. Get into your attic, and take a look around. You’re looking for any spots of light coming through the roof, as that will show you where shingles are missing. You should also look for any signs of mold or wood rot, as these will be evidence of leaks and need to be addressed as soon as possible. 

Call a roofer: If you have spotted any damage to your roof, you’ll want to call a roofer as soon as you can. The sooner they can come and repair it for you, the easier and cheaper it will be. In many cases, you’ll be able to make a claim on your home insurance for your repairs too. 

Spring Roofing Conclusion

It’s critical that you inspect and take advantage of spring roofing, and do any necessary repairs at this time. The sooner you do it the better, so get out there and take a look at your roof now. If you would like more information, contact the professionals at Piedmont Roofing today!

And if you live in Virginia areas such as Middleburg, Winchester, Leesburg, or Warrenton, we’ll be happy to help you with your metal roofing needs.

Categories
Metal Roofing

Will A Metal Roof Rust?

While metal roofing was often used as a commercial option, increasing numbers of homeowners are taking advantage of it too. There are many reasons you may want to look into using a metal roof on your home, such as durability, ease of maintenance, and more. However, there are lots of myths floating around that say metal roof rust over time. It makes sense to most people, as the metal will rust when out in the open. Is that true about metal roof rust, though? Let’s find out. 

Will A Metal Roof Rust?

Here’s the main question: if you have a metal roof installed, will it rust over time? The answer is, most of the time, it should resist rusting for decades to come. How is that possible? It’s all in the type of metal used, the finish, and how it’s installed. If you have just bare steel on your roof, for example, of course, it’s going to start rusting. If you pick a metal more resistant to rusting and have it professionally installed, you can stop this from happening. 

When picking out your roof, your roofer should help you select what’s right for you. There are some metal roof types that are supposed to rust, though. A weathering steel option, for example, will be designed to rust to a certain point to get the right aesthetic. 

How Rusting Is Prevented

Over the years, there have been lots of advancements in preventing rust. This has been used in creating new metal roofs to make them as resistant as possible. These include:

  • Galvalume steel: Galvalume is a coating typically used over steel to prevent rusting. It’s made up of zinc, aluminum, and silicone. These materials together fully coat the steel, protecting it from the elements. This is often a good option for your metal roof if you live anywhere with consistently high temperatures, near a coastline, or high precipitation.
  • Galvanized steel: Galvanized steel is another type of steel coating that’s very popular for metal roofs. It’s a way of creating carbon steel with an alloy of zinc oxide. The zinc is what helps protect the roof from moisture and rust. The steel is then finished with a resin coating, which protects the metal and gives it a smooth, aesthetically pleasing look. It also helps resist scratching and scuffing.
  • Weathering steel: These roofs are designed to rust, but only up to a certain point. The steel is covered with a coating of copper phosphorous and silicon. Once the roof is installed, that coating will start to rust. As soon as the top coating has rusted away, the steel underneath ionizes. When this happens, the steel is protected and won’t. It’s a great option as it’ll last for decades, but also, many appreciate the look this gives their roof.

Painting And Coating A Metal Roof

As you can see, one of the most crucial things you can do is pick the right coating for your metal roof. With a good layer, you’ll be able to fully seal your metal roof against the elements and ensure that no water damage or rust happens.

There are two different types of paint coatings you can use on a roof to prevent metal roof rust:

  • PVDF: This is Premium Polyvinylidene Flouride, and it’s a commercial grade paint that is designed to protect against the weather. As it was designed especially for metal roofs, it’s excellent at sealing metal and making it safe no matter what the elements are throwing at it. 

It’s also great aesthetically, as it can maintain its color for a long time. That’s even after being exposed to UV rays and pollutants, so it’s a good choice if you don’t want to be repainting the roof after installation. 

  • SMP: This paint is Silicone Modified Primer and is one of the hardest paints on the market right now. Once applied, it’s highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and more. This avoids any gaps in the sealant happening and rust occurring underneath. 

It’s often a very economical option too, so it’s become very popular on home owner’s roofs. Both styles of paint come in a wide variety of colors, so you’ll be able to pick one that works for you and your home. When talking to your roofer about painting the roof, ask about warranties. There should be warranties available on the paint you choose, so you’re protected if anything should happen to the paint or the roof. 

Hiring Professionals Is Important To Rust Prevention

Finally, if you want to ensure that your new metal roof doesn’t rust, then you want to ensure you’re hiring professionals to do it. There’s no denying that metal roofs are an expensive option, as they’re more long lasting. However, errors can occur without you noticing if you attempt to install it yourself. When these happen, that can allow rust to start forming. 

When you hire professionals, they’ll be able to bring their experience to the installation job. You’ll see that as they know the ins and outs of the process, they’ll be able to install the roof cleanly and without issues. That helps you avoid problems down the line and save you money in repairs later on. 

Once the roof has been installed, you should inspect it at least once a year. That involves checking it inside and out for any issues that have appeared. If you find these issues, call a roofer as soon as possible to help you put them right. That will help avoid rust and keep the roof looking as good as new. 

Conclusion

As you can see, it is possible for metal roofs to rust, but thanks to modern roof manufacturing techniques and coatings, you shouldn’t see rust form on your roof. The best way to avoid this is to talk to a professional roofer and have them handle the installation job for you. That, and regular inspections, will ensure that rust won’t show up on your metal roof.  

Categories
Residential Roofing

5 Common Roof Problems to Watch Out for This Summer

When you think of seasonal roof damage, you’re more likely to think of the colder months. With more snow and rain, you’d think they do more damage to your roof. However, you should also keep an eye on your roof during the summer. There are several issues your roof could be experiencing over the colder months, so here are some common roof problems to look out for this summer.

1. Sun Damage

This is the number one cause of roof problems during the summer. The sun’s heat can cause all kinds of damage that you need to look for. For example, the heat can deteriorate if your roof deck is exposed to the sun. You’ll also see the glue holding the material in place will begin to melt at high temperatures, and your shingles will also be at risk.

They can start to buckle, curl and break if exposed to high enough temperatures. This can, of course, lead to all kinds of problems regarding your roof. If you’re not paying attention to sun damage, it can cause real issues over time and even lead to prematurely needing a new roof. The best way to stop this is to apply a coating to your roof.

This creates a barrier between the UV rays of the sun and the roof, much as sunscreen does. That way, you can slow down sun damage. Your roofer can recommend a suitable coating for your roof and apply it for you.

2. Water Damage

While you may not have rain and snow the same way you would in the winter, water can still take its toll in the summer. If you’re living in a climate that gets rainy in the summer, you will need to have your roof constructed to guard against this. If you ignore waterproofing your roof, you could find that water gets in under the shingles and allows it in.

That can weaken the roof deck as the wood rots or damage the timbers as the water gets in. Plus, you’re also in danger of mold developing in your home. To stop this, you’ll need to inspect your roof before the summer and look for any cracks in the armor that water can get in through. Any broken or missing shingles will need to be replaced.

The same goes for any flashing that has cracked or become worn over time. If you already see signs of water damage, such as water stains on the ceiling, you’ll need a roofing expert to come in immediately and help you.

3. Humidity Damage

During the summer, you’ll see humidity levels rise. Of course, it’s not pleasant for you, but it’s not great for your roof either. Condensation will happen when your roof is colder than the air around it. That extra moisture in your roof will cause more roof problems over time. That includes leaks and weakened roof structures.

There are a couple of ways that this can be avoided. Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that suitable waterproofing materials, such as a good underlayment, are used when your roof is first installed. That’s something that a good roofing company will do, so make sure you’re paying attention to this when looking for a roofing company.

Also, make sure that your roof is adequately insulated. The cold air your AC creates in the summer will escape through the roof. When you have the roof adequately insulated, you’ll see that not only are you keeping humidity from causing problems, you’ll be lowering your AC bills too.

4. Storm Damage

Summer is the time when storms roll around, and they can play havoc with your roof. High winds can pull shingles off your roof, and blown debris can end up on the roof and even damage it. You can minimize the damage when you know a storm is coming. Firstly, trim away any tree branches hanging too close to your roof.

That will stop leaves and branches on your roof and in the gutters. Take a look at your gutters, too, as they may have debris. Clear them out to ensure rainwater has a clear path to the ground. Once a storm has passed, check your roof to see if any damage has been caused. If there is damage, you’ll need to report this to your insurance company and ensure you call on a roofer immediately to help you.

5. Moss Damage

Finally, algae and moss may grow on your roof over the summer. It’s essential to address this, as moss will trap moisture underneath it as it grows. When that moisture is held against the roof, that will cause roof problems if it isn’t addressed. Luckily, it’s not too challenging to clean moss and algae off your roof and stop this from happening. As soon as you see moss, you’ll want to address it.

The longer it’s on your roof, the harder it will be to get off. Create a mixture of chlorine bleach and water, and spray it onto the roof using a garden hose. Let it sit for around 20 mins, and then wash it off. Over time the moss will loosen up, and you’ll be able to remove it using a leaf blower. The algae will come off with the next rain shower.

Conclusion

These are some things you need to look out for this summer on your roof. If you’re aware of the dangers, you can act against them now and lessen the problems you’ll face.

Categories
Gutter & Spouting

9 Signs You Need Fairfax County Roof Repair

Thinking your home or business roofing may need some work? Here are 9 signs you need Fairfax County roof repair. Read more below…

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It keeps the weather from getting inside and causing all kinds of havoc. As such, you want to make sure that you’re taking good care of your roof and spotting any issues before they come up. How do you know if your roof needs repair? Here are some signs that you should be looking out for.

1. You’re Seeing Roofing Granules In The Gutters

If you’re taking good care of your home, you’ll be cleaning out the gutters on a regular basis. When you’re doing so, are you seeing a lot of grit in there? That grit is actually the granules that sit on top of your roofing shingles, and if they’re in the gutters, that’s a sign that you need roofing repairs. 

The granules help protect your roofing materials from the elements, especially UV rays. These will wear out shingles faster than normal, leading to you needing new roofing much sooner. Once the shingles start wearing out, though, the granules will start to shed off. That may mean you need some new shingles to replace the old ones. 

2. Peeling Or Blistering Paint On The House Exterior

Issues with your roof may not show up on the roof itself, but you’ll still need to watch out for them. That’s especially true of peeling or blistering paint. If you’re seeing this near the roofline on the exterior of your home, that indicates a problem with your roof. 

Your attic needs to be well ventilated to allow a constant flow of air. If there isn’t good ventilation or not enough vents, then humid air starts to build up in the attic. That’s what leads to the paint starting to peel. It’s best to call on a roofer to take a look at your attic and advise on how to solve the issue. 

3. Leaking Roof After Rain

After you’ve had rainy weather, are you seeing leaks in your home? That’s most likely an issue with your roof. There could be a few different issues that are causing this. Perhaps some flashing is coming away, or a group of shingles has broken. These are quite easily fixed, so there’s not much to worry about here. 

You will want to address this issue quickly, though, as the longer you leave it, the worse it will get. If you leave3 it for long enough, you may need to replace the roof entirely. You don’t want to do that before the roof reaches its natural lifespan, so get help as soon as you see the leak. 

4. The Roof Deck Is Sagging

The roof deck is the structure of your roof, that the roofing materials sit on. If you’re in your attic and can see the decking bowing inwards, that’s a sign you shouldn’t ignore. If you’re seeing the deck or rafters doing this, that’s a sign that there’s leaking moisture somewhere in the roof.

Again, this is when you should call on an expert to take a look at it for you. If you call them quick enough, you will be able to avoid a full roof replacement. 

5. Higher Energy Bills

This is another sign that you won’t instantly link with your roof, but you want to keep an eye out for it. Are you seeing a sudden dramatic spike in your energy bills? If you’re having to pay a lot more for your heating or cooling, then you’ll need to look at your roof. 

It could be another issue brought on by poor ventilation, as your heated or cooled air will be leaking out of your roof. If you suspect this to be the cause, then you’ll want to call a roofer to inspect and diagnose the issue for you. 

6. Loose Or Missing Shingles

There could be several reasons why your shingles have been broken or have gone missing. If you’ve had a storm recently, it could have smashed the shingles with hailstones, or high winds have swept the shingles away. If this is the case, then replacing the shingles should solve the problem. 

However, if you’re seeing that lots of shingles of missing, and it’s not in one concentrated spot, then the shingles may be coming to the end of their lifespan. In this case, you’re going to want to think about having the roof replaced. 

7. Wear And Tear Around Roof Objects

There are several objects that join onto your roofs, such as your chimney or roof vents. You’ll often see wear and tear at the joints where they join the roof, as it’s a weak point. That’s why they should normally have flashing attached to them.

If you’re seeing damage at these points, the fix may be as simple as installing new flashing over them to protect the joints from the elements. This is something that a good roofer should be able to advise on.

8. Moss Growing On The Roof

Some feel that moss growing on the roof is aesthetically pleasing. It can look nice, but it’s actually a sign of underlying problems in your roof. Moss thrives in damp environments, and if your roof is damp, that’s obviously a problem. 

Moss can start growing in between the shingles, leading to more problems down the line. You’d think that simply pulling the moss off will fix the problem, but you need to find out why the roof is damp in the first place. That’s where a roofer can help you diagnose the issue. 

9. Cracked Roof Cement

In some cases, roofers may use roof cement rather than proper flashing to complete a roofing job. It’s less than ideal as it can start to crack, and when that happens, it’ll let water in. 

You’ll want to call on a roofer to remove that old cement and install flashing to properly protect your roof. 

In Conclusion 

Keep an eye out for all these issues when you inspect your roof. The sooner you spot them and call in a roofer to help you, the better. We hope you enjoyed reading these useful tips!

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Categories
Emergency Roof Repair Services

How to Find the Best Roof Repair Company

Whether you’ve just gone through a storm, have just realized that your roof is hitting a significant anniversary, or are noticing other signs of wear and tear, roofing repair is not something to attempt on your own. Roof repair is undeniable, and is something for which you should seek out the best roof repair company possible.

Today, modern roofing materials, such as standing seam metal or rubber, provide longer life and less maintenance. However, when it’s time for repair or maintenance, choosing a qualified contractor is critical to making sure your home gets the best protection.

Here’s what to consider when searching for a contractor to perform roof repairs:

 

Your Contractor Should Work Effectively With Your Insurance Claim

If your repairs will be covered by your home or building insurance, take the time to find a contractor who is experienced with handling insurance claims.

A good roof repair company has the ability to navigate the complications of the claims process for you and can be your best ally.

When they are willing to work directly with the insurance company, it will streamline the process.

 

Your Roof Repair Company Should Have Experience

A good roofing company will have both the years of experience under their tool belt and the confidence to share references from satisfied customers.

Ask for them.

Follow up on them.

Ask how long the company has been in business in your area.

Reputable companies will have photos and locations that represent their completed work.

Quality roof repair companies are essential, and a good contractor will be open and transparent about previous jobs.

 

Your Roof Repair Company Should Be Local

Unfortunately, some contractors take advantage of home and business owners after a storm or another natural disaster that has happened in an area.

Avoid being taken in by the unscrupulous by making sure the roof repair company is local.

They should be licensed in your state.

If problems or warranty work needs occur down the road, a non-local company could leave, and be impossible to contact.

The popular line “Shop local” is definitely a winning proposition, when it comes to your roof repair company professionals.

 

 

Your Contractor Should Be Familiar With Your Roof Type

Virginia contractors that feature everything from lovely slate roofs to more traditional shingles to newer types, such as durable rubber should be on your list when deciding who to contact.

Be sure that they have the specialized experience that your roof material requires.

For example, although durable and low maintenance, rubber roofs can benefit from a regular check to ensure small problems are fixed quickly before they can progress.

Slate roofs, with their incredible longevity, should be only be serviced and installed by experienced professionals.

If there is a need for a slate roof alternative, your contractor should be well-versed in acceptable alternatives.

And, someone experienced with metal roofing should be your first choice when dealing with a replacement or repair of your stamped metal roof.

 

Your Contractor Should Understand the Special Needs of Your Type of Architecture

The Virginia area has a wide variety of architecture and buildings. From new construction to historic homes, there are special considerations to consider.

Because of this, roof repair companies must involve professionals who understand the different types of architecture around Virginia.

Standing seam metal roofs are one of the most popular roofs on old houses.

In fact, they have been used with almost every architectural style since the mid-1800’s.

Slate roofs are another traditional material, and your contractor should be able to understand both the historical significance of roof type, as well as be able to offer suggestions about repair and replacement.

If you are the proud owner of a historical home, do your homework when selecting your contractor.

Again, they should be able to show you a portfolio of previous work on similar homes, and offer references.

 

Your Contractor Should Be Able To Advise You on Accessories

For roof repair Fairfax, a good contractor will also be able to advise you on helpful upgrades, such as gutters or snow guards.

Snow guards can effectively halt roof avalanches and hold the ice in place until it melts. This makes a real difference in your enjoyment of winter.

The guidance of an experienced contractor on gutters can be invaluable.

From copper that will set off the natural elements of your home, to classic zinc that will enhance the elegance of your modern exterior, there are options that you may have never considered.

Both placement and material is equally important in maintaining an efficient and beautiful home. Allow your roof repair company to help you make the best decision.

 

 

Your Contractor Should Have the Highest Contractor Class Rating

In Virginia, the Class A Contractor’s License is the top ranking, and the one that you should insist upon when choosing your roof repair company. Contractors who have received this designation are qualified to take on any size project. They have also passed the original licensing exam, and must keep their license in annual good standing.

Your contractor should have adequate and verifiable insurance.

They should be able to provide you with proof of workers compensation and insurance that has been made for roofing: Code 5551.  If you do not receive a certificate, this means that the insurance is not valid. In other words, there is no protection in case something goes wrong and causes damage.

 

Your Contractor Should Provide a Warranty

They should supply a workmanship warranty to you. Any roof repair company who is not willing to do this should be a cause for caution.

As mentioned above, the contractor who installs or repairs your roof should be local and available in surrounding areas. This will provide you with a safety net should anything need repair during the warranty period.

Insist on this written warranty.

 

Your Contractor Should Come With Recommendations From Manufacturers and Distributors

A competent roof repair company will be well known and respected by customers. They will also be respected by the manufacturers and distributors of the materials they use on your home.

Checking with a local distributor about the contractors they are familiar with and would recommend can be an invaluable source of information.

 

Conclusion

Undertaking roof repairs is one of the most important tasks that you can undertake. It is essential in maintaining your home or building.

Ensuring that you find an experienced, local roof repair company with good references and expertise in the type of building and roofing you own and require will pay off in the long run.

A good roof repair contractor will provide a warranty first of all. They will also have a Class A contractor rating, and possess Code 5551 insurance for roofing. By following these guidelines, you’ll have a positive experience with your roofing project, no matter what the weather.

 

Categories
Roofing

5 Reasons To Consider Roof Restoration

Why consider roof restoration? There are important reasons this option can be the right one for your roofing needs. Read the details below.

Your roof takes a beating when it comes to protecting your home. It takes on the sun, rain, and more in order to keep your home dry and warm. There’s no wonder, then, that eventually it will take on damage.

Now, an asphalt roof will last around 20 years on average, so if it’s reaching that age, it may need to be replaced. What if it’s not as old as that, or you don’t want to have it replaced? Then you’ll want to look into roof restoration.

Here are just a few reasons why you may want to consider it for your home.

1. Extending the Life Span of Your Roof

Has your roof taken on some damage, but you don’t want to replace it just yet? If the roof is only a few years old, you won’t want to replace the whole thing. The damaged part will need to be addressed, but the rest of the roof is still in fine condition. This is especially true if there’s high wind damage, where a part of the roof was damaged but the rest is fine.

Using roof restoration in this instance actually makes more sense, as it’s only replacing the part of the roof that’s damaged. The rest of the roof can be left as is, so you don’t have to worry about them. In the end, it’s actually extending the life span of the roof itself.

2. Be More Environmentally Friendly

These days, every home owner is trying to be more environmentally friendly. That means that you’re changing out light bulbs, recycling more waste, and considering more environmentally friendly building materials. What you may not have considered is your roof.

When you replace a roof, it’s not exactly good for the environment. Everything gets torn off before the work can begin, and all that waste goes to landfill. Plus, all the new materials need to be manufactured in order to go on your roof, creating more waste and by products.

If you restore the roof, you’re actually being more environmentally friendly. As you’re only mending a small portion of it, the rest of the roof will be left alone. That’s less waste in landfill, and less manufacturing needed to get your roof up to scratch.

3. Better for Repairing Fire Damage

Have you suffered fire in your home? When you have fire damage, the flames can reach the roof and damage the roof structure. When this happens, you’ll need to repair the damage caused if you want to move back into your home.

What you may not realize about fire damage is that it may not spread everywhere on the roof. It depends on where the fire started, and how quickly it was caught and put out. It may have only damaged one part of the roof. In these instances, you’ll only want to restore that part of the roof, rather than replace the entire thing.

4. Save Money on Roof Repair

This is the biggest reason most people choose restoration over replacement. Replacing a roof is no joke, with the cost often being thousands of dollars. If you want to repair a part of your roof that got damaged, you don’t want to have to spend so much money on fixing it.

Restoration instead is much more affordable. You’re only replacing a part of the roof, so that’s going to bring costs down a lot. You’ll still have a fully sealed and in tact roof at the end of the process, though. If money is a concern, you may want to look into restoration instead.

5. Quicker and Easier to Do

When deciding whether restore or replace your roof, you’ve got to consider the time involved. When you replace a roof, it’s going to take a lot of time. Everything has to be stripped back, unless you’re looking to lay a roof down on top of an existing one. Then, the roof has to be rebuilt from the walls up. It’s going to take time, and maybe you don’t have that.

Plus there’s the mess to consider. A good roofing contractor will arrange for all rubble to be taken away, but it’s still going to create dust in your home. Do you want to avoid that?

If these are concerns of yours, then restoration will work better for you. As you’re only dealing with a smaller area of the roof, it won’t take as long to get done. Plus, there will be less mess as the work is completed.

When to Choose Replacement

In many cases, restoring your roof will be the best thing to do. It’s cheaper, easier, and will prolong the life of your roof. However, sometimes a replacement will be unavoidable. How do you know when the roof needs to be totally replaced?

The first and biggest factor is the age of the roof. This depends on the style of the roof, as different materials last for longer than others. For example, asphalt roofs last for around 20 years, while a metal one will last for up to 70 years, if cared for properly.

If the roof is nearing the end of its life, you’ll need to consider having it replaced. If there’s damage to the roof, this will simply speed up the process.

When considering what to do with your roof, remember that restoration will simply restore the health of the roof. It will bring it back to where it was before it was damaged. If the roof is getting old, it may be showing signs of wear. This includes cracking or missing shingles, leaks, moss, and so on. If this sounds like your roof, it’s better to replace it than restore it.

Conclusion

These five reasons are some of the top reasons homeowners restore their roofs. A roof is a big investment, and sometimes you’re just looking for a good quality repair, rather than a replacement. Remember though, at some point the roof will need to be replaced. Keep that in mind when making a decision.

Categories
Residential Roofing

4 Common Roof Damages Seen In The Summer and How To Prevent Them

Summer: it’s full of sunshine and warmth, but even in the summer months, your roof is susceptible to problems. Here’s how to prevent the four most common summer roof damages.

When you think of the damage that’s done to a roof, you often think of what’s happened to it in the winter. There’s so much that can cause it to break and even need replacement, such as snow, ice, rain, and more. What you may not know is that the summer is equally full of dangers for your roofing.

Here are some of the most common issues that can happen to your roof over the summer, and how you can prevent them from happening.

1. Moss Growth

You’ll see that most roofs have some kind of moss on them, and that’s to be expected. It’ll often grow on outdoor areas, including your roof. The problem is that it can really proliferate during the summer, and that’s where it starts causing damage to your roof.

If there’s a lot of moss and growth on your roof, you’ll see that it’s trapping moisture under it. This will firstly damage your shingles, leading you to need to replace them. If you don’t see that damage though, it’ll get under the shingles and start causing damage to the wooden structure beneath it. If this is left long enough, it’ll cause serious damage and maybe even lead to you needing to replace the roof.

Removing Moss

You can remove that moss before it creates incredibly serious home and roof damages. They key is to use the right safety equipment. You’ll need anti slip shoes, as well as a sturdy ladder and possibly even a safety rope. Get up on the ladder with a hose, and hose off small sections of the roof at a time, ensuring you’re holding the hose pointed down.

If that isn’t enough to get the moss off, you can get it off with a long handled scrub brush. When you use this, be sure you’re not scrubbing too hard or pounding on the roof, as you don’t want to damage the shingles. You can then apply a cleaner specially designed for the job, that will help you get the moss off.

Once you’ve done that, you can stop the moss coming back with zinc or copper. These are both toxic to moss, and so it’ll avoid you having to clean the roof again. Install strips of the metal along the roof, and you’ll see the curb the growth without you having to get back up there.

2. Cracked Shingles

You don’t think of the sun causing damage to your shingles, but over time it can hurt them. During the summer, the sun is beating down on your roof, day after day. Over time, the shingles will dry out and you’ll see them start to buckle, crack or even peel away; causing dangerous roof damages.

If they’re damaged, they’re not protecting it against the elements. You’ll need the shingles to be in top condition in order to keep water out and avoid damage to the roof over time.

If you see any shingles that are coming away, or are broken, you’ll need to replace them as soon as possible. Many home owners choose to buy an extra box of shingles when they replace their roof for this reason. If they need to replace a singular shingle, then all they have to do is take another one out of the box and replace it. Plus, that shingle will be the same color as the rest of your roof.

3. Moisture Build Up

This is something you wouldn’t think about worrying about in the summer, but it’s a real issue that you need to address. The weather in summer gets hot and humid, and the air in your home gets humid too. Hot air rises, so it’s going to end up in your attic. If you don’t have any ventilation in the attic, then you’re going to see that the hot humid air just gets trapped in there.

It causes serious dangerous damages as long as its there, as the moisture is the enemy of your roof. This leads to many roof damages, such as the wooden structure becoming weak and damaged. Dry rot and mold set in too, causing more problems. Again, if this isn’t addressed in time, you’re going to be looking at getting a new roof.

This is a problem that’s easily avoided by ensuring you have enough ventilation in your roof. Ask a roofing expert to come and take a look at the roof for you. Can they see where ventilation can be put in for you? There are lots of different options, so pick one that works best for your home and the climate you live in.

4. Summer Storms

You don’t associate summer with storms, but they happen. If you’re not prepared, they can cause all kinds of roof damages. Shingles can be ripped off, flashing pulled away, and even holes punched in thanks to falling branches. Plus, leaves whipped around by the wind get caught in gutters, causing blockages.

You can stop all this damage happening by being prepared. Firstly, cut away any overhanging branches. If they’re not hanging over your roof, it’s less likely that they’ll fall onto the roof itself. Check your guttering regularly, and install gutter guards to stop them getting clogged up.

Finally, do regular inspections. It’s vital you do this all year round, to ensure that the roof is in good condition. If you see anything that looks loose or damaged, repair it right away. That way, you won’t see water come in during a storm and damage your roof. If you’re not sure how to do any of these things, then you’ll need to call a roofing expert to come and help you out.

Final Thought

All of these summer roof damages can be easily avoided with a little work and preparation. It’s amazing how much the summer weather can damage your roof, but you don’t have to let it happen. Now you know what to look out for, so you can stop it happening to you.

 

 

Read More:

How A Cool Roof Can Keep Your Home Safe During Heatwaves
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