Tag: roof repair

Categories
Residential Roofing

Roofing In Winter: Is It A Good Idea?

Sometimes, a roof needs immediate repair, and it can’t wait. If that’s the case, and you’re worried about roofing in winter, rest assured: you don’t have to wait until spring.

As the temperatures start to drop, you’ll think about the roof on your home and whether it will be able to stand up to the winter weather. With rain, wind and snow on the way, can you actually have work done on your roof during the winter?

The answer is yes, you actually can. Here’s what can be done, and what you should do to minimize problems during the colder months.

Why Would I Need Roofing in Winter?

If your roof is already experiencing damage, then winter isn’t going to change that. Over the colder months, that damage will get worse and will still need fixing as soon as possible. Some homeowners think they have to wait till spring, but that isn’t the case at all.

In fact, doing that will make things worse as the damage will just increase over time. Start your roofing in winter to correct the issue before it causes any more problems. Also, you need to consider that issues will crop up during the winter too.

  • Ice dams will happen when gutters are blocked and water can’t run away from the roof.
  • High winds will lift shingles off the roof, or break them, creating weak spots that water can get through.
  • You may even get storms that blow debris onto the roof, causing damage.

If any of this happens, you’ll need to handle it, and quickly. Roofers will always come out to you in the winter if you need help with your roof. Don’t put off the repairs because you think it’s too cold for the problem to be fixed.

Guttering In The Winter

One of the most important parts of your roofing in winter is the gutters. It allows water to roll away from your roof and into the drains. Water is the number one enemy of your roof, so it’s vital that your gutters are working as they should.

In the colder months though, it’s so easy for them to get blocked, or stop working as they should. In fall, you’ll see leaves start to fall from the trees and onto your roof. They find their way into the gutters, blocking them. If they’re left long enough, they will stop water getting away from the roof. This allows water to overflow back onto the roof, eventually leading to leaks and the aforementioned ice dams in the winter.

Luckily, it’s very simple to handle a blocked gutter in the winter.

  • You just need to get onto a ladder and start pulling the blockages out of the gutters. All you need to do this is a pair of gloves and a garbage bag.
  • If the gutters need to be replaced, roofers can handle this for you in the winter.

The cold weather won’t stop them from attaching them to your home, as they’re most often nailed to the house. The only thing that may impede them is a build up of ice, but this is easily handled. If you want to stop future blockages, it’s a very good idea to install a gutter protection or guard to stop debris from getting in, but still allowing water to flow through.

Installing Shingles In Cold Temperatures

Does missing shingles require roofing in winter to fix them? It’s easy for a few shingles to come away from the roof, leaving it open to leaks, and mold too. Do you have to put up with this all winter?

Some may say you have to wait until spring, but this isn’t always the case. It’s very true that sometimes you can’t install shingles in the winter. The cold temperatures mean that they could crack when they’re installed. Good roofers know that you need those shingles installed ASAP though, so they have methods to stop this from happening.

Firstly, they may keep the shingles in a warm place prior to installation, to ensure that cracking won’t happen. They may also use heating elements to seal the shingles. There are special adhesives that roofers use in the winter too, to ensure that the shingles seal properly.

Find The Right Winter Roofer

You can and will be able to find roofers to handle your roof during the winter. When you’re looking for a contractor, ensure that you’re asking them the right questions. Ask them how many roofs they’ve worked on in the winter months.

Also, ask how they’ll ensure that the shingles seal on your roof. Finally, ask them what temperatures are just too cold for them to work on your roof. If they can answer these questions, they’ll be able to handle any repairs during the colder months.

Preventing Roof Damage During Winter

If you don’t want to have to handle roof repairs during the winter, you can prevent most of them. Follow these tips to help you to keep your roof in good shape this winter:

1. Trim your trees: It’s more important than you’d think to trim trees away from your home. If branches fall down due to bad weather of issues with the tree itself, then they will cause real damage to the roof. Trim the branches back, and remove any trees that are too close to the home.

2. Clear the gutters: This has already been covered above, but it’s important that you clear the gutters out before winter. Allowing water to run away from your roof is vital, especially if it snows this winter.

3. Check your shingles: Take a look at your shingles before the cold weather sets in. Are any loose, or missing? Now is the time to replace them, before it gets too cold to do so. It’s fairly easy to do this yourself, to avoid leaks and other damage in your home.

Conclusion

If you need roofing work done during the winter, you don’t have to wait until spring. You can call on a roofer to help you get it done before the weather warms up again. Find the right roofer and get the job done as soon as you can. Remember, the sooner you fix the problem, the easier it will be.

Categories
Metal Roof Painting

Can You Paint A Metal Roof?

When you begin to notice that your roof might need replacing, you might first want to ask if you can you paint a metal roof. Learn about the benefits to painting your roof below.

If you have a metal roof that’s starting to show its age, what you can do about it? Many homeowners think that they’ll need to start thinking about replacement, but that isn’t always the case.

You may be able to breathe new life into that roof, and increase it’s longevity just by painting it. Here’s everything you need to know about painting your metal roof.

 

Can You Paint a Metal Roof Rather Than Replace It?

There’s no denying that replacing your roof is an expensive job. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive jobs you’ll do on your home while you live there. As this is the case, its no wonder that you want to avoid doing that for as long as possible.

When you paint your metal roof, you’re doing a lot more than simply improving the look of it. The best paint will actually protect your roof by making it stronger and ready for anything the weather can throw at it. If you repaint your roof on a regular schedule, you’ll be able to prolong its lifespan and avoid having to replace it before its time.

Below are some of the benefits of painting a metal roof rather than replacing it.

 

Benefit #1: Makes Your Roof More Resilient

So what about roof paint makes it stronger?

Regular metal roof paint isn’t just a coat that makes your roof look better. It actually creates a solid barrier against anything that could damage your roof.

In most cases, this is water.

  • When water gets into your roof, it causes all manner of problems.
  • There’s the issue with your metal roof rusting and becoming damaged overtime, allowing more water in and causing more problems.

You’ll also see water get into your attic, where it causes mold and even wood rot. Left long enough, this will result in you needing a new roof. You’ll also see leaks starting to appear, causing damage to your ceilings, walls and more.

Painting your roof with the right paint will stop all of this from happening. All good metal roof paints are waterproof, so when you paint a roof fully with it, it creates an unbroken barrier against water. Doing this regularly will help you keep that roof in better condition longer.

 

Benefit #2: Improves The Look Of Your Home

While painting your roof makes it stronger, there’s no denying that it will also improve the look of your home tremendously. It’s only natural that you want your home to look good, so painting it regularly is the best way to go about it.

This is especially true if you’re thinking about selling your home in the future. Curb appeal is so much more important than you’d think.

  • If a potential buyer sees the outside of your home and sees that it looks run down, they’re not likely to come see inside.
  • You’ve got to make a good impression, and that means taking care of every aspect of the outside of your home.

Even if you’re not thinking of selling your home, you still want to take care of it. There’s a lot to be said of being house proud, and you may also have HOA rules that require you to take good care of the outside of your home. Whatever the reason, you can paint your metal roof and keep it looking good.

 

Benefit #3: The Cost Of Painting vs. Replacement

When looking into taking care of your roof, an important factor to think about is cost. Replacing a roof, as mentioned earlier, is one of the most expensive renovation jobs you can do to your home.

  • To replace a metal roof, you’re looking at paying around $17,000, depending on the metal sheets you use and the size of your roof.
  • If you paint a metal roof, it will cost around $6,250, again depending on the size of your roof.

That’s a lot cheaper than replacing it, so painting your roof is a good investment to make. Eventually you will need to replace that roof, but painting it helps you put that cost off by taking care of the roof you have.

 

How to Choose Roof Colors

So you know that you can paint a metal roof, and doing so will prolong the life of it, and that it’ll make your roof look better in the process. To get the best look possible, you’ll need to pick the right color.

The color you choose will very much be dependent on the style of your home. You’ll want to pick a color that matches the style and design of your exterior. If you don’t, the color will stick out, and not in a good way.

A good way to pick a color is to drive around your neighborhood and see what colors are used on homes similar to yours. You can get a good idea of what will work with your home this way.

If you want to go the traditional route, a black or gray paint will work well. If you want the roof to contrast with your home, choose a reddish orange or a lighter tan color.

 

When Does The Roof Need To Be Painted?

How do you know that you need to paint a metal roof? There will be signs, so make sure you’re looking out for them. They include:

  • The roof color is fading
  • The paint is bubbling or peeling
  • You can see rust on the roof
  • Paint is cracking or flaking off
  • There’s stubborn staining on the roof
  • Your roof has a chalky appearance

If you see any of these issues, you’ll need to take care of the repainting as soon as possible. As there’s cracks in the paint, that means there’s chinks in your roof’s armor. If you leave it for long enough, more serious issues will start to form in the roof, which you want to avoid.

 

Conclusion

When you paint a metal roof, it is essential to prolonging its life, keeping it in good condition, and making it look good.

It’s also much more cost effective than replacing your roof. Call in an expert today to see how much you will save by having your roof repainted.

 

Categories
Residential Roofing

7 Simple Tips For Filing A Roof Insurance Claim

One of the most stressful things for a homeowner is successfully filing a roof insurance claim. There are many things to consider, so here are 7 simple tips to help.

If the worst has happened to your roof, then it’ll feel as though everything has gone wrong. As stressful as it is, you can make it easier by filing a roof insurance claim to help with the cost of fixing it.

How do you go about making that claim? Here are some tips that will make the process as painless as possible.

 

1. Maintain Your Roof

You don’t want to think about anything bad happening to your roof, but as the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. If you’re taking good care of your roof, then you’re going to prevent a lot of common issues that often lead to a roof insurance claim.

You don’t need to do much, or spend much time doing this. Clear out your gutters to avoid water overflow, replace missing or broken shingles, and keep an eye out for possible issues with your roof.

The sooner you correct these, the better condition your roof will be in. This will help you when it comes to claiming, as inspectors will see that you’ve taken good care of your roof and so will be more willing to pay out.

What should you be looking out for? Use the following checklist to keep an eye on your roof and get emergency repairs before they become bigger issues.

  • Missing or broken shingles
  • Leaks inside the house
  • Water spots on your ceilings
  • Dents on metal roofing, and on such items such as air conditioning units
  • Light spots inside your attic

 

2. File Your Roof Insurance Claim As Soon As Possible

If something has happened to your roof, don’t wait to see what happens next. Make that claim as soon as you can.

If damage is left for a long time, then additional damage can occur.

For example, if you have a hole in your roof, then water will get inside and start damaging the timbers.

The sooner you make a roof insurance claim, the sooner that you can get the damage repaired and avoid any other damage from happening to your roof.

 

3. Keep The Age Of Your Roof In Mind

When insuring your home, you’ll need to remember that the age of your roof will affect the payout you get.

This is because when most roofs reach 20 years of age, you’ll see that they often need replacing at that point. Insurers will often pay you the depreciated value of the roof if they need to pay out, so you’ll need to keep that in mind when you’re claiming.

Depending on the type of roof material that you have, the lifespan of your roof will differ.

 

 

4. Remember Some Events Are Unavoidable

As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to take good care of your roof to ensure that you get the payout you need if something goes wrong.

Remember though, sometimes you’re just in control of what happens. For example, if a heavy hailstorm happens and damages your roof, there’s nothing you could have done to avoid that.

Because of that, you shouldn’t have any problems getting your claim approved. If it was a natural occurrence, then you aren’t to blame, so don’t worry.

 

5. Be Clear On What Your Policy Covers

When you take out an insurance policy on your home, make sure you know what it covers.

Policies are all different, and they’ll cover different things depending on what you’re paying.

Ensure you’re buying a policy that will cover your roof properly if you need to ever need to file a roof insurance claim for it.

You don’t want to find damage on your roof, only to find out that your insurance won’t pay for it.

 

6. Take Pictures

When you’re claiming for damage, you’ll need to provide evidence that the roof is actually damaged.

Your insurers will often send out someone to inspect it, but you’ll also need to take your own pictures to send to them. Be extensive, and take pictures of everything.

Remember, it’s not just the roof itself that will have sustained damage. For example, the gutters may have sustained damage too.

You’ll also need evidence of what’s caused the damage, or the results of the damage.

If there was a storm for example, you’ll need evidence of fallen branches on the roof. Photos of increased energy bills are often a good piece of evidence too.

 

 

7. Hire A Roofing Contractor

You’ll need to hire a roofing contractor to help you show the insurance company what damage has happened to your roof.

They will come and inspect the roof themselves, and take notes on what they see.

It’s important to bring them in, as the experts they’ll spot damage that you didn’t see first time. They’ll then get together with your insurers to show them what work needs to be done to put your roof back to normal.

When picking a roofing contractor, be sure you’re picking someone who has your best interests at heart. If there are storms in your area, you may find that there are ‘storm chasers‘ that have moved in.

They follow storms across the country looking for work, and usually aren’t reputable.

These aren’t advisable as they’ll be looking out for the insurer’s interests, rather than yours. You want a roofer that has your specific needs at heart.

 

What Happens When The Insurer Says ‘Yes’

If all goes well, you should have your roof insurance claim approved by your insurers. Once that happens, you’ll be paid the money you need in two parts.

You’ll get an initial check in order to get contractors on board and get started on repairing your roof.

Once the contractors have finished, they will get in contact with the insurers to let them know. They’ll then release the rest of the money owed to you, to pay for the work.

Now you know how to get in touch with your insurers, and increase your chances of getting your claim approved.

Take good care of your roof, and you’ll be prepared in case the worst happens to your home. Take photos when there is damage, and hire a reputable roofer to take care of the inspections and repair.

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

8 Reasons You Need a Prince William County Roofing Contractor

Roofing problems rarely happen at a good time: leaks are found as it’s raining or when you’re in the process of another renovation; shingles get ripped off during a bad storm; or a seemingly basic issue inadvertently morphs into something major. This is why you need a quality Prince William County roofing contractor.

 

The Importance of a Professional Prince William County Roofing Contractor

Prince William County sees 42 inches of rain per year, more than the United States average. This county also sees a winter low around 24 degrees Fahrenheit.

Because of this, it’s extremely important to have a roof that will protect you from this heavy rainfall, and provide protection from mother nature.

For many homeowners, managing a roof repair is an exhausting experience.

A quality Prince William County roofing contractor simplifies the repair process, making it less frustrating and ensures that the project is safe.

We describe all the benefits of hiring a Prince William County professional below.

 

1. They have the expertise.

Roofing repairs are technical procedures that require specialized tools and techniques.

Professionals have gone through training to properly and safely use the tools involved, different building codes, and to use the most effective approach for your specific problem. Also, professionals have worked on numerous roofs so they’re more capable of handling any unexpected occurrences that arise.

 

2. They are fast.

Because professional roofers have acquired skills over a long period of time they are able to work faster than the average do-it-yourself homeowner. Completing the job quickly means less lost time for the homeowner. It would require more time to do the same amount of work if attempting it yourself. Speed decreases the amount of interference that the repair causing on the family.

Homeowners typically spend more time than expected completing a project. Most do-it-yourselfers account for time spent performing the actual repair work but often forget to factor in time spent renting tools, researching appropriate materials and techniques, dealing with the local building department.

 

3. Professionals put safety first.

Working on the roof is inherently dangerous because of the height and heat involved; most homeowners are simply not used to working in those conditions so accidents are more likely to happen. Professionals will see and maneuver around dangers that amateurs and do-it-yourselfers easily miss.

A professional is also less likely to make mistakes that put their safety at risk.

Not only are contractors safer when performing the work, they also include back-up safety measures that are built in to their business model. A reputable Prince William County roofing contractor is licensed and insured to work within their industry and location. Such licensing and insurance is a safety measure because it protects the homeowner from unsavory practices.

 

 

4. Quality is paramount for a contractor.

Professionals pride themselves on producing high-quality results and are dedicated to making sure their customer is satisfied. Contractors who produce sub-par results aren’t likely to stay open for very long. So, it’s really in their best interest to complete the best work possible.

Quality work encompasses more than the obvious outside appearance of the finished work. It also includes the company’s respect for your time and home, and how well they treat you as a customer.

Roofers will return phone calls and emails promptly; they will keep their work area clean and orderly so that it doesn’t disrupt everything around it. Professional roofers will be available to answer any questions regarding the job itself. They are knowledgeable in the permitting and inspection process, or other customer service issues.

 

5. Contractors are familiar with the paperwork.

Most homeowners don’t realize that much of the work done on their home requires extensive permitting with adherence to building codes and formal inspections.

This process is different for each locality, and codes are frequently updated. Acquiring everything is pretty daunting and tedious unless you’re familiar with the necessary forms, waiting periods, and requirements. Contractors are accustomed to working through the system and can do so with fewer obstacles than most homeowners would be able to.

 

6. Professionals offer security.

Reputable roofing companies will have insurance coverage that protects you and them in the event of an on-site accident or mistake.

It ensures that you aren’t liable or financially responsible for things. Some examples include a technician injury while working on the roof; their equipment damages your driveway or lawn; or a broken window during roof repair. On the other hand, homeowners who do work themselves or hire companies without a license are responsible for all the costs of accidents.

Reputable contractors also offer security in the form of licenses. License requirements vary greatly from state to state, and even city to city, but obtaining one typically entails a company proving they have the skills, insurance, and knowledge to safely, accurately, and reliably perform the services they advertise.

It’s possible for contractors to work without a license, but consumers working with them have no recourse for shoddy or incomplete work. One popular scam involves unlicensed contractors accepting large deposits for a project, beginning demolition, then never returning to the jobsite again.

 

7. Contractors have warranties.

Warranties are a guarantee that the materials and craftsmanship used in conjunction with your project will meet a certain standard of quality for a specific duration of time upon its completion. The contractor is responsible for repairing or replacing malfunctioning parts of the job during that specified time.

Let’s say you had a simple leak repaired, but a few weeks later you notice the spot is leaking again. If you completed the initial work yourself instead of hiring a Prince William County roofing contractor you’d have to spend additional time reinspecting the area. You then may have to purchase materials, and possibly do the work again.

On the other hand, a contractor’s warranty would mean that the company is responsible for any additional materials and labor associated with extra repairs.

 

 

8. Hiring a contractor isn’t as expensive as you think.

Homeowners often avoid hiring a professional because they think it will be cheaper to do the work on their own. But given the time and expense related to permitting, specialized tools, and safety provisions that’s usually not the case.

The cost of hiring a Prince William County roofing contractor is at least comparable to doing it yourself once you also consider the superior quality of work and swiftness of completion.

 

Conclusion

Your next roofing repair doesn’t have to be stressful and frustrating, no matter how inconveniently it happens.

Professional roofers offer experienced fast labor. Plus you get the peace of mind knowing that you have protection in the event of a problem.

Hiring a professional Prince William County roofing contractor saves you valuable time and money. More importantly, it saves your sanity and safety.

Categories
Blog Emergency Roof Repair Services

When Do You Need Frederick County Roof Repair?

Knowing when to replace or repair your roof is a crucial aspect of homeownership. Homeowners in Frederick County, Virginia may come across several reasons throughout the year to contact a professional specializing in Frederick County roof repair.

Typically, when the big problems arise, homeowners know that they’re going to need to call in the professionals–like when storms inflict noticeable damage, or when hail or ice leave dents, holes, or lost shingles.

But homeowners don’t always know when to call in the pros when the problems are less noticeable.

In Frederick County, Virginia, consider the following instances when you should consider calling a roofing professional so they can give your roof some much needed attention.

 

About Frederick County

First of all, it’s important to remember the weather and climate in Virginia and how it can affect the need for Frederick County roof repair.

Frederick County, located just west of Washington, D.C. and Leesburg, receive a fair range of temperatures and relatively well-defined seasons throughout the year.

The county can see remarkable snowfall and ice in the winter, as well as high heat and thunderstorms through the summer.

So it’s completely normal that rooftops in Frederick County will need regular maintenance and repair.

 

Hiring a Quality Roof Repair Contractor

Homeowners should also keep in mind a few tips when hiring a contractor for roof repair.

First, do a little online research with the contractor to get a feel for their skills, experience, and vision.

Be sure to speak with them over the phone or in person and get a quote, to avoid any financial surprises later on. Reading reviews online, especially on third party websites, can be helpful as well.

Ultimately, be sure to meet your contractor in person and make sure you’re comfortable with their work ethic and plans before giving them the greenlight to begin a job.

 

 

5 Times You Need Frederick County Roof Repair

There are five particular instances when you might need specific Frederick County roof repair.

Consider the following, and remember that roofing problems can exist whether they are noticeable from the ground or not.

 

1. Wood rot:

Wood rot is one of the worst ways your roof can become weak and damaged, and the worst part is that it’s difficult to pinpoint and almost impossible to see from the ground.

Rot can often be found along the upper crevices of siding the meet your rooftop, around chimneys, and gutters.

It weakens your roof and can lead to more leaks and further damage if it is not addressed immediately.

These sorts of problems can be best identified by a yearly or seasonal roof inspection.

 

2. Winter storm damage:

Winter storms can wreak havoc on rooftops–especially roofs that are already in bad shape or already have weak areas.

Ice and snow are very heavy, especially when frozen on rooftops for days at a time, and only serve to weaken the roof in general.

In Virginia especially, this is one of the most common reasons to need a Frederick County roof repair company.

After winter storms have passed or after the snow and ice have melted, consult with a roofing professional to address the damage and to see if your roof needs attention in the middle of winter.

You may also want to consider installing heating coils that will keep ice and snow from accumulating on your roof.

 

3. Prep for winter:

Just because your roof looks healthy through the summer and fall doesn’t mean it doesn’t need attention from a professional.

It’s a good idea to have a roofing professional come inspect your gutters, roof, and chimney before the harsh weather of winter begins to set in.

This will help you identify any potential problem areas, re-secure gutters to the side of the house, and replace any loose or cracked shingles before ice and snow puts further stress on your roofing materials.

 

 

4. Lost shingles after thunderstorms:

Thunderstorms can do a number on asphalt roofing, and are another reason to need Frederick County roof repair.

Wind, fallen tree branches, and hail damage can loosen, crack, or completely tear off asphalt shingles.

This not only leaves bare spots on the roof, but can also pave the way for more problems down the road.

If your roof is not protected by asphalt shingles, water can more easily seep in, raising the risk of wood rot and weak spots.

After severe thunderstorms, it’s crucial to inspect your roof and to contact a roofing professional if there are any identifiable problems.

 

5. New roof needed (rot, holes, etc.):

If you decide that it’s just time to stop repairing and start replacing, you’ll want to talk with a roofing repair professional.

You may discover that your roof is not in as bad of shape as you thought. If this happens, repairing will be the more economical option.

Or, you may begin to explore options for a new roof.

You may want to explore other options aside from asphalt roofing, such as metal roofing, which has many benefits and can last significantly longer than asphalt shingles.

Regardless, discussing your options with a professional will be a great first step.

 

Conclusion

To conclude, there are a number of reasons that will lead homeowners may need Frederick County roof repair.

Most of these have to do with weather or natural disasters, but you’ll also want to reach out to a professional about roof repair if your roof is already showing signs of wear and tear and needs to be replaced.

Frederick County, Virginia receives a slew of harsh weather–from snow and ice to unbearable heat–that can do quite a bit of damage to your roof.

Take the time to hire a contractor you can trust and feel comfortable working with to ensure the best result.

Further, planning a yearly or seasonal roof inspection will help stay ahead of any problems that may arise with your roof due to weather, wood rot, or wear and tear.

In general, if you are proactive and focused on taking good care of your roof, you’ll be able to address problems as they come up and ensure the best result for your roof.

Categories
Emergency Roof Repair Services

When Is It Time to Call a Loudoun County Roofing Company?

Your roof, whether it’s asphalt, metal, or otherwise, is a major investment; so you want to make sure it’s routinely taken care of, repaired, and replaced when needed. With the temperate climate of Virginia, there are many factors that can contribute to regular wear and tear on rooftops, like storms, rain, heat, and winds. Because of this, it’s important to know when it’s time to call a Loudoun County roofing company.

Luckily, there are a few important factors you can consider when trying to determine when you need to repair your roof.

Consider these factors when determining whether to let a problem go for the time being, or whether you need to consult with a Loudoun County roofing company for repair or replacement.

 

4 Reasons to Call a Loudoun County Roofing Company

Consider for a moment the beating your roof takes year after year in Loudoun County. This county isn’t subject to any extreme weather patterns throughout the year, but it still gets its fair share of each season.

Your shingles can be subject to blistering heat, winds, rain, storms, snow, and ice all in one year.

That’s a lot for any surface to handle.

Yearly and seasonal inspection is key to keeping your roof in optimal shape year after year; but you can determine the extent of any damage yourself in most cases.

Some problems may be chronic, or they may be acute–meaning some roofing problems may develop over time, and others may occur because of a one-time incident, like a powerful storm.

Likewise, some signs are more noticeable than others.

That’s why good roof ownership requires being mindful of the current state of your roof. It’s important to know what it can handle before it’s time to call in a Loudoun County roofing company.

 

1. Leaks

One of the most common roofing problems are leaks.

This is a problem that will clearly indicate to you the need for professional assistance.

You can identify leaks by inspecting your ceilings to see if there any water spots; you also may want to inspect your attic spaces and insulation for any water damage or moisture.

Leaving leaks unattended to can only cause more water damage and in turn, more expensive problems, in the future.

This is one problem that be easily repaired with the help of a Loudoun County roofing company, if it’s caught quickly.

 

 

2. Shingle Damage

Assuming you have an asphalt roof, your shingles can sustain damage in a number of different ways, each requiring a certain response:

  • Curling/buckling: If your shingles are curling at the edges, this can indicate that exposure to the elements is beginning to take its toll. Obviously, the most reasonable response is to replace the entire roof, unless it’s just a few shingles that are curling or buckling.
  • Grain loss: If you see a lot of asphalt grains in your gutters, this can indicate the early stages of a shingle problem. The grains are what protect the shingles from the elements–and if they’re beginning to wear off, your shingles will become more susceptible. This can signal that you may need a new roof sooner, rather than later.
  • Missing shingles: Missing shingles are the easiest problem to fix. This usually happens after a storm or high winds–it’s an acute problem, meaning you can address it shortly after it happens without having to replace the entire roof. However, if you don’t replace missing shingles, you’re setting yourself up for leaks and water damage in the future.

 

3. Poor-Quality Chimney Flashing

If you’re noticing leaks in your attic around your chimney, you may have poor-quality or simply worn-out chimney flashing.

This is the barrier that keeps water and the elements out of the cracks and crevices around your chimney.

If this is the case, it’s essential to call in a Loudoun County roofing company as soon as possible.

This can be fixed–and should be fixed, if the problem is caught early enough–in order to avoid root and leaks.

 

 

4. Hail Damage

Hail damage is another common roofing problem seen in temperate climates.

This damage can either completely demolish shingles and leave them with dents, cracks, and missing grains, or it can just brush the grains off the shingle.

It’s hard to tell unless you get a good look at the shingles, so it’s wise to have an inspection conducted on your roof after any substantial hail storm.

 

Considerations for Roof Repair

When you’re considering how to repair your roof and whether you want to replace it, you should consider how much your smaller repairs will add up over time.

If it becomes a sizeable problem, then repairing your roof may end up costing you more than replacing it altogether.

If you do decide to replace your roof, you should consider not roofing over an existing layer of shingles.

Building codes usually only allow you to have to layers of shingles, but the shingles will work better and last longer if they’re fastened directly to your roof deck itself.

Some roofing repairs are easy enough that you can do them on your own, provided you can safely get on your roof and off of it again.

For example, if you have a few cracked shingles, these may not need to be replaced if they’re not too terribly damaged.

You can quickly and easily fix cracked shingles by applying a coat of roofing sealant below it and to the crack itself.

This will help avoid unsightly cracked shingles, but also will avoid potential leaks or further shingle damage.

 

Conclusion

Living in Loudoun County will result in your roof experiencing all kinds of weather, all year long–from rain, to snow, to hail, to winds, and heat.

You’re bound to face roof problems, be they small or large, expensive or a fix you can do yourself.

Consider the extent of the damage and whether you should continue to repair roof problems, or whether an entire replacement would be more economically wise.

If you’re dealing with leaks or damaged shingles, addressing the problem sooner rather than later will help you avoid more severe water damage or large swaths of missing shingles.

Ideally, you should consider having a Loudoun County roofing company inspect your roof either annually or seasonally to ensure the best possible care for this essential part of your home.

Categories
Blog Emergency Roof Repair Services

9 Signs You Need a Roof Repair

If you’re like most people, your life is already filled with appointments, and there’s still a long to-do list waiting to be checked off. So when did you last have time to inspect your roof to determine if you need roof repair? Probably after the last snow that left several inches standing on it, or after the big storm littered it with branches, twigs, and leaves.

Other than those times that catch your attention, you ignore your roof and take it for granted. But your roof is one of the most important parts of your house. It protects you from the rain, snow, and the wind. It helps keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Without it, you would be left with four walls and a foundation.

Keep in mind, however, that your roof is aging just like everything else in your life, and at some point, it will wear out. But, just like the human body, some symptoms warn of impending trouble and give you an opportunity to call a roof repair specialist before it becomes an emergency.

9 Signs You Need Roof Repair

Here are nine signs that might be warning you to replace your roof before you wake up to a major leak:

You Have an Old Roof

When it’s correctly installed, an asphalt shingle roof will last between 20 and 25 years. So, if your roof is older than 20 years, there’s a good chance it’s a candidate for replacement.

Even if your roof looks fine, there may be underlying problems that you can’t see. So if your roof is older than 20 years, have it checked out by a roofing repair professional. If your roof isn’t that old, you may only need repairs to the damaged areas instead of a complete replacement.

It’s Sagging

There are many roofing issues to be concerned about, and sagging is one of them. If your roofing sags noticeably, there could be a serious structural problem. The boards under the roofing may have been exposed to moisture and are rotting. Or there might be something wrong with the foundation.

As soon as you notice that your roof is sagging, call in a roofing professional. You can prevent further damage from occurring to your home by taking action immediately after noticing a sagging roof.

Your Shingles Curl and Buckle

Shingles that are curling or buckling is another roof repair warning sign that you may need a new roof. Check the areas of your roof that get direct sunlight, and if you notice the shingles are curling at the edges and losing granules, it probably means they are past their life expectancy. There is also the possibility that the roof is defective.

Call in a roofing contractor to make the final determination whether you need a simple roof repair, or a possible replacement.

There are Leaks around Chimney Flashing

Flashing seals the seams around chimneys, skylights, and vents, so it’s another area of concern. Eventually, flashing will fail, at which point it can break or crack, leading to leaks and water damage. Most new flashing is made of metal and can easily be replaced by a professional.

But if you have an older roof, your flashing may be made of tar or cement, and you should consider replacing it with metal flashing right away.

Your Attic Leaks

The first place to look for leaks is in your attic. If you see wet or dark stains on the interior surface of your roof in the attic, especially after a driving rain, then your roof has a leak. The leak could be caused by failed flashing or inadequate shingle underlayment. Or, your roof’s surface could have suffered damage from a fallen tree limb.

Inspect your attic to see if there is daylight coming through the roof boards. And be sure to check for moisture in the insulation.

You’re Noticing Higher Energy Costs

If your home has higher than average energy bills, your roof might be one of the causes. In many cases, the problem is with the ventilation in the attic, which is causing the home’s heating and cooling system to run more often.

Homeowners are well aware of the benefits of properly insulating their homes, caulking their windows, and setting the thermostat a little lower. But they forget that a substantial amount of their home’s heat goes right through the roof.

If your roof is deteriorating, you can be sure your heating costs will increase. Replacing your roof will help to insulate your home, thereby reducing your heating expenses in the winter.

You Find Shingle Granules in the Gutters

Asphalt shingles have a layer of granules on their surface, but roofs tend to lose those granules toward the end of their life cycle, resulting in smooth shingles. Look in your gutters to see whether they are loaded up with shingle granules. Inconsistent or a darker color on some parts of the roof is another sign the granules have worn away to determine the level or roof repair you will need.

As soon as you spot bald shingles, call a roofing professional. You probably need to replace your entire roof. When the shingles shed a lot of their granules, your roofing quickly loses its usefulness.

There are Stains on Interior Ceilings and Walls

Everyone knows that water rolls downhill, so if you have a leaky roof and don’t climb into your attic often, then the leak will find its way onto the interior ceiling and down the walls. You will begin to notice drip stains, along with mold or mildew growth. This usually happens because of faulty shingle underlayment or inadequate ventilation in the attic.

You have Moss on Your Roof

Moss can look great in the woods behind your house, but on a roof, it spells trouble. Moisture can get trapped in the roofing and result in moss, mold, and fungi growth that can ruin it.

To get rid of any moss that collects in shaded corners of your roof, use a stiff brush. Then address the underlying problems right away.

Forewarned is Forearmed

Be diligent in checking your roof. Roof repair and replacement can be a significant expense, but you don’t want to add the costs of ruined drywall and carpeting from a devastating leak.

As soon as you notice any of the nine warning signs of roof problems, get on top of them before they get on top of you.

 

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

Tips From Your Rappahannock County Roofing Company

The image shows a roofer who is wearing red

Calling all Rappahannock residents: is it time for you to install a new roof? Perhaps you’re experiencing leaks and other minor roofing problems that you’re not sure how to fix. Either way, roofing can be a complex and difficult topic for homeowners. Piedmont, your Rappahannock County roofing company works tirelessly to help homeowners unearth the truth about the roof by identifying the most common problems and then evaluating the cost to repair or replace in a quote. Although a consultation with a roofing professional is best, you can become your own advocate with just a little bit of knowledge. Here are three tips from your Rappahannock County roofing company to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible.

Tips From Your Rappahannock County Roofing Company

Piedmont, your Rappahannock County roofing company shares how to determine common problems, and what can be done in order to avoid them. The first thing homeowners must do is determine if they need their roof repaired, or fully replaced. After that, homeowners can follow these tips to avoid such roofing issues, and ensure their roof is durable and will protect them throughout the year.

Do You Need Your Roof Repaired?

Would you know if your roof needed to be repaired? How can you spot the signs of imminent roofing failure? The truth is that by the time most homeowners come to a roofing specialist, the damage is already deep and extensive. Spotting problems early isn’t easy, especially without getting a closer look–that means climbing up on the roof and investigating its integrity.

If you’re not comfortable with that, you’re not alone. Many homeowners decide to call a Rappahannock County roofing company for an inspection instead.

If you do feel that you can take a look safely, note that you should never climb up on the roof alone. Always do so in pairs. A second person provides a safety check if something goes wrong.

Look for obvious signs of cracks, peeling, or chipping on roof materials. Water that runs in rivulets into cracks and then disappears is a surefire sign of a leak–after all, the water has to go somewhere. Black, green, or red mold is a sign of an organic invasion and high moisture, and may be a forerunner to mold on the underside of your roof.

An uneven, slanted, or buckled roof is an urgent problem. This condition points to structural integrity at dangerous levels. If your roof demonstrates these signs, do not climb up to take a look unless you are wearing safety gear and are absolutely sure of your steps. It may be unsafe or unstable–you could even fall through. Call a roofing professional instead.

Simple, At-Home Maintenance Tips

Most roofing companies will tell you that the best way to extend the life of your roof (whether new or old) is to maintain it properly throughout the year. While inspections are a major part of that maintenance, there are other tasks that can help as well.

In the winter, push heavy snow off the roof when it sticks. A telescoping shovel helps with this, though if your home is high enough, you may need a ladder to extend your reach.

The same is true for water if you have a flat roof; be sure that it channels away and off of the roof instead of pooling in the middle. If it does pool up, speak with a roofing contractor to evaluate drainage solutions.

Keep gutters, storm drains, and other drainage systems free of leaves and debris throughout the year. Plugs will prevent water from draining and might even cause extensive damage, too.

Check joints and bends in your roof for integrity issues twice yearly. This includes the area around chimneys, ventilation ducts, and anywhere else where the roof comes to a corner point. Look for lifting, cracking, and peeling. Shingles that begin to lift can be repasted down temporarily with glue, but be aware that this condition often points to a moisture problem that should be addressed, too.

Don’t forget to check the inside of your roof as well as the outside. Look at the ceiling in the highest point of your home (often the attic) for brown stains, cracks in the plaster, bubbles, or even walls close to the ceiling joint. These are all a sign of a leak.

Yearly Maintenance – A Must

As mentioned above, the best way to ward off roof problems and extend the life of your roof is to schedule a consultation with a roofing professional. The best time to schedule a maintenance call depends on when you purchase your home and how long it’s been, but generally, you should attempt to have your roof looked at in the spring and fall. Your contractor can detect issues early and also resolve them on the spot in many cases.

For problems that aren’t easily fixed, your Rappahannock County roofing company can write up a quote and schedule a full repair at a time that’s convenient for you. Your friendly neighborhood roofer is your best defense against sudden and serious structural collapse and expensive repairs. Make keeping your roof, whether new or old, a priority, and you’ll enjoy it for decades without the need for replacement.

From clay to solar–today’s roofing technology is robust and able to keep pace with the needs of consumers better than ever. If you’re unsure about the best way to address your roofing problems, consult with a pro. Your situation and home are both individual, and thus, your solution should be individual, too. Custom roofing installations are the best way to ensure fantastic results from your next project.

Categories
Blog Emergency Roof Repair Services

Small Roof Repairs for Skilled Do-It-Yourselfers

Of all the things that can go wrong around the house, a leaky roof is among the most severe and time-sensitive. That’s because water damage spreads quickly, even from a small leak. If you’re a skilled do-it-yourselfer, you may be able to handle these small roof repairs yourself. Here’s what you should know.

Maintaining a sound roof will always be one of the most important duties of a homeowner. Your roof is crucial for you and your family’s comfort and safety, and it keeps everything inside the house dry.

Any signs of damage and wear must be addressed immediately to maintain the integrity of the roof. You don’t want water to make its way under the shingles and rot the wood sheathing beneath. If it does, that small repair could morph into a major (and much more expensive) roof replacement.

You can take one of two directions for small roof repairs: Call a roofing contractor or tackle the work yourself. Base part of the decision on how confident you are in your DIY skills and the remainder on the difficulty of the repair.

Here are a few suggestions to help you determine if you should call a professional for small roof repairs, or if you can do it yourself.

Know When to Call the Pros for Small Roof Repairs

If your roof is more than 20 years old and many of the shingles are damaged or worn, you probably need to replace it. That’s not a job for most do-it-yourselfers, so call a professional. If on the other hand, you’re dealing with a cracked or missing shingle, this is the type of small roof repairs that a relatively handy homeowner can take on.

But even with a minor roof repair, there are things to consider before you make the final decision to climb on top of your house:

  • You Might Fall Off: Don’t laugh; broken bones aren’t funny. All it takes is one false step, and down you go.
  • It’s Hard Work: Bending and maintaining your balance is a lot harder than it sounds. If you aren’t used to that kind of work, you could end up with a sore back.
  • You Might Not Repair it Correctly: Even a slow leak could result in rotted wood or mold inside your house. Doing a repair that keeps out most of the water isn’t good enough.
  • It Might be Covered: If the leak occurred after a storm, there’s a good chance you have insurance coverage for professional repairs.
  • No Warranty: Professional roofers guarantee their work. If you’re not satisfied with your DIY repairs, you’re on your own.

A Few Words about Safety

So, you have decided to do the small roof repairs even after seeing the drawbacks. That’s fine, but before you get started, you need to think about your safety. Working on a roof is dangerous even under ideal conditions. Here are five safety measures that can ensure you complete the work without a mishap.

  1. Buy or rent a roofer’s ladder with a bracket that bridges the roof’s peak.
  2. Use a safety harness with a lifeline that’s secured to the base of a chimney or some other stable
  3. Climb to the roof on an extension ladder secured to the building in two places.
  4. Stay off the roof when it’s wet, icy, or covered with dew.
  5. Don’t walk on the roof any more than necessary—that will prevent slips and damage to the shingles.

You’re confident in your abilities, and you know how to stay safe. You’re ready to make some repairs. Just remember, it’s better to make them on a warm, dry afternoon when the shingles are supple and less likely to crack.

Fixing Curled Corners

As asphalt shingles age, their corners can curl up or down. Apply a small amount of roofing sealant ($5 for a 10-ounce tube) under the corner with a caulking gun. Weigh it down with a brick, and leave it in place for at least 24 hours. When the sealant dries, the job is done.

Repairing a Cracked Shingle

You don’t always have to replace a cracked shingle. Often you can repair it with roofing sealant. Apply a thick bead of roofing sealant under the crack, and press the shingle down. Apply another bead on top of the crack, and spread it with a putty knife.

Hide the repair by gathering the shingle granules that have washed into the gutter and sprinkling them over the sealant. No one will ever know.

Replacing a Shingle

A broken shingle is unsightly. Worse yet, it’s a leak in the making. Fortunately, this repair is not too high on the difficulty scale, so it’s a candidate for DIY small roof repairs. Try this five-step method:

  1. Start by looking around your garage or storage building for shingles that may have been left over from the last roofing work. If there are none, you’ll have to buy a bundle at the lumberyard or home improvement center. Find the closest match to the existing shingles.
  2. You’ll need a hammer, a flat pry bar, a utility knife and some 11/4 roofing nails. Each shingle was secured with four nails, but when the course above was installed, its nails also passed through the top edge of the shingles in the course below.
  3. Slide the pry bar under the shingle immediately above the damaged one and gently lift it free from the sealer strip. You’ll see the first row of nails beneath.
  4. Slip the pry bar under the damaged shingle and pry upward. After the nail pops up about 1/4 in., remove the pry bar, press the shingle down and remove the nail. Repeat this for the remaining three nails. Then push the pry bar under the shingle directly above the damaged one and remove the second row of nails the same way. After yanking all eight nails, pull out the damaged shingle.
  5. Slide the new shingle up into place and secure it with four nails.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your roof is a major expense. If you can do these simple small roof repairs properly, you can extend the life of your existing roof and forestall the expenditure on a new roof indefinitely. Just remember, safety first! And if you find that you aren’t having success with your DIY repair, call a pro immediately. Have any questions about repairing your roof? Let us know in the comments below!

Categories
Blog Residential Roofing

It is Essential to Repair or Replace Damaged Roofing Materials

One of the most important features on a building may not seem exciting, but it is essential to protect the building’s interior structures such as the wooden frame, walls, and plumbing devices. You probably never inspect a building’s rooftop unless severe weather has passed through the area, and there is a good chance that your home or business has shingles or damaged roofing materials that require repair or replacement. When only a few shingles are missing or loose on a building’s rooftop, a lot of moisture from rain, snow or ice can leak onto the underlying materials, leading to massive damage caused by mold growth or rotting wood.

Popular Types of Roofing Materials

There are several types of roofing to choose from, including:

  • Asphalt
  • Plastic
  • Metal
  • Cement fiber
  • Flagstone
  • Slate
  • Wood

One of the most popular materials is metal because of its lower price point, making it an affordable option for large commercial roofing. Replacing or fixing a roof is a complex process. It requires using a tall extension ladder or bucket truck to reach the surface. Simply replacing the topmost layer of the damaged roofing material is not always acceptable because the underlying layers provide vital protection from temperature changes and moisture.

Using Top-Quality Roofing Materials can Save Money Each Month

When a roof on a building is old and decayed it is time to replace the waterproofing and insulating layers to keep a building warmer, cooler or drier. Companies now manufacture higher quality materials that can keep a building cool during the daytime or warm during the winter. Investing in top-quality roofing materials can save money over several years by reducing your monthly utility bills. With proper installation from knowledgeable roofers, the roof is less likely to become damaged during high winds when storms occur.

How to Choose a Roofer

When choosing a roofing company, you must make sure that it has been in business for many years and talk to satisfied customers who are willing to permit you to see the roof that the company installed for them. They will also be able to tell you if you need to repair or replace your damaged roofing material.

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