Neglecting your roof comes with some problems – some subtle, others serious. The following post explains how roof neglect can affect your home’s well being:

Roof Neglect 101: What Happens When You Don’t Take Care Of Your Roof

If you’re like most homeowners, the idea of roof replacement might send shivers down your spine… Roofs for houses should be inspected once or twice per year. But if you fail to inspect, repair, or replace your roof in a timely manner, little problems can quickly become much more expansive and expensive. Want to know what you can expect when you neglect your roof? Here’s the short version.

Your energy bills will climb

Over time, holes can form in your roof. If you don’t address them quickly, air will escape. This makes it much harder to heat and cool your home throughout the year. And when your HVAC system has to work harder to compensate, your energy bills will increase. Read more at Green Form…

Failing to take care of your roof can lead to high costs of emergency repairs and much higher costs when the time comes to sell your home. A neglected roof will negatively impact the value of your home.

If you are wondering how the value of your home and the state of your roof are related, the following post should help you understand it:

Increasing Your Home’s Curb Appeal and Value

Since the burst of the house market bubble a few years ago, many homeowners have been reluctant to invest in their homes at all for fear that they may lose money. While the market has seen drastic improvements in recent years it has also seen an excess of houses on the market — this means that those looking to sell their homes will have to distinguish their homes to stand out against the competition. Curb appeal is one of the most important factors to consider, as it is literally the face of your home — your roof makes up around 40% of that exterior, so to neglect a roof is to potentially miss out on prospective buyers. Read more at House Killer…

So, even if you are not planning to sell your home anytime soon, you still need to avoid the temptation to neglect your home. It still needs to look good and appealing.

Perhaps the following story of a neglected roof will help you make the commitment to regularly ensure that everything is in good shape:

Roof repairs at Spring home send honey dripping down walls

HOUSTON – A hidden bee hive has honey dripping inside a Spring home.

Realtor Latanja Lavine loves her sweet house. However, seeing honey ooze through crown molding, drip down walls, drape and pool on the living room floor, is just a headache.

“My family and I have cleaned several hours repeatedly we keep thinking it’s like a drain and it’s going to stop,” Lavine said. “I don’t know the solution. It’s been a very restless three nights, because I get up in the middle of the night and check the walls.”

Roofers found the problem. They tried to survey but could not. Too many bees swarmed.  Read more at KHOU…

Regular roof repairs and inspections would probably have revealed the problem way before it became so worrying and difficult to manage. You really do not want to gamble with the possibility of a permanently damaged roof, do you?

If you would like to create a schedule for your roof inspections and roof repairs in McClean VA, Roof.net is the company to work with. Our years of experience guarantee that you will get the best services (and the peace of mind you deserve) at unbeatable prices. Call us today.

The post Don’t Let Your Roof Suffer From Neglect appeared first on Roof.net.

The truth is that your roof is one part your home that has enjoyed the hot sun a lot less than you have. If it could, it would probably complain about the heat and say how it has suffered through the hot months. Just so you understand what it may have gone through, here is a description of how heat can damage your roof:

Damage to a shingled roof is much more noticeable than damage to commercial roofing. It is seen in the form of curling, discoloration, and cracks on the shingles themselves. The same thing is experienced with leaks getting into people’s homes, causing property damage and displacement from this type of roofing damage from extreme heat.

Good ventilation in your attic is one way in which you can help prevent the heat from building up inside of your home. This heat could cause pressure and warp the wood that the roof is made of. Having the underside of the roof properly ventilated will allow the heat to move through the attic, and not get trapped inside. Having damaged shingles is one thing, but having a damaged roof deck is a whole different ballgame when it comes to having to make repairs. Read more at Central Roofing Company…

The condition of your shingles as well as your attic will help you establish whether your roof has experienced significant heat damage.

In order to take better care of your roof, you need to know the signs revealing that your roof is not in good condition, as described in the following post:

Heat must find an escape, and will cause your shingles to blister and crack as it works its way out. The cracks will likely be around the edges while the blisters will be visible throughout the shingle. The shingles might also be crumbled and there could be a great deal of missing granules. In addition to examining the overall condition of the shingles, look in the gutter to see if there is a large amount of granules. Look closely at the shingles in the middle of the roof, as this is where the greatest amount of heat damage typically appears.

You can also look for heat damage inside your attic. The intense heat that damages roofing shingles may also cause the plywood of your roof deck to soften and warp. Look closely at the plywood to see if it is intact or is starting to fall apart. Read more at Robbins Services Inc…

As summer comes to an end, you need to make sure that everything is in good condition. You wouldn’t want a wet winter indoors, would you?

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to minimize or even completely avoid heat damage on your roof in the first place, there’s good news for you. There are some preventative measures you can take, as explained in the following post:

Take following steps annually to care for your roof;

1)     Install vapor barriers that decrease moisture

2)     Coat and seal the roof to protect against UV rays that can cause damage

3)     Paint the roof white to keep the surface cool

4)     Change the roof from asphalt to a material like tile, which is much cooler and more     reflective.

5)     Apply periodic acrylic coatings to withstand the roof from thermal shock

6)     Stay ahead of the game and maintain roof maintenance. Read more at Best Roofing…

To better take care of your roof, you need the appropriate knowledge as well as the best person for the job. Professional and experienced roofing contractors will perform a roof inspection. This will help determine the condition of your roof, and afterward advise you on the best way to go.

If you’re in Northern Virginia and are looking for a residential roofer that is experienced in roof inspection, repair and replacement in Herndon VA, call us today. We will give you the best services available at the most competitive prices.

The post Is My Roof Heat-Damaged? How To Find Out and What To Do appeared first on Roof.net.

The underlayment therefore needs to be in good condition if it is going to provide optimum protection for your roof. To better understand what your roofing underlayment is and how it works, the following post gives a comprehensive overview:

Provide Your Home with an Extra Layer of Protection with Roofing Underlayment

There’s nothing like a Florida rain, especially during storm season. To ensure your roof can survive the downpour, consider taking extra precautions, such as installing self-adhered roofing underlayment for heightened wind and leak protection.

What does it do?

Roofing underlayment provides a secondary leak barrier that binds to the decking of your home, essentially acting as an additional layer of protection in the instance your shingles blow off during severe weather conditions. If you’re experiencing heavy rain and strong winds following the loss of your shingles, the underlayment itself can keep your home safe until the storm subsides and the shingles are replaced. Read more at Tadlock Roofing…

The best way to avoid the problems associated with wet weather, whether you’re in Florida or not, is to ensure you have good underlayment.

There are different types of roofing underlayment from which to choose. The option you choose is largely dependent on your preferences as well as your budget. The following post describes the two common options:

The two most common types of underlayment used in roofing today are felt and synthetic, both materials having specific advantages and drawbacks.

Felt paper is the most commonly used underlayment with new roof installations. The main advantage of using felt paper is that it’s an inexpensive option. However, felt paper cannot be left exposed to the elements for very long before it wrinkles and traps condensation between the roof structure and the backside of the paper.

More costly underlayments include a variety of synthetics such as:

• Fiberglass
• Polyester
• Polypropylene

These roofing materials protect against water damage but also tear- and heat-resistant. Some synthetic underlayments can be left open to the elements for up to six months, in case your roofs installation is delayed for any reason. Read more at All Roofing Solutions…

The great thing about industries today is that solutions to existing challenges are always being sought. The roofing industry is no exception. As such, the challenges of cost and durability are consistently being improved.

The following post gives an explanation of one of the new products in roof underlayment you may not have heard about:

ROOFING UNDERLAYMENT JUST GOT A LOT LIGHTER

Budget constraints, labor shortages, and tight construction deadlines mean builders are always looking for products that will help them do their jobs faster, better, or with less labor.

A new roofing product from Typar does all three. Surround VR Underlayment reduces the amount and weight of material needed for roofing jobs. In fact, one roll of Surround VR covers the same area as five rolls of #30 felt, yet weighs seven times less and is 10 times stronger, the firm says. The waterproof, slip-resistant material was developed to work in nearly any roofing application, including with shingles, shakes, tile, slate, or metal roofs. Read more at Builder Online…

You may want to try using the Surround VR if you need to replace your underlayment and experience its efficient services at a lower cost.

To ensure your roof is protected, you need to invest in good underlayment. You can also have your roof inspected to ensure the underlayment is in good condition. An experienced roofing contractor will ensure you get exactly what you need. You also have all the roofing materials installed correctly.  If you’re in Loudoun, VA and are looking for a trustworthy roofing contractor, call us today!

The post Take Care Of Your Roofing Underlayment Before It’s Too Late appeared first on Roof.net.

Not only would it cause you to incur extra costs or spend a fortune in repairs, it could actually lead to the whole house being rendered inhabitable. There are a host of problems that result from leaks in the roof, regardless of how small they are. The following post describes some of them:

ROOF REPAIR: MINOR LEAKS CAN CAUSE MAJOR DAMAGE

Often times people will ignore roof leaks because they just don’t see them as a big enough threat, or they’re planning on getting a new roof in a year or two anyway. But what many people do not understand is that even a minor leak can cause some very major damage to their home. Leaky roofs are one roof repair that you definitely don’t want to ignore.

Ceiling Damage

If you have an attic, roof leaks are harder to find, and they may damage whatever belongings you have stored up there. If you don’t have an attic or the leak is really bad, it will start to damage the ceilings in your house as well. This can affect ceiling and wall paint, plaster, and even your ceiling lights and fans. Read more at Roofity…

Now that you are familiar with the adverse effects of leaks, the next thing you need to know is how to detect them since they can sometimes be hidden from your eyes.

You can do part of this investigation on your own or you may need to call in the professionals. The following post explains more on this:

Roof Leak Detection Can Be Harder than You Might Think

Leaky Roof Repair Tips: Step 1 – Finding The Leak

Counter-intuitive as this may seem, sometimes the hardest part of roof leak repair is identifying the source of the problem. Although you don’t need to be Sherlock Holmes to get the job done, some sleuthing is often required. For instance, you may see wet patches or even mold growth on your attic ceiling, but the actual leak may be far above or dozens of feet lateral from the damaged area.

Many physical features of a home are likely causes of roof leaks. Read more at Century Roof and Solar…

The structure of the roof itself may be the reason for the leak. As such, it’s important to have your roof installation done by a professional roofing contractor as this will prevent future problems.

Another way to easily determine whether your home has leaks is to take advantage of infrared technology, as explained in the post below:

How Does Infrared Roof Scanning Work?

The science of infrared scanning and technology behind it can be complex to understand. Simply put, infrared scanning is the practice of using infrared equipment to measure the heat being emitted from the surface of an object. The patterns being emitted from the surface of an object are measured and captured by infrared cameras which form the data being collected into images.

These images can then be analyzed by a trained professional to determine if there are areas which are anomalies. Anomalies may indicate areas that require further review.

Infrared scans are most often done during the early evening hours after the sun has begun to set. In order for an infrared scan to be completed, the roof surface must be dry as moisture interferes with the camera’s ability to measure surface temperatures. Read more at The Spruce…

Spring is probably the best time of the year to have your home checked for leaks. If you are in Arlington VA and are looking for roofing professionals that will give you conclusive answers concerning your roof, contact us today!

The post Here’s Why You Should Get Infrared Roof Leak Detection appeared first on Roof.net.

If, for example, you need to have a new roof installed, the factors you need to look into are different from those to be considered if you are undertaking some roof repairs. The following post describes some of the factors to consider when getting a new roof installed:

Questions to Consider Before Calculating the Cost of A New Roof

Before jumping into the nitty-gritty of our roofing cost estimator, there are a few questions you need to answer to determine an accurate roofing estimate. These answers will not only guide you through this process, but help you negotiate with potential roofers as they analyze your specific project.

Don’t worry if you don’t know the answers off the bat. Some are obvious, but others, we will go over in detail throughout this roofing price guide.Read more at ImproveNet…

The questions described in the post above will give you some idea of what will make up your roofing estimate.

When it comes to repair, there are several things that will determine the cost of your project. If you think that the estimates are too high or too low, the following post may help you understand why this is:

Type of Roof

There are many types of roofs including flat roofs, gabled roofs, shed roofs, hipped roofs, tile and mansard roofs. Roofs can be made from different materials including shingle, asphalt, concrete tile, clay tiles or metal. This is because of the fact that all materials do not cost the same per square foot.

The Size of the Roof Repair

A minor repair is only going to cost less compared to a replacement. In fact, the size of your roof and the size of repair are the biggest factors you need to consider when estimating the roof repair estimate. Roofing contractors usually quote repairs and replacement based on square feet. This means that a smaller roof repair will cost less than a larger roof repair. Read more at JD Candler Roofing…

Another major consideration that many homeowners overlook is roof maintenance. A poorly maintained roof will cost you more than one that is well maintained, as described in the post below:

So, the real question is, why repair a roof that apparently has no problems? If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right?

Umm, not so fast. Trying to determine the condition of a roof while standing on the ground or inside the home is dubious. It takes inspection both on the roof and on the underside of the roof. Maybe even in walls and other parts of the home. It takes experience to know what to look for…

The main reason to repair a roof is so you hopefully don’t have to bear the cost of replacing a roof. Minor repairs done today could cost you say $400. Let them grow into bigger problems and roof replacement just months from now means you spend 4, even 5 figures. In other words, you took the gamble and lost way more than you otherwise would have. Read more at RoofingCalc…

Never postpone repairs; they will go a long way in preventing more serious and costly problems. With that said, you need to get the right roofing contractors to do the job right. Besides, you don’t want to end up with all the right equipment but the wrong person for the job.

If you need roofing contractors in Bristow VA with the right skills and experience, do not hesitate to call us today. We will give you proper estimates and the right person for the job.

The post What Factors Are Considered When Preparing Roof Price Estimates? appeared first on Roof.net.

The factors that contribute to how long a roof will serve you range from structural to elemental. The following post describes how the roof type affects the lifespan of your roof:

THE LIFESPAN OF A ROOF

Everyone wants their roof to stay in top condition for as long as it possibly can. But there are so many factors that can affect the lifespan of your roof. Different roofs handle the environment in different ways. Below are some common types of roof and how long each of them could last for you.

GABLE ROOF

Gable roofs are among the most common and most popular roofs in the country. Their triangular designs look great and are easy to recognize, but everything has its pros and cons and these roofs are no exception. Although they look great, they’re not very good at weathering the impact of HIGH WINDS. So, if you’re living somewhere with high winds, you might want to consider a different kind of roof. Read more at Able Roof…

The type and shape of your roof will affect how it is impacted by weather, and as the post above describes, you may want to consider a specific kind of roof for a particular area. That is, of course, if you are constructing your own home. If not, you should anticipate some of the roofing concerns and be more proactive in ensuring your roof stays in good condition.

It is also important to understand that your roof is a whole system. Each segment should be in proper working condition if the entire roof is to be in good condition. The following post describes this in detail:

“Shingles are just one part of a whole roof system,” Jeff Frantz, CertainTeed Products Territory Manager for the Washington, D.C. metro area, says. “If any part of that system fails, your roof may fail. The shingles work with the underlayment, flashing and ventilation to maximize the life of your roof. Most whole roof systems using our laminate shingles are warranted for 30 years to lifetime because, with proper installation, they will last at least that long.” Read more at Long Fence and Home…

As described in the post above, the roof system consists of the ventilation, deck, shingles, ice and water shield, and drip edge. Each of these must be working well if your roof’s life expectancy is going to be realized.

Another factor that determines the lifespan of your roof, but is often underestimated, is the roofing contractor’s services. The following post describes this in detail:

The lifespan of a roof depends on many factors, including the roofing material, the overall climate of the area, how often it was maintained, as well as the knowledge and skill of the roofing contractor that maintained or installed it.

For example, the lifespan of a roof that was poorly installed in the first place due to the negligence or inexperience of the roofing contractor that installed it will have a lifespan that is significantly less than a roof that was installed correctly. Read more at Interior Painting Tips…

Poor installation and maintenance can be detrimental and cost you an entire roof replacement. To avoid this, you need qualified contractors that you are sure will do a good job. If you’re in need of trustworthy roof contractors in Aldie VA, call us today!

The post Find Out What Why Your Roof May Not Last As Long As It Should appeared first on Roof.net.

There are common issues that roofs experience caused by either internal or external factors. The following post explains some of the common roofing problems that occur and how they can be identified:

Identifying Roof Problems

Roof Problems: Learn How to Detect Common Problems

Many contractors are assigned with one difficult task to accomplish: How to identify roof problems. Here is our list of common areas on where to inspect and discover those roof problems. Although, there could be different areas that you have to investigate, these are the most repeated scenarios.

1. Weathering

Roof material deteriorates with the direct exposure to weather inclemency’s. Inorganic roofing materials are less susceptible than organic materials. Exposure to pollutants or industrial atmosphere may accelerate the decay of your roofing material. Read more at The Balance…

As highlighted in the post above, different types of roofs will demand different kinds of care. However, what is common to all is the need for maintenance and proper management of your roof.

Experienced roofing contractors can help you to do a thorough investigation to establish the state of your roof. On the other hand, there are indicators to look out that will alert you when you need to look into the state of your roof. The following post explains these warning signs:

5 Signs You are in need of roof repair

Although you don’t often think about your roof, or you try not to, there is no denying that it is one of the most important parts of your home. There are many things that can damage a roof or increase its deterioration. . Some of these reasons include storm damage, poor initial installation, and age. Read more at Mark Kaufman Roofing…

If you have not been keen about regular roof maintenance in the past, a good repair or replacement procedure may be necessary. However, you will still need to commit to regular roof maintenance practices going forward.

The following post explains some of the practices you could include in your roof maintenance regimen:

Roof Maintenance Made Easy: 4 Features All Homeowners Must Check

Few parts of a home are as important to maintain as your roof. Ignore this task, and you will inevitably end up with leaks, holes where all manner of critters can sneak in, and other problems that will seriously cramp your comfort levels underneath. So, here’s rule No. 1 of roof maintenance: Inspect your roof twice a year (typically every fall and spring), as well as after major storms, says Joan Crowe, director of technical services for the National Roofing Contractors Association in Rosemont, IL.

Another important rule? Just because it’s good to inspect your roof doesn’t mean you should climb around on it with abandon. Read more at Realtor.com…

Having your roof in the best condition takes much more than living under it. This is why you need to have reliable roofing contractors that know their job. If you are looking for roofing experts in Alexandria VA, do not hesitate to call us today.

The post How To Diagnose Roofing Problems And Manage Them Appropriately appeared first on Roof.net.

As winter melts into spring, it is not uncommon to find many homes experiencing leaky chimneys. There are several factors that predispose your chimney to leaking, as explained in the post below:

Moisture caused by leaking chimneys can start off a chain of problems that may aggravate into major issues. This can become highly expensive to repair. To prevent this, the problem should be diagnosed and repaired as soon you spot signs of the leaks. For this, you would need to have an idea about the common causes of chimney leaks. Let’s take a look at some of these here.

Uncovered Chimneys

A chimney cap or a chimney cover is an important accessory. A missing chimney cap may result in rain pouring directly into the chimney thus causing leaks. Installing a chimney cover is an extremely practical choice since this will prevent rain, debris etc. from falling into the chimney. Read more at Medium.com…

It may seem pretty obvious that a chimney cover is essential for your home. However, it is often missing, especially in new homes. Installing one will go a long way in preventing unnecessary problems in your home.

Chimney leaks, like any other leaks, can go unnoticed for a long time and end up causing water damage to your home. As such, you need to know what to look out for when it comes to checking for chimney leaks. The following post offers some useful information on this:

How to Recognize Water Leaks due to a Leaky Chimney

Recognizing the signs of a chimney leak is an important skill for any homeowner. Even the smallest water leaks can cause deterioration to the bricks and mortar of your chimney. Being aware of the signs of leakage can save you money in expensive chimney repairs as well as protecting your chimney from damage. In worst case scenarios, water deterioration can lead to the collapse of the entire structure.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America names water as the biggest enemy of masonry chimneys. The worst damage is often caused during the winter, when moisture gets into the bricks and mortar and then freezes and expands. As the freeze-thaw cycle continues, the water thaws and can cause the masonry materials to crack and break apart. Read more at Lou Curley…

The mere fact that water leaks from faulty chimneys can cause your entire house to collapse should drive you to become pro-active in ensuring your chimney is in good condition. In the event that you find a water leak, it is best to act fast and seek professional servies to repair the damage before it gets too serious.

To give you an idea of what chimney repair entails, the following post describes what you should expect when you call in the experts:

Masonry Repair & Waterproofing

Many people know that masonry is porous, but don’t give much thought to what that means in terms of the chimney. Because brick and mortar absorb water, when they’re exposed to prolonged periods of rain, sleet, and snow, especially when temperatures fluctuate, they can begin to decay and deteriorate. As this happens, more and more moisture is invited in, furthering the degradation. Damaged masonry is often to blame for chimney leaks, but we’re committed to preventing this. That’s why we provide expert tuckpointing and brick replacement services, and professional masonry waterproofing services. Read more at Jiminy Chimney…

Diagnosing the cause of the chimney leak is the first step in repairing your chimney, which is why you need an expert roofing company that can do this for you. If you are looking for professional roofers in Loudon County VA that can handle your chimney and rid you of any chimney leaks, call us today!

The post Leaky Chimneys and How To Deal With Them appeared first on Roof.net.

However, many homeowners totally ignore one important part – the gutter system, despite the fact that it makes an important contribution to the welfare of any home. The following post explains this in detail:

What do you really know about your home’s gutter system?

You never think about your gutter system unless you have a problem. And why would you? You have a busy life. But there is one thing you should always remember…

Water ruins everything.

When working properly, your gutter system diverts rainwater away from your home. When your gutters are removed, damaged or obstructed, that water must go somewhere — and, given the opportunity, water can ruin virtually any part of your home.

Why do I need a gutter system?

According to SoundHome.com, we need gutter systems “in order to help reduce water and moisture damage to our homes.” Read more at Long Fence and Home…

As indicated in the post above, your gutter system takes care of the rainwater collected on the roof. This helps to prevent the adverse effects of water damage, which is what would happen if your gutter system isn’t working as it should.

There are many benefits of having an efficient gutter system. The following post highlights some of them:

Benefits of a high quality gutter system

Learn about the benefits of high quality gutters on your home, when it is time to replace them and how the right gutter system adds value to your home.

Covered gutters protect not only your home, but you and your loved ones. With a covered gutter system, sticks and debris don’t clog your gutters – so you and your loved one’s don’t have to climb on a rickety ladder to clean them out. Gutters that drain properly also protect you and your family from standing water which eliminates pools of water for mosquitoes to breed — reducing your chance of being bitten by a disease carrying mosquitoes. Read more at ABC 10…

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia

Efficient gutters contribute to the wellbeing of both your home and your family’s health and safety. As such, you need to ensure your gutters are in good condition throughout the year.

There are new developments in gutter systems that help with maintenance so you don’t have to keep worrying about them. The following post highlights how you can ensure your gutters are protected:

GUTTER PROTECTION

Protect your existing gutters and downspouts with the most advanced gutter protection system you can have installed. No more clogs. No more gutter cleaning. We guarantee it!

Does Gutter Protection Payout?

The question most homeowners want to know is … is gutter protection worth the added cost?

If you pay someone to clean your gutters each year, then that expense goes away with a gutter protection system. If you clean your gutters yourself, then you save yourself the hassle, and for some, those expensive trips to the hospital due to falls from the roof. But, the biggest benefit and payout of a gutter system is the avoidance of erosion and drainage problems that can ruin your home’s roof, cause mold in your attic and basement, water damage to fascia and soffit, and foundation and landscape damage, adding significant repair costs in the long term. So, in most circumstances, gutter protection really is worth the money. Read more at Exovations.com…

Yes, gutter protection will sort you out both financially and in terms of efficiency. This gives you the assurance that your gutters are maintained throughout the year.

It is always best to work with roofers that can address all your roofing needs, including gutters. If you are looking for experienced roofing contractors in Fairfax County VA that can do this for you, don’t hesitate to call us today!

Featured Image: Image Credit

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Before you dismiss it as a minor part of the roof, understand that is essential lack of it would be dangerous your home’s wellbeing. The following post explains this in better detail:

Years of research and observation have shown that roof ventilation:

• Extends the life of your roof;
• Reduces energy costs;
• Minimizes indoor temperature extremes.

In cold climates, roof ventilation prevents the formation of ice dams and moisture buildup in attics. In hot climates, heat is vented to help keep the home cool and comfortable. Roof ventilation saves energy and improves air conditioning efficiency.

Let’s take a more in-depth look at how ventilation works for your home. Read more at Long Fence And Home…

Image Courtesy of Attards Metal

Your roof vent pipe is responsible for preventing ice dams and icicles from forming, thus protecting your roof against water damage.

If you are wondering what relationship your roof vent pipe has with ice dams, the following post gives an elaborate picture of what happens in winter to facilitate ice dam or icicle formation:

Venting minimizes ice dams, by keeping the roof deck cold. Most ice dams occur due to heat loss from the house. Snow has decent insulating value, up to R-2 per inch. Even with an insulated roof, enough snow pack can capture the heat escaping from the house, melting snow and leading to ice dams. Venting keeps the roof deck cold enough to prevent snow from melting, limiting ice dam formation. Read more at Fine Home Building…

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia

The coolness of the roof deck is necessary for keeping the snow from thawing. You do not want a situation in which your house experiencing “rain” and snow at the same time. This could generally lead to roof vent leaks.

Another great risk factor that can easily cause water damage during winter is roof vent leaks. This may happen due to wear and tear, as explained in the following post:

Occasionally, vent pipe leaks can occur at the collar surrounding the base of the vent pipe where it breaks through the surface of the roofing material. These collars consist of a metal base, generally made out of aluminum, and a rubber boot integrated into the top of the collar.

The collar’s job is to create a tight seal, keeping rainwater and debris from getting into your attic. Over time, through exposure to the sun and harsh weather, the rubber boot may wear out and deteriorate or split. When this occurs, rainwater can seep in between the rubber boot and the vent pipe and accumulate in your home, causing damage. If the rubber boot collar is cracked or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Read more at All Roofing Solutions…

Image Courtesy of Pixabay

As the post describes, a damaged collar of the roof vent pipe could be the culprit that allows thawing snow to get into your home.

To ensure you do not have to deal with water damage, you need to rule out any problems with your roof vent pipes. If you need a roofing contractor in Sterling VA to correct any problems you may have with your roof vent pipes, don’t hesitate to call us!

Featured Image: Image Credit

The post Learn The Important Role Of Your Roof Vent Pipe During Winter appeared first on Roof.net.

One of the many considerations you need to make when ensuring that you have a winter-proof roof is to check if you have ice and water shield (IWS). This technology is aimed at eliminating many of your winter roofing worries and is part of modern roofing systems. The following post explains more about this:

Just what is ICE and water shield? It is a type of roof underlayment used in new construction and re-roofing projects. It is commonly used in leak-prone areas near eaves and in valleys. Also, it is frequently applied in problem areas like chimneys, skylights, dormers and vent pipes. Sometimes, for the ultimate in leak protection, this special membrane is installed across the entire roof.

• A properly installed ice and water shield protects against the following:
• Ice dams
• Wind-driven rain
• Flowing water
• Seepage Read more at Brax Roofing…

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia

As the post above explains, the ice and water shield is placed below the roofing material to protect your roof and other fragile parts of the roof from leaks and seepage.

You may be wondering how the shield protects your roof from damage and how it functions in order to ensure you have a winter-proof home. The following post explains the way ice and water shield enhances your roof’s ability to keep the elements out:

How does Ice and Water Shield work?

This water proofing underlayment is made of asphalt that is modified with plastic that prevents moisture from penetrating this protective barrier. Currently, this product comes on a roll that is approximately 3’ wide.

Most underlayments are fastened, however ice and water shield is uniquely designed and it is the only underlayment that is not fastened. In fact this product has a factory applied adhesive. On the back side of this underlayment is a product similar to butcher paper that is part of the factory packaging. When ice and water shield is installed the roofer removes this wax like paper so the adhesive sealant adheres to the wood deck. Ice and water shield has to be installed directly to a clean and solid wood surface. Read more at Integrity Roofing and Painting…

Winter Damaged Roof Shingles

IWS is designed and installed as part of your roof to enhance the working of your roof thus preventing moisture from going beyond the protective layer of the roof.

For a better understanding of why it’s important, check out the following post that explains exactly what it does:

What Does IWS Do?

IWS is used in places that are prone to snow, ice buildup, and wind driven rain. The IWS seals around nails and adheres to the roof deck, eliminating voids that allow water to infiltrate the interior and cause damage. A common example is when large amounts of snow sit along the eave and create an ice dam, the snow above then melts into water and builds up behind the ice dam. The maximum amount of water buildup needed to reach nails is 5.5”. If no IWS is present when this happens, that water will start to leak in around those nails and cause interior damage. Read more at ARoofTech.com…

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Modern roofing companies incorporate IWS in their roofing systems. However, you may need to confirm with your roofing contractor whether your roof is fitted with ice and water shield. If you are looking for a professional company to do this for you in South Riding VA, don’t hesitate to call us today!

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Winter can be a threat to your beloved home if you fail to do the right things in preparation for it. The adverseness of the season calls for extra care and precision when making decisions about your house, and especially your roof. The following post explains the issues that are most often experienced during winter:

6 Common Winter Roofing Issues

Winter weather is especially hard on your roof. The snow and ice and the freezing and thawing can create several problems that may lead to costly roofing repairs if not adequately addressed.

Here are six common problems your roof may face over the winter season.

PROBLEM #1 – CONDENSATION

When warm air meets a cold surface, condensation will occur. Unfortunately, an improperly insulated attic is a prime candidate for the formation of condensation, which can lead to mold and mildew, damaging the interior structure of your home. To prevent condensation, ensure your attic is properly ventilated. Read more at Pacific West Roofing…

As the post above describes, the winter season can threaten the welfare of your roof in more ways than one. You therefore need to guard against these possible problematic issues. The earlier you can do it, the better it will be for you and your loved ones.

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Another area of concern is the shape of your roof. If you have a flat roof, you need to be aware of the possible difficulties you may experience during this season. This may even address some issues you may have unknowingly been experiencing every winter. The following post expounds more on flat roofs in winter:

Damages Snow Causes to Flat Roofs

Ponding/Bowing: As snow falls, it can accumulate on your flat roof putting unnecessary weight on the structure. This down-bearing pressure can cause the roof to bow, and result in ponding under the roof structure. Since snow falls at slow, steady speeds, large quantities of snow can fall on the roof, resulting in bowing. Ponding water on roofs not only affects the integrity of the roof materials, but can also interfere with the function of the HVAC and other electrical systems. Once water begins to pond on a flat roof, it can lead to the following problems. Read more at Roof Slope…

As the post above describes, if you have a flat roof at your business premises or at home, you need to be very careful so you don’t end up in problems that would have been easily avoided.

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Seasonal changes call for seasonal preparations to keep you from the adverse effects of the weather. Snow usually doesn’t fall all at once. Instead, there is a slow and continuous buildup of tons and tons of snow. For this reason, it is better to be on the lookout and prepare your roof for winter, as the following post describes:

5 Tips to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

An important aspect of your winter preparation is making sure that your roof is in good condition before the cold season begins. Keep your roof clean and well-maintained to prolong its life and prevent potential water damage, mold growth and other problems. Here’s what you can do to prepare your roof for winter:

1. Clear off debris from the roof. Any twigs, leaves, dirt or pine needles on your roof can damage the roof’s shingles or membrane, allowing water to infiltrate your house. Additionally, debris can cause mold or fungus to grow on the roof, which causes further deterioration. Read more at PuroClean…

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As the post above describes, pre-winter preparations can help to lengthen your roof’s life. Even during winter, you need to still check that everything is in proper working condition. This will help you identify potential problems as they develop.

If you live in South Riding VA and are looking for professionals to keep your roof in good shape, do not hesitate to call us today!!

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It can be very worrying when your skylights become faulty. Failing to address these issues could cause more trouble for you than you could imagine. One of the major skylight problems is leaks. The causes of skylight leaks can be structural, and the following post explains how this comes about:

So, are leaky skylights really a problem?

There’s no denying that, in the early days of rooflight design, leaking could be a problem.

It’s not hard to see why: like any kind of window, skylights need to be fitted perfectly: they need to slot right into the space made in your home’s exterior and then sealed using the correct materials.

In that sense, there are a few things that can go wrong:

• The aperture for the light might be cut too large for a specific pane size
• Vice-versa, the pane may be cut slightly too small for an existing aperture. Read more at SunSquare…

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia

When you notice that your skylights are leaking, the first thing you need to check is its fitting, as described in the post above. If it is found that you have a structural problem, you may need to look into that and get it repaired.

You may discover that your skylights don’t have structural issues, and that is good news. However, there are other causes of skylight leaks that you need to address. The following post highlights how you can identify where the leak is coming from:

Finding the Leak

Diagnosing the cause of the leak is the first step in repairing a skylight. Many leaks are caused by improper installation. You can inspect the skylight yourself if you’re comfortable climbing a ladder. Here’s an overview of things that can cause a skylight to leak.

Condensation: In some cases moisture is caused by condensation rather than a leak. When water collects on the inside of the window, it may drip. Condensation happens in bathrooms, kitchens, greenhouses or anywhere that’s humid. Using your bathroom or kitchen fan will limit condensation.

The window is open: Although this falls into the category of the obvious, double check that the skylight is completely closed before assuming it need a repair. Read more at Warner Roofing Inc…

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As the post describes, you may actually find that it is not your skylight that has a problem, but other factors. You should therefore carry out a thorough investigation to determine that your repair efforts are applied in the right place, rather than getting a whole new set of skylights and then discover that the leak still persists.

Some causes of skylight leaks will require that you call in the professionals. However, it could also be caused by condensation. If this is the case, you can handle the situation in the following way:

Dear Ken: We have a skylight in the master bathroom that leaks condensation. Is there anything we can do, or do we have to eliminate it altogether? – Roger

Answer: Water vapor from the shower likely is condensing on the cold lens of the skylight. But there is a way to isolate the skylight that will stop the drip while also improving the skylight’s aesthetics and energy efficiency. Using some ordinary pine door casing, create a “picture frame” around the ceiling opening of the skylight well. Then cut a translucent plastic ceiling panel – like you see in office light fixtures – to rest on the edge you created with the wood trim. Read more at Gazette.com…

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For advice on how to handle your leaky skylights, or any roof repair issues in Lake Ridge VA, don’t hesitate to call us today!

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Even if you will still hire a roofer to handle your roofing project, it helps to know the roofing mistakes that contractors should avoid. This way you can supervise the project and ensure that it is done right. The following article looks at some common roofing mistakes that should be avoided.

Avoid These Rookie Roofing Mistakes

Improper nailing, lack of leak barrier, insufficient attic ventilation, valley problems – all these are commonly encountered roofing problems.

Replacing a roof is not an easy job, especially if you’re doing it for the first time and have no prior experience. Getting the maximum lifespan out of your new roof comes down to both materials and quality and the crew applying them.

Make sure that you make the right decision and avoid these mistakes to get the best quality roof that will last for years… Read full post at Dallas Ft Worth Roofer…

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Given that the roof is out of sight, most times it is neglected and not given proper attention. While most roofing materials have an average lifespan of about 15 to 20 years, roof maintenance is still crucial.

The roof acts as the first line of defense against harsh weather elements. In light of this, it needs proper care and regular inspection. The following post details mistakes that homeowners make when handling roofing projects:

Avoiding the Common Mistakes in Roofing

Here we’ll go through, in order, the most common mistakes made by homeowners when faced with a roofing repair or replacement. We’ll also include, of course, how to avoid these mistakes.

Taking on a DIY Roofing Project

When a homeowner realizes that their roof needs replacement or repair, often their first thought is to tackle the job themselves. While many jobs around the house can be successfully handled on a DIY basis, roofing is generally not one of them. Roofing isn’t merely applying tar and shingles; many factors go into installing a quality roof, and the average homeowner just isn’t familiar with most of these factors. Read full post at Trusted Pros…

Image Courtesy of Gary Stein

Once you have understood the common roofing mistakes that are made by roofers and homeowners, you should now look for a seasoned contractor. Experience is everything in understanding some of these common mistakes and how to avoid them.

It is ill advised to wait until there is an emergency so that you can look for a contractor. If you wait until it is too late, high chances are that you will hire an amateur. The following post takes in an in-depth look at mistakes that should be avoided when hiring a roofing contractor.

4 Rookie Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Commercial Roofing Contractor

When your roof begins to show signs of wear and tear, it’s time to call roofing experts. Although all commercial roofing contractors in Dallas, and elsewhere claim to be the best, it is important to find one that can deliver you optimum value for your investment. Hiring a rookie can cause more harm than good, as the final cost can easily surpass your estimate. Moreover, substandard workmanship may result in the need to install a new roof, sooner than it should.

To help ensure it doesn’t happen with you, we discuss four fatal mistakes to void, when it comes to selecting a roofing contractor. Read full post at Medium.com…

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Handling roofing projects requires expertise and professionalism. Our team of seasoned contractors is on standby to help you deal with all your roof repairs in Lorton VA. Contact us today.

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Roof inspection and maintenance is crucial. You can increase the life of your roof through proper inspection and maintenance. Roof troubleshooting is particularly vital in identifying problematic areas. The following article sheds more light on this:

Preventing Common Rooftop Problems by Focusing on Traditional Trouble Spots

Rooftops of institutional and commercial facilities suffer from the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality more than any other building component. That view of these vital systems lasts only until a problem occurs — often at the worst possible time in the worst possible location.

For maintenance and engineering managers, the challenge is to avoid this mentality and take a proactive approach to monitoring the condition of roofing systems and understanding the impact of rooftop activity. Read full post on Facilities Net…

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There are particular roofing problems that are common and can easily be identified. There are also certain types of roofs that will have specific problems. It is important for every homeowner to understand his or her roof and the potential problems that are likely to occur. Knowing exactly what to look out for in your roof helps you to seek professional roof repair before the problem escalates. The following post delves into the most troublesome roofing issues based on the roofing material.

Roofing Problem Areas: The Troublesome 10%

Facilities maintenance issues can have a major impact on productivity in both industrial and commercial environments, with something as small as a leaking roof causing significant disruption and downtime. Belzona understands the importance of protecting roofs and how troublesome the smallest of roofing problems can be. In actual fact, through all our years of experience, we have identified that 90% of the problems we are presented with today will arise from a mere 10% of the roof’s total area. This post looks at which roof types and roof areas are the most susceptible to damage, how roofing problems arise and how they can be categorized. Read full post at Belzona.com…

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The need for maintenance goes beyond extending your roof life. Maintenance and inspection serve a crucial purpose in protecting your family and property. You need to understand key aspects of roofing maintenance so that you know what to expect from your roofing contractor.

Additionally, you need to have a roofing maintenance program – something you can design with your roofing expert. This ensures your roof is not neglected, especially before harsh weather seasons. The following post takes an in-depth look at roof maintenance.

Keys to Roofing Maintenance

For too many FMs, roofs are a prime example of “out of sight, out of mind.” But maintenance is vitally important if you want to keep the rest of your building in good shape.

Don’t make emergency spending for roof repairs a habit. Use your budget wisely and perform inspections and preventive repairs to avoid big expenditures. Get a handle on roof maintenance with this guide to keeping your roof in good health.

Why Maintenance Matters

Regular roof inspection and maintenance helps you save money, time and headaches in four ways. Read full post on Buildings.com…

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Roofing requires professional care and expertise for longevity and good service. If you are looking for experts to handle all your roofing inspections and repairs in Herndon VA, please contact us today.

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