Archives for May 2019

Winter can be hard on your roof. From 2000-2013, American’s claimed almost $9 million dollars in losses from hail alone! So, after the long winter months, it’s important to do some spring maintenance to keep your roof healthy for another year.

We’ve put together a list of some helpful roof maintenance tips so that you can keep your roof in great shape for many years to come! Read on to find out what they are!

1. Perform a Visual Inspection

It’s important that you go up on your roof and check to make sure things look good. If you never inspect your roof, you won’t know there is a problem until you spring a leak, and nobody wants to deal with that!

Here are a few things to keep an eye out for:

• Check the state of your shingles. Make sure you don’t spot any peeling or cracking. In some cases, you may be able to replace just a small section of damage rather than the whole roof, but only if you catch the problem early enough.
• Check your gutters. In addition to checking them for debris like leaves, check to see if there is a lot of asphalt accumulating in them. This could be a sign that your shingles are wearing out and may not be protecting your roof as well as they could be.
• Clear Debris. If you find any branches or other debris, clear it off the roof.
• Document Damage. If you find damage, take pictures. This will help with damage repair and with filing homeowners insurance claims.

It is a good idea to perform roof inspections at least once a year.

Remember to be safe. Only go out on your roof if it is dry and the slope is not too steep. Always let someone know what you’ll be doing before venturing up onto the roof, and have them check in on you.

2. Keep Your Gutters Clear

Leaves and all kinds of debris accumulate in your gutters. It’s important that you clear them out at least twice a year. Allowing them to fill up with debris will cause improper drainage which can cause damage to your roof and even the foundation of your house.

You can do it the old fashioned way, by using a ladder, gloves, and a bucket. A wet/dry vac can be a nice easy way to clear your gutters, and they sell attachments that extend your reach and have a curved end to the hose so that you can clear the gutters without the ladder.

3. That Moss Has to Go

Moss and fungus growing on your roof shingles is not a good sign. It is destructive to asphalt and wood shingles. Moss will decrease the lifespan of your roof by weakening shingles, possibly even leading to leaks.

To remove the moss, you can use a hose (not a pressure washer, you’ll damage the shingles) and a solution of 50/50 bleach and water. For detailed instructions, check out this article!

When DIY Roof Maintenance Isn’t Enough

Proper roof maintenance will help your roof last for a long time. Unfortunately, sometimes there are problems you just can’t take care of yourself. When that happens, you need professional roofers to get your roof back in shape.

We have a solid team of experienced pros who would love to assist you with your next roofing project. Contact us today for a free estimate!

There are around 10,000 severe thunderstorms in the United States each year. Depending on the storm’s severity, damage can be done to windshields, powerlines, and, of course, roofs. 

This can be highly annoying to homeowners. No one enjoys random bits of water dripping from the ceiling. 

But don’t worry! Here is a guide to help you find roofing materials that will keep the rain outside:

Asphalt Shingles

This is the most popular roof material, but make sure you choose the type that is right for your location’s weather. 

If you feel like your town gets 99% of the 10,000 severe thunderstorms, then do not choose 3 tab shingles as they are not able to withstand high winds.

Architectural shingles are perfect for stormy areas since they can take hurricane winds and are typically installed on newer home models. 

Asphalt is also cheaper than other roofing types, a characteristic which likely leads to their popularity.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are great because they help keep houses cooler in the summer and lower air conditioning costs.

They can also be made to look like other materials, such as wood, but without the increased maintenance that would come with those materials.

Metal roofs are also an eco-friendly option since they are both durable and recyclable.

However, they are a more expensive option and can be loud during bad weather. 

Wood Roofing

If you’re desiring a designer roof, wood can be a beautiful option if you want your home to have a more natural look.

For this roofing material, it’s better to live in a location with less variation in temperatures and precipitation, as it can cause your roof to wear out more quickly.  

Wood roofs also may require more maintenance and can be a more expensive option.

If you live in an area where the weather changes all the time, then this option is not for you.

However, if the cost is not a concern and you’re searching for a more natural option, then a wood roof can be a unique addition to your landscape.

Which Roofing Materials Are Right for You?

Before picking your roofing materials, first consider your area and ideal budget range.

If you’re in a dry state that doesn’t get much weather at all, then basic three tab shingles might work for you.

Have crazy weather? Then go with architectural asphalt shingles to ensure your roof stays strong. 

Think you have the hottest summers on the planet? A metal roof might be just what you need to keep cool.

Or maybe you’re just looking for something pretty and unique. Then, a wood roof may be just what you need. 

Ultimately, however, the best roof is the one installed correctly by professionals.

We can help! Whether you need a repair or a total roof redo, we are available to help you. 

Contact us on this page if you have any questions or read more about us to learn how we can help.