Month: March 2023

Roofing

Types of Roofing

Mary Ford

Roofing is the uppermost covering of a building. This includes all constructions and structures required to support it on the ground or on uprights, providing protection against rain, sun, snow, extreme temperature, etc.

Roofing

Roofs come in many shapes and styles depending on the area, climate, and other factors. They may be covered with a variety of materials, such as asphalt shingles, clay tiles, slate tiles, wooden shakes, ceramic tiles, and metal roofs.

Slate roofing has long been the choice of architects and builders for its beauty, durability, and longevity. This roofing material is naturally sourced and has been used for centuries, making it an environmentally friendly option that can enhance your home’s value while offering you and your family protection from the elements.

It is important to select a high-quality slate for your roof. Many slate roofs are nailed with hot-dipped galvanized nails, which are not only strong and durable but also long-lasting. Some roofers prefer to use square-cut iron nails, but these can fail in just a few years.

There are several different types of slate available, depending on the mineral composition of the stone. Some contain more hematite and purple highlights, while others have a greener color. The colors of natural slate are determined by the amount of hematite, chlorite, and carbon in the rock.

Another benefit of slate is that it does not crack like other roofing materials. This allows it to withstand extreme weather and protects your home from wind, hail, and fire.

Slate is also a highly effective insulator, which can reduce your energy bill and keep your home more comfortable in the summer months. In addition, slate is completely fireproof, which can be a major advantage in the event of a house fire.

Lastly, slate is also a great choice for those who are looking to increase their home’s resale value. It can add a distinct look to your property and will increase its curb appeal.

While slate can be costly, it is the best option for those who want a long-lasting, beautiful roof. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly options on the market.

A good rule of thumb is that slate will last for at least 100 years if installed properly and maintained regularly. However, this is dependent on a variety of factors, including the type of slate used, the slope of your roof, and previous maintenance.

Unfortunately, bad repairs can lead to a slate roof failing prematurely. These repairs usually involve replacing the wrong type of slate, sloping the roof too low, or installing face nails through overlying slates. These are just a few of the things that can cause a roof to degrade quickly, so be sure to hire a professional to take care of any issues that may arise.

Clay roofing is a classic roofing material that has been used around the world for centuries. It is known for its durability and is resistant to rot, insects, and extreme weather conditions. It can also be easily cleaned and is fireproof.

It is made from different types of clay that are mined from the earth. These clays are crushed, processed, and then formed into tiles, which can then be dried and glazed. The resulting tiles are durable and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

They can be laid on flat or pitched roofs, depending on the type of roof that is being installed. However, a strong underlay is essential for any type of tile roof to be successful.

Ceramic tiles are another popular roofing option that can be made from a variety of materials. They are typically glazed and are available in a range of colors, shapes, and styles. They are a great choice for many homeowners because they are long-lasting and require little maintenance.

These roofs are also extremely durable, allowing them to last for decades without wearing out or fading. They are also fireproof and can withstand extreme temperatures.

They are very lightweight, which makes them a good choice for those who want a low-maintenance roofing option that is aesthetically appealing to the eye. They are also a great option for homeowners who want a roof that is environmentally friendly.

Chimney

Chimney Repair: What to Look for in a Chimney

Emily McGee

The chimney is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. It’s exposed to all sorts of weather elements, like rain and ice.

Chimney Repair

This is why it’s important to have your chimney inspected and repaired on a regular basis. It will save you from major damage later on and also prevent a potential chimney fire.

A cracked clay tile flue liner can be a dangerous problem that needs to be repaired as soon as possible. This issue can lead to dangerous gas leakage, allowing carbon monoxide to enter your home and deadly heat transfer to the surrounding combustibles, increasing the risk of a house fire.

Cracked chimney liners are a common chimney problem that often requires relining to fix. This process is an invasive but safe and affordable procedure that is typically performed by an experienced chimney sweep.

Once the chimney is lined, it will regulate the amount of heat transferred from your fireplace to your home while also protecting the masonry work from damage and reducing your energy bills. Chimney liners come in a variety of materials and are designed to meet the unique requirements of each home.

The deterioration caused by moisture, acidic flue gases, and heat can cause the mortar joints to break down and the tiles to crack and split. These small cracks can create creosote buildup and increase the risk of a house fire.

The most effective way to repair a cracked clay tile flue liner is to have the entire chimney lined or relined. A professional chimney sweep can remove the damaged clay tile liners and replace them with new ones, smoothing out the chimney with a layer of new mortar.

A chimney crown is a concrete slab or metal plate that sits on top of the highest bricks in a chimney and stops water from seeping through the mortar joints of your chimney. It also hangs over the edge of the chimney, allowing water to run down onto the roof instead of down the joint between your chimney and your home.

The deterioration of a chimney crown can lead to serious issues, including structural failure and water damage to your home. The crown can also become a fire hazard when it’s cracked or damaged.

To repair a cracked chimney crown, first you need to remove all loose debris and mold from the surface. A stiff wire brush will help you to do this. Next, you will need to apply duct tape around the flue tiles about 1 inch above the crown. You will need to also tape around each of the vertical brick joints.

Once the crown is clean and dry, you can begin to make repairs to the cracks in the cement forming the chimney crown. Use a high-quality silicone or acrylic caulk to fill in any cracks.

For larger cracks, fill them with a strong-bonding concrete patching compound. You can also use a spray bottle to mist the patching material so that it can be spread evenly and easily.

The kind of repairs needed for a cracked chimney crown will depend on how severe the damage is. Small cracks should be filled and sealed, while more significant damage may require a complete replacement of the crown.

When a chimney leaks, the first thing to look for is flashing damage. It is a metal fitting that is installed where the chimney meets the roofline, and it creates a watertight seal to prevent leaks. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain this element of the home to ensure it continues to work properly and doesn’t deteriorate.

Chimney flashing can be made of a variety of materials, including copper, aluminum, and PVC. It is typically a two-layer system consisting of step flashing and counter flashing.

The first layer is a step flashing that is designed to go in between the bricks of a chimney and bend up to cover the top of the shingles around it. The second layer is the counter flashing, which bends down and into the mortar joints around the chimney.