Tag: roof cleaning

Roofing Services

The Benefits of Roofing

Anthony Peralez

A roof’s basic function is to shield a structure from rain, snow, sunlight, and extreme temperatures. But it’s also a source of beauty, comfort, and energy efficiency.

Roofing

From glazed ceramic tiles to textured concrete, many stylish options add curb appeal. And some roofing materials, like slate, are long-lasting and durable. Contact Red Stick Roofing Of Louisiana for professional help.

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home. It protects you and your family from wind, rain, hail, snow, extreme temperatures, and other elements.

When your roofing isn’t doing its job, it can cause water damage to the interior of your home. This can lead to mold, mildew, and rot, which directly affects the integrity of your house’s foundation. This is a problem that can cost you a lot of money and can put your family at risk of health issues.

A well-functioning roof also helps to prevent falling tree branches and debris from entering your home. This is particularly true in Florida, where hurricanes can bring high winds that can pick up and carry debris from a long distance. A new roof can help you avoid the potential mess and headache that comes with repairing or replacing debris that falls on your home during a storm. It can also keep your children safe from tripping and injuring themselves on sharp items that may be lying around. This is a reason that having your children stay at Grandma’s while the roofing company is working is a smart move.

Keeps Your Attic Cool

The attic is one of the hardest places in your home to keep cool. It’s a space that receives heat directly from the sun and can become extremely hot in summer. This heat can affect the rest of your house and raise living room and bedroom temperatures. It can also damage items stored in the attic. There are a few ways to help keep your attic cool, such as installing a radiant barrier, getting new insulation, using ceiling fans, and proper ventilation.

Insulation is the most effective way to keep your attic cool. You can get attic insulation with a high R-value that prevents the transfer of heat to the rest of your home. A roofing professional can advise on the best insulation for your home.

Another way to prevent heat from entering your attic is by ensuring that air doesn’t escape through cracks and holes. These gaps can be caused by recessed lighting, plumbing & wiring holes, dropped ceilings, and slanted roofs. You can seal these gaps with caulk and foam.

Lastly, you can use attic vents to let hot air out and pull in cooler air. There are a few different kinds of attic vents, including static, wind powered, and eclectic. Ideally, you want fans to be pointing out of the attic’s peak so that they can push out as much hot air as possible while pulling in cooler air.

If you want to go a step further, consider switching to a light-colored shingle that will reflect the sun’s heat instead of absorbing it. Not only will this save you money by lowering your air conditioning bills, but it can extend the life of your roof and possibly qualify you for federal tax credits. It will also keep your living spaces comfortable and safe by preventing extreme attic temperatures that cause melting of the shingles, excessive humidity, mold, and higher utility bills. Investing in a new roof, attic insulation, and proper ventilation are great ways to ensure that your attic stays cool all summer. Contact a roofing professional today to get started.

Keeps Your Family Warm

The roof of a home may take the brunt of many environmental insults: hail, rain, snow, bitter cold, wind, intense sunlight, extreme temperature changes. A sturdy, weathertight roof keeps your family protected from the elements. But, it also helps keep moisture from seeping into the house and causing mold and other harmful substances. In addition, a new, sturdy roof can help you save money on heating bills in the winter. An updated roof that can withstand the elements beautifully year after year is a great investment for any homeowner.

If your roof is old and worn, contact us to learn more about reroofing.

Adds Curb Appeal

A new roof can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. It’s a beautiful addition to the exterior of your home, and it can also increase its value when you choose the right roofing materials, colors, styles, upgraded features, maintenance, and professional installation.

Curb appeal is important because it creates a first impression that will influence whether potential buyers take the time to look inside your home or drive away. Studies have shown that a person makes a decision to purchase a home within 7-10 seconds of arriving at the property. If the exterior looks run down and neglected, they may never stop to see if it has what they want in a home. Having great curb appeal can help your home sell more quickly and at a higher price.

Many homeowners focus on their landscaping and exterior paint color when trying to enhance their home’s curb appeal. However, one of the most underrated aspects of your home that can dramatically impact its curb appeal is your roof. If your roof doesn’t complement the style of your house, it can negatively affect its overall appearance. It is also important that your roof be in good condition to ensure it will protect your home from the elements.

Fortunately, there are a variety of roof types that you can choose from that will compliment the style of your home. Wood shakes and shingles are a classic, but you can also choose from asphalt shingles, clay tile, or metal roofs to match your home’s style. You can even go for a bolder statement and get a colored roof to add a pop of color to your home’s exterior.

Roofing Services

Why Gutter Cleaning Is Important

Emily McGee

Gutters are designed to funnel water, dirt, and debris away from your building. If left clogged, gutters can flood your foundation, cause structural damage, and reduce the value of your building.

Gutter cleaning requires ladder work that can be dangerous if not done properly. This is why many homeowners choose to hire a professional gutter cleaner. For more information visit Roof Cleaning MT Pleasant

Clogged gutters will cause water and debris to overflow from the sides of your home, potentially splashing onto walls and windows. If this happens frequently, moisture can seep underneath surfaces, causing drywall to rot and paint to chip. Over time, this can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. Keeping your gutters clean is the best way to avoid this problem.

Gutter clogging is most common during autumn when leaves fall and block water flow. However, it can happen at any time of year if your gutters need to be regularly cleaned or if you have a lot of trees nearby. If you notice overflowing gutters, it’s important to clean them as soon as possible.

While climbing a ladder to unclog a downspout might sound like a bad idea, it’s quite straightforward if you prepare yourself beforehand. First, you’ll want to cut off the bottom of a bucket to have an empty bucket with a handle. Next, you’ll want to attach a garden hose with a sprayer to the top of your downspout and use it to wash away the dirt and debris accumulated in your gutter.

Once you’ve loosened the clog with your hose, it should be relatively easy to scoop it out and dump it into your trash bag. If your downspout is still clogged, try feeding a drum drill through it to break up the clog. Alternatively, you could also use a power washer to flush out your gutters.

If left unchecked, a clogged gutter can eventually lead to foundation damage and rotting roof timbers. This is because the water that’s supposed to carry away all of the debris from the gutter will stay in the gutter and overflow when it rains.

Another issue from clogged gutters is mold and mildew growth inside your house. Standing water in your gutters can also provide mosquitoes, frogs, and other pests with a breeding paradise. As a result, they’re more likely to make their way into your home, where they can damage furniture and flooring and pose a health hazard to your family.

Gutters are designed to collect rainwater from the roof and carry it away from the foundation of your home through downspouts. When your gutters are clogged, it can cause water to overflow and seep into or down the sides of your home. Over time, this can lead to rot, mold, and other structural problems. In addition, overflowing gutters can also wash away landscaping and other features of your yard. Regular gutter cleaning can help prevent these issues and protect your home from damage.

Cleaning your gutters is a messy, dirty job that requires spending a significant amount of time perched precariously on a ladder. It’s best to hire a professional if you need the proper equipment or are uncomfortable working at heights. The pros use various tools to do the job quickly and efficiently, including pro gutter vacuums, trowels, and power washers. They also know the right way to approach the task of climbing on a ladder to access hard-to-reach areas.

To clean your gutters properly:

  1. Remove large debris like fallen branches, leaves, and twigs.
  2. Scrape off dirt, algae, and moss using a trowel or hand-held gardening tool. You can also flush out your gutters using a garden hose to wash away the remaining debris.
  3. Start at one end of the gutter and work your way toward the downspout, making sure to clear out any clogs along the way.

It’s important to wear protective gear when cleaning your gutters, including a sturdy pair of gloves and safety goggles. The rotting leaves of bird, pigeon, and squirrel droppings can be laced with bacteria and the metal shards that litter gutters can poke or tear your skin. Gloves made of thick leather or suede are a better choice than cotton or thin rubber, and they can also prevent cuts from a ladder.

Gutter cleaning is a crucial step in keeping your home safe and healthy, but it can be a frustrating and dangerous project if you need the right equipment or procedure. By following a few simple tips, you can make the process much faster and easier.

Leaky gutters are more than just annoying; and they can also lead to serious damage. Over time, leaky gutters can cause soil erosion and crack your foundation. They can also damage your roof and soffit and lead to water stains inside your home. If you have a leaky gutter, it’s important to address it immediately.

Leaks can be caused by blockages or cracked or damaged seals. Clogged gutters can easily be solved by cleaning them. But if a broken seal or a crack causes the leaking, you must repair it.

Most leaky gutters can be repaired with waterproof sealant or caulking. If the leak is in a joint or seam, you may need to disassemble the gutter sections and clean the area before sealing it. A plastic scouring pad and rubbing alcohol are good tools for this job. You’ll want to scrub the area and wipe it down thoroughly to ensure it’s completely dry. This is important to ensure that the new caulk or sealant will adhere properly.

Another common cause of gutter leaks is loose or missing end caps. These metal covers are designed to cover the open ends of your gutters and keep water in. Over time, the rubber or caulk that holds them in place can degrade and leak. If this is the case, you can replace the old end cap with a new one with a good seal.

Gutters that are sagging can also leak. To check for this, grab a ladder and access your gutters. Check the front and back of the gutters for dents or drooping areas. If you notice any, you can add, move, or adjust the structural hangers to bring them back to level.

If your gutters leak because of holes or cracked caulking, you can fix this with silicone. Make sure that the gutters are completely clean and dry before you apply the silicone. Scrub the area with a plastic scouring pad and then wipe it down with rubbing or denatured alcohol. After the area is completely dry, you can apply a bead of silicone to the joint or seam. Be sure to use high-quality silicone for exterior use and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Clogged gutters often overflow, leaving behind a sticky film that can stain your roof and walls. A good cleaning solution is a mixture of white vinegar and water. Apply this to a brush and scrub your gutters. The mixture will break down the stains and deodorize your gutters as well. This is a great way to clean your gutters without spending much on expensive chemicals.

To make your job easier:

  1. Use a gutter scoop to remove the larger debris from the top of your gutters. This will allow you to remain safely on the ladder.
  2. After the bulky materials have been removed, use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to wash away smaller debris from your gutters.
  3. Aim the nozzle toward the downspout and continue spraying as you work to push debris into the downspout, which will help prevent clogs.

If you prefer not to climb a ladder, purchase gutter cleaning tools attached to an extension pole. These can be found at many hardware stores and are great for cleaning the gutters from the ground. They usually have a curved end that fits into the gutter to blow debris out of the gutters.

Gutter cleaning is a necessary chore that protects your home from serious damage. It’s important to plan and do it regularly to minimize the need for costly repairs. Gutter guards can also reduce your need for gutter cleaning by keeping debris from entering your gutters in the first place.

When cleaning your gutters, always take the proper safety precautions. It’s a good idea to have someone nearby to help you with the ladder and pass your tools. Make sure you’re using a sturdy ladder and that it’s stable on the ground. You should wear non-slip footwear, gloves, and eye protection when working on a ladder to prevent slips and falls. Always be careful when walking on the roof, and try to do it in the late morning or early afternoon. It’s also a good idea to walk on the ground rather than climb up and down the ladder all day.

Roofing Services

What You Should Know About Roof Repair

Emily McGee

Leaking roofs are a serious problem that will lead to water damage if left untreated. These issues are often the result of underlying problems and can be expensive to repair.

Roof Repair

A professional at Roof Repair NJ can help you identify leaking roofs and fix them before they become an emergency. There are several factors to consider when hiring a contractor for roof repair.

The cost of roof repair depends on the type and extent of damage and whether any additional repairs are required. For example, a hole in the roof can be patched relatively cheaply, but leaks or more extensive structural damage may require substantial replacement and renovation work. The age of the roof and the roofing material are also factors in the overall price of repairs. If you have homeowners insurance, it may cover some or all of the costs.

Minor surface repairs are relatively inexpensive and easy for a professional to perform, such as replacing missing or damaged shingles. Cracks and small holes can often be fixed with sealant without disturbing the underlying structure of the roof. Repairing vent boots, which are rubber covers that slide over pipes that protrude from the roof, is another common minor repair; these can be replaced for a low cost. The cost of chimney flashing repair, roof valley repair, and rafter tail repair tends to be slightly higher, but still in the lower range of repairs.

Major repairs require more expertise and specialized materials and can therefore be more expensive. Some examples include repairing or replacing the dormer (a small roof that juts out from an angled wall and features a window), eaves repair, skylight replacement or repair, and gutter replacement or repair. Other examples include any repairs that involve major electrical, plumbing, or HVAC work and the fixing of safety hazards.

A professional roofer will be able to determine the best course of action for any damage to your roof, including whether it is better to replace or repair it. They can also advise you on any potential insurance claims and help you obtain quotes for the work. When choosing a roofing contractor, check their credentials, insurance, and licenses. Look at customer reviews on Yelp, TrustPilot, or Google Reviews and ask about any guarantees or warranties.

It’s a good idea to perform a ground-level inspection after significant storms or other events that could damage your roof. This will help you spot any problems that need to be repaired before they get worse. If you can’t do this, consider hiring a professional to inspect your roof on a regular basis.

Materials

Roof repair materials are essential to repairing leaky roofs and maintaining the integrity of your home’s structural features. These materials include shingles, flashing, underlayment, roofing membranes, and roof sealants. Depending on the type of roof and its structure, some repair materials are more difficult to work with than others. Additionally, some materials are more expensive than others. The roof’s pitch and design also affect the cost of repairs.

Roofers use a variety of tools to perform roof repair. Ladders, ladder stands, and scaffolds are common for accessing the roof. Other tools include a utility knife, a hammer, crowbars, flathead and phillips screwdrivers, and a caulking gun. A crowbar is one of the quickest ways to remove a nail that’s stuck in the shingle and a utility knife is useful for cutting shingles. Roofing nails should be replaced with new ones after a repair to prevent them from rusting and damaging the wood below them.

The first thing you need to do to fix a leaky roof is find the source of the leak. This can be done by examining the roof deck from the attic or looking for soft spots in the shingle or roof sheathing. If you discover any soft spots or rotted wood, replace it with plywood or oriented strand board (OSB).

Once the problem is determined, you can proceed with the actual repair. Roofers use flashing to keep water from getting into places where it shouldn’t be, such as around chimneys, vents, and skylights. They also put flashing along the edges of a roof and where it meets the walls of your house. Flashing can be made of copper, galvanized steel, or aluminum.

When repairing flashing, you’ll need to apply a roof sealant. This product seals the surface of the flashing and ensures a water-tight seal. It should be applied evenly, with no big beads or lumps. Also, a sealant shouldn’t be applied too thick, as this can divert rainwater or cause it to pool in certain areas.

Time

If you are having an emergency repair — the roof has severe physical damage, such as a large hole or leaking areas — it is important that the work is done as quickly as possible. Otherwise, further damage or injury may occur. Before the work starts, it is a good idea to remove any fragile decorations from the walls. Hammering and other construction noises can disturb pets and kids, so it’s best to have them stay at a friend’s house or a kennel service for the duration of the project. This also helps protect them from stepping on any stray nails.

Insurance

The roof is one of the most expensive parts of a home to repair or replace. The good news is that the majority of homeowners insurance agencies will cover some portion of this cost if the damage comes from a covered peril, such as severe weather or falling objects. But there are some things you should know before contacting your insurance company to file a claim.

First, check your homeowners policy to see if it provides any roof coverage. Then take pictures of any signs of roof damage before you contact your insurance company. Many policies provide either replacement or repair coverage, and it’s important to document the extent of the damage so that your claim can be approved.

Once you submit your claim, the insurance agency will assess the damage and determine whether to reimburse you for the repairs or to pay to replace the roof entirely. The amount that you receive will be less your homeowners insurance deductible, so it’s important to choose the lowest deductible possible when purchasing your policy.

Some policies may also differentiate between “replacement” coverage and “actual cash value” coverage. The former will reimburse you for the full price to repair your roof, while the latter will only pay for a roof that is newer and in excellent condition. It’s important to understand how this works so that you can maximize the benefits of your homeowners insurance policy.

Aside from homeowners insurance, there are other ways that you can secure financing for your roof repair. For instance, there are government and private entities that offer free grants to low-income families and senior citizens to help them afford a roof repair or replacement. You can also look for private loans that will allow you to borrow money upfront and then pay it back over the course of several months or years.

Another way that you can secure funding for your roof repair project is by working with a roofing contractor that offers workers’ compensation insurance and general liability insurance. This will protect you from being sued if one of your employees gets injured on the job or if they accidentally cause property destruction.

Roof Services

Types of Residential Roofing

Anthony Peralez

Residential roofs are different from commercial ones, requiring different materials and designs. Choosing the right roofing for your home can be difficult. Many options are available to homeowners, such as asphalt shingles, metal, tile and wood shakes. A well-chosen roof can protect a home from the elements and enhance its design. For professional roofing expertise, consult Roofing Columbus GA.

Roofing

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing covering in American homes. These budget-friendly shingles are easy to install and offer homeowners an extensive range of colors, styles, and sizes to match their vision for their home. They are a popular choice as they provide an attractive aesthetic and a durable roof.

Although they are not as long-lasting as other types of roofing materials, asphalt shingles can hold up well against most weather conditions. However, it is important to understand regional weather conditions when weighing cost and performance when choosing the best residential roofing material for your home.

An asphalt shingle is comprised of four different components, each performing a specific function for your home’s roof:

Base Mat

The base of the shingle consists of either an organic or fiberglass substrate that is coated with an asphalt-saturated material to ensure waterproofing. This coating is usually applied to both sides of the shingle before it is covered with ceramic granules for the aesthetically appealing look and additional durability.

Many manufacturers offer a variety of shingles for a wide range of roof structures. The simplest is the three-tab shingle, which can work on a variety of roofs including low-slope roofs. The more complex shingles are architectural or “dimensional” shingles, which require a more substantial roof structure to support them. These shingles add more character to your home’s exterior and come in a number of eye-catching shades that complement almost any color scheme.

Manufacturers also produce specialty shingles that can perform a variety of functions, from fighting algae growth to increasing your roof’s resistance to hail damage. Some are even designed to reflect the sun’s heat to reduce your air conditioning costs and save on utility bills.

One thing to remember when weighing the pros and cons of asphalt shingles is that a manufacturer’s warranty only applies if the shingle was installed properly. This is why it is important to choose a trusted and experienced contractor when selecting the right shingle for your home. In addition, it is a good idea to inspect your shingles regularly for damage. If you do encounter problems with your shingle, report it to your roofing company as soon as possible.

Metal

A metal roof can add a sleek, modern aesthetic to your home. The metal panels are available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can find one that matches your home’s architecture. They are also weather-resistant and fire-resistant, so they will not warp or corrode over time. Additionally, they are more energy-efficient than shingle roofing, as they reflect the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it.

Residential metal roofing is extremely durable, which can protect your house against damage from hail and high winds. It also lasts longer than other roofing types. Additionally, metal roofing can help reduce your homeowner’s insurance premiums. There are many different types of metal roofing, including galvanized steel, aluminum, and zinc. The type you choose will depend on the climate where you live and your budget. Galvanized steel is the most common, and it can withstand up to 140 mph wind speeds. It has a smooth finish and comes in several different thicknesses. It can also be painted with a fade-resistant coating. Aluminum is more affordable than galvanized steel, and it’s resistant to corrosion in moist environments.

Another option for residential roofing is tile. This is an eco-friendly option that is fire resistant, reflects heat, and has one of the longest lifespans of any roofing material. It’s a good choice if you live in an area with severe weather conditions, and it can even lower your homeowner’s insurance premium.

While it’s a common myth that metal roofs attract lightning, the truth is that they are no more likely to be struck by lightning than any other kind of roof. In fact, they may even be safer because the metal roof will disperse the lightning instead of starting a fire in the shingles. The only way to know if metal is right for your home is to consult with a professional roofing contractor. They can give you a free estimate and show you the benefits of this sturdy and attractive roofing material. They can also explain the different installation options, including standing seam metal roofing.

Tile

Tile roofs offer a classic look that adds to the aesthetic of many homes. They are highly durable and can last for hundreds of years. Clay, concrete, and slate tiles are available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home. The space between tiles also helps to insulate the home and reduce energy costs.

Because tile roofs are made from earth minerals, not synthetic materials, they can be pulverized and recycled when removed. The heavy thermal mass of the tiles also helps regulate indoor temperatures. Tile roofs are highly wind resistant, and some tile types have been designed to withstand up to 150+ mph winds.

Unlike shingle roofs, a tile roof is not susceptible to rot and insect damage. Its unique aesthetic and long-lasting durability increase the resale value of your home. Additionally, it can help protect against water damage and decrease the risk of fire.

Many homeowners choose to install tile because it offers a wide range of design options to complement their home’s aesthetic. They are often paired with other roofing materials such as wood shake or asphalt shingles to create a cohesive look. Additionally, tile is very fire resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures.

While a tile roof can be more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof, its longevity and aesthetic value can offset the initial cost. In addition, a tile roof can add to the resale value of your house.

When choosing a roof material, it is important to consider all of the factors that will influence your decision. The information in this guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each roofing material to determine which best fits your needs and home. If you are ready to get started, enter your ZIP code in the box below to compare local roofing contractors and receive free estimates.

Wood Shake

Wood shakes are a rustic roofing option that is often referred to as a “wood shingle.” They are typically made of cedar and come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. They are popular on a variety of home types because they offer a natural look and feel to the roof. Cedar shakes also contain natural preservatives that offer protection from UV exposure, moisture, and rot. The durability of wood shakes and shingles depends on the quality of materials used, installation, and a yearly maintenance schedule.

Shake roofs have a thick, textured appearance that creates striking depth and dimension. They can complement any type of home, from traditional to modern. They are particularly attractive on homes with stone, brick, or wood siding, as they can help to enhance the color and texture of these materials.

Unlike shingles, which are sawn to produce uniform lengths and dimensions, shakes are hand-split for a rugged, less uniform look. They are available in a number of different colors, finishes, and grain cuts. They are also easy to enhance with fire retardant chemicals or fungus-resistant treatments.

Although they may seem costly compared to other roofing products, shakes are a beautiful and durable roofing option that can add a lot of value to your home. However, they require a more extensive manufacturing and installation process than shingles. This makes them more prone to damage from pests and mold, so you will need to keep an eye out for signs of infestation and keep a regular maintenance schedule in place.

Like any other roofing product, you will need to hire a professional roofer to install your wood shakes. Make sure you choose a roofing contractor with experience installing this type of roof. It’s important to ensure the roofers are trained in proper installation techniques and know how to handle a variety of issues that can occur during the process, such as leaking or improper sizing.

Wood shakes are often more expensive than shingles, as they are manufactured and installed to be thicker. They are also more prone to damage from pests and fungus, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for signs of invasion and maintain your shake roof regularly. Additionally, wood shakes are not fireproof, so they may increase your homeowner’s insurance premium.

Roofing

Warning Signs That Your Roof Needs Repair

Sandra Wesley

There are a number of easily recognizable warning signs that you need Roof Repair Colorado Springs. It’s important to be able to spot these problems so that you can act quickly.

roof repair

Look for missing granules in the gutters; these are a sign of deteriorating shingles. Also check that the vent boots are in good condition and that the shingles covering them are not loose.

If you see damaged or missing shingles on your roof, it’s important to take care of these problems immediately to avoid leaks and other damage to your home. However, if you’re not comfortable working on the roof or don’t have the right tools, it’s best to call in a professional roofer. A roofer will be able to help you identify the cause of the damage and recommend the right solution.

Missing or damaged shingles are one of the most obvious signs that your roof needs repair. The gaps caused by missing shingles allow water to flow under the other shingles, which can lead to leaks and other damage to your home’s structure. If you have a lot of missing shingles, your roof may need to be replaced altogether.

Loose or missing shingles can also affect air circulation in your attic, which can draw moisture through your attic into the living spaces of your home. This can lead to discolorations, spots, stains, or streaks on your ceilings or walls.

Another common sign of roofing problems is blisters on your shingles. These appear as raised areas that resemble bruises on your shingles and are usually caused by aging or heat exposure from a poorly ventilated attic. Blistering can allow moisture to seep through your roof and into the living space of your home, leading to rot, mold, mildew, or other problems.

If your shingles are only slightly damaged, you can replace them with new ones. To do so, start by loosening the adhesive and nails holding the shingle with a flat pry bar or crowbar. A utility knife can also be used to cut through the sealant around the edges of the shingle. After loosening the shingle, remove the nails from the row above and below it, being careful not to damage them.

Lift the front edge of the shingle with your pry bar and remove the nails that hold it. Next, use your utility knife to cut Vs into the shingle above it, which will separate it from the nail strip. Pull the old shingle off and replace it with a new one that’s cut to match. Once the new shingle is in place, apply asphalt roofing cement to the underside and secure it with nails that match those used on the damaged shingle.

Water Leaks

A leaking roof isn’t good for anyone. The moisture seeps into the attic and, if the leaks are not stopped, gets into living spaces through walls and ceilings. Water leaks can cause rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation, and discolored plaster and drywall. The problem is more than just a messy nuisance; it can also be expensive to repair.

Water leaks usually occur at the point where a vertical wall meets the roof or where a chimney or roof vent meets the roof. The metal flashing used to seal these areas can develop cracks and rust. It’s important to check the flashing regularly for signs of deterioration, especially after rainstorms and during the snowy part of winter.

Sometimes a leak can be difficult to locate, but the clues are there. Look for stains on the attic floor and the ceiling, particularly after a heavy rain. Then inspect the attic and the rafters for wet or rotting boards. If there is a problem, it’s best to have it repaired right away by a professional.

Leaking roof problems can often be fixed by replacing damaged flashing and resealing joints and cracks with caulking. Use a high-quality exterior caulk made for roofs, typically butyl rubber. Scrape off any old caulking and clean the area, then squeeze a little of the new caulk on to each suspect joint or crack.

Be careful not to caulk over a chimney or roof vent; these items must be open and vented properly to prevent fire damage. You can purchase self-fusing tin foil chimney covers to help protect against heat and smoke.

If a ceiling leak occurs after a heavy downpour, this usually indicates the problem is with the roofing or gutters. It could also be a sign of a plumbing leak. In this case, a plumber should be called to investigate and correct the issue.

If a leak occurs on the soffit where the roof meets it, the problem is usually poor flashing or, more likely, an ice dam. The solution begins by removing the shingles down to the wood sheathing. Then, slip a strip of adhesive ice-and-water barrier (available where roofing products are sold) under the soffit/main roof joint. It should overlap another strip of the barrier that’s already installed beneath the shingle, all the way down to the valley where the two roofs meet.

Mold and mildew

Although the terms “mold” and “mildew” are often used interchangeably, they are different fungi with distinct properties. Mildew, for example, thrives in damp, warm, and poorly lit areas where air is not circulated, such as cellars, crawl spaces of houses without basements, and clothing closets. It grows on rugs and draperies, as well as shower curtains and damp clothes rolled up for ironing. It also eats into and discolors fabrics, leather, and paper. Unlike mold, which comes in a variety of colors and can be fuzzy, mildew is powdery and typically has a musty odor.

While mildew doesn’t pose as much of a threat to human health as certain types of toxic mold, it can still cause minor problems such as itchy skin and nasal irritation. It can become a serious problem, however, if a person suffers from pre-existing conditions such as asthma or other chronic lung illnesses.

Mildew is also less damaging to the home than mold. Mold colonies can lead to rot and warping in wood and other materials and can also affect the integrity of walls, ceilings, and floors. In addition to these cosmetic issues, mold can produce mycotoxins that can cause a range of symptoms, from sneezing fits to pulmonary issues, including shortness of breath and coughing.

Because of the potential health issues and structural damage, it’s essential to take steps to get rid of any mold that’s found on your roof. Ideally, this should be done by a professional.

When cleaning up a moldy roof, it’s important to take the proper precautions by dressing appropriately and wearing eye protection. Moreover, it’s imperative to wear a breathing mask or respirator when necessary. This will ensure that any mold spores are not inhaled, which can be very dangerous for those with allergies or chronic lung conditions.

Generally, it’s easy to tell whether you’re dealing with mildew or mold. If you’re unsure, a small drop of bleach on the spot can help you decide. If it’s lighter in color, then it’s likely mildew; if the area darkens, it’s most likely mold.

Higher energy bills

It’s been well established that a leaky roof will increase heating and cooling costs. This happens because the controllable air in your home escapes through damaged shingles or is let in by rain, resulting in higher utility bills during hot and cold months. Poor ventilation in the attic can also cause moisture and mold to build up, which will further drive up energy costs. If you suspect high energy bills are due to a faulty roof, have it inspected for damage and get it repaired as soon as possible. Labor and material make up the bulk of roof repair costs, but the type of repair and the size, pitch, and design of the roof will affect the cost as well.