Tag: roof cleaning

Roofing Materials and Techniques

Tiffany Murray Home Improvement , , , , , ,

Roofing is an integral part of building construction that protects structures from rain, snow, sunlight and extremes of temperature. Roofing materials and techniques have evolved over the centuries based on available resources and human ingenuity.

Roofing requires regular maintenance to avoid rotting and insect damage. Selecting a contractor with experience and certifications is important to ensure quality work and safety. Contact Arthur’s Roofing now!

Plywood is one of the most important building materials used in roofing. It acts as the base that supports the weight of shingles, tiles and other roof finish materials and also protects against weather elements like sun, wind, rain, snow and hail. There are a number of different types of plywood, each with their own advantages and uses.

The process of making plywood involves gluing together thin sheets of wood veneers at perpendicular angles to each other. This creates a much stronger material than solid wood and allows it to withstand a significant amount of stress. Additionally, plywood is resistant to warping and shrinking as a result of its cross-grain construction. This makes it a great choice for sheathing or roof decking and can often be used in place of concrete or masonry for structural applications.

It’s worth noting that not all plywood is created equal – when choosing the right product for your roof sheathing, always opt for the highest quality grade available. This will be indicated by a grade of A, B, C or D on the face of the sheet. A-grade plywood is completely devoid of knots and defects, perfect for interior work and appearance-oriented projects; while D-grade plywood has a lot of blemishes and cracks and should only be used for sheathing or roofing.

Two of the most popular choices for roof sheathing are OSB and CDX plywood. OSB stands for Oriented Strand Board, which is made up of strands of wood that are compressed and bonded together using heat and pressure. This creates a strong, lightweight material that can withstand more weight than solid wood and is less expensive than plywood. However, OSB swells when wet and can contain a large amount of formaldehyde, which can be harmful to the environment. Therefore, we recommend opting for CDX plywood when working on a new roof. This type of plywood is a great balance between price and performance and will provide the sheathing your roof needs.

Underlayment

The first layer of your roof is the underlayment, which is a waterproof or water-resistant barrier that goes directly on the roof deck. It’s important to install this before other roofing materials go on, as it protects the structural sheathing from moisture and also prevents tar from coming into contact with the wood.

There are many different types of underlayment, from traditional asphalt-saturated felt to modern synthetics. Felt underlayment is usually cut into manageable sections, often about 10-15 feet long, which helps to minimize waste and make it easier to handle and install. It comes in either 15-pound or 30-pound rolls, depending on the thickness of the material. Asphalt-saturated underlayment is less expensive but not as effective as its synthetic counterparts, which are designed to last longer and can withstand more damage.

While underlayment isn’t always required by building codes, not using it makes your roof more vulnerable to leaks and other problems. For instance, if you have an older home with pine or fir sheathing, resin pockets in these boards can react with certain roof-covering materials, such as asphalt shingles, and cause accelerated deterioration.

Besides protecting the sheathing and your home from moisture, underlayment also provides an extra layer of insulation to keep your home more comfortable. This stops heat from escaping in hot weather and lessens cold air loss in winter, helping to reduce energy costs and ease the load on your heating and cooling systems.

If you’re replacing an existing roof, underlayment will provide a more effective water barrier than old felt underlayment. However, it’s not a good idea to replace your existing shingles with new shingles over old underlayment, as this can lead to condensation and other issues.

Local building codes require that the underlayment used for your roof meets minimum safety and quality standards. Working with a professional roofer ensures that the underlayment you choose and use will be up to code and will do its job well. It can be challenging to navigate all of the regulations in your area, but a roofer can help you stay compliant and avoid any costly or time-consuming mistakes that could put your project behind schedule or jeopardize the safety and integrity of your roof.

Flashing

A roof’s flashing protects the structure from water damage at points where it meets other structures and features. Without effective flashing, moisture can seep into these junctions and cause mold, rot and structural damage. Flashing is typically made from metal and consists of a sheet that’s resistant to moisture and other weather conditions.

There are many types of flashing, each designed to fulfill a specific purpose. Some of the most common include:

Step flashing: Installed at the juncture or valley of two intersecting roof planes, this type of flashing uses a series of small pieces that overlap each other and divert water away from the vulnerable area. This is commonly found around chimneys and walls.

Counter flashing: A piece of metal that’s installed over the top of a run of step flashing, this provides a barrier against leaks and helps prevent moisture from entering the building. This is also used at the juncture where a sloped roof meets a vertical wall or other protrusion.

Chimney flashing: This type of flashing is applied to the roof at the point where a chimney penetrates it. It consists of several components, including step flashing that integrates with the shingles, counter flashing and a cricket or saddle that diverts water around the chimney base.

Plumbing vent flashing boots: These are fitted around pipes protruding from the roof, preventing water from entering the structure at these points. These typically consist of a flat base that integrates with the roof material and an upward-extending sleeve that fits snugly around the pipe.

Window and door flashing: Typically embedded in wall interruptions such as windows, this type of flashing prevents water ingress at these points and also redirects water that may have entered back outside. Sill flashing: Concealed under windows or doors, this type of flashing spans the thickness of a wall and directs water to weep holes.

Roof flashing is essential to a building’s integrity and longevity, protecting it from moisture and other weather elements that can harm the structure. Proper installation is key, and this is why hiring a professional to perform the job is always recommended.

Shingles

Shingles are a key element in roofing and provide the visual appeal of a roof. They come in a variety of colors and styles that can complement any home. When properly installed and maintained, shingles can protect a roof for decades.

Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of shingle used on homes. They consist of a fiberglass mat saturated on both sides with hot asphalt and topped with a layer of granules. The granules add strength and resistance to the shingles. The shingles also help to reflect the sun’s heat, which can reduce cooling costs.

The shingles are designed to be installed in courses, with each shingle offset from the next one. The first course of shingles is called the starter course, and the last shingles are known as the ridge course. The shingles are secured to the underlayment with roof cement.

A variety of specialty shingles are available to homeowners, including ones that fight algae growth and offer enhanced resistance to damaging hail. Some shingles are even coated with special material that helps them to retain their color and resist cracking and peeling. Choosing a special shingle type can significantly lower your insurance premiums.

Depending on the area of your home, you can choose shingles that are lighter or darker to better suit your climate. Lighter shingles reflect more of the sun’s energy, which can lower your cooling costs in warmer regions. Darker shingles absorb more of the sun’s energy, which may reduce your heating costs in colder regions.

In addition to the material and style of shingles, you should also consider how they’ll coordinate with your home’s design and neighborhood aesthetic. For example, a traditional Colonial will look best with wood or slate shingles, while a modern ranch home might look better with metal options.

A shingles rash typically occurs in a single band along the body or face and looks similar to chickenpox. If you suspect that you have shingles, you should see your healthcare provider for an exam and to confirm the diagnosis. They will likely do a physical and ask about your health history.

Are Gutter Guards Worth the Investment?

Tiffany Murray Gutter Services , , , ,

Gutter guards, available in a variety of styles and materials, keep leaves, pine needles, twigs, and debris from clogging gutters and causing water damage to homes.

Avid DIYers with a ladder and the right safety equipment can install most types of gutter protection themselves on 1-story houses. Contact Gutter Guard Summerville now!

Gutter guards are a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to save themselves from climbing a ladder and risking their safety to clean out their gutters. Whether you live in an area with many trees and heavy rainfall or a suburban or urban neighborhood without many trees, gutter guards will keep debris out and protect your home from costly water damage. If you’re thinking about installing gutter guards, you should know that the cost varies by material and installation complexity. The best way to estimate the total costs of a gutter guard system is to have a professional inspect your current gutters and make any necessary repairs before you get quotes for the install.

The most basic gutter guards are foam inserts that sit on top of the gutters. While they do block larger debris from entering the gutters, they can’t prevent the smallest particles from clogging them. These types of gutter guards need to be brushed off twice a year.

Micro-mesh gutter guards are more effective and durable, but they’re also pricier than foam or surface-tension helmets. These covers have a fine screen overlaid with aluminum or stainless steel mesh, and they’re available in a variety of colors to match your roof. They’re a good option for homeowners who want a more permanent solution that’s easy to maintain and won’t change the look of their house.

Surface-tension helmets are made from solid metal sheeting curved over the gutters to create surface tension and direct water through an opening at the edge of the cover. These require less maintenance than micro-mesh or foam options, but they can still be clogged by small debris and may not work on all roofing styles.

Gutter guards are typically installed in late summer or early fall. This time of year is ideal for this type of upgrade because the weather is usually dry, and there are fewer leaves to clear out. Depending on the material you choose, your gutter guards should last about three to 12 years. The most affordable options are plastic, but powder-coated metal offers superior durability and is more expensive.

Debris Removal

Gutter guards prevent debris from building up in your gutters, allowing water to flow properly. They also reduce the risk of clogging, which can cause water damage to your home and landscape. However, no gutter guard can completely eliminate the need for cleaning. Regularly cleaning your gutters is the best way to keep them in good working order. It is important to have the right equipment for this job, including a ladder, a container or tarp for garbage, a trowel for scraping, a garden hose or pressure washer for washing, and scrub brush. Before beginning the cleanup process, inspect your gutters for signs of wear and tear. This will help you determine if your gutters are in need of replacement.

Gutters filled with debris can also pose a fire hazard, particularly in areas prone to wildfires. The wind can blow embers from the flames, landing in your gutters and setting them ablaze. Gutter guards help to reduce the risk of this hazard by preventing debris buildup and blocking fire-starting materials from entering the gutters.

The micro-mesh design of these gutter covers has tiny perforations that block most debris, but will need to be wiped off occasionally, as twigs, helicopter seeds, pine needles and dirt can build up on the surface. These products are easy to install, not visible from the ground and durable. However, the holes can clog, which may send water over the edge during high-volume rain.

Another type of gutter cover is a screen gutter guard, which is similar to the micro-mesh design but has larger holes. These guards can be made of either metal or plastic and are less expensive than the micro-mesh models. The larger holes allow smaller debris to pass through, which isn’t what clogs the gutters, but they are not as durable as the micro-mesh types.

The Raptor gutter guard is a durable product that can be installed easily with clips and screws. It has an attractive appearance and is available in lengths of 22, 102, 125, and 532 feet. It is backed by a 10-year warranty, which is longer than most manufacturers’ warranties. Customers love the fact that it feels sturdy and stays securely in place, even when snow or ice builds up on the top of the gutters.

Installation

Gutter guards can save you time and money by reducing your need for gutter cleaning. But they are not a substitute for regular cleaning and maintenance.

If your gutters are clogged, water can back up into your roof and cause damage to the fascia boards and your home’s structure. Gutter guards can help to prevent this and other problems by allowing water to flow freely through the gutter system.

There are many different types of gutter guards available on the market. The type that’s best for you depends on the type of debris your gutters collect, the climate where you live, and your roof’s shape and pitch. For example, homeowners in areas with lots of pine trees should opt for a gutter guard that’s designed to handle pine needles and seeds.

The most common gutter guards are screens, which are made from thin metal sheets with perforated holes that allow water to pass but keep large debris, such as leaves and seed pods, from entering the gutters. Another option is mesh gutter guards, which are similar to screen guards but are more durable and can withstand heavy debris, such as branches. Wire mesh is also more durable than foam guards, which degrade quickly and can trap seeds.

You can install gutter guards yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as many people make mistakes during installation that can damage their gutters. If you decide to do the work yourself, prepare the area by cleaning out your gutters and ensuring that they drain properly. It’s also a good idea to have someone help you on the ladder, as falling off the roof can be dangerous.

If you prefer to have a professional do the work, look for a residential roofing company that offers gutter guard services in addition to other roof and home repair services. These companies can provide a more comprehensive solution to your home’s maintenance needs and may be able to offer you a discount on other services if you get your gutter guards at the same time as a roof or other home improvement project.

Maintenance

Gutter guards can significantly reduce the need for gutter cleaning and repair. However, like any product, they are not foolproof. Debris can still clog the gutters and downspouts, preventing rainwater from flowing into and away from your home. When water is not able to flow freely, it can cause soil erosion, foundation cracks, basement flooding, and mold and mildew growth. Gutter guards can help prevent this from happening by blocking clog-causing debris and pests.

There are several different types of gutter guards on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some are made of plastic, while others are made from metal. Most are designed to be durable and long-lasting, and many come with a warranty.

Some products feature a mesh screen with ridges that aerate the passing water and push debris to the ground, where it can be easily removed. This is one of the best options for reducing maintenance costs, as it keeps your gutters clean without the need to climb a ladder and manually remove the debris from inside the gutters.

Other gutter guards use a system of large bristles to keep debris out. These are popular for their ease of installation and budget-friendly price. They are designed to fit into the gutter and rest on top of it, and can be trimmed or shaped to fit unusually sized or curved gutters. However, they may not be as effective as other types of gutter guards at keeping leaves, twigs, and seed pods out of the gutters.

Metal gutter guards are also popular for their durability and low cost. They are available in a wide variety of styles and colors, and can be matched to your roof and other features of the house for a uniform look. They are also resistant to rust and corrosion, and can withstand extreme temperatures.

Another benefit of metal gutter guards is their ability to resist the bending and warping caused by the weight of snow and ice. This is important, as the weight of accumulated debris can strain your gutter system and the fascia, possibly causing damage to your roof. If you live in an area prone to wildfires, a metal gutter guard can also provide an extra layer of protection by forming a physical barrier between dry leaves pin,e needles, and wind-blown embers that could otherwise burn your roof.

Repairing Your Roofing

Tiffany Murray Roofing , , , ,

The roof is the most important part of a home and it protects the structure from rain, snow, sunlight, extreme temperatures and other weather conditions. A well-made and maintained roof can increase the value of a house.

Roofing assemble, install, repair and maintain a wide variety of practical roof types. There are 64 different types of roofing materials, each with its own pros and cons.

Roofing materials come in many different types and styles, allowing homeowners to choose the look that best suits their home. Most are designed to withstand different weather conditions and are durable enough to last for decades. Some are also recyclable, a plus for those who want to contribute to green living.

Rolled roofing is a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. It’s available in several colors and comes in rolls that are unrolled on the roof and then nailed into place. It’s best suited for low-sloped or flat roofs, but can be used on sloped roofs with proper framing. It’s not as good an insulator as other options and is prone to leaks.

Metal roofing is another option that’s long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. It’s durable against the elements and can help cut down on energy costs, especially in hot areas like Florida. It’s available in various colors and finishes, including galvalume, aluminum, and copper. It can be found in sheeting (including the predominant type known as standing seam metal roofs) or in shingles and shakes. It can even be made to mimic traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and slate.

Slate tiles add a classic, elegant touch to a roof and can be a great feature on historic homes or new constructions. They’re durable and non-combustible but require a high level of expertise to install and can be quite heavy. Authentic slate roofs are often expensive, but synthetic varieties offer the same beauty at a lower cost and weight.

Shakes are a rustic roofing option that can be made from a variety of different wood types to create a unique look. They’re resistant to rot, fire, and insect damage and can last for decades.

Composite shakes are an excellent choice for those who want the look of a natural roof but don’t want the hassle and expense of maintaining it. They’re a durable and long-lasting roofing material that can withstand the elements and can be made to look just like more traditional and expensive roofing materials. Most are manufactured with recycled materials and are recyclable after their useful life.

Roofing Systems

There are a number of roofing systems to choose from when having your roof replaced. Selecting a high-quality system can help to protect your property for decades to come while adding to its overall value and curb appeal. The right roofing system can also improve a building’s energy efficiency.

Roofing system design can vary by property and location, but there are some basic components that every roofing structure must have. The roof deck provides a solid foundation for the rest of the roofing system and is usually constructed using plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The underlayment layer adds an additional layer of protection against moisture while providing insulation. Lastly, the roofing material is applied on top of the underlayment to protect against harsh weather conditions and sun exposure.

Many modern roofing materials are available in a variety of colors and finishes to fit the aesthetic preferences of the building. These options allow you to personalize your roofing to add character and charm while improving the performance of your roof. Choosing a flat roofing system with a seamless construction helps to eliminate the weak points of seams and joints that are common in traditional roofs.

Built up roofing systems, commonly referred to as BUR roofs, are a popular option for low-slope and flat commercial buildings. They are made up of multiple layers of ply sheets and asphalt that offer resistance against severe weather and heavy loads. A BUR roof is highly insulative and can be made even more energy efficient by adding a reflective coating.

The multiple layers of a BUR roof also keep heat conductivity between the interior and exterior of your building very low. This can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills.

Single ply membrane roofs are an alternative to traditional BUR systems and have gained popularity in recent years for their durability and watertight seal. They are available in a range of thicknesses and offer a waterproof barrier that can resist UV rays, extreme temperatures, and other damaging elements.

The newest roof systems are designed with green construction in mind. The solar reflectance of these roofs can help to reduce a building’s energy usage while also offering a cool environment for employees and customers. These roofing systems can be installed with ridge vents to keep air flow moving and prevent excessive heat buildup during the summer.

Roofing Installation

A roof is a structure that covers and protects a building’s occupants and contents from rain, snow, sunlight, wind, and extremes of temperature. It can be built flat, pitched, vaulted, domed, or in combinations as dictated by technical, economic, or aesthetic considerations.

A top-tier roofer will take the time to inspect your entire roofing system before beginning work. They’ll look at the flashing (the metal sheeting in your roof’s valleys and joints) and drip edges to determine if they’re in good shape or need replacement. If they’re rusted or dented, the crew will remove them with pry bars before installing your new materials. However, if they’re still in good condition, they’ll be left in place for now.

Felt paper or another waterproof underlayment will be installed to ensure your roof is completely watertight. It is usually laid in at least four courses (rows) across the roof. Once the underlayment is in place, a chalk line will be used to mark off shingle rows. Each shingle row will be overlapped by six inches and nails will be spread out further apart as you move towards the center of the roof.

The shingles themselves will be put into place in layers, staggered, and nailed down with either a hammer or nail gun. A good roofer will do this with careful precision so that your new shingles keep your home safe and secure. The final step is to add a piece of metal flashing called a z bar. This will cover any gaps between the ribs of the metal panels and the ridge of the roof, keeping water from sneaking in at those vulnerable spots.

Roofing Repair

Roofing repair is more affordable than a full re-roof in many cases. Roofing contractors can fix surface problems like sagging or missing shingles without disturbing the roof deck, and they may be able to extend the life of your existing shingles if they catch a problem before it gets out of hand. It’s also possible to replace the flashing, the thin metal pieces that line roof valleys and prevent leaks around features such as chimneys and skylights, without reshingling. If you’re tackling smaller repairs yourself, be sure to use a reputable product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. You can also improve the look of your roof by adding a metal trim piece called a birdsmouth cut to the top of each shingle. This conceals the shingle nail and adds a decorative touch.