Ethel Jones – Blueridge Roof Cleaning

Roofing Maintenance Tips

December 29, 2023December 29, 2023 Ethel Jones Roofing roof cleaning, roof repair, roofer, roofing contractors, roofing services

Visually inspecting the condition of your roof can help prevent minor, easily repairable problems from escalating. This should occur regularly, ideally twice per year and after extreme weather events.

Performing these inspections helps identify issues like missing or cracked shingles, loose or damaged flashing, and other structural damage. It also allows the homeowner to see if the attic needs insulation to help avoid pests, mold, and energy loss. Visit https://www.bostonroofingco.com/ to learn more.

Caulking is one of the most important elements in keeping your roof and home safe from leaks. It seals the joints around windows, doors, and other features to prevent moisture from entering the home. It is also used to seal air vents and toilets. If the caulking wears down, it can leave these areas vulnerable to pests and water damage.

It is important to inspect all caulking regularly, especially in areas that are exposed to the elements. If there is a problem with the caulking in these areas, it should be replaced immediately. This is because even small cracks can allow moisture to enter and cause problems that may require costly repairs in the future.

Generally, the best way to find out when it is time to replace the caulking on your roof is to watch for areas of black marks or water stains. However, since this can be hard to notice, it is recommended that you wash the entire roof with a pressure washer before doing an inspection to make sure that it is clean and ready for replacement.

It is essential to use caulking that is specifically geared for roofing materials. This will help it to hold its seal better than caulking that is not suited for roofing material. This is because the roofing materials can expand and contract at different rates. Typically, a fiberglass roof will be caulked using RV lap sealant such as Dicor.

The amount of time that it takes for the caulking to deteriorate will vary depending on its location and the weather conditions that affect it. For example, caulking in a new building will need to be replaced more frequently than a caulking in an old building that has settled over time.

In general, caulking should be replaced at least once every five years. If you are not comfortable with doing this yourself, you should contact a professional for assistance.

If you have a home with a flat or low-sloped roof, it is particularly important to replace the caulking regularly because it can wear out more quickly than other types of caulking. A qualified roofer will be able to recommend the best type of caulking for your specific needs.

Clean the Gutters

Gutters serve a very important function in protecting your home and keeping it structurally sound. They help to direct rainwater and melting snow away from your walls, foundation, and fascia boards. However, if they become clogged with leaves, pine needles, and roof debris, your gutters won’t be able to do their job properly.

Clogged gutters also contribute to a variety of problems for your roofing system, including water damage. When rainwater or snow can’t flow through the gutters, it will accumulate on your shingles and cause moisture leaks. The resulting mold and mildew can cause additional problems for your roof. If left unchecked, moisture leaks may lead to rot in fascia boards and wood trim.

Additionally, clogged gutters can increase the stress on your roof and shorten its lifespan. This is especially true in cold climates, as ice dams are more likely to form when the water that falls off your shingles can’t drain properly. Clogged gutters can also add too much weight to your roof, which can cause it to sag and buckle over time.

Gutter cleaning is an often-overlooked part of your roofing maintenance, but it’s vital for a long-lasting roof. Besides preventing moisture leaks and rot, cleaning your gutters can prevent pest infestations as well. Insects, rodents, and mosquitoes are all attracted to clogged gutters where they can lay eggs and breed.

Whether you have a traditional gutter system or a newer gutter guard, you should be sure to clean your gutters at least twice each year. This should be done in the spring and again in the fall, as part of your regular home maintenance routine. However, if you’d rather not deal with the hassle of climbing a ladder to clean your gutters, contact a professional roofing contractor to take care of it for you. They’ll make sure the job is done right and that your gutters are working as they should.

Trim Tree Branches

Trees are a beautiful addition to any yard, and they add curb appeal and value to your home. However, they can also cause problems when they become overgrown. Overhanging branches can scrape siding, rub against the roof and lead to shingle damage. Keeping trees trimmed regularly is an important part of roofing maintenance.

Branches that hang over the roof can easily break or puncture the shingles, leading to extensive and expensive damage. They can also retain moisture, causing mold growth and contributing to rot. Additionally, they can provide easy access for animals and pests to invade the roof and attic. Trimming branches that overhang the roof prevents these issues and ensures the health and longevity of your roof.

Overhanging limbs are more likely to snap off during a storm or high winds. This can cause extensive damage to the roof and surrounding property. A professional tree service will notice potential risks, evaluate the condition of the trees and perform necessary pruning without endangering themselves or your property.

Aside from preventing damage to the roof and surrounding property, regular tree trimming will also help prevent organic debris from clogging gutters. Branches that hang over the roof can drop leaves, needles and twigs which can clog the gutters. This debris can also impede proper water flow, causing the roof to degrade faster. Trimming branches creates a safe distance between the roof and the overhanging limbs, allowing precipitation to run off the roof surface properly.

In addition to protecting your roof and property, regular tree maintenance is vital for the health of the tree itself. Overgrown and unhealthy trees are more prone to rot, insect infestation and other serious problems. Trimming the branches will remove diseased and dead branches, promote new growth and maintain a healthy canopy. A qualified arborist can help you determine the ideal size and shape of your trees to maximize the benefit they offer your home. They can also recommend proper pruning techniques that will prevent the risk of damaging your roof during a storm or in high winds. They can also advise you on other ways to protect your roof from the elements, such as installing a tarp or insulating your attic.

Inspect the Attic

Many roof issues begin as minor problems and, left unattended, develop into major repairs. The key to catching these minor problems is to inspect the attic on a regular basis. This inspection can spot problems that would be difficult or impossible to see from the ground. In addition, it can help identify the source of moisture and air leaks in a home.

During an attic inspection, roofers will look for damp insulation, water stains on the rafters and sheathing, rodent droppings, and any evidence of nesting materials. In addition, they will look for the proper venting of the attic to prevent heat and moisture buildup in the summer and ice dams in winter.

When examining the attic, roofers will also look for the condition of the soffit and ridge vents. If they are blocked by insulation, the attic may not be properly ventilated and this can contribute to a wide variety of problems, including moisture damage, higher energy bills, and comfort issues in the home.

The attic will also be inspected for the presence of pests, mold, and rotting wood. If these are detected, the roofer will recommend treatment or removal. They will also check the attic floor for structural problems, such as sagging and gaps between joists. They will also check the attic for the condition of the trusses and rafters, as well as sagging or warping walls, which can result from improper installation or water damage.

If a roofer doesn’t take the time to thoroughly inspect an attic, they can miss important information that will help them provide the best service possible for a homeowner. For example, the attic will contain the air ducts for heating and cooling, and these can be damaged by water intrusion or by roof penetrations that aren’t sealed correctly. Additionally, the attic will have access to electrical wiring and if it’s not properly grounded, this can lead to fire hazards and other safety risks for the homeowner. A roofing professional will be able to find these potential hazards before they cause serious damage or injury.

Roof Framing Plans – Popular Roofing Designs

November 9, 2023November 11, 2023 Ethel Jones Roofing commercial roofing, metal roofing, residential roofing, roof shingles, roofing companies, roofing contractors

Roofer West Chester PA is an essential component of any home. These plans outline the different facets of your roof and the materials that can be used.

There are many roofing designs to choose from. Choosing the right one depends on your architectural style and the climate in which you live.

A Dutch gable is the Swiss Army knife of roof designs. It has the sloping sides of a hip roof, but it also has a gable at the top for that extra space we all crave. This makes it perfect for adding storage, an attic, or a cool loft space. It also adds that aesthetic appeal that other roof types can’t match.

The gable part also helps with shedding rain and snow, so it’s a good option if you live in a windy area. Like hip roofs, it’s a complex structure that can require more materials and stronger supports to build. However, it is also quite durable and can withstand strong winds. A variation of this is the Jerkinhead roof, which looks like a gable but flares out into small hips at the end. This is a good choice for a quaint farmhouse look. It also works well for homes with different wings, creating a symmetrical exterior design.

Jerkinhead roofs are a unique roofing style that can add an architectural element to your house. They look intriguing and are a good option for cottages or small homes. However, they can be difficult to maintain and are less practical than other roof styles.

A jerkinhead roof has a mild slope and requires fewer supports than other roof types. It also offers better wind resistance than a gable or hipped roof. However, it is more expensive to install and limits attic space compared to other roof types. This can be problematic for homeowners looking to increase storage space in their attic. Jerkinhead roofs can also be difficult to access for maintenance, requiring the use of specialized equipment.

The Mansard Roof is a popular choice for homeowners looking to add living space to their homes. The almost vertical lower slope allows for more attic space, and the dormer windows that typically feature on these roofs let in plenty of natural light.

While these roofs are incredibly stylish, they do have some drawbacks. For one, they’re not ideal for areas that experience heavy rainfall or snow. The flatter slope can cause water to build up and eventually lead to leaks. The design can also make it difficult to install shingles, since the shingles may not seal correctly.

Additionally, Mansard roofs tend to have high installation costs. You could often purchase multiple Gable or Hip roofs for the cost of a single Mansard. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize these costs. For example, you can use batten seams instead of standing seams, and the lower edges of the pans should be hooked over an edge strip to form a drip (see Details 8.7A and 8.7B). This will help reduce the cost of installation.

This roof design features two side parts that slope in opposite directions from the ridge point. The tops of these sides are connected by rafters, which are nailed to the ridge board. The ridge board is a piece that runs parallel to the exterior walls and extends all along the roof’s maximum height or peak.

Gable roofs are a popular choice for cold climates, and the style can be seen in many homes Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel The House of Seven Gables and Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables both feature this roof type.

According to IKO, one of the pros of a gable roof is that it’s easy to construct; however, Civiconcepts notes that this roof type requires specialized framing techniques due to its unique shape. Another pro, says is that it allows for easy ventilation. This is because gable roofs are ideal for ridge and gable vents, which allow hot air to escape during the summer and prevent rot, mold, and algae from growing in the attic.

A dormer roof is an attractive way to add windows and natural light to your home. It also increases your living space by creating a room in an attic or upstairs area that may otherwise be blocked by the roof or other structures.

A gabled dormer has a pitched roof that consists of two sloping planes that converge at the ridge. These types of dormers are typically easy to install, but require a knowledgeable roofing contractor because they may involve structural alterations to the house frame.

Another type of dormer is a shed dormer, which has a flat roof that sits on the side of your house. This style can easily be installed and requires little maintenance, but it does increase the risk of leaks because there’s a larger surface area exposed to water. Lastly, a pedimented dormer has a triangular shape that resembles a gable roof and is usually found on Greek Revival or Colonial homes.

The postwar era was the apex of modernism and architects came up with styles that have since become very popular, including the butterfly roof. This shape is created by two gables that meet in the middle of the roofline and slope inward, creating a valley along the ceiling line. It gives homes a unique look that is sure to catch the eye of anyone who passes by.

The roof’s asymmetrical shape allows for longer, higher perimeter walls. These larger wall surfaces allow for a more expansive view and can even house large windows that let light into the interior of the home.

The inward slope of the roof also works to help harvest rainwater, allowing it to be channelled down to drainage spouts at the ridge. This can help reduce the need for costly gutter systems and can be beneficial for homeowners looking to lower their energy costs while also helping the environment.

The clerestory roof is a style that features windows and openings in the vertical wall between two sloping sides of a building or structure’s roof. It can be symmetrical, with a gable or hipped-style shape, or asymmetrical, like the skillion roof. Unlike skylights, which bring in bright sunlight at a direct angle and can cause issues with glare, clerestory windows provide ambient light throughout the day.

These windows are designed to let in as much natural light as possible, allowing occupants to stay comfortably indoors and enjoying the scenery outside. This helps reduce the use of artificial lighting and decreases energy consumption. It also gives the interior a pleasant aesthetic and improves the functioning of the building or structure.

The window glass can be constructed with a wide variety of materials. The choice of constructing material depends on the preferences of the occupants and aptness to the architectural design of the building or structure.

While many homeowners prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic for their homes, some find the quaint angles of the saltbox roof appealing. This roof style dates back to Colonial times and offers a unique look that can enhance your home’s curb appeal.

The distinctive shape of a saltbox roof is inspired by the boxes in which table salt was commonly stored in colonial America. These boxes were rectangular in shape and featured a long slope on one side. The roof design mimics this asymmetrical feature, giving it the name “saltbox.”

This angular roof is often seen on two-story homes that were built with an addition to the rear. It also functions as a rainwater collector and enables snow to slide off the roof before becoming too heavy. It’s essential to have gutters that are sized to accommodate the roof’s design and ensure proper drainage. This is an especially important consideration if you live in a climate with heavy rainfall and snowfall.

Sawtooth roofs are a unique design that allows natural light to enter the building. They have a series of parallel roofs that resemble saw teeth and are usually glazed to block out harmful UV rays. Moreover, they are perfect for industrial buildings because they can prevent heat and provide a comfortable environment for employees.

Saw-tooth roofs require high-strength wood, concrete, and metal materials to build. They also need to be designed with proper symmetry and uniformity. These roofs are designed with box gutters and require periodic maintenance to avoid water leakage.

These roofs also promote upward ventilation, which can reduce the use of electric fans and reduce energy costs. Moreover, their distinct structural shape provides the best inclination for installing solar panels. As a result, they can help save energy and lower carbon emissions. While they used to be limited to industrial buildings, this roof design has re-emerged as an excellent solution for modern houses.

Types of Roofing

October 17, 2023October 17, 2023 Ethel Jones Roofing roof cleaning, roof repair, roofer, roofing contractors, roofing services

Roofing is the top covering for homes and buildings, protecting against rain, snow, sunlight, extreme temperatures, and winds. A roof can be built of a variety of materials.

Regardless of the type chosen, a good roof starts with an underlayment that’s a water barrier atop sheathing or decking-the- the flat boards made of oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood fastened to rafters. Read on Top Notch Roofing/Siding for more information.

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used in North America. They’re designed to protect homes from the elements for decades with minimal maintenance. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, with options that can complement any home’s architectural design. They also are resistant to algae, moss, and mold.

They are made from either an organic mat or a fiberglass mat saturated with asphalt and coated on both sides with a layer of roofing granules. The granules help to reflect the sun’s harmful UV rays. This helps to lower the roof’s temperature and reduce energy bills.

Originally, they were cut from red cedar or pine but modern shingle manufacturers use wood from newer trees that don’t need to be treated with chemical preservatives. They’re also made with a fire-resistant base to ensure they meet UL (Underwriters Laboratories) and FM (Uniform Fire Code) standards.

A three-tab asphalt shingle is a great option if you’re looking for a basic, affordable roof. They offer a good amount of protection and can be found in most home improvement stores. However, if you’re ready to invest in your home’s future, consider upgrading to an architectural shingle instead. These shingles are thicker and create more definition, giving your home’s roof a more premium appearance.

These shingles are designed to last for 25 to 30 years and are ideal for steep-sloped roofs. The layered construction offers more defense against impact damage and rain. They’re also more likely to resist damage from flying debris like hail and tree branches.

The protective nature of asphalt shingles comes from the long-chain hydrocarbons impregnated in the paper. As the shingles lose their hydrocarbons over time, they begin to degrade and wash away in rainstorms. This process happens faster along eaves and ridge lines where water is more channeled.

Premium shingles, also called designer shingles, are designed to imitate the look of other types of roof materials, such as slate or cedar shakes. They’re made with the same two-layer structure of laminate shingles but add features that create a unique look for your home. These shingles can also be treated to offer other benefits like wind resistance or solar reflectivity.

Metal Roofs

While metal roofs may be most familiar to homeowners as the roofs on barns and industrial buildings, today’s product is available in designs to match any architectural style. Whether the homeowner is looking for a more traditional look of shingles or a contemporary appearance of standing seam, a metal roof offers superior weather protection and durability that will last many decades with minimal upkeep.

CONS: A metal roof can dent easily. Depending on the type of metal, even small hail can leave dents that require repair or replacement. And while the dents are usually superficial, they can affect the aesthetic of the roof and lower a home’s value. In addition, some types of metal roofing aren’t suited for areas with high temperatures.

Fortunately, the latest coating technologies can significantly limit rust and corrosion in any metal roofing system. These coatings also provide a high level of solar reflectance that helps keep the roof 50 to 60 degrees cooler than a shingle roof in the same area during peak summer weather.

If the homeowner wants to minimize the amount of maintenance required for a metal roof, he or she should consider choosing a panel with concealed fasteners. Exposed fasteners can be vulnerable to water penetration when the screw holes in a metal roof expand and contract with temperature changes. If this happens, the screws may loosen or dislodge from the ridges of the panels. Special resilient washers should be used with these screws and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

In terms of upkeep, any roof will need some general cleaning and inspection once or twice a year. Metal roofs are no different, but they do tend to require less upkeep than shingle roofs, especially when using a concealed fastener system.

Besides the durability and energy efficiency, homeowners who choose metal roofs will enjoy the added value to their homes. Buyers will likely be willing to pay more for a house with a roof that can’t be damaged by hail, snow or other extreme weather conditions. In fact, a metal roof can add as much as $15,000 in value to a home.

Tile Roofs

Known for their durability, clay, slate and concrete tile roofs add a touch of luxury to a home. They are also one of the most energy efficient roofing options and provide excellent protection against high winds, hail and snow. Tile roofs can last from 50 to 100 years depending on the material and offer a wide range of colors and styles.

Aesthetically, they can match almost any type of house design from medieval to contemporary European, with some tiles designed to resemble traditional asphalt shingles or wood shakes. They are also resistant to rot and insect damage. However, because of their weight, tile roofs require more structural reinforcement than other roofing materials.

The type of roof you choose will have a direct impact on the overall cost of the project and the lifespan of the product. However, because of their long lifespans and superior insulation properties, tile roofs are more affordable over time than most other types of roofing. They also save money on energy bills because air flows naturally beneath them, keeping homes warmer during winter cold snaps and cooler during summer heat waves.

Slate tile is a durable and natural roofing option that has been used by many civilizations. It does not fade over time, unlike asphalt shingles, and can last for centuries. This material is also fireproof and offers a timeless look that can increase the value of a home.

Another popular roofing option is terra cotta roof tile. This material is a more affordable choice than real slate or clay roof tiles, but it still has a timeless appearance and can increase the value of your property. If you are considering a new roof for your home, it is essential to work with an experienced roofing contractor. A roof professional will be able to help you select the right tile for your home and provide expert installation services.

Tile roofs are a great addition to any home but they are not for everyone. You need to be able to maintain the tile roof and keep it in good condition for decades. If you do not want to spend a lot of time maintaining your roof, it is best to go with an asphalt shingle roof.

Wood Roofs

Wood was one of the first roofing materials used and continues to be a popular choice for those who prefer a more traditional look. The material is strong and durable, and it can be stained in many different hues to achieve the desired aesthetic. A wood shingle or shake roof is also an excellent insulator, and laying down additional insulating material under the shakes can help homeowners save on their energy bills.

There are several types of wood that can be used for a residential or commercial roofing project, including fir, cedar, and redwood. Few materials can compare to cedar for moisture and rot resistance, and this type of wood is also extremely long-lasting. Fir and cypress are two budget-friendly alternatives to cedar that can still provide excellent wearability.

While wood is a very environmentally friendly material, it does require more maintenance than other types of roofing materials. Wood shingles and shakes must be treated with fire retardants and other preservatives, which can make them more expensive to maintain over the long term. Wood roofs are also more susceptible to fire damage, and they may raise insurance premiums as a result.

Shakes are thicker than shingles and can be made of pine, spruce, or occasionally oak. The shakes are typically split by hand and can be textured for added weather resistance. There are also shingle-style wood roofs, which have a more traditional appearance and are usually made of spruce or cedar. The shingles are thinner than shakes and can be textured to offer added weather resistance as well.

Whether or not you choose to go with a natural wood shingle or shake roof depends on your home ownership goals. Wood shingles and shakes have a lower return on investment than other types of roofing, and they need to be replaced every 20 years or so. However, they’re an excellent option if you’re looking to enjoy the natural beauty of a real wood roof for a longer period of time.

Wood shingles and shakes are also very vulnerable to moisture, which can cause them to swell, warp, or harbor mold. Adding a moisture barrier to your wood roof can prevent this from occurring, and it’s important to have your wood roof regularly treated to keep it in great shape.