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Now that spring is here, expect the annual flooding of pollen all over your property. Are you wondering is it important to keep pollen off my roof? Don’t be surprised if your roof and siding get suddenly covered in yellowish dust.
When it comes to spring cleaning, most homeowners neglect the roof above their heads. That is because removing pollen from one’s roof is not a spring activity most people look forward to doing.
Unfortunately, pollen can cause health hazards, unsightly stains, and costly roofing issues that could have been easily prevented in the first place.
Aside from closing your doors and windows and installing HEPA filters, you also need to have your roof checked by a professional roofing contractor. This way, they can check if your roof has become an entry point for pollen. The contractor will make sure that the attic insulation and air vents have been properly installed and functioning properly.
You can rely on rain and time to help remove pollen build-up. But if there’s huge amounts of it, it may be time to get up on the roof and remove the pollen. However, there’s a risk of getting injured while you’re up there if it’s a steep roof or you’re less mobile than you used to be. In that case, you’d be better off leaving the cleanup to the roofing professionals.
If your roof has been retaining more pollen than usual because of pitting or curled shingles, then it may be time to have it replaced. Old, decaying asphalt roofs are more likely to catch allergens as they age. Check with your local roofer to see if your roof is up for a replacement, or if they can still do repairs.
Spring is definitely the worst time of year for pollen to collect on your home, especially on your roof.
Removing pollen from your roof may help lessen your allergy symptoms, which is why you should make roofing maintenance a part of your spring cleaning checklist.
To learn more about our spring maintenance services, please contact Chattanooga Roofing Company. Just call us at (423)-401-2448 today.
Are you wondering what the signs your roof needs to be replaced are? Can you tell if your roof even needs a replacement? Sometimes, the signs are obvious, like having a huge gaping hole in the middle of your attic. Other times, the signs are subtle, and you’ll need to delve deeper and seek the help of a roofing professional to determine if you need a roof replacement.
Read on to discover some signs to watch out for when it comes to your roofing system.
An asphalt shingle roof typically lasts for 20 years, while a metal roof will have a longer lifespan. If your roof is more than 20 years old, consider getting a roof inspection for damage that remains undetected.
Have you noticed leaks, water spots, sagging parts, and rotting tiles? These are signs that your roof has been rotting from the inside for quite some time.
If you see any curling or broken shingles on the top of the roof, it might be time for a replacement. In addition, if you spot granules from the gutter, that means you have loose shingles. Your roof is vulnerable from the outside. Any damage will lead to further damage and roof decay if you don’t replace the shingles. If just a couple of shingles are damaged, replacing them is easy. However, if the damage is widespread, then it’s time for a replacement.
If you have ridges of ice forming at the edge of your roof at the gutters, that means the ventilation of your roofing system is compromised. The pressure coming from the ice can damage the inner layers of the roof and if this goes untreated, it’s only a matter of time before water can seep inside the house.
If your roof is really old and has corroded flashing, it can be a weak spot that will allow water to penetrate. For that reason, consider having the flashing replaced with a new metal flashing system.
If you spot dark or green streaks, then algae or moss is present. Excessive growth of these two means moisture is present and can also cause the shingles to deteriorate.
What should you do if you spot any of these signs?
Chattanooga Roofing Company can provide you with a thorough assessment of your roof to see if it can still be repaired. In addition, we can let you know if it needs a complete overhaul. Just call us at (423) 401-2448 to book a service appointment!
Have you been doing a spot check of your asphalt shingle roof and noticed some dark streaks all over it? It could be a combination of many things — accumulated dirt, damaged shingles, or mold. You may be wondering why your roof looks dark and how to prevent it. Let’s look into this a bit more, and hopefully you’ll know how to fix it when this article is done.
More often than not, the culprit is actually a blue-green algae known as Gloeocapsa Magma. The spores of this algae are airborne and can be carried over to your roof by heavy and strong winds. The crushed limestone filler used in your asphalt roof will serve as their main food source. The hot and humid summer experienced in the southeastern part of the US will also contribute to the algae’s growth.
Although the algae won’t harm your roof in any way, its presence could be a major eyesore to an otherwise cozy home. This algae begins as small spots on your roof, but if left unattended, the spots become long streaks of monstrosity.
We’ve talked about why your roof looks dark, and how to prevent it is next up. To prevent this algae from marring your home, you can ask your roofing contractor to choose an algae-resistant roof if you are in the process of a roof replacement.
However, if your existing roof has already been affected by this algae, there are lots of chemical cleaning agents that can be used.
Take note that there will be risks involved in cleaning your own roof. Going the DIY route could void your roof warranty or homeowner’s insurance policy. In addition, you may not have the right roof cleaning materials. You also might not have the spare time to clean. And, even if you do, you could end up hurting yourself in the process.
Cleaning your roof is better left in the hands of professionals. For a consulation about removing those ugly black streaks, please contact Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 401-2448 today.
If your roof is getting on in age or has not been maintained for quite a while, we recommended that you inspect it for damage. Doing so prevents the problem from worsening and saves you from spending lots of $$ in repair. But in order to do so, you have to know what are the problem areas of your roof.
Here are the top 4 areas you need to watch.
The fascia is a piece of trim that runs along the edge of a roof to create a more smooth, polished appearance and to protect the edge from the weather elements.
A soffit is placed underneath the eaves to keep moisture away from the rafters.
Both of these could be potential problem areas so inspect them regularly and look for holes and cracks where moisture and pests can come through.
Roof flashing is made of galvanized steel and helps seal your roofing system by directing water away from critical areas of the roof such as chimneys, vents, and skylights.
However, it could get torn down by a strong wind or get oxidized in the long run. Damaged flashing can cause moisture to come inside the roof seams and cause water leaks.
A gutter collects rainwater down through a downspout and diverts it away from a home’s foundation. If you don’t maintain it well, your gutter could clog. Leaves, twigs, and other debris can all contribute to that clog. If the load becomes too heavy, the gutter could pull away and separate from the rest of your home.
Shingles make your roof easy on the eyes. They also serve as another protective layer for the underlayment and other parts of your roofing system. However, high winds can pry these shingles apart and extremely hot weather may cause them to curl or loosen up.
If you spot any damage within these areas, make sure to call a roofing contractor so they can be fixed right away. Chattanooga Roofing Company is here to answer any questions at (423) 888-0258.
When making plans for a roof replacement, you need to decide on the contractor. In addition, you must choose the type of roofing system to install, project timelines, and budget. However, there’s one thing that you won’t be able to control, and that’s the weather. Replacing your roof in the rain can be a pain.
You can’t accurately predict the weather even if you monitor all the weather bulletins. You also can’t tell if it’s going to rain or shine once you start on your roofing project
Unfortunately, rain can negatively impact your ongoing roof construction. Bu you also don’t have to let it dampen your enthusiasm for the project.
Most professional roofers schedule their jobs during pleasant weather. It makes sense, because rain can badly affect the installation or repair they’re doing.
Asphalt shingles do not adhere well to the surface when wet. Additionally, most of the inner portions of a roofing system can suffer in wet weather. Damp internal structure could affect the performance of the roof in the long run.
There’s also the possibility that you could void your warranty. It’s a fact that most manufacturers require installation of their products in specific conditions. If these conditions aren’t met, it will risk the validity of your warranty. A slick rooftop will also put your workers at risk and can lead to further damage to your home.
This reminder also goes out to people who are planning to DIY their roof. If you’re still planning to push through with the replacement of the roof in the middle of the rain, we strongly discourage you to do this.
You might save on install or repair costs. However, it could actually prove more costly if the roof is improperly installed or if you encounter an accident while on the roof. Even if you’re just planning to inspect a roof leak and nothing else, wait for better weather conditions before going up to the roof.
Leave the roof replacement to the hands of professionals who know what they’re doing. Contact Chattanooga Roofing today at (423) 799-2173 to start your roof replacement project.
With winter just around the corner, it’s not just people who are heading indoors and looking for warmth. Pests are looking also for homes where they can hibernate during the colder months. That means you need to know how to prevent pests in your attic.
Once they invade your home, these pests can expose your family to diseases and bring destruction to your attic by gnawing through your wiring, insulation, and aluminum siding. They will reproduce and multiply, making them harder to remove from your home.
Instead of hiring a professional pest control company, you can go for the cheaper route and implement these steps to prevent pests from using your attic as their nest. Make your home difficult for them to break in, and they’ll go somewhere else.
Overhanging branches provide an entry point for pests that ordinarily wouldn’t have access to your home. Other forms of foliage like bushes and vines can also be used by animals to cross over to your attic. So pull out those shears and trim your garden to prevent pests from coming in.
An opening the size of a nickel is enough for a pest to squeeze through, so check if there are gaps within your roofing system. You can prevent them from entering by using a chimney cap and installing wire mesh on vents. Also check for damaged shingles, cladding, and gutters. Determine if your attic window screens are still in good condition.
If you discover your roofing system has been damaged at such a point that pests can freely come and go, you can contact a roofing company to have it fixed and cleaned up.
Pests enter homes to forage for food, so keep it clean at all times. Make sure that your garbage is collected frequently, and that your containers have tight-fitting lids. Leave just enough food for your pets, because what’s left over could serve as fodder for pests. Also remove water from fountains and bird baths as pests gravitate toward a water source.
Make it a habit to frequently clean your attic, and use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes for storage. Cardboard is another food source by many pests.
Inspect the attic for openings where animals can go through. Check for small cracks under your doors and windows, and seal cracks with silicone-based caulk or steel wool.
If you’re having problems with pests in your attic contact Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 799-2173 for a consultation with one of our experts.
If your roof is starting to fall apart, you’ve got to replace it sometime soon. And fall may be the best time to have it repaired or replaced by a professional roofing company. But why is fall a good time to replace your roof? What makes this season ideal?
A roof is best replaced during a clear day, when the weather allows the shingles’ seal strips to melt and adhere properly. Shingles become more difficult to work with during hot and cold weather. In addition, humid weather and freezing temperatures cause the shingles to need more time to set and form an airtight barrier.
For this reason, you need to have your roofing project done now before temperatures start to drop. By getting it done in the fall, the shingles will have more than enough time to bond to the roof. You’ll be ready before wintry weather arrives.
The weather is also more forgiving during fall. Spring and summer can bring heavy thunderstorms, while winter brings cold weather. These conditions can make it difficult for the roofer to get the job done right away.
Your roof took a major beating from the sun during summer. You may be able to spot the occasional loose shingle. However, damaged flashing, chimney, or eaves can be harder to spot and may need the help of a professional. Fall is the ideal time to have your roof inspected to determine if a repair or replacement is in order.
If you have existing damage to your roof, the coming winter storms and the weight of snowfall will only exacerbate the problem. For that reason, act right away. That way, once the winter weather rolls in, you won’t have to worry about leaks and ice dams. Your loved ones will remain cozy, warm, and comfortable inside – despite the cold weather. And you may also get to save on heating costs.
So when is the best time to replace your roof? The best time is now, while you still can. Don’t put off the replacement because your problems could get worse. If you do, you might end up having to pay a whole lot more.
To get started on a roof replacement for your home, please contact Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 888-0258 for a consultation with an expert.
Ignoring the following warning signs that your roof is falling will cause serious issues later on, thereby costing you more. For that reason, it is essential to spot these signs around your house and find a professional contractor to get a roof replacement immediately. Don’t ignore these Fall roof warning signs! Keep reading to learn what to watch out for.
Roof leaks may seem to be less serious, but they can cause damage like rot, the spread of mold, etc. This costs you more to fix them. It’s best to call a skilled contractor and inspect openings like chimneys, roof shingles, or skylight windows at least once a year. Spring and fall seasons are best for an in-depth roof inspection.
If shingles show any of these signs, it usually means an aging roof system. You need to have a new roof installed as soon as possible. Blistering shingles are also more prone to damage during extreme weather conditions.
A droopy roof signifies serious structural problems. For that reason, it should be inspected immediately by a professional roofing contractor near you and replaced. Otherwise, it could collapse at any time.
If critters are making holes in your roof, your roof is on the verge of collapsing. Stay alert and watch signs of intruders during all seasons to prevent costly roof repairs.
While mice may be the first animal that comes to mind, squirrels, raccoons, and rats also target roofs as a nest location. Even small insects can wreak havoc on a roof.
Once an entrance hole has been set, other critters can also find a way inside. This can saturate wood and ruin shingles. Consult a skilled roofing contractor in case of severe termite infestation to assess the damage and get solutions.
If your interior walls and ceilings are stained or look worse, there may be a mold growth inside your home. It may be due to faulty or insufficient shingle underlayment.
If the roof is over 20 years of age, call your Chattanooga roofing contractor regularly to check its condition. The expert will use the necessary safety equipment to help you identify any underlying issues that need a quick fix.
If your roof is older and you see extra granules in the gutter, it could mean that shingles are deteriorating and need replacement. Granules keep the ultraviolet rays off the coating of shingles and also make them fire-resistant. If you have lost them, shingles may collapse fast.
If nails start popping out of place, the spaces and holes around the nails become prone to water penetration. It can also cause leaks in the roof.
If this is the case, replace your roof as soon as possible. The rise in cooling and heating bills could be due to a leaky roof, bad attic ventilation, or a damaged roof.
If your roof is showing the Fall roof warning signs mentioned above, call Chattanooga’s roofing experts today. They will give you a competitive quote for your new roof installation.
During summers — which call for lot of sun – roof maintenance is essential. A new roof is an expensive idea. For that reason, every homeowner desires a prolonged life for their roof made with substantial investment. Whether you installed your roofing now or a few years ago, following the tips below will help extend its life. This way, you can avoid spending on a new roof soon.
The first task is to inspect your roof from all angles. Use binoculars or a ladder and look for broken or missing shingles, fungal or weed growth and junk that may have accumulated in the roof’s cracks and crevices. Also, examine the roof for other issues like water stains, missing or loose hardware components, etc.
House gutters are likely to be clogged with twigs, leaves, and other debris which can ruin paint and lead to water damage. The debris in them can sometimes direct water upwards and rot the roof sheathing. Also, examine the gutters for holes, cracks, or missing caulk. Use gloves to scoop out the garbage from the downspouts as the chemical buildup can be abrasive.
A roof surrounded by tall bushes or overhanging trees is prone to rapid decomposition. This is because leaves and branches from trees collect in roof valleys, allowing moisture to accumulate on your roof. This can promote weed growth in the area and seepage below the roofing surface. So, pick a sunny morning, get on the ladder, and get rid of all the organic matter on your roof.
Moss growth can mainly be seen on wooden roofs or shingles. It traps water and thus needs to be tackled almost immediately. We recommend that you use a moss-killing cleaning solution. The unwanted growth can then be swept away by a soft-bristled broom/brush. Once the roof is free of moss, you can install zinc strips to prevent it. It’s more effective and eco-friendly than spraying chemicals.
Late summer is the best time to consider applying coatings, sealants, and other protective materials to your roof. After you’ve finished cleaning your roof, you can apply patching materials, which further ensure a healthy roof for a long time.
We hope these 5 late summer maintenance tips for your roof have been informative. In all these ways, summer can prove potentially damaging for your roofing. And the last thing you want to be doing is roasting in the sun while repairing your roof! Call Chattanooga Roofing Company today at (423) 443-4174.
In the best of conditions, your roof is capable of a decades-long lifespan. However, it’ll only last as long as it should if you maintain it well. For that reason, you need to know what tasks are necessary. And while summer roof care does differ slightly* from care in other seasons, it’s more similar than different. So, how should you maintain your roof in the summer? Read on to learn more about the tasks you need to do.
It sounds simple, but many homeowners forget to do it. Looking over your roof closely is an amazingly helpful and necessary task. And what better time than summer? It’s warm, less rainy, less debris is falling … it’s time to inspect the roof.
You’re on the lookout for loose, discolored, and/or damaged shingles. They may indicate a more widespread problem.
This one just makes sense. If your roof can’t properly get rid of water via the gutter, you’ll end up with damage. Not only to the fascia, but also the outside walls and even the roof itself. Clean out the debris from the gutter so your roof does its job from top to bottom. Alternatively, if you can’t get up on a ladder for any reason, feel free to hire a service pro. This isn’t just how you maintain your roof in the summer – it’s a year-round task.
Nothing can damage the edge of your roof quite like a tree limb scraping it. Overgrown or low-hanging foliage is a no-no when it comes to keeping your roof intact. Use the summer months to cut back and trim all the bushes and trees that come anywhere near your roof. You’ll reduce algae growth, moss buildup, and scrape damage. In addition, you’ll reduce the sticks and leaves you need to clean off the roof and out of the gutters.
If your roof needs repair or replacement (and all roofs will eventually), get professional help! Simply call Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 799-2173 today.
* Really, the only big difference is temperature. Since heat makes asphalt softer, you should be careful if you need to walk on your roof in the summer. You need to avoid pulling shingles off their nails or scraping off the protective granules.