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The Benefits of a Gable Roof
A gable roof in Redmond is a very popular style of roof. Since gable roofs have sloped surfaces, they’re highly effective at diverting rainwater and snow away from their surfaces. Therefore, gable roofs are seen in great numbers in areas that receive a significant amount of snow during the winter season. Their structural soundness and sharp peaks can protect your home from heavy snowfall and potential roof collapse. Gable roofs can also offer homes more usable living space.
To learn more about the benefits of a gable roof, or roofing in general, contact one of your local roofing contractors . In the meantime, check out this video to learn more.
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Comparing Different Shingle Materials
If you’re a homeowner, you know that at some point you’re going to need to replace your roof when it’s time to do so. Since roof replacements aren’t cheap, you want to be sure that your new roof in Bellevue is going to last for decades to come. There are many types of roofs to choose from, as well as many different kinds of roofing materials. Here are a few of the most common roofing shingles on the market today.
Wood Shingles
Wood shingles used to be the most popular roofing material until composition shingles came along. These shingles are classic, elegant, and bring warmth to any home’s exterior. In areas where moisture levels are low, these shingles can last for 50 years or more. Conversely, wood shingles won’t last as long in areas that are consistently wet. To keep them in tiptop shape, wood shingles need to be maintained and guarded against rot, mold, and insect damage. Since wood is not naturally fire resistant, these shingles need to be fire treated.
Composition Shingles
Versatile and affordable, composition shingles, also known as asphalt shingles, are the most popular roofing material used today. Composition shingles are usually composed of these core ingredients: asphalt, fiberglass, and stone aggregate. These shingles are available in a range of grades from basic to high end—the pricier options offer features such as embedded metals that prevent moss growth. In general, composition shingles tend to be cost effective, extremely durable, and fire resistant. Unfortunately, composition roofs have relatively short lifespans: about 20 years, give or take.
Clay Tiles
A distinguishable feature of Italian, Spanish, and Southwestern homes, clay is ideal in arid regions, or in places that have more warm days than cold. These tiles can be quite durable and last a long time, and they’re naturally fire resistant. If you live in an area where storms and hail are common, clay is not the roofing material for you.
Metal Roofing
Popular on commercial buildings, metal is a great choice for your home. This roofing material has a long lifespan, as well as being low maintenance, extremely durable, and fire resistant.
Synthetic Shingles
Synthetic shingles can either be made of plastic, rubber, or recycled materials, and are made to look like wood shake or stone tiles. They’re durable and are a cost-effective alternative to natural roofing materials.
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Common Roofing Problems Homeowners Face
If you’re a homeowner, the last thing you want to hear is that you have to replace your roof in Redmond . Since your roof is constantly exposed to the elements, it can become battered and susceptible to damage. Here are some common roofing problems you should be aware of.
Leaking Roofs
There are many reasons why roofs leak. For example, roofing materials, like shingles or flashing, can become dislodged or damaged after a violent windstorm, creating gaps where water can infiltrate your home. Homes with chimneystacks that go through roofs may experience leaks because the flashing around the stacks may become loosened or damaged.
Roofs That are Installed Poorly
Roofs that have recently been replaced that are leaking may not have been installed properly. Shoddy workmanship is unacceptable. Not only can a poorly installed roof leak, it also can have a limited lifespan. The best way to avoid this situation is to hire roofing contractors near Bellevue who are fully bonded, licensed, and insured, and who are reputable. Remember to do your research and shop around when you’re in the market for a professional roofer.
Neglected Roofs
Like all things in life, your roof needs to be maintained, which means that it needs to be inspected, cleaned, and treated regularly. For instance, debris and moss should be removed from roofing materials before the stormy season rolls around. Roofs that are neglected can deteriorate quickly and become costly to repair or replace. Make it a habit to inspect and clean your roof routinely. If you lack the time or are afraid of heights, schedule a professional roof inspection and cleaning.
Pooling Water
An effective roof is one that can direct water away from its surface. If your roof contains depressions or is irregularly shaped, it can allow water to pool on it. This can be a serious issue. For one, pooling water can damage your roofing tiles and find its way into your home. Water can also amplify the effects of sunlight, causing extensive UV damage. Pools of water can also attract unwanted insects like mosquitoes. Periodically inspect your roof and remove pools of water when you notice them. If you’re planning a roof replacement, be sure to design one that can efficiently move water off its surface.
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Preventative Maintenance from B & J Roofing
Properly maintaining your roof involves more than taking care of problems as they arise. It entails performing monthly or seasonal inspections, depending on where you live, and cleaning chores such as removing leaves from your roof and gutters. The idea is to prevent problems from being problems in the first place. To ensure that your roof in Bellevue is in the best state it can possibly be in, you should consider having it routinely maintained by a professional roofing company that is fully licensed, insured, and bonded like B & J Roofing.
We offer thorough cleaning services that include removing leaves, twigs, and debris from your roof’s surface. Moss, which attaches to roofing tiles, can damage your roof and cause roof shingles to deteriorate at a faster rate. B & J Roofing also offers comprehensive roof inspections, which allow for an accurate assessment of your roof’s current condition. If loose or damaged roofing shingles, vents, or flashing are detected, a trained technician can repair or replace it. If significant damage is noticed, he or she may suggest a roof replacement.