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What to Consider About Roof Replacement
Your home’s roof is a very important and necessary investment. Since roofs tend to be quite costly, you want to be sure that your new roof is of high quality, and that it’s installed properly. When you’re ready for a roof replacement near Redmond, hire a reputable and experienced roofing contractor who specializes in home inspection, roof design and installation, and roof maintenance.
There are many roof types on the market today to choose from. When making your decision, you need to consider several factors regarding your new roof, which includes, but is not limited to: ease of maintenance, longevity, type of roofing material, roof aesthetics, your local climate, and your budget. Be sure to opt for the best quality roof that you can afford—you really don’t want to skimp in this situation, or go with the cheapest option available. Your roofing contractor can help you pick out the right roof for your project, as well as explain to you how you can get the most from your new roof’s warranty.
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The Importance of Roof Cleaning
The importance of roof cleaning in Bellevue cannot be stressed enough. Roof maintenance requires more than just fixing issues as they arise, or an annual scrub with soap and water. For one thing, well-maintained roofs last much longer than neglected ones. To ensure that your roof is in its best condition for years to come, you need to give it preventative and routine care. Make it a habit to perform regular inspections and cleanings. Better yet, have a roofing contractor who specializes in roof inspection and maintenance to do the work for you. Not only will you have a squeaky clean roof, you’ll also have peace of mind.
Roof Cleaning Extends Your Roof’s Life
An undisputable fact is that clean roofs last longer. Dirty roofs can create myriad problems. For example, moss that grows on a roof can damage it and cause roof shingles to deteriorate at a faster rate. Debris, such as leaf litter and tree branches, that’s allowed to accumulate on a roof can weigh it down and cause an obstruction to gutter systems. When gutters back up, they can’t effective divert rainwater from a roof, which can cause water to pool if a roof is oddly shaped or has any depressions. Pooling water can damage your roofing tiles and find its way into your home.
Neglected Roofs Can Be Expensive
Roof repairs can become costly, especially if they become ongoing things. To avoid spending unnecessary money to fix your roof, keep it clean. Depending on where you live, and how many trees are near your home, cleanings should happen weekly, monthly, and seasonally.
Professional Roof Cleaning Is Key
The best way to care for your roof is to have it professionally cleaned and maintained. Trained and experienced roof cleaners know what they are doing. By using specialized equipment and cleaning solutions, roofing contractors can properly and thoroughly clean your roof. They’re also able to notice and fix minor problems before they become major ones. Most reputable roofing companies offer maintenance plans for your convenience.
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The Roof Flashing Repair Process
Your roof in Redmond protects you and your home from the elements all year round, so you want to make sure that it’s taken care of and always in good working order. When the flashing around your roof vents is damaged or has shifted, you may have a leaking-roof situation on your hands.
If you’re comfortable climbing up and down a ladder, and have the tools—such as chalk, roofing nails, and a 5-in-1 tool—and the skills to perform minor roofing repair, you could repair your roof’s flashing yourself. Otherwise, enlist the help of a professional roofing contractor . Check out this video to see how roof flashing is repaired.
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Problems Associated with a Roof That Leaks
A roof in Bellevue that leaks can cause you many problems, especially if that leaky roof isn’t dealt with in a timely manner. If you discover or suspect that your roof has been compromised, contact a reputable roofing contractor as soon as possible to set up an inspection. The longer you wait, the more costly the repairs may be. Here are some common problems associated with a leaky roof.
Mold and Mildew Issues
A roof that leaks, particularly one that has been leaking for a while, can create an ideal environment that allows mold and mildew to thrive in, and to grow wildly. Given enough time and moisture, fungal infestations can become disastrous, damaging your home’s structural supports and posing a health risk. People who breathe in mold spores afloat in the air can develop allergic reactions or respiratory diseases. In a worst-case scenario, the infamous black mold ( Stachybotrys chartarum ) could send you to the emergency room.
Damage from Water Intrusion
Intruding water from a leaky roof usually starts to pool directly beneath the roof, around roof vents, or in an attic. This excessive moisture can soak into your home’s insulation, dramatically reducing its effectiveness. When fiberglass and cellulose insulation becomes oversaturated, it starts to clump together and reduce in size, rendering it less energy efficient. As insulation begins to fail, monthly energy bills rise. Intruding water can soak into wooden beams and studs, weakening your home’s support structures, as well as adversely affecting things like drywall, plaster, and paint.
Electrical Fires and Shock
Your home harbors a network of electrical wiring that runs behind your walls. If water comes into contact with live wires, it can cause electrical shorts, which can shock you if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time. These electrical shorts can also start house fires. If you notice signs of water intrusion inside your home, especially if you’re near an electrical panel or exposed wiring, shut off the power supply to your home immediately and contact a professional.
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Surprising Dangers of a Leaky Roof
Not only can a leaky roof be aggravating, but it also can be disastrous. A compromised roof can lead to a whole host of problems such as water damage inside your home or mold growth. Luckily, if leaks are addressed immediately after they’re discovered, they can be easily be stopped by any of the qualified roofing contractors in Redmond . If a failing roof is left neglected, it can result in a costly roof replacement and much more. Here are some surprising dangers of a roof that leaks.
Interior Water Damage
One of the first places water from a leaky roof goes is in the attic. If you use your attic space for storage or if it’s insulated, you may have a problem on your hands. Regarding insulation, fiberglass and cellulose materials can become oversaturated, which can deplete them overtime and cause your insulation to fail. Water intrusion can also affect your ceiling and the walls directly below—with prolonged exposure to moisture, drywall can warp and paint can bubble and peel. Water damage can also lead to mold growth.
Mold and Mildew Infestations
If left unrepaired, a leaky roof can encourage mold and mildew to grow out of control. Mildew can be unsightly, but it’s relatively easy to clean up. Mold, on the other hand, can be much more insidious. Certain mold spores can cause minor allergic reactions in people who are sensitive or who are susceptible to respiratory diseases. One mold in particular, the dreaded black mold ( Stachybotrys chartarum ), can be toxic. Though rarely occurring, black mold is definitely a concern where water intrusion is chronic. If you suspect black mold in your home, contact a mold expert immediately.
Electrical Fires
Electrical wiring runs throughout your home, and can be found behind walls, in your attic space, and above your ceiling. Water from a leaky roof can interact with wiring and cause electrical shorts, which can potentially lead to house fires. If you see signs of water intrusion in your attic or on your ceiling, schedule an inspection with a roof repair specialist and an electrician as soon as possible.
Compromised Structure
A failing roof that’s allowing water inside can weaken and damage the wooden structure of your home. Rafters, collar ties, studs, ceiling joists, and fascia boards can become oversaturated and rot.
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Get to Know B & J Roofing
Your home’s roof is a very important structure that protects you and your family from inclement weather and excessive sun exposure. So, when it comes to taking care of your roof, you want to know that you’re working with experienced and reputable roofing contractors. To ensure that your roof in Bellevue is in its best condition, and that it remains in its best condition for years to come, contact B & J Roofing.
Since its founding in 1976, B & J Roofing has strived to provide homeowners with the best customer service, as well as superior roofing services such as roof cleaning, roof replacement and repair, and home inspection. B & J Roofing uses only the highest-quality materials, and is fully insured, licensed, and bonded. Its knowledgeable roofers have years of experience under their belts—some of them are full-time employees. And they offer a 20-year workmanship warranty, so your satisfaction is guaranteed.
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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.