Even the highest quality asphalt roofing will eventually become damaged and need to be replaced. Extreme temperature changes will cause roofing shingles to expand and contract frequently during any calendar year. This kind of climate eventually results in damage and a roof that is not performing as intended.

Whether you have noticed any problems with your roof or not, you should either inspect your roof yourself every year or call a professional to check it out. An annual check will help to determine whether there are potential problems that could eventually become serious damage. Leaving your roofing unchecked can leave your family at risk, since your roof provides shelter and protection. The financial risk of not checking your roof is also immense.

There are some issues that should be a reason for concern:

1) Missing shingles or tiles after a serious storm
2) Any shingles that are not lying flat
3) Shingles that are beginning to curl
4) Shingles that are showing granular wear (asphalt shingles are covered with small stones)
5) Damage or holes in the flashing round your chimney or bump-out windows

Depending on the quality of your shingles, they are expected to last from 15 to 25 years. If it is getting close to the expected lifespan of your shingles, call a couple roofing companies for an estimate on replacing your roof.

Ultimate Roofing will be able to advise you about replacing your roof with a variety of roofing materials including slate, cedar shakes, asphalt or composite shingles. Whether your roof simply needs repair or replacement, we are able to provide the best quality work at a fair price.

Fall is the time of the year when you need to ensure your roof is ready for the harsh weather that is coming. It is a good idea to consult a roofing professional who will come to your house and see the top of the house and do an inspection. If there is a problem with your roofing, they will be able to deal with it. There are things you can do on your own. Below are the roof maintenance tips that will go a long way in helping you this fall.

1. Begin by Cleaning the Gutter
With fall progressing, you might notice a large quantity of leaves and twigs on your roof and gutters, It is important to clean your gutters and unclog the pipes when falls season comes because it will ensure your draining system is functioning smoothly and there is no buildup of water on the roof. This will help you avoid costly roof repairs when there is cracking, molding, or any other damage.

2. Installing Gutter Guards
You should consider fitting gutter guards when installing the gutter. Gutter guards are helpful because they help in reducing the time you spend cleaning your gutters. Gutter guards look like caps and have holes, and they will allow water to pass but will prevent leaves and other debris from going inside. When only water enters the gutter, it makes it harder for it to block.

3. Trimming Trees Around the House
If there are trees around the house and its branches are getting too close to the roofing, it is important to deal with them. The branches can easily fall on the roof and result in severe damage, or you might find animals searching for shelter because of the harsh weather. The risks of such a thing happening increases in winter because of snowfall, which is why you should be doing the trimming during fall.

4. Pre-Winter Inspection
You should have this done every year. It is a good idea to have your roofing inspected by a professional roofer to ensure there is no problem and fix the ones they encounter. They can spot damaged shingles before the beginning of winter. Professional roofers are in a good position to find issues and those hidden problems such as water damage and ventilation issues because they have the knowledge and expertise.

5. Determining whether the Roof needs Repairs
Winter isn't far off, and this makes it important to do roof repairs and deal with any problems that might have come up during inspection. The smaller problems people tend to ignore become more serious with time if they are not dealt with fast. You might end up spending a lot of money repairing a problem that could have been easily fixed before. A roofing contractor will repair areas of the roof that have problems, and this is going to give you peace of mind because you know the roofing is in good condition. So what are you waiting on to give us a call?

There are many homeowners out there who don’t know that doing insulation on their attic and ensuring it is in a good condition is important because it has an impact on comfort and energy bill. The many studies that have been done have shown you can end up making savings of between 20 to 50 percent on heating costs. It will also help in melting the snow quicker during a snowstorm, which means it reduces the load on your roof. How can you get started with attic insulation?

What to before the insulation of the attic

1. Examining your Attic
Consider the following aspects when you evaluate your attic:

Getting a good understanding of the attic space and roof structure.
You should look for wet or damp spots because they are a sign of moisture problems. If there is a moisture problem in your attic, find the cause of the problems and deal with it before the insulation.
You should check out the rafters to make sure they are not damaged or sagging.

2. Completely Sealing the Space
Make sure the attic is air sealed. To maintain the desired temperature, you need to eliminate, holes, cracks and any gaps. The best option for air sealing is foam spray insulation. Check the attic and the roof ventilation to make sure there is some level of insulation in the attic.

3. Selecting the Right Insulation
Below are some factors you need to consider when choosing the insulating material for the attic:

R-Value: This is the rating used to show the heat resistance of a material. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. This can vary from one region to another.

Area Available: the amount of space that needs to be insulated will also determine the best insulation. Look at the space available when choosing the type of insulation to use.

Cost: you need to choose an insulation option that is within your budget.

4. Other Steps to Take Before Insulating
You need to adhere to the following to make sure that the insulation is going to last for many years:

Fixing Roof Leaks
Water damage can cause the growth of molds, which can end up running the insulation. You should look for any signs of water leakage and have the problem fixed before installing the insulation.

Keeping Enough Gap between the Light Fixtures and Insulating Materials
You should keep a 3-5 inch gap between the insulation and light fixtures. This is important to prevent them from touching each other.

Directing All Vents to the Exterior
Make sure that the humid air is not getting trapped inside the home, and you can avoid this problem by properly venting it outside.

A professional roofing expert will help you in insulating your attic and any other concerns you might be having. Contact us for all your needs insulating your attic.

The fact is, a leaking roof is a common problem homeowners face, and there are several reasons it occurs. Some of the reasons include:

• Improper ventilation 
• Poorly maintained or installed roof penetrations 
• Ice dams 
• Poor workmanship 
• Insufficient underlayment 

Improper Ventilation 

Sometimes the water drops you see are not actually from a leaking roof but simply as a result of moisture condensation. This occurs due to improper ventilation system. It is paramount to have proper attic ventilation to maintain optimal function and longevity of your roofing system. What is proper ventilation?

Well, proper ventilation simply refers to a perfect balance between exhaust and intake. It involves closing air leaks and correct bathroom venting, dryer, dishwasher, and washer, with the perfect amount of insulation. By chance, if any of the above elements are installed poorly, it may lead to moisture buildup, which is a leading cause of rotting wood and mold growth. 

Roof Penetrations 

Water leaks commonly occur around where there are roof penetrations or objects that have penetrated the roof. Examples include wall flashings, terminations, dormer walls, plumbing stacks, vent pipes, and even chimneys. The area around the penetrants is the most vulnerable part of the room, and if improperly maintained or installed, it could cause a lot of problems. These areas need a great deal of time and the touch of an expert. 

Ice Dams 

An Ice dam is as a result of constant freezing and thawing processes of ice or snow on the roof. With time, ice will build up at the base of the roof, around the eaves. As such, when the ice melts, it may cause water to seep through into the shingles and eventually into the roof. A professional roofer can help you fix the problem and prevent it from recurring in the future. 

Poor Workmanship 

A roof consists of different components that must work together to have a complete system. For this reason, poor workmanship can lead to a serious problem like a leaking roof. This is one of the reasons to always hire an experienced professional roof contractor that knows what they are doing. 

Insufficient Underlayment 

Underlayment is a layer that is located between a roof deck and shingles. This layer is made up of breathable synthetic material. What many people do not know is that it is an important component. As such, if not installed properly, it puts your roof at a greater risk of leaks, especially during a wind-driven rain. 

What Should You Check For? 

NOTE: By the time you notice leaks coming through the ceiling, it means that your roof has been leaking for a while.

As such, when this happens, you should take a few precautionary measures. You should look for the following signs:

• A visible sagging roof from outside 
• Water stains on the roof rafters, beams, and sheathing 
• Wood stains in the garage 

The moment you see any sign of a leaking roof; you should call a professional immediately.

When it comes to choosing roof shingles, you have to consider the type, color, material and style that meets your needs, budget and the architecture of your home.  If you are unsure where to start with this selection process, there are certain steps that you need to take.  Working through these steps will help you choose the right shingles for your home. 

The Type Of Shingles

There are many different materials used for shingles and you need to choose one.  It is important that you weigh the pros and cons of each material before you make any decisions.  There are 2 materials that are more popular than others and they are asphalt and slate. 

Asphalt shingles are flat and light.  They are also known as 3-tab shingles.  These shingles are popular because they are the most affordable option on the market.  Slate shingles are waterproof, fire-resistant and extremely durable.  

The Style And Features

There are a number of points that you should consider when looking at the style and features of the shingles.  The appearance is important and you need to choose their shape and size based on the size of your roof.  You also need to consider the structure of the building and architectural style.  

If you live in an area where it is common for algae to grow on roofs, you need shingles that discourage this.  There are shingles that offer guards against any discoloration from the mold.  Another feature to look for is resistance to fire.  Shingles with a Class A fire rating will keep your home safe and will be more effective when exposed to continuous heat. 

The shingles you choose should also be waterproof.  This is particularly important if you live in an area with heavy rainfall.  This will prevent leaks and keep your roof in prime condition for longer. 

The aesthetics of the shingles should also be taken into account and needs to match the style of your home.  The material and shade of the shingles will impact their suitability for your home.  This is something you have to consider regardless of the style of home you have. 

The last point to consider is the curb appeal.  Neutral colors are generally preferred when it comes to shingles and you should consider this if you want to sell your home in the future.  A striking shade can be chosen if it complements the overall structure and design of your home.  

Ask In The Neighbourhood

If you see a home with a roof that you like, you should ask the owner about it.  They will be able to tell you about the shingles they have used and you can get a better idea of what you want. Here at Ultimate Roofing we can help too. Give us a call to start learning more.

The rainy seasons has arrived and what this means is water issues in your home. One low cost and smart way of protecting your home is through eaves trough cleaning. There are some people don’t see this as something they can do because they see it as being a nuisance instead of a necessity. Ignoring such an issue can lead to more serious damage. The main purpose of eaves troughs is directing the water from the roof away from your house. If the eaves troughs have been damaged, they can lead to leaking of water down the walls and pool by the foundation of the house. This can lead to flooding of the basement, mildew and mold and staining of the walls in your home. If not fixed, they can lead to soffit and fascia rot, and can even end up wiping the landscaping.

Years of eaves being neglected leads to the trough starting to pull away from the house or rust appearing, and this can cause damage to the roofing – which ends up costing you a lot of money to repair. For homes that are made with brick, the water and debris overflowing gutters can lead to the breakdown of the mortar and effervescence starts building up on the inside of the brick wall. This can then cause mold and mildew and rotting in the inner side of the walls. When this happens, you will be forced to get a professional to do mortar repair and sealing and also wall replacement on the inner side. This will end up being a very expensive repair to pay for when you could have easily avoided the problem by cleaning your eaves trough just twice a year to prevent decaying and damage.

The process of cleaning the eaves (or gutters) can be time-consuming, messy, and a little risky. It is not a good idea to do it on your own – especially if the home is more than one story or if you are elderly. Falling will be painful and you can end up spending a lot in hospital bills. When your eaves need cleaning, consider calling a professional who will be able to do it. You will end up saving yourself money and time in the long run. Professionals have been doing it for many years and know the right way to do things. They also have equipment used in cleaning eaves that are on a storied building. They will also be able to notice any problems with your roofing, so you can have it fixed before it becomes a serious problem.

Instead of your home getting damaged, prevent it by having your eaves cleaned.

There are indeed many reasons you may have a leaking roof. Some of the reasons are obvious, whereas others are a bit difficult to spot. In this short article, we have put together a list of common signs of a leaking roof. 

1. Dripping Water

This is one of the most noticeable signs of a leaking roof. When you get this sign, it is not wise to assume the source or cause of the problem; neither should you try to deal with the problem yourself. All types of roof leaks are worth calling a professional for assistance.

2. Wall And Ceiling Stains

Water spot stains under the roof is another sign of water leak. The spot looks like a large paddle of water and often in brown or black color. In most cases, these spots can be found close to a vent and chimney. There are times when water travels using rafters and causing the stain to occur far from the source of the leak. As such, the moment you begin to see discoloration either on the ceiling or wall, it is wise to seek the services of a professional.

3. Dripping Sounds In The Attic

Sometimes a leaking roof sign comes in the form of a sound. You may hear a sound similar to water dripping.  When you hear such a sound, you should not ignore the problem, even if you cannot find the source of the problem. You should seek help from a professional roof contractor.

4. Rotting And Wet Roof

The moment you begin experiencing a wet and rotting roof, you are in trouble. This is because your problem is not only a leaking roof but structural damage. With this problem, it cannot wait; call a professional immediately to repair and replace the rotting roof structure.

5. Algae And Mold Growth

Both algae and mold thrive in a warm and humid climate. That is a perfect condition found in the attic when there is a leak. The good news is that it may not affect the entire roofing system, but when they occur, it is a sign of a roof leak.

6. Damaged or Missing Shingles

The moment you see shingles buckling, it could either be a sign of either roof deck movement or inadequately applied felt. However, curling shingles is a sign of either hot air in the attic or water absorption. To prevent more problems, contact a professional.

7. Damaged Flashing

The main cause of this problem is improper roof installation. However, when it begins to dry, it offers the same sign. For this reason, you need a professional who can help you inspect and solve this problem. If left unchecked, it may cause water damages when there is rain or snow.

Conclusion

Any moment you see water damage or experience a leaking roof, you should consider calling a professional immediately. Never try to solve the problem yourself without the help of a professional. That is because the chances are you do not understand the rules that come with roof repairs and maintenance.

Many people assume that finding a specific color that suits the roof is simple, but it is not. The process can take time and be challenging. Whether the roofing you want to install is metal roofing, asphalt shingles, copper roofing, or any other type, there is a wide range of options when it comes to colors. Roofing is one of the most expensive aspects of any home, making it important to make the right choice. Many people usually want to know how they can choose the right color option for their roof. This article will help you with that.

Factors You Need to Consider

Select between Dark and Light Colors
People usually have questions about dark and light colors in relation to the heat retention of the property. Studies have shown that having black singled roof tend to result in 10-30 degrees higher temperature when compared to the white roofing. However, choosing dark shades such as gray and brown is not a bad idea because they don’t retain that much heat. Choosing a dark shade can also help when it comes to ice and snow because it melts faster on darker surfaces. The climate of your region will help you decide the best color of roofing.

Comparing Exterior Paint to Roofing Materials
You need to think put into consideration the roofing materials when you are choosing the color of your roofing. Whether you have metal roofing, copper roofing, or any other type of roofing, choose a shade that is going to suit the type of roof. A cool trick to use is coloring a small piece of board with a color you are considering then put it next to the roofing materials and see whether it works.

Choosing the Color of the Shingle Based on the Brick
When you choose a color, compared and match it with the color of the bricks. Match the samples of your block then choose the shade of the pain.

Choosing a Shingle Color to Spruce Up or Tone down Your Home
You should also think about the rest of your home when in the process of choosing a shade for your roofing. If your house has multiple colors of paint or made of multicolor bricks, then you might have to tone down the color you choose for your roofing. If the home has a monotone feel, then you should choose a vivid shade that can help in enhancing the curb appeal.

Architectural Style
While it is important to consider the brick tone and roofing materials when choosing the color of your roof, you also need to put into consideration the overall style and appearance of your home. You need to remember that light colors make the house appear larger while dark hues make it look smaller. You should look at the sample both in the sun and in the shade so you can know how it is going to look once you have installed it.

Thinking about what color to get your roof done in? You can call the professionals at Utimate Roofing to help you decide or prepare for your color choosing.

When operating a commercial facility, you will have a lot of responsibilities. One of the most important being the care and maintenance of the roofing. It is important to take care of roofing because it provides the first line of protection against elements. Many factors can cause water ponding or pooling on a flat metal roof. When the water starts pooling or ponding, fungus and algae will start growing in the pools on your roof. It is a good idea to wash the roof because it will help in eliminating the problem before it starts spreading. If you don’t invest in the maintenance of the commercial flat roof, you might be forced to get the services of a roofing company, and this is where you will have to spend a lot of money.

Why should you wash the roof?
You will see a better performance of your roofing when it has been washed, just like any other asset in the commercial building. It will end up lasting for longer, and you will experience lower temperatures on the roof, and also help in reducing energy use. Having a white membrane on the top of the building will go a long way in helping because it will reflect UV rays, and this will lead to lower roof temperatures. The rooftop HVAC system will be under less stress.
Moisture is an enemy of a building, especially on a roof that has a metal material. Ponding is a threat to a roofing system that is flat because it can lead to the build-up of debris, and also holding water than can lead to ponding problems. Another problem caused by ponding is splitting and blistering, and when this happens, there is an opening created, then rusts start to appear.

A roof can become a source of fire: with a clean roof, this is not a problem because there is no fuel resting on it. Properly cleaning the roof will help in reducing the risks of fire.

During the cleaning process, you will be also doing an inspection looking for any signs of damage. Cleaning regularly lets you identify small problems before they become serious and cost you a lot of money to repair or even replace the entire roofing.

Sectors such as food processing will require the building operator to meet the building code.  You will be able to follow these guidelines by cleaning the roofing regularly.

One of the best ways of keeping the roof sealed is through professional cleaning because it is going to remove the build-up of debris that has been accumulating for months or even years. The first cleaning can be a little hard, but it gets easier every time thereafter.

A professionally cleaned roof is going to provide an improved look of the business. A clean roof sends out the message that you handle your business well, and the customers will be happy working with you, so send us a message! Reach out to us for your commercial roof washing.

Identifying any indicators of roof damage at an early stage and taking the necessary steps to correct them will reduce your maintenance expenditure. To ascertain whether you need repairs on your roof you must have an understanding of common issues that arise frequently. As a property owner, being aware of these issues will save you a lot of money by avoiding costly replacement.
 
Common Roofing Problems that Demand Roof Maintenance

Roof Vent Defects
 Normally roof vents will become brittle as they are continuously exposed to external elements such as storms, heavy rains and animals which may lead to leakages. If you note signs of wearing out in the vents, call on experts to assist.
 
Gutter Issues
Leaks, clogging, holes, improper pitching and sagging are some of the common problems with gutters. To avoid them, you must take the following measures:

• Regularly clean your gutters and take out debris such as twigs, sticks and leaves so that they do not build up.
• Secure the joints properly by caulking them suitably.
• Patch bigger holes with proper reinforcement.
• To ensure smooth water flow make sure that the gutter is sloping towards the downspouts.

 
Damaged Shingles
Shingle damage can be in the following forms; cupping, cracking, fish mouthing, blistering or curling. This can be the result of improper installation, trees that are so near to the roof or natural elements like storms.
 
Faulty Flashing
Roof flashing insulates against leaks. Faulty flashing might arise if you used poor quality materials or if the installation was not done properly. Also, extreme weather can lead to such damage.
 
Damages to the Roof Valley
The roof valley is the angle whereupon two v-shaped slopes converge. Aging, poor installation, leaking and incorrect fixing of nails as well as utilizing materials of inferior quality are the most common reasons for roof valley problems.
 
Chimney & Skylight Issues
In case the flashing that surrounds your chimney becomes detached from the brick, you may begin experiencing leaks. You must flush out the debris that has built up and repair it immediately by using cement. Skylights' damage can be caused by the accumulation of debris, twigs, leaves or snow which can lead to leaks.
 
Roof Plumbing Stack Problems
This refers to the primary drain that assembles and dispenses wastewater that drains out from the house. You must be keen to spot issues like serious blockage and clogging.
 
Hire Professionals for your Roof Repairs. 
Engage experts for your roof repairs to guarantee correct installation and to ensure that a comprehensive maintenance routine is followed which will assist in early identification of potential problems and hence increase the life span of your roof. Ultimate roofers provide the roofing services you need, talk to our professionals today.