Author Archives: Mast Roofing & Construction, Inc.

What are the different styles of metal roofing?

There are several advantages and pros to having a metal roof installation, like the longer lifespan we mentioned. They need minimal maintenance too, and believe it or not, they are energy efficient too. Choose the right color for the area where you live, and a metal roof will reflect the hot sun in the summer to keep your home cooler. Or it can absorb the sun’s heat and keep your home warmer in the winter. 

Here we list four of the most common materials used for metal roofing on homes around the country: 

• Aluminum Metal Roof Installation: Aluminum is lightweight, making installation easier and faster, but it is also durable. The weight ratio is higher when comparing aluminum metal roofing to other types of roofing metals, giving you the same amount of strength.
• Copper Metal Roof Installation: Copper metal roofing has a unique appearance that creates a focal point as it patinas over time. Starting out as shiny as a new penny, eventually changing to a blue-green in most cases, and sometimes, depending on the climate, a brown patina. 
• Steel Metal Roof Installation: Steel metal roofing is what you will normally get when you ask for a metal roof installation. If you desire another type of metal, you’ll need to specify the type. Steel metal is an alloy that is made from a combination of several elements, including iron. More common among commercial buildings until recently. Because it is an affordable material, it has grown in popularity for residential roofing. 
• Zinc Metal Roof Installation: Zinc metal roofing material is like copper and has that beautiful, unique appearance that patinas over time, changing colors. Many zinc metal roof installations are done with pre-patinated panels that haven’t developed a protective layer. 
• Tin Metal Roof Installation: Looking for a “hot tin roof” for your home? You’ll get a rolled steel metal that is coated with tin and chemically bonded to the steel metal. This creates a durable metal roof that is resistant to cracking.

What colors does metal roofing come in?

Getting a new metal roof installation is exciting, and it is long-lasting. So you want to choose a color and style that will match your home’s architecture for years to come, even if you change the basic color of the house. Some recommended color selections based on architectural style: 

• Modern style:  Charcoal Gray, Matte Black, Regal White
• Ranch style:  Charcoal Gray, Dark Bronze, Solar White
• Craftsman style: Ash Gray, Slate Blue, Sierra Tan 
• Spanish style: Colonial Red, Terra Cotta
• Cape Cod-style: Medium Bronze, Sandstone, Slate Gray
• Victorian style: Charcoal Gray, Dove Gray, Hemlock Green
• Barn or Farmhouse Style: Colonial Red, Regal Red, White

Can you paint metal roofing?

Yes. For all metal roof installations, following the proper prep work before applying the paint is necessary; the recommendation is to use an airless paint sprayer. This will give you a clean and even coating. Keep in mind that once it has been painted, you’ll need to repaint it every two to five years, depending on the thickness of the original paint applied, the climate, and the environment. 

What do you install under metal roofing?

The roofing contractor you choose to work with will discuss the options of what to apply underneath your metal roof installation. The most common and traditional material for roof underlayment is asphalt-impregnated, non-perforated underlayment. There are other types of felt underlayment the contractor may recommend including an organic reinforced and an inorganic reinforced choice.

What type of fastener is used for metal roofing?

It depends on which type of metal material you have for your metal roof installation. An experienced roofing contractor that does metal roofing will know the best type of fastener and recommend accordingly. Follow their advice, they’ve been there and done that. The choices are usually along these lines: 

• Aluminum Metal Roof Installation – A stainless steel 304 screw in a matching roof color. 
• Copper Metal Roof Installation – A stainless steel copper plated 410 screw.
• Corten Metal Roof Installation – A dark brown painted stainless steel.
• Metal Roof Installation – The zinc metal roof installation will require zinc plated screws, aka galvanized screws that are painted to match the roof panel color.

What is the best way to cut metal roofing?

Before you start your metal roof installation, the metal sheets should be cut to fit prior to installing. Fortunately, using a good pair of shears or snips isn’t as difficult as you may think. You may also be able to use a circular saw in some instances and always, plan the cuts before you make them so that you have the perfect fitting pieces for your roof. 

How often should roofs be inspected?

As a homeowner, you have committed to the maintenance and upkeep of your home, and that should include the roof. Just like having the HVAC system inspected and serviced to expand its lifespan, the same is to be said of the roof too. Roofing contractors that offer roofing inspection services recommend having the roof inspected every two years, with one exception.

The exception to this rule is after a bad weather event. Having a professional roofing inspection service performed after a night or day of hail, hard rain, and heavy strong winds is recommended. You want to make sure your roof endured the bad weather without any damage left behind. If there is damage, you need to have it repaired sooner rather than later. Even the smallest damage can leave your roof and even the rest of your home susceptible to further damage. 

Other times that a roofing inspection service should be scheduled is for any of the following: 

The Roofing Material

The longevity of your roof will depend on the type of roofing material you have on your home. Ceramic tile or slate roofs have extremely long lifespans with little maintenance required. However, an asphalt roof can wear faster than the 20-year warranty that most of them have. So if you’re noticing asphalt granules in the gutter runs and downspouts, or along the flowerbeds of your home, a roofing inspection service is recommended. 

Roofing Features

Weatherproofing is essential to a roof for the prevention of leaks. The waterproofing roof features include the flashing that is installed around the chimney, pipes, and vents, and in the roof valleys. The drip edge along the roof is another roofing feature. A roofing inspection service to check these things when you notice any are loose or missing is recommended. If the flashing isn’t in a firm position, your roof is susceptible to leaks. 

Roof Age

Most asphalt shingles have a 20 to 25-year warranty, and some have a 30-year warranty. However, the average lifespan will usually be between 15 and 25 years. The weather conditions can affect these lifespans, especially extreme weather conditions like hail, hot sun, or piles of ice and snow. A roofing inspection service annually in areas like Pennsylvania where we get a lot of snow is recommended with asphalt roofing. 

How are roof inspections done?

A professional roofing inspection service will take the following steps: 

• Inspect the Interior: The first area a professional roofing inspection service will check is your home’s interior, including the attic. They will be looking for indications of water leaks. They will be looking for openings in the roof where streaks of light are entering, and they will inspect the insulation and rafters for moisture and mold, all indications there is a roof leak.
• Inspect the Exterior: The next thing a professional roofing inspection service will include is the exterior part of the roof. The technician will be looking for signs of damage like loose missing shingles, damaged or missing flashing, and cracked caulk. 

What do roof inspectors look for?

What a professional roofing inspection service will look for depends on the roofing material on your home. With most homes having a shingle roofing, we’ll review what the inspection focuses on: 

• Water Damage – There are many things that cause water damage to an asphalt shingled roof. Clogged gutters, and damaged, loose, or missing flashing are two of the biggest culprits. 
• Mold – Mold growth around the chimney or on the attic insulation are usually indicators of excessive water damage. During the interior portion of a roofing inspection service, the technician gives these areas detailed attention.
• Deteriorating Shingles – this includes loose and missing, algae growth, or signs of rot.
• Clogged gutters – roofing inspection service will check the gutters for excessive amounts of shingle granules, a key indication that your shingles are wearing thin. 

How long does a roof inspection take?

Factors that will determine the time a roofing inspection service takes is the size and shape of a roof. The larger the house, the more steep angles of a roof, the longer it can take. The length for a roof inspection on a one-story home can take between 45 and 60 minutes.

Are roof inspections free?

If there have been recent storms coming through your area, most reputable roofing inspection services will offer a complimentary inspection. Some will charge a fee with that amount being deducted from any roofing service you have them complete. 

How much should a roof inspection cost?

As with the time to complete the inspection, the cost of a roofing inspection service will vary. The roofing materials, the roof pitch, and the detail of the inspection, you can expect a fee between $200 and $300. Again, this fee will usually be deducted from the cost of any roofing work you have performed. 

What happens when a roof fails inspection?

If you live in the home and the roofing inspection service gives you bad news about your roof, get a second inspection. If both produce similar concerns, get the repair or replacement they are recommending. 

If you’re selling a home that fails the roofing inspection for a potential buyer, you have the option of getting the work done as recommended or reducing the sale price by the amount of what it will cost. 

Thermoplastics

This type is known as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and TPO (thermoplastic), both are excellent single ply roofing membranes, each with their own specific single ply roofing pros and cons: 

• TPO Single Ply Roofing Systems: In the commercial roofing industry, TPO is fast growing in popularity, especially in the southern states where cooling a commercial building is important. This light-colored single ply roofing membrane is ENERGY STAR® and qualify as CRRC certified with its attributions of reducing energy consumption in large buildings. 
• PVC Single Ply Roofing Systems: This has been a trusted membrane for decades in Europe and North America. Most of the single ply roofing in this category are also CCRC certified and ENERGY STAR qualified, providing building owners lower cooling costs. PVC has a strong acid, chemicals, grease, and oil resistance, making this white colored single ply roofing material popular for restaurants. 

Thermosets

Thermoset single ply roofing systems, an ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, an EPDM material, is flexible upon installation to fit around protrusion in the roof and around corners. It has a strong resistance to abrasions, heat, ozone, and UV rays. Installed with pressure-sensitive tapes joining the seams together makes for a safer installation.

• EPDM Single Ply Roofing Systems: EPDM is a basic rubber material with a low maintenance reputation. A top rating for weather resistant and easy repairs, an ideal single ply roofing material for any type of weather. The standard color is black, but can be ordered in white, making it a good choice for colder regions or hot regions.  

How long does single ply roofing last?

As with anything, the quality of the material used and an experienced, professional installation will make a difference in the lifespan of single ply roofing.  If properly maintained after installation, a single-ply roofing membrane on a commercial structure can last thirty years or longer.  Other benefits of a single ply roofing membrane are: 

• A Proven Track Record – EPDM single ply roofing has been used for more than 60 years and is still popular today.

• Insulation is Customer Choice – Because single ply roofing membranes are not insulated at the factor, the building owner can choose the type of insulation used. 

• Class A Fire-Rated – EPDM and TPO single ply roofing membranes are UL rated as Class A fire resistance with fire retardant chemicals added during manufacturing.

• Reflective or Retentive – EPDM single ply roofing, the black roof, is ideal to absorb and retain heat. The TPO single ply roofing, the white roof, is highly reflective to keep a building cooler.

What is the difference between TPO and PVC roofing?

Roofing contractors prefer working with PVC because of its flexibility over TPO single ply roofing material. However, TPO roofing material is more weather resistant, doesn’t break or tear easily like PVC  does.  Both are easily welded for ease installation and repairs. 

How long does an EPDM roof last?

EPDM single ply roofing membranes is made from natural gas and oil products, ethylene, and propylene. It will remain a reliable and stable roofing material for more than 50 years. 

If you don’t already have a roofing contractor, get estimates and inspections from 2 or 3 commercial roofing contractors.  Compare their quotes and the products they recommend.  Doing your research before the roofing is installed can go a long way in customer satisfaction. Call 610-689-3737 today for your single ply roof installation in Oley, PA.

The installation of single ply roofing is one of these four methods depending on the location of the structure itself: 

• Ballasted: An easy and fast installation takes less labor and time, making this single ply roofing material an economical choice.
• Mechanically Attached: This single ply roofing is an upgrade from the aforementioned ballasted single ply roofing systems and is lightweight, requiring little maintenance.
• Fully Adhered: This single ply roofing offers a high level of stability with uplift protection, ideal for commercial structures locate at a high elevation or in a windy area.
• Metal Retrofit: This single ply roofing system fully encapsulates an existing metal roof without having to remove the existing roof. 

 There are three types of single ply roofing build up materials in the single ply roofing group: 

• EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a durable, long-lasting membrane with strong weatherability. Ideal for structures that get abundance of snow because the black surface holds in heat from the sun and melts the snow melt while keeping the structure warm in the winter. It has a strong elasticity that is ideal for hailstones and freeze/thaw temperatures. 

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a highly flexible membrane that is chemical resistant and animal fat resistant making it a popular choice for building that house restaurants. The high reflectiveness is ideal for structures in the house because it reflects the UV ray outward, helping to easy the use of air conditioning.

• TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is the most popular single ply roofing material because of its economical features. The heat-weldable membranes make easy detailing and seaming, and the high reflectiveness reduces the need for air conditioning.

What’s the best flat roof material?

Experienced commercial roofing contractors will recommend PVC single ply roofing material for most flat roof structures. It is on the higher end of cost for installation, but has a longer lasting record, making it cheaper in the long run. 

What are the benefits of single ply roofing?

There are several single ply roofing pros and cons with the benefits far outweighing the cons. Some of the advantages of a single ply roofing that attract more building managers and building owners are:

• Easy and fast installation lowers installation costs
• Maintenance and repair costs are lower
• Longer lifespan before replacement is needed
• Removed single-ply flat roof membrane materials can be recycled
• Easy access for maintenance and repairs
• Can be easily converted to a green roof installation
• Tear resistant so less damage from storms 
• Provide flat surface for HVAC equipment
• Energy efficient
• Resists UV ray damage, thus less deterioration and repairs 

What is single ply TPO roofing?

Thermoplastic Polyolefin is a fast growing single-ply roofing membrane for commercial structures with flat roofing. The layers of TPO consists of a single layer of synthetics with reinforcing scrim.

TPO single ply roofing membrane is manufactured in 10 foot, 12 foot or 20 foot wide sheets that are rolled up then delivered to the job site.  Because of its UV reflectiveness, the NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) has take notice and found that approximately 40% of all commercial structures today. 

How long does an EPDM roof last?

EPDM single ply roofing membranes are made from natural gas and oil, creating a synthetic material that is durable and stable, with a lifespan of fifty years or longer. EPDM single ply roofing material is a cross-linked thermoset material, giving a strong stability dimensionally and can recover quickly to its original state with temperature flexing or weather events. EPDM is pliable and absorb impacts without fracturing. 

There are several types of shingle available today, and we’ll give a quick description of several, starting with asphalt shingles, which are found on approximately 70% of all home in America. The many varieties on the market,  there are some that are specifically designed for different types of weather.  Read on for information on the different type of roofing shingles:

• 3-Tab Roofing Shingles: Features three distinct but equal size tabs to give a symmetrical appearance along the roof. Repeating rectangular shape that is separated by slots, these are the less expensive option in asphalt roofing shingles. 
• Architectural Roofing Shingles: The premium level of asphalt shingle, often referred to as dimensional or laminated shingles because of the 2 layers laminated together. A thicker style of asphalt shingles that has a higher wind resistance. 
• Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles: These shingles are enhanced and modified to withstand hailstone and other debris impacts by being reinforced on the backside or manufactured with a mixture of polymers for a rubber-like effect. 
• Other type of roofing shingles are COOL roofing shingles that have solar-reflecting granules for energy-efficiency.  Specialty Asphalt Roofing Shingles that are available in bold colors and styles, mimicking roofing materials like tile or wood shake.  
• We can’t leave out Tile Roofing, a concrete material typically used on historic homes in the Southwest or Slate Tile Shingles, from natural stone. These are manufactured into thin pieces but becomes heavier as installed on a roof, requiring a structure to have an engineering report for integrity purpose. Then there are wood shingles and wood shake shingles, and metal roofing, which can be made to look like average asphalt shingle, all made from synthetic roof shingles. 

Are thicker shingles better?

At one time, yes, thicker roofing shingles were thought to be the better shingles, but not today. Ninety-five percent of roofing shingles today have a fiberglass matt which is stronger against the elements while remaining light-weight and thinner. The tough fibers that these newer fiberglass synthetic roof shingles are made from are fire resistant and do not absorb water. 

What color shingles are most energy efficient?

It has been assumed over the years that only white color roofing was the best for energy efficiency. Today though, because of the advancements in technology and the creation of synthetic roof shingles, and while white does reflect the sun’s UV rays and heat better than black, there are other colors available that are energy efficient.  

The materials used to make synthetic roof shingles is where the UV resistance is found, not necessarily in the color.  A light-colored roofing shingle still absorbs less heat in the summertime, but you can go with light beige, blue, gray, or green, even a pale pink will be UV resistant. 

Which brand of shingles is best?

With all the different brands and types of roofing materials on the market today, it can overwhelm a homeowner to navigate and make the best choice. Consumers Reports released a list of the best overall, including the  best synthetic roof shingles on the market today: 

1. Atlas – The Pinnacle Pristine
2. GAF-Elk – The Royal Sovereign
3. CertainTeed –The  XT 25
4. Atlas – The StormMaster Slate
5. Tamko – The Heritage
6. Owens Corning – The Oakridge
7. Owens Corning – The Duration
8. Owens Corning – The Berkshire Collection
9. IKO – The Crowne Slate
10. IKO – The Cambridge

What are synthetic shingles pros cons? 

When it comes to synthetic roof shingles, slate has become the most popular for many homeowners around the country. Why? Slate synthetic roof shingles includes features that are desired in a roofing material and has lost some of the drawbacks that kept homeowner from going that route. The pros and cons of slate synthetic roof materials are: 

• Pro – Cost

Today, the cost of synthetic roof shingles in slate are not as expensive as actual slate, making it less expensive to have that elegant curb appeal that slate offers a home. 

• Con –Longevity

Slat synthetic roofing shingles are durable and have a long lifespan, but because it hasn’t been on the market that long, it can’t be stated it is longer lasting than other synthetic roof shingles. 

• Pro – Environmentally Friendly

When real slate is excavated, there is no replacing it. With slate synthetic roof shingles, being made from other recycled materials though, you get the look you want without impacting the environment.

• Con – Fire Rating

Class A fire rating is the best you can have in roofing materials, but not all synthetic roof shingles offer this high level. 

• Pro – Installation

The are few roofing companies that are able to install slate roofing, however, slate synthetic roof shingles is different with plenty of contractors able and willing to install this material. 

• Con – Appearance

This is a con and a pro because slate synthetic roof shingles appearance are all in the eye of the homeowner. Some composite synthetic shingle roofing looks great  when installed by an experienced roofing contractor. Or it can look cheap and fake. Choose the best contractor and you’ll have a great looking roof! 

There are certain sections of a roof where roof flashing is critical in the safety of your roof. Those areas include where walls and roof surface meet, roof valleys and protrusions like the skylight and vents. Roof flashing is critical around the chimney and at the roof edge too. 

What are the different types of roof flashing?

There are several types of roof flashing, each have a specific purpose. A partial list of those different roof flashings is: 

Common Roof Flashing Types:

• Continuous roof flashing: A long piece of continuous roof flashing that protects where a vertical wall and sloped roof meet. 
• Drip edge roof flashing: Usually installed along the eaves under the roofing felt to keep water dripping off the roof. 
• Step roof flashing: A rectangular piece at a 90 degree bend in the center used in an overlapping manner that prevents water from getting behind the walls.
• Valley roof flashing: A metal flashing in a W-shape that is installed on top of roofing felt where two roof valleys join.
• Vent pipe roof flashing: This cone-shaped flashing installed around vent pipes over the shingles.

Additional Roof Flashing Types:

• Base roof flashing: Fits around chimneys to ensures rain is redirected out and down the roof. 
• Counter roof flashing: Installed opposite to or above base flashing as the second part of a two-part roof flashing team.
• Cap roof flashing: This L shaped roof flashing is installed to lay flat against the roof, windows, and other fittings to ensure water runs off  such as windows. The shape of the structure runs the other direction and off the roof. 
• Chimney roof flashing: Roof flashing is necessary around chimneys to prevent water from pooling in the gaps between the roof and the chimney. 
• Saddle roof flashing: This flashing covers any protruding beams or attached railing.
• Skylight roof flashing: Most skylights have built-in roof flashing to keep water from seeping around and inside the house. If a skylight doesn’t have this flashing the roofing contractor will install one.
• Kick-out roof flashing: This roof flashing bridges any  gap between the step flashing and the gutter to direct water to the gutter. 

What is counter flashing in roofing?

Counter roof flashing prevents moisture from getting behind a headwall or sidewall vertical flashing. In some cases, a roofing contractor will use the exterior wall-covering as the counter roof flashing, but most common is a separate counter roof flashing installed.

What is drip edge flashing?

Drip edge roof flashing is a flat thin metal flashing installed at the roof edges to control water flowing away from the fascia while it protect the underlying roof components. 

Does flashing go over or under shingles?

It depends actually, roof flashing is installed both ways. Picture rain coming down on your roof with the wind blowing. You need something in place to divert that rain before it gets behind or under the shingles. 

So, installing the roof flashing over the shingles may be the best scenario for one area, where installing roof flashing under the shingles may work better in a different area of the roof. Roof flashing should be installed so that is diverts water around any protrusion skylights and vents, or were the shingles are parallel to the wall, install flashing where water can’t get under the shingles. 

Which is better aluminum or galvanized flashing?

If you’re looking for long lifespan with durability, aluminum roof flashing is the best choice ad easy to install. If cost is your concern, galvanized-steel roof flashing is your best option, but isn’t as durable and may need replacing before the roofing material does. 

Is roof flashing required by code?

If you’re asking about building codes, that can vary from city to city, county to county. You’ll need to check with the local governing offices for that information. If you are asking about the roofing material manufacturer, most will require roof flashing be installed at the time the new roofing material is installed. The roof flashing used must follow their design and system with proper material application requirements followed.

1. People: This is more common commercial structure, and while it sometimes necessary and should be OK to walk on a commercial structure’s  roof, it should be a modest amount of foot traffic. The roofing membrane on commercial roofing isn’t meant to be used as a walking pads, but because of HVAC and other equipment, it is necessary. Too much foot traffic, dropped equipment and tools can lead to a leaking roof. 
2. Seams: Again, a common issue for commercial structure where roofing membrane has seams, they are the weak points of a roof. Roofing membrane comes off large rolls that are rolled out over and then attached by adhesive or mechanically fastened. Residential roofing has weak seam-like areas around chimneys, vents, and where two different roofing angles meet. 
3. Neglect: Skipping monthly roofing inspections of commercial or residential properties can leave your roof susceptible to disastrous consequences. Routine inspections and maintenance is necessary to catch issues like torn membrane on commercial property and loose or missing shingles on residential properties. Making sure drainage is clear and working, gutters are attached, and downspouts are clear. Regular monitoring of any roof is key to avoiding a leaking roof. 
4. Weather: This is something that nobody has control over but can do a lot of damage to commercial or residential roofing. Both are constantly exposed to the elements. The ice, rain, snow build up on rooftops and over gutters, downspouts, and drains. For commercial property, this leads to ponding water which will eventually lead to a leaking roof if not caught and fixed in time. For residential roofing, the same elements can clog up the gutters and downspouts, cause the rain and snow to seep up under the shingles, on to the decking, into the attic and a leaking roof is created!  Again, routine inspections of both properties is essential in catching these issues before they become a problem and leaking roof. 

Not every leaking roof can be blamed on these four factors, but they are factors that can be caught before they cause a leaking roof. Prevention is best way to avoid leaking roofs and  repair. 

How do I stop my roof leaking in heavy rain?

When your roof leaks with heavy rain, getting a professional roofer out immediately isn’t always possible. Here are a few tips to stop a leaking roof temporarily. 

• LOCATE THE SOURCE: Before you can stop the leaking roof, you need to find where the leak is located. It may not be the roof itself, but a drain, gutters, downspouts, seams, loose or missing flashing, etc. 
• CLEAN THE AREA: Once you have located the source, prepare the roof area and the area under it for your temporary repair of the leaking roof. Place plastic tarp or towels and buckets under the leaking areas to catch any more water. If there is bulge in the ceiling, use a screwdriver to poke a hole in it and let the water out. 
• APPLY A ROOFING TAR: Roofing tar is to a leaking roof that duct tape is to other things! On a residential roof, if the shingles are loose, use the roofing tar to hold it in place. If the shingle(s) are missing, then place a piece of wood over the leak and secure it with the roofing tar. Same is to be done with a commercial roof, find the leak, either place plastic or wood over the leak and seal it down with roofing tar. 
• PLASTIC COVER: If you used a sheet of plastic, nail it down in addition to the roofing tar to secure it in place and keep as much water out as possible. Remember, this is only a temporary fix to your leaking roof, you’ll still need a professional roofing contractor to fix the roof properly. 
• SEAL UP JOINTS and SEAM: Be sure to apply the roofing tar over any joints or seams where you have temporarily fixed the leaking roof. 

Who can fix roof leaks?

For a commercial or residential structure, any roof look should be inspected, repaired, or replaced by a certified, insured, licensed roofing contractor.  Once the inspection has been performed and a written estimate is received, call your insurance agent if you haven’t already. 

Can leaking ceiling collapse?

Absolutely!  Depending on the age of the structure and the stability of the roof frame, ceiling collapse isn’t always likely, but possible. Any leaking roof indicates that there is possible water pooling up between the ceiling and the roof. That pooling water is adding more weight on the entire structure, including the roofing beams, drywall, and insulation. That weight will cause the ceiling to droop and sag, and a leaking roof left unattended can lead to a collapsing ceiling. 

For the sake of your insurance liability, the stability of your commercial structure or home, it is essential to perform regular roof inspections yourself. Even the smallest, undetected roof leaks can cause mold, creating an unhealthy environment for your employees or family. Call 610-689-3737 today for emergency roof repair in Oley, PA.

Is it worth it to replace windows?

If you’re thinking about replacing your windows, are you making a good investment? Many factors will influence the value of a whole-house window replacement that include:

• The type of windows you choose: Different types of windows will cost less than others but might not provide the energy savings you’re looking for. You’ll spend less on standard double-pane vinyl-framed windows but wood-frame windows are often more energy efficient and save you more on energy expenses, depending on the climate. Vinyl windows, however, will require fewer repairs.
• Your current windows’ thickness: Thicker windows provide greater protection and are more energy-efficient. Installing newer, thicker windows may save you on energy expenses.
• The current window frames’ condition: Worn-looking windows not only diminish your home’s curb appeal but also leave your home open to more drafts and less protection from the elements overall.
• The climate in your area: Newer energy-efficient windows are especially valuable in areas in which you have four discernible seasons. Yearly energy savings will cover installation costs in just a few years.

Can I replace a window myself?

In general, when it comes to window replacement, it’s usually best to let pros handle the job, in particular when you’re replacing all your windows. A replacement job can be time-consuming, especially when putting in full-frame windows. Full-frame windows—the kind used in new construction—take about four to six hours at a time to install, even for professionals with the right tools and skills. In other words, it’s more than a weekend project to install a whole home’s windows.

On the other hand, putting in a single window might be the perfect project for a DIY enthusiast with the right skills and materials. This is especially true if you’re just planning to install window inserts, which are window sashes inside a small frame that fits into your current window jamb. Inserts are installed inside the home and take about half the time to install as a full-frame window.

Is window replacement messy?

Like most other home improvement work, putting in new windows is messy work. Much of the mess is created by dust, so the work area needs to be protected. Any furniture or other items that can’t be moved should be covered with cloth or plastic. Replacing your windows also involves a lot of scraping off paint, as well as sanding, painting, gluing, and drywalling.

What time of year is best to replace windows?

When planning a window placement project, it’s usually best to wait until warmer, drier weather is forecast, which makes spring or early summer ideal. If it’s too cold, drafts will be difficult to contend with. When it’s too hot, it will make your workspace really uncomfortable. At the same time, you’ll have an easier time finding installers in colder “off-season” months.

Which home replacement window is best?

There are several great brands and styles of windows on the market today. When shopping for the best window for your home, you’ll want to consider these options:

• Window style: Styles range from double-hung windows that fit classic architectural styles such as colonial style to specialty styles to fit custom designs.
• Window frame: While wood frames are still common, many people are choosing vinyl or aluminum frames because they require less maintenance and are often less expensive. They are also much easier to customize.
• Window glass: There are multiple glass types from dual- and triple-paned glass to panes infuses with gases like argon and krypton for improved efficiency.

What are standard replacement window sizes?

Standard replacement window heights and widths vary:

• Widths: 1-foot, 2-inch to 2-feet, 11.5-inches.
• Heights: 2-feet, 5.5-inches to 6-feet, 5.5-inches.

What is the window replacement program?

Window replacement can prove to be an expensive project. Sever government programs, such as the Weatherization Assistance Program from the Department of Energy, are available to assist people with low- to moderate-incomes, as well as seniors and other groups. This program and similar programs encourage people to make home improvements that conserve energy.

When should you replace siding?

Cracks and holes are apparent signs that siding needs to be repaired or replaced, you know that, or you wouldn’t be reading this right? The damage could be from basic wear and tear or it could be from tree limbs falling or footballs getting kicked into the house. Some damage isn’t visible from the street, but up close, you see the damage and you know that can’t be good for your home. 

If you are spotting any of the following, siding repair may be possible, or you may need to get some quotes for new siding: 

• Chips, dents, holes: These are the most obvious damages and create an open invitation for bugs, mildew, and mold to work in under the siding and start working on the structure of your house.  Siding repair with holes, dents, or chips is usually possible if the damage isn’t widespread and already spread too far underneath. 
• Cracked or loose siding: Cracks, gaps, and loose siding will allow water to seep under the siding and into the interior walls of your home. Fortunately, siding repair is possible for these types of damages.  
• Dry rot: The exterior of the siding may look okay but under the siding, if there is any rot started, it is beyond siding repair. 
• Frequent repainting: When the siding of your home needs frequent repainting, it has lost its waterproofing ability and is time to be replaced. 
• Bubbling or warped panels: Siding that bubbles or warps is the result of extreme weather damage and heat.  If siding repair isn’t done to fix the bubbles and warps, under the siding will be exposed to the elements and bigger problems will begin, resulting in new siding needed.  
• Fungus, mildew, or mold: When you notice any type of growth that is moisture-related on the underneath side of the siding panels, you have a leak somewhere that needs to be addressed. If caught soon enough, siding repair is possible. 

Can you replace one piece siding?

Thanks to the invention of the ‘zip tool’, yes, you can do siding repair for one piece now!  With this handy tool, available at big box home improvement stores or online, you can replace that one piece in under 30 minutes.  The only downside, if your siding is more than 2 or 3 years old, the color may be off a little bit. You can have custom paint made to match the existing siding if the difference is too noticeable. Here are basic steps using the zip tool and new piece of siding to repair that baseball bullseye.

• Start at one end of the piece that is damaged and push the zip tool end under the siding until it hooks to the bottom lip.
• Sliding the zip tool along, release the vinyl siding from the bottom edge, releasing it from the piece below.
• Pulling the zip tool down and out, unhook the bottom lip, sliding along the edge and pull out the siding as you go along.
• Then unzip the vinyl pieces above the damaged vinyl piece.
• Behind the vinyl siding, slip a flat bar and raise the nails out.
• Slide the replacement vinyl piece up , pushing it into place until the lower lip is locked into the lower piece.
• Drive roofing nails through the flange, spacing the 1-1/4” nails every 16 inches.
• Nail in the center of the slot, leaving 1/32”  of space between the nail and siding to allow the vinyl some movement. 
• With the new piece in place, using the zip tool to lock the piece above the replacement piece down over it.
• Starting at one end, pull the lip down as you twist the siding zip tool with slight force that leads the edge down.
• Sliding the zip tool as you push  in on the replacement vinyl just behind the tool to snap it into place.

How many years does siding last?

On the average, vinyl siding last up to sixty years. This popular choice for most homeowners requires little effort of maintenance, occasional cleaning for aesthetic purposes and removing algae and mold. With a good quality vinyl siding that is professional installed and with  scrupulous care and maintenance, your vinyl siding can last 100 years! 

Coming Soon!