Roof maintenance is important, no matter the cost.  As one of the most structurally significant aspects of your home, keeping your roof in tip top condition also helps you protect your home and your belongings.  Indeed, a quality roof does more than just keep the rain out.  The structural integrity of your roof is important for insulation too.  In other words, your roof keeps your home dry and warm!  So, if you’ve discovered a leak and a professional roofer is recommending repairs, follow their advice – the costs associated with roof repair are usually a fraction of the cost of replacement.

Repair costs can vary significantly.  The most basic repairs may be as little as $100 to $200, while the most advanced repairs could exceed $2000.  On average, roofing repairs land somewhere in the middle, usually between $400 and $800.  While these costs certainly seem expensive, you need to consider the importance of your roof as well as the cost of replacement (which can easily exceed $5000 depending on the type and style of your roof). 

Types of Repairs

Among the most common roofing repairs relate to shingles.  During storms, it’s not uncommon for shingles to be broken or even blown off completely, particularly on older roofs.  In fact, even on newer roofs shingles can be lifted off during high winds.  Heavier shingles stand up better to high winds, but no material is entirely weatherproof.

Another common roofing repair relates to flashing.  Flashing is the material that surrounds vents or other roofing fixtures, and while they are sealed to your roof flashing is usually made from metal material and prone to corrosion over time.  This includes flashing around chimneys and skylights which can pose a significant risk to leaks.

Roof valleys are another part of the roof that commonly requires repair due to water build-up on the interior angles of your roof.  A great deal of water flows down roof valleys making these roof areas more susceptible to damage over time.

If you live in a cold climate, ice dams pose another significant problem.  When accumulated snow on your roof melts and then re-freezes, ice dams form.  This can prevent normal drainage from your roof and eventually causes leaks.

Professional Repairs

Unless you are a roofing professional yourself, you should always hire an expert roofer for repairs.  While you can often see signs of a leak inside your home, it can be difficult to trace the original source of the leak on your roof.  In addition, professional roofers have the expertise to identify potential future roofing problems so they can conduct preventative repairs that are generally less costly.  For this reason, you should also have your roof professionally inspected every year.

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Damaged shingles can have a significant impact on the lifespan of your roof, but they’re not particularly difficult or costly to replace.  If you’re an experienced handyman with the proper tools and safety equipment, you can likely do the repairs yourself.  Here is a quick outline of the steps involved, but take care!  If you’re not confident in your abilities or you lack adequate equipment, hire a professional for your roof repair.  It’s not expensive and your safety should be your primary concern.

Remove Damaged Shingles

First things first, you need to remove the damaged shingles, so follow these steps:

1. Employ proper safety measures, not only do you want to wear protective gear including eyewear, gripping boots, and gloves, you should install roof jacks so you have something to stand on, and use a harness.  Also, always work with a partner.  No matter how simple or quick the repair job, ALWAYS use a harness and roof jacks.
2. Assess the damage – are just the shingles damaged or are their signs of damage to the moisture barrier or flashing.  If you can’t answer these questions, you’ll want to hire a professional roofer.  Replacing shingles is fine, but if there is underlying damage, more extensive roofing repairs may be required.
3. Use a pry bar, crow bar, or even a hammer claw to carefully pry shingles away from the roof and loosen the adhesive.  You want to separate the adhesive and revealing nails of damaged shingles.  You’ll also probably want to loosen the tabs of a few of the shingles around the damaged area to make sure you make a complete repair.
4. Loosen exposed nails with a pry bar or hammer claw being careful not to break or damage remaining shingles.  If you need to remove shingles surrounding the damaged shingles take care, you may be able to reuse them – providing they are not damaged in the process.
5. Continue to loosen the adhesive under the damaged shingles and carefully remove the shingles.  Don’t try to save severely damaged shingles.

Replacing Shingles

Now that you’ve removed the damaged shingles, they’re ready to be replaced.

1. Place the new shingle in the same position as the damaged one that has been removed.  If the new shingles have an adhesive strip, remove the covering then slide them into position.  Finally, nail the new shingle to secure them.  Look for pre-cut nail holes, as most new shingles will have them so you can easily nail the shingles into place.  Otherwise, use other shingles on the roof as a guide for nail placement.
2. Apply sealant under the edges of all shingles that have been replaced as well as surrounding shingles that have been loosened.  Lift the shingle tabs and apply a 1-inch spot of shingle cement under each tab on the shingle.  Press the tabs down to ensure they are property secured. 

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Modern homes often benefit from advances in technology that reduce their environmental impact.  One such example of this is solar roofing.  While many homeowners may avoid solar roofing because they do not like the appearance or they think the cost is prohibitive, many are surprised to find that solar roofing options are attractive and affordable in the long term.  Moreover, today’s solar roofing consists of interlocking solar roof tiles that mesh with your existing roofing tiles so they are less conspicuous than the solar panels of the past.  The following frequently asked questions should help you decide if solar roofing is right for you.

How is solar roofing different from solar panels?

When people think of solar roofing, they often imagine large, black panels that are mounted on racks above an existing roof.  These rigid, glass covered units can detract from the appearance of your home.  Alternatively, solar roofing consists of roof tiles containing photovoltaic elements; these tiles interlock with existing roof tiles or a much cleaner appearance.  Solar roofing provides the protection of traditional roof while producing power for your home.

What advantages does solar roofing offer?

Perhaps the main advantage of solar roofing is that it provides power to your home while blending seamlessly into your existing roof structure.  Solar roofing tiles closely match the shape of your current roofing materials, and do not significantly impact the appearance of your roof.

What disadvantages are associated with solar roofing?

Unfortunately, solar roof tiles are typically more expensive than traditional roofing materials, and their installation requires specialized skills and tools.  Moreover, solar panels are more efficient than solar roofing.  Still, solar roofing will pay for itself over time once you factor in the energy savings you’ll enjoy.

Can I find solar roof tiles to match my current roof tiles?

Solar roofing tiles are available in a wide range of shapes, colour, and sizes.  While it may not be possible to match your existing roof tiles exactly, your chances are high that you’ll find a good fit.

What should I look for in an installer?

Your solar roofing installer needs to have experience with this type of roofing.  Ideally, you’ll want to find somebody who also has a contractor’s license and certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

What is the best way to install solar roofing tiles?

Solar roofing tiles facing east, west, or south will get the most sun exposure and will thereby enhance energy production.

How much energy can I get from a solar roofing system?

Depending on your geographic location, the amount of energy produced by a solar roofing system will vary.  Speak to a qualified solar roofing contractor about what you should expect from your solar roof system.

The post Solar Roofing FAQ appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

As roofing technology advances, more home and business owners are keen to make a statement with unique roof designs.  Certainly, you can work with an avant-garde architect who can create a truly one-of-a kind roof, but this might not be the most cost effective option.  Instead, an experienced roofer will recommend that you utilize roofing shapes, styles, and materials to develop your own design.

Your Vision

Your vision is an important component of developing a unique roof design.  Ideally, your roof needs to match the rest of the structure, but you certainly have a lot of flexibility when it comes to the type you install.  One recommendation is to consider different architectural influences and how that might impact the look of your roof.  From modern flat styles that offer opportunities for rooftop gardens or patios to traditional Tudor-style homes that are represented by steeply peaked roofs, past designs can actually influence your future vision.  Moreover, a unique roof design doesn’t need to be a new invention; it just needs to represent your distinct style.

Types of Roof

It’s important to consider the standard types of roofs from flat and sloped to pitched, gabled, and hipped.  The defining features can actually be mixed-and-matched to create a seemingly one-off design.  By working closely with your architect and roofing contractor, you can use common types of roofs combining them with interesting materials to create a roof that stands out in your neighbourhood.

Roofing Materials

Materials are critical to developing a uniquely styled roof, and In fact, even the most classic style will have a distinctive feel in the correct context.  For example, thatch roofing isn’t as popular as shingle roofs, so a thatch roof in an urban setting would be truly one-of-a-kind even though it utilizes perhaps the oldest roofing technology.  Utilizing different colours of shingles and materials together can give your roof an exceptional appeal. 

So, if you’re considering how to build a roof that stands out from the rest, all you really need to do is put some careful thought into the materials you choose.  Be sure to work closely with a roofing professional so that you know your roof is ideally suited to your environment.

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Did you know that winterizing your home can save you money?  Not only does it help to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills, but it also gives you an opportunity to make sure your roof and other parts of your home are in good condition and can withstand harsh weather.  As soon as autumn arrives, it’s time to start getting ready for the cold; these tips for preparing your home for winter will keep you warm and comfortable throughout the entire season.

Check your Furnace

Have your furnace inspected by a professional at least every couple of years.  An HVAC expert will clean ducts, replace filters, and ensure your furnace is in good working order.  Alternatively, if your home is heated through a hot-water radiator, consult a professional to conduct basic maintenance such as bleeding the valves. 

Prepare the Fireplace

If you have a fireplace sweep the chimney regularly and screen the top of the chimney to keep rodents and other wildlife from entering.  Also, you’ll want to make sure the fireplace damper opens and closes as it should.

Seal Doors, Windows, and Other Gaps

First, inspect the exterior of your home to look for cracks and other entry points around pipes and be sure to seal these gaps to prevent drafts.  Your windows and doors will likely be the main starting points for cold drafts, so inspect these areas more closely. 

Conduct Roof Maintenance

You’ll also want to have your roof regularly inspected by a professional.  Most experts recommend at least 1 inspection every year to make sure it is in good condition.  Your roofer will repair broken or damaged shingles, check for and repair leaks, and inspect gutters to ensure water and melting snow does not accumulate on your roof.  Flashing should also be checked in order to prevent leaks throughout the winter.

Insulate

Heat is predominantly lost through your roof or foundation.  You may not be aware that your insulation is in poor condition, but it will certainly have an impact on your heating bills.  Check your insulation is in good condition, but if not you may want to add or replace your insulation.

Protect your Pipes

You want to prevent plumbing freezes as they can have serious consequences for your pipes.  As water freezes and melts, it expands and contracts and this can damage your pipes and cause leaks.  Ultimately, this can be a very costly problem, so you want to insulate exposed pipes, and make sure to leave the heat on if you go away on vacation.

Winter can be a cold and harsh season, but by performing a few basic winterizing tasks, you can protect your home and enjoy a cozy winter.

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Storm Water

Green roofs reduce storm water runoff.  During periods of heavy rain, water runoff from roofs can essentially flood drains and potentially damage waterways and fish habitats.  Green roofs retain rainwater, feed plants, and return some storm water to the atmosphere via evaporation and transpiration.  Moreover, even storm water that leaves the roof is delayed so as not to overwhelm storm water infrastructure. 

Energy Efficiency

Green roofs are more energy efficient than traditional roof designs.  Not only do green roof improve insulation to prevent heating in the summer and cooling in the winter, the reduced energy conversion subsequently reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Air Quality

Because green roofs feature living plants, they actually serve to improve air quality in cities.  Plant leaves prevent dust particles from entering the air, while absorbing carbon dioxide and converting it to oxygen.  Improved air quality has an added benefit of reducing the need for health care services which translates into cost savings for governments and essentially individuals.

New Wildlife Habitats

Another benefit of green roofs is that they provide new habitats for nesting birds, insects, and other native species.  As cities grow, many species lose their natural habitats, but green roofs can actually replace these habitats while serving as stepping stones to connect other habitats throughout the city.  Green roofs can even be designed to provide these habitats and improve biodiversity.

Lifespan

Even green roofs require a waterproof membrane, but with these roofs this membrane has greater protection from UV rays and temperature changes.  This means that typical green roofs last twice as long as traditional roofs subsequently reducing the cost and material waste associated with roofing repairs and replacement.

Recreational Space

Green roofs also have the potential to give us more social and recreational space.  Roofs usually represent an area of space that cannot be used; but green roofs open the potential for park space in an area that was traditionally off-limits.  Green roofs can be used as a gathering space for day cares, schools, and offices.  They provide improved aesthetics for surrounding buildings while also possibly providing space for urban gardens and agriculture.

As you can see, green roofs are not only great for the environment, but they offer a number of other benefits as well.  They reduce our environmental impact while providing new habitats and recreational spaces for the people and animals that live in our cities.

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Roofs provide two very important functions for your home and business.  First, they protect us and our belongings from the harsh effects of weather.  Certainly, roofs shelter us from rain, wind, snow, and all types of weather, but they also provide important structural support to a building or home.  In addition, roof repairs and replacements often come at considerable expense.  Depending on the type of roof, the season you require replacement or repairs, and many other factors, roofing estimates will vary.  So what factors influence your roof repair estimate?

Roof Type

There are many different types of roof, even if we only consider residential roofs.  From flat roofs and shed roofs to gabled roofs, mansard roofs, and hipped roofs there are a wide variety of types of roof.  Your roof may also be constructed of a wide range of materials including asphalt shingle, metal, or tile.  Depending on the type of roof and the materials involved, the cost of a roofing repair can vary widely from $1 per square foot to more than $10 per square foot.

Local Regulations

As with any construction or renovation job, local authorities will require permits.  As such, where you live can even have an impact on the cost of your roofing repair or replacement.  Permits are sometimes based on a flat rate in your region, or may be contingent on the size or value of your home. 

Size

Obviously a minor roof repair is going to cost considerably less than a roof replacement.  In fact, the size of repair and the size of your roof are among the biggest factors that influence your roof repair estimate.  Roofing contractors will generally quote repairs and replacement based on square footage, so a smaller roof’s repairs will cost less than a larger roof’s repairs. 

Extent of Damage

Another factor that will influence the estimate for your roofing repair is the extent of damage.  A minor leak that is limited to one area of your roof is easier and less costly to fix.  Similarly, if there is minor damage around roofing fixtures that can be easily repaired, your roofing estimate will be more conservative.  If however you have extensive water damage, the structure of your roof may be compromised.  Your roofer may not be able to simply patch the leak and leave it at that.  Instead, major construction may be required as water damage may have affected a larger area than you realize.  In order to protect your home, family, and belongings, all water damaged material must be removed and replaced.

Roofing Fixtures

Generally speaking, more fixtures on your roof are associated with higher repair costs.  Chimneys, skylights, and other fixtures will complicate a repair, especially if these fixtures themselves need replacement or repair. 

As you can easily see, there are many factors that will influence the cost of roofing repair or replacement.  That being said, estimates will not only vary depending on the features of your roof; in fact, estimates will vary depending on the roofer as well.  As such, it is best to consult with a number of roofing professionals to get a number of estimates so you can choose the best roofer at the best price.

The post Factors that Influence your Roof Repair Estimate appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

Leaky roofs are a common problem for homeowners; and as roofs age, the likelihood of a leak only increases.  So what are the most common roof leak causes?  There are a number of reasons your roof may leak, even if you are vigilant about regular maintenance.  Below are the top 4 reasons your roof may be leaking.

Weather Exposure

No roof is completely impervious to the effects of weather.  In more extreme climates, roofs have a much shorter life span.  Regardless of the season, weather will affect your roof.  Sun, rain, sleet, ice, wind, and snow are all responsible for degradation of roofing materials; sun exposure dries shingles and roofing paper, wind can strip shingles, and rain, ice and snow are obvious causes of roof leaks. 

Combined wind and rain is another major contributing factor to leaky roofs.  As wind causes rain to fly in various directions, angled rain can get under roof coverings and cause damage to roof structures in addition to leaks.  In addition, ice is particularly damaging for roofs in northern climates.  Ice collects on eaves and may create what is known as an ice dam.   Ice dams block drain water thereby causing ice buildup under flashings and roofing paper.  Ice and water overflow can then get into your house, and is your house is considerably warmer than the outdoors the ice melts and leaks form. 

Blocked Gutters

Blocked gutters are another factor that commonly leads to roof leaks.  Regular maintenance can prevent blocked gutters from becoming a problem thereby preventing leaks.  Before rainy or snowy seasons make sure you clear leaves and debris from your gutters to allow proper drainage from your roof.  Debris collected in your gutters not only increases the likelihood of damage to your roof, but it also causes ice dams to form. 

Poor Construction

As is the case with any major home renovation or project, it is important to work with qualified, experienced professionals.  Poor roof construction is one of the leading causes of leaky roofs.  Sometimes it makes sense to go with the lowest bidder, but when it comes to roof construction, you want to work with an expert who has a track record of exceptional work. 

Leaky Fixtures

Skylights, air conditioners, chimneys, and other fixtures that are not installed correctly are a frequent source of roof leaks.  In fact, in many cases the act of installing these structures, especially as a renovation, diminishes the quality of your roof making it more susceptible to leaks.

The post Roof Leak Causes appeared first on K2 Roofing Blog.

The following frequently asked roofing questions should help you understand how to keep your roof in the best possible condition.

When is it time for a new roof?

If you are considering a new roof, you’re likely already having problems with leaks, or there are visible signs that your roof is deteriorating.  While there is no hard and fast rule to determine when you need a new roof, you want to look for cracked or peeling shingles.  You should also do a quick visual check of your roof for missing shingles or other signs of damage.  If you have leaks, you’ll definitely need some repairs, at the very least.  If you’re not sure if you need a new roof, consider contacting a roofer for inspection.

What should I consider before choosing a new roof?

The two main factors that you need to consider before choosing a new roof are appearance and longevity.  There are many different roofing materials available today, each with a different impact on the style of your home.  In addition, depending on where you live, you’ll want to consider climate and its effects on the longevity of your roof before choosing your roofing materials.  Always consult with a roofing professional to determine the best style and roofing materials for your home.

How long does new roof installation take?

Generally speaking, the average home can undergo a roof replacement in just a couple of days.  Still, depending on current weather conditions, the size and style of your roof, and the pitch of your roof, replacement may take upwards of a week to 10 days.

What kind of maintenance needs to be done to keep my roof in excellent condition?

You should definitely clean your gutters at least twice a year, and if you have many trees in your yard you should consider cleaning your gutters every season.  You’ll also want to visually inspect your roof every year or two to check for signs of visible damage and to make minor repairs.  By spending a bit of time on regular maintenance, you increase the lifespan of your roof.

What is ice damming?

Ice dams result from repeated melting and freezing of snow on your roof.  Cycles of melting and freezing cause ice to form around eaves and gutters, and subsequently push up under shingles.  As the weather warms and ice melts, ice dams also melt and may cause water to leak into your home.  Ice dams are a particular concern as they not only damage your roof, but they can cause extensive water damage inside your home as well.  If you live in a colder climate and your roof has a low pitch, you should speak to a roofing professional about how to manage ice dams.

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Before the Repair

Before you attempt to repair a leak, you should ask yourself a few questions.  Some overhead leaks are the result of fairly minor problems like a torn shingle or a hole in your flashing.  These kinds of damage can generally be repaired with some basic tools.  However, more complicated situations call for a roofer’s experience and skill; if you have failed to fix a leak after multiple attempts, call a roofer.  Also, ask yourself these questions:

1. Are there multiple leaks?
2. Are you unable to trace the source of the leak?
3. Are your attempts at repair not holding?
4. Can you see signs of damage to the roofing surface or the interior of your home?
5. Are you uncomfortable working with the materials that comprise your roof?

If you have answered yes to any or all of these questions, your roofing repair will require the expertise of roofing professional and you should contact a contractor immediately.

Quick Roof Repair Tips

Assuming you have been able to locate the source of a minor leak, and you cannot see any structural damage, you may decide to fix the leak yourself.  After a bad storm, it is not uncommon for shingles to become damaged so you’ll want to prevent future damage and protect your roof and home.  You’ll need to gather a few supplies: a tube of roofing cement, aluminum flashing, a pry par, and a trowel.  Start by cutting the flashing so that it is slightly larger than the tear in your shingle.  Carefully pry up the damaged shingle and slide the aluminum flashing under the tear.  Apply two or three thick beads of roofing cement to the under-surface of the shingle and press the shingle against the flashing.  Finally, apply more roofing cement over the tear to create a better seal.

This quick roof repair should be sufficient until your roof requires more major repairs.  Throughout the storm season, you may find yourself needing to complete these repairs on multiple occasions.  If this is the case, your shingles are likely showing signs of aging and may need to be replaced entirely.  When leaks recur, you should always contact a roofing expert.

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