Did you know that with slate shingles, the flashings around valleys, dormers, chimneys and gutters will deteriorate before the slate itself wears out? In most cases, if the slate is good, the metal areas can be replaced and the slate reinstalled.
Answers to Roofing Problems in Mainline and Chester County, PA
How do I know if I need a new roof?
What is the right price for a new roof?
What can I do about mildew on my roof?
How often should I clean my gutters?
Can heavy snow damage my roof?
How long does it take to replace a roof?
Can I replace missing and damaged tiles or shingles without calling a roofing contractor?
What is an ice dam?
How do I know if I need a new roof?
The following are things that may indicate that your roof needs replacing:
- Missing, cracked or curling shingles
- Blistering or peeling paint
- Shingle, sheathing or siding decay
- Leakage in the attic after heavy rains
- Stains on interior walls or ceilings
- High energy bills
What is the right price for a new roof?
The answer to this question depends on many factors, including the square footage of your roof and whether you're going for asphalt shingles, cedar shake shingles, or beautiful slate shingles. For a free quote, please contact us at (484) 639-9402.
What can I do about mildew on my roof?
Most home improvement stores sell a mildew cleaner that can be applied to your roof with a sprayer. Mildew cleaners shouldn’t damage your roof in any way.
How often should I clean my gutters?
Gutters should be cleaned at least once in the summer and twice in the fall.
Can heavy snow damage my roof?
Yes! It is important to keep heavy snow off your eavesdrops and cleared out of your ridge vents.
How long does it take to replace a roof?
Replacing a roof, whether on a commercial or residential building, is a labor-intensive project and, depending on the type of roof, could take anywhere from a few days to 2 or more weeks. The time involved is substantially affected by the weather, as well. Wind, snow, rain, or even just the threat of one of these and will slow the process considerably.
For built-up roofs, removing and replacing the roof will probably proceed at a rate of approximately 1,500 square feet per day. For single-ply roofs, the rate is closer to 2,000 to 4,000 square feet per day. Careful planning and close project management can reduce some of the delays caused by bad weather.
Can I replace missing and damaged tiles or shingles without calling a roofing contractor?
It is always recommended that you use a professional, but in case of an emergency, it is possible for you to replace the shingle or broken tile yourself.
- Composition shingle Replacement
For composition shingles, roofing cement can be used to repair torn or curled shingles. Stabilize repaired shingles with nails or a heavy board until the cement has dried.To replace a composition, carefully lift the shingle above the missing shingle, then trim and place the new shingle underneath so that it doesn't catch on any edges (it may be necessary to remove excess staples or nails). Carefully nail the new shingle into place. - Wood shingles or shakes Replacement
For wood shingles, repairs are best done with an aluminum piece that can be slid under the shingle. This should protect the exposed area, while not being visible from below.
To replace a wood shingle requires a special tool, a shingle ripper, to slip under the shingle and hook and cut the nail. The nail can also be cut with a hacksaw, but is difficult to do. Slip the new shingle into position, but leave it ¼ inch longer than the other shingles. Then nail it into place right below the end of the overlapping shingle above. Finally, with a block of wood against the shingle butt, drive it up the last ¼ inch to bend the nails under the shingle above. - Tile Replacement
To replace a tile, remove all of the broken pieces, then gently lift the tiles and slide the new tile into place until it hooks over the batten.
What is an ice dam?
Ice dams occur when snow melts near the ridgelines of warm roofs (roofs without adequate ventilation). As the water runs down the roof to the overhang, it cools and freezes. If the snow continues this melt and freeze process, an ice dam can form that can seep under the shingles, through the decking and into the house. This, of course, can cause serious roof leaks--even in freezing temperatures.
The best prevention to ice dams is a well-ventilated (cool) roof. Additional protection for your roof can be applied with an impermeable ice and water membrane. The membrane is installed on top of the decking, under the roofing material.
Temporary prevention of ice dams can also be done through the use of electric cables along the eaves of the roof (where the dams usually form). However, new ice dams can form above the cables and still cause extensive damage. Another emergency solution to ice dams is to fill a sock or nylon with calcium chloride. Lay the stocking vertically across the ice dam. The calcium chloride will melt the ice and release the water so that it can drain outside, and not inside your roof.