Spring Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Roof

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Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Your New Jersey roof may have survived the snow and cold, but now it’s time to survey the damage that winter might have caused.
Spring roof maintenance is a necessary part of lengthening the lifespan of your roof – and protecting your home’s precious interior. So, when it’s time to conduct your spring roof inspection, remember these three areas of concern.

1. Gutters

Your gutter system was designed to remove water from your roof in order to

• prevent pooling and moisture buildup,
• prevent damage to your home’s structure, and
• discourage moisture-related mold growth

Dirty, not properly maintained gutters can shorten the life of your roof, so it’s critical that you check them one to two times a year.
Spring is a great time to check out your gutters and remove large chunks of debris by hand or with a garden trowel. After manually removing debris, use a power sprayer, hose or water bucket to clean out the remaining dirt buildup.
Remember, if you have a number of tall trees on your property—you may need to check gutters more frequently for stray leaves and twigs.
After cleaning out your gutters, it’s important to be proactive about trimming tree overhangs and large branches. Use a chainsaw or hand trimmer to clip branches away from the roof, especially if they appear to be dropping debris into your gutters. Next, check gutters for loose or rusty sections.
Most gutters are easy and inexpensive to replace. If you’re not comfortable making basic gutter repairs LGC Roofing installs and repairs gutters in New Jersey – call us at 609-712-8157 for a Free Estimate.

2. Shingle integrity

After checking, cleaning and replacing gutters, your next step is to survey the shingle field for damage – you will possibly need some basic shingle repairs.
Climb carefully onto the roof, and scan your shingles for missing pieces, peeling areas or grain loss. The small rock and mineral grains on your shingles help to protect your roof from the elements. If shingles are broken or begin to look smooth and “grainless,” it’s time to replace them.
You can replace a shingle by carefully removing the old one (and potentially the two to three surrounding shingles). After removing nails and fasteners, slide a new, same-sized shingle into place and nail it down. Cover each nail with roofing cement to prevent water penetration, and weight the shingle down overnight to ensure a tight seal.

Flashing repairs

Flashing, or the metal strips that seal gaps and prevent water from seeping under shingles, should be checked during each semi-annual roof inspection.
It’s especially important to inspect flashing around your chimney, skylights and valley regions. Those are 3 most common roof leak locations since winter wind and storms may cause flashing to pull away at these areas. Using small roof fasteners, tack down loose flashing and seal tack holes with roof cement. Call the LGC roofing professionals when you have more serious flashing problems.

In Conclusion

While it’s easy to do simple roof inspections and repairs yourself, it’s advisable to hire an expert if your home has an aging roof, or if your New Jersey roof is particularly steep and dangerous. Ready to schedule your spring roof inspection?
Call LGC Roofing today to schedule a free estimate, inquire about repair pricing or arrange a gutter assessment. 609-712-8157.

3 Common Roof Leak Locations – Prevention and Repair Tips

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Spring has arrived—with its unpredictable moisture patterns, gale-force winds and leftover snowstorms. For New Jersey homeowners, that often means pesky roof leaks galore—in many common locations.

3 Common Roof Leak Locations – Prevention and Repair Tips:

Leaking Chimneys

Whether it’s due to aging caulk, cracked cement caps or flashing problems, chimneys are one of the biggest problem areas when it comes to leaks. Many (but not all) chimney leaks can be repaired by peeling off old, dried caulking and roof sealant from around the chimney’s base. Inspect each area of flashing for cracks or damage, and replace flashing as needed. To improve the integrity of your flashing, remember to use a high-quality, flashing cement to re-caulk the area (rather than traditional roofing cements and sealants). If you have a more invasive leak caused by cracked mortar joints, stone or brick displacement, consider calling your local roofer who will perform a thorough roof inspection. The goal is to examine and repair the damage.

Leaks in the Roof Field

For aging homes, it’s common for leaks to occur in the shingle field—whether it’s composed of slate, shake or composite shingles. If your roof is strong enough to walk around on, inspect the shingle field for missing granules, apparent cracks, displaced tiles or unfilled nail holes. Depending upon how severe the roof field leak is, you may be able to replace individual shingles, slates or tiles quickly and easily. If the entire roof is suffering from severe wear and tear, however, it may be safer—and more cost-effective—to replace it completely. Our roofing professionals can assess your home’s roof field, determine the extent of the damage and make an affordable recommendations for repair or replacement.

Leaks in Roof Valleys

When two portions of your roof intersect, the resulting line is called a “valley.” Valleys typically contain a type of metal flashing, but in some cases, shingles or tiles may just butt up against one another. Either way, valleys are a common source for roof leaks. If your roof valleys contain metal flashing, it’s possible that the shingles were improperly cut, allowing water to leak behind faulty shingle tips and seep into your attic or down your walls. Valley leaks tend to be more complex to repair than other types of damage, so it’s best to leave them up to the professionals.

While GRAVITY causes the majority of New Jersey roof leaks, wind-driven moisture may cause water to seep into areas that normally remain dry. If you’re struggling to identify the source of your leaky roof, a garden hose and a friend (an interior “spotter”) may help. However, if you are not comfortable climbing on your roof or assessing the source of your leak, don’t hesitate to call LGC Roofing, your New Jersey leaky-roof expert. LGC Roofing provides fast, affordable consultations and quotes, and our team can (1) help you prevent costly damage from spring winds and rain, and (2) provide budget-friendly replacement options for aging or severely damaged roofs.

4 Ongoing Roof Winterization Tips You Cannot Miss

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Winter Isn’t Over Yet

Your roof is a critical part of your home’s defense against the elements, and winter can wreak havoc on it. If you think winter is over, you need to know that March and even April can be just as damaging to the roof’s integrity as the coldest winter months we’ve just endured.

To maintain your roof’s structure and fend off costly damage caused by bitter snow, ice and wind, check out these simple, do-it-yourself winterization tips offered by LGC Roofing.

4 Ongoing Roof Winterization Tips You Cannot Miss

1. Debris removal: Clearing your roof and gutters of branches and debris helps ensure proper drainage as ice begins to melt. While you may be able to clear twigs and leaves from a ladder, it may be necessary to climb onto the rooftop in some cases-depending on your roof’s architecture. Wearing heavy gloves to protect your hands from sharp objects, carefully remove debris piles from the roof and gutters. If possible, direct downspouts away from the house and run water through cleared gutters to wash out remaining dirt buildup.
2. Inspect gutters for wear and damage: After cleaning out gutters and eaves, perform a visual inspection of your roof’s drainage system. Make a note of gutter cracks, rusty spots or holes, as you may soon need to fix these or hire someone to repair them. It is simpler–and less expensive–to replace small portions of the gutter rather than waiting until extensive damage has occurred. It’s also important to ensure that your gutters are soundly mounted along each portion of your home’s perimeter.
3. Inspect flashing and roof covering: Look for buckled or broken shingles, make sure flashing is properly sealed, and check that roof edges are firmly attached. Rain, wind and ice dams can cause extensive damage along roof seams and around the roof edge, so it’s important to ensure that all materials are secure and that there are no flashing tears or shingle warping.
4. Look for algae and moss growth: Dark areas of lichen or roof algae don’t just affect your home’s visual appeal. They are also an indicator that portions of your home’s roof are damper than others, and over time, this continual moisture buildup may cause excessive shingle and structural wear. Keep an eye on these areas, and call a qualified roofer if you’re concerned about excessive water damage.

Protect Your Property – Inspect Your Roof Today

It’s important to remember that a thorough, winter maintenance program can prevent weather-related leaks, roofing decay and gutter damage—and will ultimately prolong the life of your roof. We have previously detailed some DIY roof inspection tips you can start with.

However, if there are serious concerns about the state of your roof or you simply need a professional to inspect it for you, we’re here to help. We offer a comprehensive inspection of the interior and exterior of your roofing and gutter systems so don’t risk further damage, contact LGC Roofing now. We’re here to serve You!

4 Do-It-Yourself Post Winter Roof Inspection Tips

Thanks for visiting! We are LGC Roofing, family owned and operated New Jersey roofer. You can keep track of us via our RSS feed, connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

Need a roofer? Don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate on your roofing project. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Though winter is still hanging around, it’s time to begin thinking about readying your home for spring temperatures. Remember, though, that even as the weather warms, spring storms and poor roof ventilation may continue to cause lingering ice dams and ongoing roof leak problems. That’s why it’s important to give your roof some TLC after harsh winter months.

4 Do-It-Yourself Post Winter Roof Inspection Tips

1. On a warm, dry day, inspect your entire roof for loose tiles, curled shingles and detached flashing. Make plans to fasten flashing gaps, and replace compromised tiles and shingles so they’ll weather spring storms. If you notice that harsh winter weather has worn away roof granules, affected shingles may also need to be replaced.
2. Rather than waiting until you have an overflow problem, plan to conduct “spring cleaning” of your rain gutters. Clear shingle debris, tree branches and dead leaves out of your gutters to ensure that water flow isn’t compromised during a heavy rain or spring snowstorm. If it’s warm enough, you may wish to use a hose or pressure washer to more completely clear gutters and downspouts.
3. Remove moss and lichen from your roof by sweeping it off (if it’s dry) or applying a moss-removal chemical and sweeping it off after it has been killed.
4. After repairing roof leaks, tightening/replacing shingles and getting rid of ice dams, you may need to repair interior ceiling stains. Some stains can be repainted, while others require drywall repair to restore the ceiling and wall texture.

Hire a Roofing Professional

Remember to take proper safety measures if you’ll conduct your own spring roof inspection. Make sure someone is home, or let a neighbor know of your plans to climb on the roof.
If you’re uncomfortable examining or repairing your ailing roof, contact the roofing experts at LGC. Our qualified contractors are ready to examine your home for severe roof leaks and necessary materials replacement—and we offer a no-obligation consultation and price quote so you can make an informed decision regarding any roof repairs that might be needed.

5 Components of The Roof Inspection Process

Last week we’ve talked about why it is necessary to have your roof inspected on a regular basis. Today we will detail the roof inspection process so that you can get the most out of your roofing professional who will handles the inspection of your roof.

Whether you’re experiencing a leak or scheduling routine home maintenance, comprehensive roof inspections should always be conducted by qualified professionals. Since your roof is the most weather-exposed part of your home, a thorough inspection will include an interior and exterior evaluation of the roof’s structure.

While each roofing company is different, there are a number of things you should expect when an inspector arrives at your home.

• Roof inspections often include a walkthrough of your home. During this portion of the evaluation, inspectors can examine ceilings, walls and attic areas for internal evidence of wind, water or hail damage. If you’re concerned about electrical or drywall problems, let your inspector know immediately.
• A quality roofing specialist should walk the perimeter of your home, noting the location of chimneys, gutters, vents and flashing points. Later in the inspection, these elements will be evaluated more extensively for maintenance/repair requirements.
• External roof inspections include a careful examination of the home’s siding and eaves. During this portion of the roofing evaluation, your inspector will check for external water stains, hail dings and indications of dry rot.
• After a thorough look at your home’s interior and exterior, a skilled roofer will ascend the roof to examine its construction, flashing, vents and chimney. Common problems reported by your inspector may include missing shingles, broken shakes or tiles, cracked flashings, damaged chimney bricks, open seams or wear from extreme sun-exposure.
• While on the roof, a qualified inspector should also assess the condition of your gutters. Improper installation, debris buildup or warped metal may cause drainage problems that could lead to structural damage or interior leaks if not addressed.

During your inspection, a roofing professional may also photograph damage from the interior or exterior of your home. You can request copies of these photos for your records, along with a comprehensive copy of the roofing report. The report should contain information about replacement or maintenance requirements, in addition to detailed pricing for each recommended item.

Schedule a Roof Inspection Today

Many homeowners live in their homes for a decade or more without ever scheduling a routine roof inspection. If this is true for you, make your home’s health a priority today. Call our contractors before fierce winter weather sets in. We’ll send a qualified professional to assess your home’s roof before you experience a damaging leak.

Roof Inspection: Why is it Necessary?

Since your roof offers a line of defense for your home’s structure, it should be inspected regularly. Roof inspections, which should be offered by your local roofer, are especially important if you live in location that tends to experience weather extremes and dangerous storms.

What Causes My Roof to Deteriorate?

Your roof has many natural attackers, including:

1. Sun: Heat and UV rays can be destructive to roofing materials, causing them to break down over time.
2. Wind: High winds can pull shingles away from the roof’s underlayment, allowing dirt and water to collect between the layers. Over time, this debris and moisture can lead to structural deterioration.
3. Rain and Snow: Frequent moisture penetration can be detrimental to your roof’s structure, causing mildew, wood rot and even damage to insulation and electrical infrastructure.
4. Lichen: Wood shakes and shingles make good homes for moss and algae. These organic materials discolor your roof and hold in excess water—which leads to wood rot and structural damage over time. In addition, fungus builds up in gutter systems, making it difficult to maintain proper drainage flow.
5. Trees: If your yard’s landscaping becomes overgrown, tree limbs and leaf buildup may become a problem. Long, heavy branches can puncture or scratch your roof, and leaves may block downspout systems.

When Should I Have My Roof Inspected?

According to the National Roofing Contractor’s Association, homeowners should have their roofs inspected twice a year to ensure optimal performance and lifespan. Regular roof inspections include a look at interior walls, ceilings and fireplace flues, assessment of leaks or visible damage, evaluation of downspout/gutter systems and examination of roofing materials (shingles, shakes, tiles, etc.).

After inspecting your home from the inside and out, a qualified roofer can make recommendations about maintenance or replacement measures. We will be covering the topic of what to expect during a roof inspection in our next post so don’t miss it.

Schedule Your NJ Roof Inspection Today

If it’s been awhile since you had a roofing professional look over your home’s roof and gutter systems, contact LGC Roofing. After examining your home’s roof, our contractors can offer you maintenance tips, quote required repairs or discuss gutter, siding and window replacement. Protect your home by making an appointment today.