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  • Flat Roofing: Common Problems and Repair Solutions

    Posted on September 1st, 2010 lsobczuk 2 comments

    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!

    Flat Roofing: Common Problems and Repair Solutions - NJ Roofing Blog

    While flat roofing work well for many structures, they also come with a variety of common problems.
    Designed to be simpler than elaborate slate, shingle and metal-style roofs, flat and low-slope roofs may suffer from leaks and damage due to flashing issues, seal problems and poor installation.
    If you’re comfortable with do-it-yourself projects, however, you can rectify a number of these simple, inexpensive roofing problems using the repair steps listed below.

    Common Flat Roofing Problems and Repair Solutions

    • During winter and spring months, it’s important to inspect flat roofs for snow buildup. When cold weather persists, snow and ice can block drains and gutters, allowing water to puddle into “ponds.” The first and most important step is to remove excess water from your building roof. You can get rid of standing water using a squeegee, shovel or broom. Then, sweep the roof to remove leaf debris and dirt that may be covering cracked or damaged areas.
    • If drains are not cleared and standing water isn’t properly redirected, your home or business may develop a serious roof leak that can damage attic insulation, indoor furnishings and flooring. If you locate an area of your roof where water perpetually pools, take time to pull up the existing rubber roofing material, bolster the underlying insulation and re-install rubber shingles and new flashing. Stressed about doing emergency roof repairs yourself? Call your New Jersey roof repair specialist at 609-712-8157.
    • Many flat roof leaks occur due to cracks in the sheathing, which may be caused by normal weathering or material irregularities. If you encounter a crack during your roof inspection, (a) peel up the surrounding sheathing, allowing moist areas to dry, (b) squeeze high-quality roofing cement into the crack, and (c) replace the sheathing by tacking it down with fasteners. You may wish to apply two to three layers of cement to ensure optimal coverage and future leak prevention. When your repair is completed, use a garden hose to test the area—but only after the roofing cement has dried for 24 hours or more.
    • If your flat roof leak is related to roof flashing damage, it may be caused by fungus growth. As moisture builds up in problem areas, fungus begins to grow and push away the shingles or flashing. First, protect yourself with work gloves and a safety mask to avoid fungus inhalation. Second, apply a recommended roofing fungicide at the source of the leak. You may need to use multiple fungicide treatments if buildup is severe. Finally, purchase a flashing repair kit. The kit should provide detailed instructions about replacing problem flashing, sealing damaged areas and allowing adequate dry time.

    Let LGC Roofing Help!

    If you’re comfortable that your flat roof was installed with care, the best way to prevent roofing problems is through regular inspections and maintenance visits. Call LGC Roofing professionals today to schedule your semi-annual flat roof inspection, or to inquire about EPDM roofing option.

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  • Leaking Skylight – Common Causes and Repair Tips

    Posted on June 30th, 2010 lsobczuk No comments

    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!

    Leaking Skylight – Common Causes and Repair Tips - NJ Roofing Blog

    When leaks develop in your aging or improperly sealed skylight, you may notice a number of symptoms. Skylight condensation, nearby water puddling or ceiling stains are signs that you either need to contact a roofer and request an inspection or get ready to do some investigating of your own.

    Common Causes of Skylight Leaks

    In addition to being a source of green, natural light for your home, skylights make small, tight rooms seem larger and more spacious. If they’re not properly installed, however, skylights can be a repair headache.
    If your skylight is leaking, look for the following potential causes:

    • Improperly installed fasteners: When roofing nails are exposed to the elements, water may seep in around them. Rusty or loose nails and skylight fasteners should be replaced and sealed with waterproof roofing cement.

    • Poor flashing seals: In addition to improperly installed roofing nails, the flashing around your skylight may not be flush and secure. If new fasteners do not help, consider replacing all flashing around the skylight’s perimeter. High-quality roofing cement should also be used around the new flashing edges to ensure a tight, weatherproof seal.
    • Glass micro-fractures or fissures: As your skylight ages, tiny, hairline cracks may develop around its edges. While these cracks don’t look like much to the naked eye, they allow moisture into your home. If there are a large number of offending cracks, you may need an entire skylight replacement”. Some small fissures can be repaired, though. Apply a thin, smooth layer of roof sealant to all evident cracks. Remember to apply roofing cement during dry weather so it can cure properly.
    • Sealant failure due to thermal expansion: If you live in a climate where door and window frames tend to expand from the heat, your skylight may have the same issue. Even the best roof cement can pull away during repetitive temperature changes. This constant “stretching” of your skylight’s frame may allow moisture to seep in around the edges. If this is the case, check the integrity of the frame and reapply new nails, along with a thick layer of roofing cement.

    Having Skylight Repair

    Skylight leaks are typically a simple, do-it-yourself repair, but if you’re experiencing severe interior effects, such as ceiling staining or flooring damage, call LGC Roofing experts to schedule a no-obligation, no-cost consultation. Family-owned and operated, LGC Roofing is a reputable roofer known for our honesty, integrity and cost-effective pricing. Dial 609-712-8157 today to experience the LGC difference.

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  • Repair and Maintenance of Slate Roofing

    Posted on May 26th, 2010 lsobczuk No comments

    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!

    NJ Roofing Blog - Repair and Maintenance of Slate Roofing
    Slate roofing is an upscale, artistic choice for homes and businesses, due to its natural beauty, durability and sleek architectural look. And while slate roofs typically require minimal maintenance, your slate tiles may need occasional repairs.

    Frequency of repairs depends upon the mineral properties, fabrication method, installation techniques and inspection schedule of your New Jersey roof. However, broken, cracked or deteriorating slate tiles should be promptly repaired or replaced in order to prevent interior damage, structural degradation or attic moisture buildup.

    Remember that, if you’re unsure about the extent of the slate damage, it’s best to hire a qualified NJ roofing specialist to inspect and repair your slate roof. This is especially important since the most common reason for slate roof failure is improper repair.

    Slate Roof Repair and Installation Considerations

    There are several things to remember before inspecting a problematic roof or installing new slate on your home.

    1. As with many other types of roofing, good flashing is essential to protecting your home from the top down. Your slate tiles may be leaking because of poor flashing quality or improper flashing installation.

      As you’re inspecting your roof, take note of the flashing type. The best flashing for a slate roof is copper, since tin-plated and galvanized steel do not last as long. If you’re installing a new slate roof, consider paying the small difference for quality copper flashing.

      If you believe that your existing flashing is damaged—especially in valleys, around vents or along chimneys, it’s best to enlist the help of a roofing professional, since these flashing areas can be difficult to repair.

    2. Some slate roof leaks may be caused by rusty nails and fasteners. Again, if you have the option, select copper or stainless steel nails when installing or repairing slate roofs and new flashing. Galvanized nails can rust within 30 years, and your roof may develop a leak at the rust site.
    3. Consider track systems. When slate roofs are installed with nails, there is always a chance of pinching or damaging tiles. New track systems allow adequate venting between the slate and the roof – and make it easy for the slate to be installed without nails or screws.
    4. Since slate is made of natural stone, and stone can have invisible fracture lines, it’s important to be especially careful when you’re climbing on the slate roof. Many homeowners have unknowingly damaged or cracked their slate tiles by carelessly stepping on them. Once a slate tile is cracked, a freeze cycle can split the tile beyond repair.

    Finally, it’s important to note that all slate is not the same. If your home’s roof was selected by a previous homeowner, they may have chosen cheap slate tile without a proven performance track record. Slate roofs are an investment in the future of your home, and should be chosen carefully if you have the opportunity to choose the roofing material, yourself.

    If you’re ready to add a new slate roof, or replace one that’s aging or in dispair, call LGC Roofing – we specialize in slate roofing installation in NJ. We’ll meet with you to discuss materials options and determine a high-quality roofing material that fits your budget and your home’s design. Request your free slate roofing installation estimate today!

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  • 3 Common Roof Leak Locations – Prevention and Repair Tips

    Posted on May 12th, 2010 lsobczuk 3 comments

    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!

    3 Common Roof Leak Locations – Prevention and Repair Tips

    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.

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  • Fighting a Leaky Roof? You May Need Flashing Repairs!

    Posted on April 21st, 2010 lsobczuk 1 comment

    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!

    Fighting a Leaky Roof? You May Need Flashing Repairs!

    Leaky roofs are often tricky to diagnose. At best, they’re a nuisance—and at worst, a costly structural nightmare. There are many reasons for roof leaks, and flashing damage is near the top of the list if you’ve ruled out shingles, valleys and ice damming.

    What is Flashing?

    Metal flashing is often made of tin-coated steel, galvanized steel and copper, and is the material used to “bridge the gap” between roofing materials and non-roofing materials. For example, flashing is found between roof planes, around chimneys, at the termination of roof slopes, around skylights and in roof valleys.

    When properly installed, flashing will prevent water from seeping in to your New Jersey home at the base of chimneys and vent pipes, in roof valley areas, or around exposed windows.

    To prevent expensive flashing leaks, make sure you install the appropriate amount and type of flashing. It’s also important to inspect flashing 1 to 2 times a year. Below, you’ll find additional maintenance recommendations.

    Flashing Maintenance 101

    Over time, flashing may corrode or become loose. Before your New Jersey roof begins to leak, look for damage to flashing during semi-annual roofing inspections. Here are some tips:

    • While inspecting your roof shingles and gutters, look for loose nails, fasteners and seals at your shingle edges, around the chimney and in sloped areas where flashing has been applied. As the caulking and silicon sealant applied to the flashing ages and is exposed to weather, it may crack, crumble or pull away. Flashing may simply need to be tacked down or resealed. If you recognize loose flashing, don’t allow it to go unrepaired. Water can literally stream down into your home through improperly sealed joints.
    • To help new or existing flashing last longer and withstand the elements, prime flashing with a metal primer and seal it with corrosion-proof metal paint that matches your home’s roofing material. This will help to prevent damage due to rust, and will lengthen the life of your roof flashing.
    • Seal improperly covered seams with urethane roofing cement. This type of sealant is designed to be applied between flashing and shingles or siding to prevent seepage. Remember, if you see a lot of dry, crumbling caulk at the seam, scrape it away with a wire brush before applying a new sealant layer.

    Remember that while there are many do-it-yourself ways to maintain the integrity of your flashing, severe flashing damage or home leaks are best left to an experienced NJ roof repair specialist.

    Call LGC Roofing at (609) 712-8157 to schedule an inspection, obtain a repair quote or inquire about a new, affordable roof – before spring rain and winds arrive.

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  • Emergency Flat Roof Leak Repairs

    Posted on April 7th, 2010 lsobczuk No comments

    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!

    Leaky Flat Roof
    Whether you have a traditional tarred or EPDM rubberized roof, weather-induced flat roof leaks can cause ongoing structural problems and costly damage if they’re not addressed quickly. Before conducting emergency roof improvements on your New Jersey residence, however, make sure that your home’s roof is not still covered by an existing manufacturer’s warranty. If it is, contact your installation contractor as soon as possible so they can repair or replace the affected roof portion without charge.

    If severe weather caused your flat roofing damage, it’s best to wait for the weather to pass before attempting to repair the roof. Keep in mind that most emergency roof repairs are considered temporary, and that you should enlist the help of a NJ roof repair specialist for long-term repair solutions.

    1. The most important thing to do during a flat roof leak is to protect your home’s interior, including furnishings, carpeting, drywall and hard floors. Spread out plastic sheeting for large leaks, or use buckets to contain smaller leaks.
    2. After ensuring that your home’s interior contents are protected, climb carefully onto the roof and remove excess water with a shovel, squeegee, Shop Vac or bucket—depending on the severity of the pooling.
    3. After clearing off excess water, try to discern the source of the water problem. You may have a clogged drain or gutter, which can occur when debris builds up over time. If possible, use your hand or a small trowel to remove rocks, leaves or roofing material from the drain or downspout to prevent further pooling.
    4. Once you’ve located the exact source of the leak based on the interior dripping pattern and exterior pooling evidence, you’re ready to perform an emergency roofing repair.

    Emergency Flat Roof Repairs

    Depending on the situation, the following materials may be helpful

    • Plastic Roof Cement: If your roof is a single-ply EPDM, built-up or modified bitumen BUR system, you can apply a temporary patch with roofing fabric and plastic cement. First, scrape away loose debris and gravel from the damaged area. After cleaning and drying the area as best you can, apply your cement, extending several inches beyond the leak to ensure full coverage. Continue to work the cement into the roof’s membrane with your trowel or mud knife. Cover the cement layer with fiberglass fabric, and apply a second cement layer to reinforce the repair. (Note: If your roofing surface is exceedingly wet, look for “rain patch” cement.)    
    • Roof Tape and Roofing Sealant: Useful for built-up, single-ply EPDM and PVC surfaces, this repair option should also be applied to a clean, dry area. After wiping the surface clean with alcohol, apply polyurethane caulking or roof tape to the damaged area. (Note: You may have to purchase roofing tape through a roofing contractor or materials dealer, since it is not always available in builder supply stores.)
    • Duct tape: If your roof is composed of PVC plastic sheeting, you can use layers of duct tape to create a quick-patch. Remember, however, that the duct tape will not last long—especially if you’re expecting additional rain or severe wind.

    After applying temporary patches to your New Jersey home’s leaky flat roof, contact a professional roofer. LGC Roofing will give you a competitive repair estimate, and can also suggest a more permanent solution—like a new EPDM roof. These new, rubberized designs are durable, cost effective and weather resistant, and come with exceptional warranties and performance guarantees. Call us today to schedule your repair consultation or inquire about full flat roof resurfacing.

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  • Tackle Your Flat, Leaky New Jersey Roof with EPDM

    Posted on March 31st, 2010 lsobczuk 1 comment

    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!

    Low-pitched and flat roofs are notorious for developing leaks. While you could continually apply tar to your flat roof every few years, it’s a time consuming process that offers no guarantee of leak-free living. Instead, consider installing a EPDM roof—or rubberized roof.

    Why Does My Flat Roof Leak?

    First of all, asphalt shingles were not designed for flat roofs. Since they’re not installed at an angle, gravity cannot work to ensure that moisture runs off of your home. Instead, rain and snow pool on your roof, and wind and ice dams cause moisture to seep between flat shingles. Since it’s costly and undesirable to change your roof’s configuration, try changing your roofing material, instead.

    What is EPDM?

    If you’re unfamiliar with it, EPDM - or ethylene propylene diene Monomer—is a single-ply, synthetic rubber compound that’s becoming a popular option for residential and commercial roofs. Especially cost-effective for flat roof structures, the advantages of EPDM include:

    • Exceptional resistance to ultraviolet rays, oxidation and thermal exposure
    • Exceptional resistance to hail, high winds, snow and ice
    • Superior durability and life expectancy
    • Decreased maintenance and repair costs
    • Affordable design and fast, one-coat application
    • Impressive flexibility and chemical resistance
    • Low fumes and easy install
    • Comprehensive, 10-year warranties

    Used for decades to fabricate radiator hoses, roof leak repair kits, tires and molded rubber products, EPDM rubber roofing can handle a range of temperatures without cracking, melting or incurring damage of any kind—which makes it ideal for New Jersey homeowners dealing with seasonal weather extremes. Best of all, after removing your home’s shingles – EPDM can be applied over a variety of roofing surfaces, including metal, fiberglass, wood and rubber.

    LGC Roofing installs EPDM

    Tired of leaks? Call LGC Roofing, leading New Jersey roofing professionals, for an EPDM estimate for your flat roof. We’ll inspect your existing roof, make repair recommendations and discuss your roofing replacement options – including the potential benefit of a new rubber roof. Contact us today to schedule a fast, friendly appointment with our expert roofing installers.

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  • Gutter Maintenance: From Inspection to Leak Repair

    Posted on March 24th, 2010 lsobczuk 2 comments

    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!

    Gutter systems protect your New Jersey home from leaks and moisture damage, so it’s critical that you maintain them properly. When gutters leak or downspouts back up, water may accumulate around your foundation. As moisture continues to seep into the foundation’s surrounding soil, walls and floors may settle or crack and eventually cause costly damage to your home.

    Maintaining gutter integrity begins with regular inspections. Twice each year, during spring and fall, carefully climb onto your roof and examine all portions of your New Jersey home’s downspout system.

    5 Gutter Inspection Tips

    Conduct the following chores during each inspection to keep all gutters optimally functional during rain, wind and snow.

    1. While wearing protective work gloves, remove all debris, sticks, dead leaves and pine needles from each gutter section. You may need a small trowel to empty all debris.
    2. Using your trowel or a caulking knife, carefully scrape off stuck-on roofing granules and remaining dirt film. Use a garden hose to run water through your gutters for a final cleanout. To fully flush downspouts, increase the pressure of your hose.
    3. After properly cleaning and flushing gutters, look for areas where water has pooled. This indicates that they’re not sloped properly, so you may need to adjust their position.
    4. Gutter hangers occasionally break, and may wear out over time. Take a handful of new gutter hooks onto the roof with you so you’re prepared to replace aging attachments. If your gutters are hung by straps, it’s difficult to remove the straps since they’re inserted underneath roofing materials. Instead, just add gutter hangers with self-tapping gutter screws to simplify repairs.
    5. Look for cracks in the gutters, themselves, and fill them in with exterior silicone caulking. You may need to replace entire sections of your gutter if it has rusted through.

    Hire Roofing Professional

    If your home is older, consider contacting a New Jersey professional roofer to handle your gutter inspection and possible repairs. LGC Roofing has been handling such projects for the past 25 years.

    We specialize in replacing aging gutters with new aluminum, vinyl or steel models, the best gutter solution available on the market today. An additional benefit of many steel gutter replacement systems is a baked-on enamel coating which allows the gutter material to lasts for 30 to 40 years without requiring much maintenance—and you can choose enamel that matches your NJ home’s trim.

    Call LGC Roofing to schedule a thorough inspection of your home’s gutter and downspout system, or to inquire about gutter repair pricing.

    Don’t wait until you’ve developed foundation problems to start thinking about gutter replacement or economical fixes. We’re experts in gutter and roofing maintenance, offer competitive pricing and comprehensive guarantees.

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  • New Jersey Shingle Roof Repair in 5 Easy Steps

    Posted on March 17th, 2010 lsobczuk 1 comment

    While it’s best to inspect your roof at least once a year to keep shingle problems from leading to major structural repairs, your asphalt or composite shingles may begin leaking or showing signs of localized damage at any time.

    The good news is that composite roofing should last for 15 to 20 years, and shingle repair is relatively simple.

    Once you’ve located a trouble spot, check the integrity of the surrounding shingles. Look for visible cracks or damage. Test damaged or curling shingles by gently bending the shingle corner. Serviceable shingles should flex nicely. If they are old or weather damaged, the corner may break, instead.

    If this occurs—and the roofing material seems to be losing its color and shape, it’s time to replace the affected shingles entirely. If not, you can often repair them in a few, basic steps.

    Shingle Roof Repair in 5 Easy Steps

    1. Choose a sunny day to make your repairs, since the sun’s warmth makes shingles easier to work with.
    2. If a corner is pulling away or a shingle is torn, lift the damaged piece and apply a layer of roofing cement to the bottom of it. You may need to use a pry bar to raise the shingle piece high enough to apply the cement. A putty knife works well for sealant application, but you can use any dull, flat-edged tool.
    3. Tack down the cement-treated piece with roofing nails so the adhesive has time to seal properly. The nails will also help the shingle piece stay in place permanently.
    4. After tacking down curled corners, broken pieces or torn shingles, spread a layer of plastic roofing adhesive or tar over the cracked area. You should also apply the sealant directly over the nail heads to ensure that water does not seep in through the nail holes.
    5. As you begin to repair compromised asphalt pieces, take note of the roof’s overall state. If you find yourself repairing or replacing dozens of shingles due to hail, storms or basic wear-and-tear, it may be time to contact a qualifying New Jersey roofer to handle more extensive repairs—or replace your entire roof.

    Hire a Roofing Professional

    While many do-it-yourselfers repair their own composite shingles, it’s often best to leave entire roof makeovers to the experts. Call LGC Roofing to schedule a thorough inspection of your home’s roof and attic space. We’ll recommend cost-effective repairs, and if you have to replace your shingle roof, our prices are competitive and our craftsmanship is second-to-none.

    Remember, putting off shingle roof repairs can lead to costly attic and roof sheathing damage. Get your shingle roof repaired by a qualified NJ roofer.

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  • 4 Steps to Diagnosing a Leaky Metal Roof

    Posted on February 17th, 2010 lsobczuk No comments

    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!

    4 Steps to Diagnosing a Leaky Metal Roof

    If the metal roof on your home or business develops a leak, it’s important to locate and repair it quickly so you don’t incur damage to your drywall, floors, molding and insulation.

    While it may take awhile to find, there are several things to look for when you’re trying to diagnose a metal roof leak.

    4 Steps to Diagnosing a Leaky Metal Roof

    1. If the attic is accessible, inspect it with a flashlight. You’re looking for discoloration and dark stains indicating that the wood is wet—or was recently wet. In extreme cases, you may see mold or mildew stains inside the attic. If possible, trace the dark stain to a screw or nail hole, roof valley or joint. Take note of its location before heading out to inspect the metal roof’s exterior.
    2. On a sunny, dry day, examine the exterior of your roof—paying special attention to the potentially leaky valleys, joints and screws you noted in the attic. Several things may cause leaks, including loose flashing, joints, ridge caps or fasteners. Re-secure all loose fasteners and check the integrity of all joints, making sure that all caulking is in tact and water is not seeping underneath. Extreme heat or cold can damage rubber sealant, so you may need to reapply it in potentially leaky areas. Make sure you purchase caulking that is approved for exterior, metal roof use.
    3. Carefully inspect the perimeter of the chimney, if one is present, since flashing can draw up around the chimney’s edge. It’s important to replace or tighten all warped flashing to avoid future water problems. You may also wish to apply a new layer of caulking around the chimney’s base.
    4. Remember, water damage can be difficult to diagnose because it does not always occur directly below your metal roof leak. Water may run down a valley and trickle into a window, or pool in the attic and cause damage to interior walls.

    Don’t Let a Leak in Your Metal Roof Go Unnoticed

    If you’re not comfortable inspecting your metal roof yourself or are unable to find the source of a persistent roof leak, call LGC Roofing, top NJ roofing professionals. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your home’s interior and exterior, recommending affordable roof repairs before you develop a costly structural issue or an ongoing mold problem.

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