Category: Roof Maintenance

  • Residential Roofing Repairs: How to Prevent Winter Skylight Leaks

    Residential Roofing Repairs: How to Prevent Winter Skylight Leaks

    Winter skylight leaks can be a nuisance, to say the least, and many homeowners have had to deal with them at one point or another.

    When installed correctly, skylights are both a functional and beautiful addition to any home. The extra natural light skylights bring in can visually expand interior spaces, reduce utility bills, and ward off the winter blues. And in winter, most homeowners with skylights appreciate the added warmth a skylight can provide.

    The problem is, however, that skylights are prone to developing leaks during the coldest and wettest season of winter. In fact, winter skylight leak repairs are among the most common roof leak repairs seen in residential roofing.

    Residential Roofing Repairs: How to Prevent Winter Skylight Leaks

    There are 4 major reasons behind winter skylight leaks:

    • Damaged or missing flashing
    • Roof damage in which water travels into the house through the skylight
    • Insufficient winter roof maintenance
    • Condensation problems from too much humidity

    The cost of a leaking skylight repair in winter can be significant as well—a skylight dripping water can be an expensive road to major roof, drywall, carpet, and flooring damage. Additionally, a leaky skylight may be an indication of more serious, hidden damage. This is why prevention and prompt diagnosis are critical in maintaining the integrity of skylights and managing potential leaks as they develop!

    Residential Roofing Repairs: How to Prevent Winter Skylight Leaks

    Prevention beats repairs in residential roofing & you can prevent winter skylight leaks through adequate ventilation, regular maintenance & annual inspections.

    #1. Perform Regular Inspections

    Many of these skylight issues and other types of water damage to the roof can be prevented through seasonal roof inspections. An inspection contractor will look for damage to the shingles, and gutters, but will also check the flashings for holes, cracks, or other signs of damage or deterioration. They should also check the interior of the house for issues that could be causing your problems.

    It is best to schedule roof inspections before the winter to make sure your home is ready for the cold and wet. You may want to schedule another inspection in the spring to confirm that your roof and skylight made it through the storms in one piece, and address any necessary roof repairs should a leak around your Velux window develop (our favorite, Velux offers the most advanced line of skylights).

    For more tips on how to fix skylight roof leaks read: Leaky Skylight Diagnosis and Repair Tips

    New Roof and Velux Skylight Installation, Wayne PA 19087

    #2. Take Care of Roofing Maintenance

    Taking care of your roof during winter is another way to prevent skylight leaks—roof maintenance is more important around winter than at any other time of year. This is largely due to the threat of ice dams, which can wreak havoc on your roof and attic and potentially cause major, costly damage that can be tricky to repair.

    First and foremost, clear your roof of snow as quickly as possible after the storm. Speedy yet safe snow removal does not give the precipitation time to melt and refreeze on the roof, creating ice dams. Ice dams can block drainage to the point that moisture can seep into the home through the roof and skylight.

    For more info on how ice damages roofs read: Winter Roofing & Shingle Damage: Ice Dams, Roof Leaks & How to Prevent Them

    Wind Damage Shingles Roof Repair, New Castle DE 19720

    #3. Ensure Adequate Ventilation

    Another factor to consider regarding leaking skylights in winter is the humidity level on the highest floor of your home. Too much humidity in the air, whether it comes from the laundry room or bathroom, can cause condensation on skylight glass while leading to leaks around the frame.

    If you’re unsure whether or not you have adequate attic ventilation, consult a professional roofing contractor. They can work with you to install an appropriate ventilation system or dehumidifier for your home that will prevent condensation from forming in the first place.

    To learn more about checking your attic ventilation read: Fall Roofing Maintenance: 8-Point Attic Ventilation Checklist

    Roofing Replacement, Newark DE

    Only Hire Roofers Experienced In Skylight Repairs!

    Skylight leaks can be tricky and improper repairs can lead to significant interior damage, so it’s best to hire a professional roofer experienced in proper diagnosis & repair.

    If you notice leaks around your skylight, contact All Roofing Solutions, a family-owned & operated local roofing contractor with nearly two decades of experience in residential roofing. We’ll evaluate your skylight and surrounding shingles, and recommend repairs that will fit your budget and remedy your water problems.

    Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania for your FREE ESTIMATE today!

    Why Choose All Roofing Solutions

    • Customer Satisfaction GuaranteedFamily-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
    • Fully licensed and insured.
    • Over 20 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
    • A+ rated BBB member
    • Complimentary Extended Material warranty
    • 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
    • Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
    • Own crew—no subcontractors!
    • Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
    • Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
    • Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
    • Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
    • The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
  • Residential Roofing: Roof Cleaning 101

    Residential Roofing: Roof Cleaning 101

    Residential Roofing: Roof Cleaning 101

    It’s inevitable that algae, moss, dirt, and grime will collect on your roof over time. Not only will these contaminants reduce your home’s curb appeal, but they can also damage your roof if they are left untreated. The good news is that DIY roof cleaning is a straightforward process that even inexperienced homeowners can handle.

    For the best results, use methods intended to address specific problems. Debris, moss, and algae stains each require a slightly different approach.

    Cleaning Roof Debris

    Sticks, branches, pine needles, and leaves will collect on your roof if it’s within close range of tall trees. Here’s how to safely get rid of debris:

    1. Climb onto your roof and clear large pieces of debris by hand.
    2. Use a brush or broom with soft bristles to sweep away smaller particles.
    3. Finish by using a leaf blower to get rid of any lingering remains.

    Get Rid of Roof Moss

    Moss can cause roof leaks if it’s left for an extended period of time. You should not only get rid of it promptly, but you should also take preventive action to prevent its regrowth. Here is an easy, proven method:

    1. Prepare an acidic or basic cleaning solution. Moss cannot survive in environments with a pH level below 4 or above 7.
    2. A combination of baking soda or baking powder, salt, liquid dish detergent, and bleach or ammonia mixed with hot water will create an effective basic environment. Note: do not use bleach AND ammonia. Use bleach OR ammonia.
    3. To create an acidic environment, mix vinegar and hot water in about a 50/50 mix. You can also add citrus fruit juice for a little extra punch.
    4. Some professionals simply apply chlorine to roof moss; this is a third method you may want to try.
    5. Saturate mossy areas on the roof with the cleaning solution. Do not rinse. The moss will die within a few hours, and any lingering traces will be washed away at the next rainfall.

    To prevent moss from growing back, trim any nearby tree branches that shade your roof. Moss needs shade to thrive, and it won’t return if your roof is always exposed to open air and sunlight.

    Roof Cleaning 101, Thompson Roof Cleaning & Power Washing

    Remove Algae and Black Stains

    To get rid of algae and black stains, prepare an acidic solution similar to the one mentioned above for removing moss. Saturate the roof with the solution, then spot clean with a soft brush or broom to clean heavily stained areas.

    A Few Words of Warning

    Here are a few pieces of advice to keep in mind during roof cleaning, and roofing maintenance in general:

    1. Never use a pressure washer on a roof. This can damage even the most resilient types of roofs (including metal roofs).
    2. Test any cleaning solution on a small sample of your roof’s material to make sure it won’t cause stains or corrosion.
    3. Use a gentle touch and a soft-bristled broom or brush if you’re going to scrub shingles. Otherwise, you could damage them.
    4. Start from the top and work your way down to reduce your chances of slipping on a slick roof.

    Need Help With Roof Maintenance?

    Performing a little routine roof maintenance can go a long way in keeping your shingle roofing in tip-top shape. If you’ve fallen behind, or need a professional to inspect or clean your roof, contact All Roofing Solutions, your Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing repair specialists. We’re here to help with all your roofing needs and are available to assist you 24/7.

    Why Choose All Roofing Solutions

    • Customer Satisfaction GuaranteedFamily-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania, roofing contractor.
    • Fully licensed and insured.
    • Over 20 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
    • A+ rated BBB member
    • Complimentary Extended Material warranty
    • 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
    • Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
    • Own crew—no subcontractors!
    • Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
    • Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
    • Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
    • Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
    • The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!

    All Roofing Solutions specializes in residential roof repair & replacement in Delaware and bordering Pennsylvania counties – call us whether you need an inspection, routine maintenance, or a whole new roofing system installed.

    CALL 302-725-ROOF (7663) FOR YOUR FREE ROOFING ESTIMATE

    Request Your Free DE Roofing Estimate 302-725-ROOF (7663)

  • Top 3 Ways To Invest In An Energy-Efficient Roof

    Top 3 Ways To Invest In An Energy-Efficient Roof

    When weather extremes hit, whether in summer or winter months, increased energy costs are inevitable. Extended use of heating and cooling systems can become costly fast for a homeowner. This is where investing in an energy-efficient roof can make a difference!

    While there are many ways to reduce energy costs in your home investing in an energy-efficient roof is often one of the most effective, as the roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements.

    Top 3 Ways To Improve The Energy Efficiency Of Your Roof

    Top 3 Ways To Invest In An Energy-Efficient Roof

    Don’t let your energy savings go through the roof—learn how the proper insulation in your attic, coating your roof, and using energy-efficient roofing materials can be very effective in reducing your energy costs!

    Curbing Energy Waste With Adequate Attic Insulation

    A relatively simple and inexpensive way to make your roof more energy efficient is by ensuring that you have adequate insulation. The Department of Energy estimates that a properly insulated attic can shave 10 to 50 percent off your heating bill.

    Poorly insulated attics do not provide a home with the protection required to combat temperature extremes and keep energy costs down. This is especially true for older homes, which normally have less insulation than recently built homes.

    While adding new insulation to a poorly insulated attic will provide some benefit, it is important to know the optimal amount and type of insulation that should be used. Education yourself is critical, as there have been updates to building codes for insulation and HVAC in attics, as well as new techniques for insulating attics in the last decade (such as the use of conditioned attics with closed cell foam applied between the rafters or a layer of closed cell topped with open cell).

    Bottom line: Proper insulation in your home provides resistance to heat flow and lowers your heating and cooling costs (and it also improves comfort). Making sure your attic is well-sealed and properly insulated is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the air leaks that contribute to energy waste and make your home less comfortable

    Roof Replacement, Wilmington DE 19803

    Reflective Roof Coating For A More Energy-Efficient Roof

    Another method for increasing your roof’s energy efficiency is to add a cooling coating or material to the roof. Cool roofing generally refers to a reflective coating, which can be applied to any type of roof to make it more energy efficient

    Anyone who has worn black in the summer sun knows the impact of dark colors on heat retention. The same principle applies to your roof: the darker the roof, the more heat is retained. A qualified roofer can apply a coating to the roof, such as cool-roofing paint, to reduce heat retention.

    Coating your roof can reduce heat energy costs and increase UV and waterproofing protection for the roof, aside from other benefits, such as extending the life of your roof.

    Replacing aging shingles can also provide increased protection against the sun. With numerous cooling options available and with every house requiring a specific solution, homeowners should schedule a roofing inspection with a roofing contractor before deciding on the best roof-cooling strategy.

    Invest In An Energy-Efficient Roof With Reflective Roof Coating

    Using Energy-Efficient Roofing Materials

    While adding insulation and roof-cooling materials are inexpensive and easy options that can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your roof, sometimes you will be left with roofing replacement as your only sensible option. When adding a new roof to your home, energy efficiency should be a major factor in your decision.

    There are several energy-efficient roofing materials available to choose from, with the top four being solar roofing shingles, metal roofing, tile roofing, and asphalt roofing.

    Solar roofing shingles are a non-traditional roofing option that can have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, and the average cost of a solar roof can range from $30,000 to $60,000. Metal roofing, which is made up of metals like aluminum, copper, steel, tin, and zinc, is another top energy-efficient roofing option and is considered one of the most eco-friendly roofing options since metal is reusable and keeps homes cooler. Tile and asphalt roofing are also energy-efficient options for homeowners to consider.

    Additionally, Energy Star-certified roof products can also help reduce the amount of air conditioning needed in buildings and can reduce peak cooling demand by 10-15 percent.

    Static vents, wind-powered vents, and electric vents are the three main types of roof vents used in residential roofing, which can help with ventilation and increase energy efficiency. Each has its pros and cons, and the type of vents and the amount of ventilation needed can be determined by your roofing contractor.

    Lastly, proper installation is also critical, so contact a roofing contractor with experience in the particular material you’re using.

    Roof Replacement, Wilmington DE 19803

    We Can Help You Improve the Energy Efficiency Of Your Roof

    If you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your roof, call All Roofing Solutions. We are a family owned & operated roofing contractor with 25 years of experience in roofing, siding, gutter, and windows installation. Fully licensed & insured, we service Delaware and neighboring Pennsylvania counties.

    Backed by our expertise, we offer a 30-year workmanship guarantee and a complimentary extended material warranty on all of our full roof replacements!

    At All Roofing Solutions, we’ve built a stalwart reputation for quality and reliability, and all our roofs are covered by generous, industry-leading warranties. We’ll be there to answer any and all questions you may have about your roof, even if it’s been 10 years since we installed it.

    For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. We offer Free Estimates and honest service, never take shortcuts, and ensure every step is done right.

    Why Choose All Roofing Solutions

    • Family-owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
    • Fully licensed and insured.
    • Over 20 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair.
    • A+ rated BBB member
    • Complimentary Extended Material warranty
    • 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
    • Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
    • Own crew—no subcontractors!
    • Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
    • Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
    • Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
    • Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
    • The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
  • Leaky Chimney Flashing Inspection & Repair Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    Leaky Chimney Flashing Inspection & Repair Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    Roof damage doesn’t just mean you’re dealing with old, worn-out shingles. Damage to the chimney structure is quite common as well, with many culprits behind it. Fortunately, proper maintenance and correct repairs can mitigate most of these issues, including chimney flashing issues.

    Roofing Maintenance: Chimney Flashing Inspection & Repair

    Common Reasons Behind Leaky Chimney

    Over time, chimneys tend to develop cracks and crevices that allow water to permeate them. Additionally, the sections of metal applied at the seams between the chimney and roof—called roof flashing—may come loose or break due to high winds and other inclement weather.

    Improper chimney flashing installation can also open up your roof to early deterioration. Chimney leaks are the primary form of damage you will notice from a faulty chimney flashing installation. Instead of keeping rain and snow out of the roof seams, sub-par flashing allows moisture into the roof’s inner structure. Water seepage can cause mildew, mold, and premature aging of the roof.

    If you have a chimney, regular maintenance, yearly inspections, and prompt repairs are a must. You have to be proactive if you want to avoid nasty chimney leaks or, worse, damage to your roof caused by chimney problems you ignored for too long.

    Chimney Flashing Repair, Wilmington DE 19803

    Roof Maintenance: Chimney Flashing Inspection & Repair

    If you’re dealing with chimney damage or leaks don’t despair—problems caused by damaged chimney flashing can be mitigated through regular roof inspections & effective repairs.

    Chimney Inspection

    Leaky chimney problems can quickly become costly and may include drywall warping, ceiling stains, insulation saturation, mold growth, and interior home damage. That’s why we recommend annual inspections handled by a professional.

    When you hire a roofing inspection contractor to check the integrity of your roof, they will inspect not only the roof, but also the chimney, vents, skylights, all areas of flashing, and your home’s drainage systems. If there are any problems with the chimney, such as broken bricks, loose mortar joints, cracks around the chimney foundation, or deteriorating flashing, prompt repairs should be your next priority.

    Chimney Flashing Repairs vs Replacement

    Chimney flashing needs to be replaced when it becomes rusty, corroded, chipped, or broken. Masonry caulk can seal small gaps or holes on a short-term basis but is not designed to take the place of the flashing. Depending on the state of the flashing, part of the chimney and surrounding roof shingles may also need replacement.

    Oftentimes flashing can be repaired—you can follow our simple steps to chimney flashing repairs we’ve covered on this blog. However, if flashing shows signs of rust or other weather wear, your contractor may need to remove shingles to install new flashing. This is not a do-it-yourself undertaking, since improper flashing installation could void your roof warranty.

    Roof Maintenance: Chimney Flashing Inspection & Repair

    We Repair Leaky Chimneys!

    Don’t wait for small problems to develop into damaging leaks – take proactive steps today to ensure the long-lasting integrity of your roof and the protection of your home.

    Schedule a roofing inspection to diagnose specific problems or evaluate the overall condition of your roof with All Roofing Solutions. We’re a family-owned and operated contractor with over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing. We offer affordable, expert roof repair, replacement, and installation services to customers throughout Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania.

    To schedule your free consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. Don’t forget to ask about our discount of 15% off any roofing repair job!

    Why Choose All Roofing Solutions

    • Customer Satisfaction GuaranteedFamily-owned and operated contractor
    • Fully licensed and insured for your protection
    • Over 25 years of experience with roofing & siding installation and repair
    • A+ rated BBB member
    • Complimentary Extended Material warranty
    • 30-year workmanship guarantee on full roof replacements
    • Lien Waiver to protect the homeowners from material liens
    • Own crew—no subcontractors!
    • Full-service roofer handling all types of residential and commercial roofing, windows & siding projects.
    • Most re-roofing projects are completed in one day.
    • Because we are efficient we are able to offer very competitive prices compared to large contractors with bigger overhead.
    • Each roofing/siding project includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets your complete satisfaction.
    • The company owner supervises all projects to ensure high-quality workmanship.
    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!
  • 7 Steps to Quality Spring Roofing Inspection

    7 Steps to Quality Spring Roofing Inspection

    With winter in the read view mirror, now is the time to schedule your annual roofing inspection. After all, it’s no secret that the winter season can be the toughest on your roof.

    7 Steps to Quality Spring Roofing Inspection

    • Check your calendar, and note the time of year.  As mentioned, this is something you’ll want to do every year, so go ahead and get it on your annual calendar.
    • Check the shingles. Look for missing, cracked or damaged shingles. Check for blisters, dark patches, and sagging roof sections, too.
    • Inspect the gutters and downspouts. Check for blockages that can restrict the flow of water away from your home. Make sure gutters haven’t been damaged by any ice dams that may have formed over the winter. Also, check that the gutters haven’t been pulled away from the home by heavy snow, and there are no holes in them.
    • Examine the flashing. Because so many leaks occur it flashing points, be sure to look for signs of cracks or holes in these areas, and that the flashing is still secure.
    • If you have a chimney or skylights, take a look to see that the seals between them and roofing surfaces are still intact. These are another common source for roof leaks.
    • Look inside! Grab a flashlight and inspect your attic spaces for any signs of water leaks. Look around the interior of your home, too, for evidence of a leak.
    • Call a local roofer. An experienced inspection contractor is the best source for a thorough inspection. If any work needs to be done, make sure the inspection contractor is bonded and insured, and provides you with a written warranty for their work.

    Below: Roof Leak Repairs in Brookhaven PA 19105 – before & after

    Need A Reputable Roofing Inspection Contractor?

    If you’d like to schedule a roofing inspection to diagnose specific problems or evaluate the overall condition of your roof, contact All Roofing Solutions. We are a family-owned & operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor with over 20 years of local experience in residential & commercial roofing. Our mission is to provide top-notch workmanship and the best customer service experience to our customers.

    Here are some facts about our company:

    • 20+ Years of Roofing Experience
    • Full Service, Residential and Commercial Roofer
    • Fully Licensed & Insured Contractor
    • Valid Workers Compensation Policy
    • 30 Year Workmanship Guarantee on Full Roof Replacements
    • General Liability Insurance
    • Lien Waver to Protect the Homeowners From Material Liens
    • Better Business Bureau Member
    • Complimentary Extended Material Warranty
    • 24 HR Emergency Service to Current Customers
    • On Site Quality Control
    • Factory Certified Installers

    Join The Ranks Of Our Happy Clients Today!

    Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in DE or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in PA to schedule your inspection or for free estimate!