Tag: flashing

  • Residential Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind a Leaking Chimney

    Residential Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind a Leaking Chimney

    Residential Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind a Leaking Chimney

    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. Chimneys can develop cracks and crevices that allow water to seep into the house. Improper chimney flashing installation can also open up your roof to early deterioration.

    Leaky chimney problems can quickly become costly and may include drywall warping, ceiling stains, insulation saturation, and interior home damage. If left unattended, the smallest leak can turn into a big disaster, causing gas hazards, water damage, encouraging insect infiltration, or fostering mold growth.

    Keep an eye on your chimney during wet months, and call a professional roofing company to arrange for an inspection at the first sign of a leak.

    Residential Roofing: 5 Reasons Behind a Leaking Chimney

    1. Missing or damaged chimney cap. A chimney cap prevents debris and animals from entering your chimney, and prevents rain and snow from entering the chimney liner. If you already have a chimney cap, it may be cracked or damaged. Check this first thing, since it is much cheaper to replace a chimney cap than it is to repair more major damage due to water infiltration.
    2. Cracked chimney crown. Your concrete chimney crown shrinks, wears and cracks with age. As small cracks occur, water freezes in the crevice and the crack expands. Depending upon the size of the crack, you may be able to patch or seal it. In cases of major structural damage, the masonry may need replacing.
    3. Flashing problems. Flashing is installed at the base of your chimney where the brick meets the roofing material. If the flashing was not properly overlapped during installation, or the sealant or caulking gives way, it can lead to a leak. Correct layering of flashing materials is critical to good performance, and depending upon the extent of your leak, the flashing may need to be resealed, repaired or replaced.
    4. Leaky bricks. Over time, water seeps into bricks and mortar, and some bricks become soft from absorbing large amounts of moisture. As water freezes, expands and re-shrinks, it may result in water infiltration. A qualified roofing professional can replace damaged bricks/stone and mortar, and recommend a chimney sealant that helps to prevent future problems.
    5. Faulty chimney liner. Occasionally, condensation builds up from gas fumes inside the chimney. If the chimney liner does not fit properly or has corroded and developed holes over time, gas combustion fumes may condense and cause internal moisture buildup. This moisture can soak bricks or building materials that are not protected by the liner.
    New Roof & Copper Chimney Flashing, Wilmington, Delaware 19810

    Many homeowners experience leaks during cold, wet parts of the year, and the chimney is a common problem area. Don’t wait to make repairs to your chimney leak.

    If you plan to inspect the chimney yourself, take necessary safety precautions first. Carry a cell phone onto the roof with you, and make sure someone is home while you using the ladder. Avoid the roof altogether if there is snow and ice buildup! Instead, call a professional contractor to assess and repair your chimney leak.

    We Repair Leaky Chimneys!

    If your chimney is leaking, or you suspect chimney damage, don’t wait to call All Roofing Solutions, a reputable Wilmington DE  roofing company with 20 years of experience. Our team specializes in roofing repairs and roof replacement, and we offer fast and free estimates for leak diagnosis and chimney leak repair.

    To schedule your FREE repair estimate, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania!

    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!
  • Leak-Free Skylight Installation Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    Leak-Free Skylight Installation Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    Skylights are designed to be both functional and attractive. Essentially a window installed in the roof of your home, a skylight provides the interior room with natural light and heat.

    As beautiful and functional as they are, skylights are behind many common roof leaks. A poorly installed skylight can allow moisture into your home and can cost you thousands of dollars in roof repairs later. Additionally, diagnosing & repairing skylight leaks can be tricky.

    Many homeowners attempt to install skylights on their own only to find out how difficult the task can be. Skylight installation is a serious business and should be left to professionals. However, for those brave (and handy) enough, the tips below should offer some basic guidance, when it comes to proper skylight installation.

    Leak-Free Skylight Installation Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    Leak-Free Skylight Installation Tips From a Roofing Contractor

    The following tips from your Delaware roofing contractor can help you avoid costly mistakes when considering the installation of a new skylight.

    1. Follow directions exactly as specified. If you are installing your own skylight, follow the manufacturer’s directions to a T. You may be tempted to cut corners to save time or money, but resist the urge. Product installation per the instructions optimizes the skylight’s performance, leak-free. Consult a professional contractor if you do not feel confident about your installation abilities or if you have questions.
    2. Proper mounting. Skylights should be mounted above the roof’s surface to ensure they remain leak-free. Mounting a skylight flush with the roof or recessed under the roof’s surface can compromise its watertight seal. Be sure to seal all joints thoroughly to prevent water from seeping through the cracks. Water damage can cause premature deterioration of shingles, leading to roof repairs or replacement.
    3. Install extra protection. Consider adding a raised lip –called a curb—around the skylight in addition to flashing. The curb acts as drainage system, directing water away from the skylight.

    Again, skylight installation can be tricky and requires extensive knowledge & experience to be handled correctly. We strongly encourage all homeowners to contact a local roofing contractor for help with any skylight installations & repairs.

    An experienced roofing contractors will have the skills necessary to handle such projects and guarantee leak-free system for years to come. Additionally, your local roofer will help you choose a skylight that is compatible with the slope of your roof and the type of roofing materials.

    Only Hire Local Reputable Contractors

    Invest in your home, and your community, by hiring local contractors!

    If you need a contractor with solid experience and reputation, All Roofing Solutions is your roofer. We’re a family owned & operated reputable local roofing contractor with nearly two decades of experience in roofing inspections, repairs & installation in Delaware & Southeastern Pennsylvania. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services, or to request a Free estimate for your skylight installation.

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

  • Winter Roofing: Maintenance & Repairs You Can Do Now

    Winter Roofing: Maintenance & Repairs You Can Do Now

    Many homeowners encounter a variety of roof problems during the winter, including the formation of ice dams, condensation and damage to structures such as shingles and flashings. Typically, fall is the time to prepare your roof for winter, but if you’re facing issues now don’t despair – certain roofing repairs need to be handled as soon as possible, even if they occur in the winter.

    Whether you’re behind on maintenance or your roof developed a leak, we have tips to get you through winter months without a hitch.

    Winter Roofing: Maintenance & Repairs You Can Do Now

    Winter Roofing: Maintenance & Repairs You Can Do Now

    1. Winter roof maintenance

    Inspect the roof and gutters for damage and any signs of ice dams and icicles forming – especially after a windstorm, snowstorm or particularly cold streak. If too much ice builds up, gutters can become too heavy and rip away from the home, leaving you with damage and hefty gutter repair bills.

    Additionally, clogged gutters and downspouts can’t channel water and snowmelt away from your home which can lead to serious damage. Ensure your downspouts and fascia are not clogged by ice, snow or other debris such as stray branches or dead leaves. Remove excess snow buildups with a roof rake, and use a hammer and chisel to carefully chip away the ice if you need to.

    2. Flashing and chimney repairs

    Many roof leaks occur in places where the roof meets up with the home’s siding, chimneys or skylights. Inspect these connection points – check the flashings for holes, cracks, or other signs of damage or deterioration. This is critical – if chimney flashing pulls away or is damaged by wind or hail, water may leak into your attic and your home’s interior.

    Your roofing contractor is likely to be able to handle any repairs of this kind, paying close attention to temperatures so that the adhesives used in repairs do not freeze. Luckily, many Pennsylvania and Delaware winters feature a number of days above freezing temperatures that are conducive to roof work.

    3. Shingle repairs

    If you have damaged roof shingles, it’s essential that you repair the problem promptly. Otherwise, you could end up with a leaky roof and, potentially, serious structural damage to your home’s roof, attic and frame. Shingles that are nailed down or use other types of metal fasteners can be repaired and replaced at any point in the year. Extra care is needed, however, to prevent cracking or breaking already-fragile roofing materials. An experienced roofing contractor will have no problem with this task.

    4. Gutter repairs

    Gutters play a huge role in keeping your roof dry and clear during the wet winter months. Gutters that are broken, run-down or blocked can cause water damage to both the roof and interior of your home. As long as the day is dry, gutters can be repaired and installed just as effectively during winter as in the warmer seasons.  Leaks that develop at aging seams may be repaired with silicone sealant. Small holes can be patched with roofing cement, applied with a putty knife. Larger issues may require replacing the leaky section altogether.

    5. Roof replacement

    Despite a handful of obstacles, many types of roofs, including metal, wood and shingled, can be replaced regardless of the season. With certain precautions the installation can be done without a hitch. Keep in mind that shingles will be less flexible, harder to cut,  and more likely to be overdriven by nails. They may also need to be hand-sealed with roofing cement to prevent the wind from lifting them before there is sufficient heat for them to self-seal.

    Flat roofs, especially those made of rubber, however, have to wait until spring. The reason for this is the adhesives used in flat roofing are temperature-dependent. A roof laid during a streak of sub-40-degree weather will not be laid correctly due to problems with the adhesive.

    Don’t Postpone Your Repairs Till Spring!

    If you’re looking for a contractor with shingle roofing expertise, consider All Roofing Solutions, a family owned & operated Wilmington DE roofing contractor with 20 years of experience. We are fully licensed and insured to do roofing & siding work in Delaware!

    Call our DE office at 302-725-ROOF (7663) or our PA location at 610-551-ROOF (7663) for a free price quote or to schedule a roof inspection.

    Don’t forget to ask about our discount of 15% off any roof repair job!!!

  • 3 Pre-Winter Roofing Inspection Tips From Your Contractor

    3 Pre-Winter Roofing Inspection Tips From Your Contractor

    As you prepare your home for winter, don’t forget to look up! Pre-winter roofing inspection is critical!

    Your home’s roofing and gutter systems may be easy to overlook, but doing so can lead to expensive repairs as the season wears on. This is especially true before winter!

    3 Pre-Winter Roofing Inspection Tips From Your Contractor

    Roofing Inspection: 3 Pre-Winter Tips

    The first step to your regular roofing & gutter maintenance are roof inspections. In fact, roof inspections are a crucial part of your seasonal home maintenance and should be done at least annually.

    Below are a few tips regarding your pre-winter roof check that you should keep in mind at this time of the year.

    #1 – Look for interior signs of roof leaks

    Roof leaks will often reveal themselves as stains on your ceilings, or as stains and wet areas in your attic. However, not all roofing problems are obvious, and the absence of drafts or leaks doesn’t necessarily mean your roof is structurally sound. This is why when it comes to roofing inspections it’s important to hire a professional! It’s fairly easy to detect surface problems, but it takes a specially trained eye to spot problems below your shingles and tiles.

    If you’re a DIY type. follow out last blog to learn how to locate and fix minor leaks in your roof. More elaborate and intensive repairs can be difficult and onerous, and in many cases, even experienced DIY-ers are better off investing in the safety and security of a qualified contractor.

    #2 – Inspect the condition of your shingles & flashings

    Weather damage is inevitable. While inspecting your roof, look for curled, cracked, loose or missing shingles from the ground, using binoculars if you need to. Over time, exposure to the elements, as well as storm-related debris, can damage your roof deck compromising the integrity of your roof shingles. Also, check flashings and other penetrations, including around chimneys and exhaust vents. Be sure these areas are properly sealed against the weather.

    If you hire a professional roofing company, your inspector will ascend the roof to examine its construction, flashing, vents and chimney. He will check for common problems such as missing shingles, broken shakes or tiles, cracked flashings, damaged chimney bricks, open seams or wear from extreme sun-exposure.

    If there are any problems, the inspector will determine the cause and recommend a solution.

    #3 – Check your attic insulation levels

    Improperly insulated attic is a prime candidate for the formation of condensation, which can lead to mold and mildew, damaging the interior structure of your home. It is also largely responsible for ice dams formation.

    Insufficient insulation is especially common in older homes, which were generally constructed when building codes did not require as much insulation. Regardless of the season, a poorly insulated home can be a huge cost for homeowners due to the constant running of heating or cooling systems – there are many winterizing steps you can take to tackle that.

    Your roofing inspector should check ventilation, insulation and moisture levels and offer appropriate steps to remedy any potential problems before winter arrives

    Regular Inspections Are Key to Long Lasting Roof!

    The integrity of your roof is critical in maintaining your home’s value. A thorough inspection from an experienced roofing contractor can help to ensure that your roof is up to the task.

    If you’d like to schedule an inspection to diagnose specific problems or evaluate the overall condition of your roof, contact All Roofing Solutions. We not only offer thorough roofing inspection and professional service but also a piece of mind that nothing was overlooked.

    Family owned and operated Delaware and Pennsylvania roofing contractor with over 15 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing, we have the experience and expertise to handle all your roofing needs!

    Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania to schedule a roofing inspection or to request a free estimate on your roofing repairs

  • Residential Roofing: 5 Most Common Shingle Roofing Repairs

    Residential Roofing: 5 Most Common Shingle Roofing Repairs

    Residential Roofing: 5 Most Common Shingle Roofing Repairs

    While there are a host of roofing issues you may come across over a lifetime of your roof, some are more common than others. Sooner or later, an asphalt shingle roof will require repairs, whether for normal wear and tear or severe weather damage.

    Some repairs are quite unique in nature. Most likely, however, you will be dealing with one of the few common problems we see on a regular basis when inspecting roofs across Delaware.

    5 Most Common Shingle Roofing Repairs in Residential Roofing

    There are several types of damage that will require repairs. The sooner you handle those the better. Waiting too long (for better weather, better contractor, better financial situation) may cause further damage – and cost you more to repair in the end.

    The five most common shingle roofing repairs

    • Damage from hail, wind, or ice dams: Ice dams can be more than a nuisance. While shingle roofing is made to withstand assaults from mother nature, no roof can hold up to the most severe weather. An expert roofing contractor may be able to repair/replace individual shingles. In some cases, however, your roof may be beyond repair, and need complete replacement.
    • Improperly sealed vent pipes: Over time, the seals around your vent pipes may wear out, requiring repair.
    • Leaky skylights: A common roof leak repair, skylight leaks are generally due to either improper installation or worn-out seals.
    • Chimney flashing: Flashing is the sheet metal that maintains a watertight seal between the chimney and the roof. Proper chimney flashing includes installation of both step flashing and counter flashing. If chimney flashing pulls away or is damaged by wind or hail, water may leak into your attic and your home’s interior.
    • Roof valleys: A common collector for leaves, limbs, snow and ice, roof valleys can be problematic at times. Keeping your roof free of debris encourages the natural downward flow of water, which helps to keep your shingle roofing in good shape.

    DIY Repairs vs. Hiring a Contractor

    If you notice any damage or signs of excessive wear on your shingle roofing, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to keep water from seeping underneath and rotting the underlying wood. Sometimes the cause of a problem/leak is hard to determine – the location of the leak may not directly indicate the problem’s location. This is why hiring an experienced roofing contractor is critical. Roofing repairs that are done without a thorough inspection are seldom successful, and the homeowner may then face an even costlier remedy.

    When looking for professional help, do your research. By hiring a reputable, licensed roofing contractor, a homeowners will avoid the pitfalls of poor shingle roofing repairs, something quite common when dealing with an inexperienced, fly-by company.

    At All Roofing Solutions, we’re proud to have a skilled team dedicated to servicing all your roofing needs. We’re a family owned and operated Delaware & southeastern Pennsylvania roofing contractor with over 15 years of experience in replacing, repairing, and inspecting roofs for residential and commercial clients.

    WHAT SETS ALL ROOFING SOLUTIONS APART

    • Family owned and operated Delaware & Pennsylvania roofing contractor.
    • Fully licensed and insured.
    • Nearly 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 Waver to protect the homeowners from material liens
    • Own crew – no subcontractors!
    • 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 comparing to large contractors with bigger overhead.
    • Each roofing/siding projects includes a meticulously performed, post-roofing inspection. We want to make sure that your roof replacement is done correctly and that it meets with your complete satisfaction.
    • All projects are supervised by company owner to ensure high quality workmanship.
    • Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed!

    To schedule your FREE roofing estimate contact our Delaware team at 302-725-ROOF (7663), or our Pennsylvania crew at 610-551-ROOF (7663).  And don’t forget to ask about our discount of $400 off any complete roofing installation job!!!