Tag: long lasting roof

  • 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!
  • Choosing the Right Warranty For Your New Roof

    Choosing the Right Warranty For Your New Roof

    Residential roofing warranties are a promise made by the manufacturer or installer of a roofing system to repair or replace the roof under certain circumstances. These warranties give homeowners peace of mind, knowing that their investment in a new roof is protected.

    Warranty For Your New Roof

    Types of Residential Roofing Warranties

    There are two main types of residential roofing warranties: manufacturer warranties and contractor warranties.

    Manufacturer warranties: These material warranties cover the products made by roofing materials manufacturers, and will be offered regardless of the type of roof you’re installing. Shingles, metal roofs, shake roofing and all other roofing products come with manufacturer warranties of varying lengths, which you should ask about before making your selection. These warranties are provided by the manufacturer of the roofing material and cover defects in the product. They typically range from 20 to 50 years and can be pro-rated or non-prorated (more on taht later).

    Contractor warranties: These installation/workmanships warranties are provided by the roofing contractor and cover the workmanship of the installation. These are generally much shorter in duration than materials warranties, and they require that you do your due diligence in maintaining your new roof, as homeowner negligence can invalidate installation warranty protections. They typically range from 1 to 10 years and can be combined with a manufacturer warranty. Contractor warranties cover issues such as leaks caused by improper installation, but they do not cover defects in the roofing material itself.

    New Roof GAF Shingles & Liberty Flat Roofing System, Media PA 19063

    Besides the standard manufacturer and workmanship warranties, there are also “system warranties” offered by contractors certified by specific manufacturers. These advanced and comprehensive warranties cover all the individual components that make up your new roof. Since they provide the best and most complete protection available, it is recommended that you opt in if your contractor offers a system warranty.

    Understanding Roofing Warranties: Pro-Rated vs. Non-Pro-Rated Guarantees

    When asking contractors about their installation warranties, it’s very important to determine whether a given company is offering a pro-rated warranty or a non-pro-rated warranty. A pro-rated warranty means that the homeowner is responsible for paying a portion of the replacement cost based on the age of the roof. A non-prorated warranty means that the manufacturer covers the full cost of replacement during the specified warranty period.

    You should always opt for a non-pro-rated warranty, since this ensures that the contractor remains responsible for all possible problems and potential defects relating to the roof. With a pro-rated warranty, the contract will contain exclusions and fine print that can absolve the contractor of any liability or responsibility under certain conditions.

    Pro-rated warranties also tend to hide some expenses that you will have to shoulder if your new roof fails to perform according to your expectations. Contractors will still fix problems, but only for added costs if the work falls outside the boundaries created by the standard consumer protections.

    New Roof & Velux Skylights Installation, Newark DE 19713

    Choosing the Right Warranty For Your New Roof

    It’s important to note that warranties are not guarantees that the roof will last for the entire warranty period. They simply provide a level of protection against defects or workmanship issues that may arise. Homeowners should carefully read the warranty terms and understand what is covered and what is not. They should also make sure that the roofing contractor they choose is reputable and experienced, as their workmanship will play a big role in the longevity of the roof.

    Always read the fine print before signing on the dotted line, since you’re legally obligated to abide by the terms and conditions of a warranty if you’re signed it. Roofing warranties may not be the most enjoyable reading you’ll do this year, but a thorough review is an essential part of your due diligence.

    In summary, residential roofing warranties provide homeowners with a level of protection and peace of mind when investing in a new roof. Manufacturer warranties cover defects in the roofing material and can be pro-rated or non-prorated, while contractor warranties cover workmanship issues and can be combined with a manufacturer warranty. Homeowners should carefully read and understand warranty terms and choose a reputable contractor for proper installation.

    GAF Shingle Roof Installation Wilmington DE 19803

    Always Hire a Reputable Roofing Contractor

    If you’re looking for a contractor with shingle roofing installation expertise, consider 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!
  • Budgeting For a New Roof? Roof Replacement Costs in Delaware

    Budgeting For a New Roof? Roof Replacement Costs in Delaware

    When it’s time to replace your roof, the number one question is, “how much will it cost?” And the answer is , it depends on the type of roofing being installed, materials removed/replaced, your contractor’s skill and quality of workmanship, and warranty protections!

    The cost of replacing a roof is influenced by a variety of factors but mostly by the type of roofing being installed, your contractor’s skill and quality of workmanship, warranty protections, and the physical characteristics of the building. Additional components, such as underlayment and decking, as well as the number of layers being added will also affect the price.

    However, consumers in Delaware can use current price range estimates to help them determine the relative value being offered by competing contractors when comparing multiple estimates.

    Budgeting For a New Roof? Roof Replacement Costs in Delaware

    Budgeting For a New Roof? Roof Replacement Costs in Delaware

    A good starting point when researching roof replacement costs is to understand the current market in terms of the average price ranges for roofing replacements using specific materials – costs vary considerably, depending on whether you’re installing a shingle roof, a metal roof, or a flat roof.

    Remember though, the up-front cost is only part of the story. This is especially true with more expensive materials such as metal.  Metal roofing installation costs are higher, but lifespans are longer and they also pay off through energy savings thanks to their ability to reflect sunlight and improve insulation properties. Bottom line: You have to look at the overall cost of the project long term to understand the true cost of your roof replacement.

    Roofing Replacement, Hockessin DE 19707
    Shingle Roofing Installation, Hockessin DE 19707

    Current Average Roof Replacement Costs in Delaware Per Material

    Most contractors quote prices per 100 square feet of roofing surface area, so if you don’t already know the exact dimensions of your roof, you should begin by calculating accurate measurements. From there, you can use these guidelines to estimate the current average roof replacement costs of the three most popular types of residential roofs:

    • Asphalt shingle roofs currently cost between about $200 and $320 per 100 square feet of surface area, with $266 being the overall average. These estimates assume that you are using standard-quality shingles and that you are overlaying the replacement shingles atop existing materials. If you’re removing the old roofing, adding a new underlayment, or investing in premium shingles, the average cost to tear off and replace the roof will be higher.
    • Metal roofs show a current range of approximately $950 to $1,250 per 100 square feet, with the average cost coming in around $1,100. Again, this estimate assumes certain parameters – specifically, that you are using standing seam metal roofing tiles and are not completely tearing off the existing roof.
    • Flat roofs are currently commanding between $165 and $275 per 100 square feet, and averaging about $220, assuming no tear-off of the existing roof and that a standard asphalt roll is being used.

    If contractors you’re considering charge prices well above or well below these ranges, it’s a good idea to find out why. Carefully research any roofing company you’re considering to see how happy previous customers have been with their work, and whether or not the workmanship has held up for the entire warranty period.

    Roof Replacement, Bear DE 19701
    Roof Replacement, Bear DE 19701

    What To Look For When Researching Contractors:

    1. Make sure your roofing contractor is licensed by your state.
    2. Check if they carry adequate roofing insurance. Ask about both indemnity (liability) and worker’s insurance, noting the coverage end dates.
    3. Check the length and types of warranties they provide. Both materials and workmanship warranties can vary greatly, and some roofers offer comprehensive systems warranties as well. A minimum warranty of one year is standard for the roofer’s labor, but many roofers offer longer warranties.
    4. Request personal references. An experienced roofer should be able to provide multiple local references. Checking online reviews at sites like Google Local, Yelp, InsiderPages, or Yahoo Local is also a good idea.
    5. Ask who will do the actual work: Do they have their own team or is there a subcontractor? If the latter, ask the contractor to supply subcontractor contact information, and ask the subcontractor all the same questions.
    6. comprehensive written estimate should detail the start/completion dates, materials to be used, labor cost, permits, workmanship guarantees, material guarantees, and clean up expectations. Getting multiple roofing estimates is key – only by comparing identical information, you will know who is the best fit for the job and what the project is going to involve in terms of cost.
    7. Check specific qualifications. Some roofing manufacturers require certification and training in the installation of their products. Make sure that your roofing contractor has proven experience in installing your particular roofing material. Bonus: trade organizations membership, and a good standing with the local Better Business Bureau (BBB).

    Have Your Roofing Installed Right, The First Time!

    All Roofing Solutions is proud to be a team of experienced roofers who are committed to helping you with your next roofing project. We’ll consult with you regarding the right roofing material for your home, install your roof with the care and expertise you expect, and back it up with a comprehensive guarantee.

    In business since 1998, we are a family-owned & operated roofing contractor specializing in new roof installation and complete roofing replacements.

    Whether you have questions about the average cost to tear off and replace a roof with us, or are ready to upgrade your roof this season, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania or request your FREE roofing estimate online!

    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!
  • Fall Roofing Maintenance: 8-Point Attic Ventilation Checklist

    Attic ventilation offers year-round benefits that help homeowners save energy & prevent problems.

    Attic ventilation check is a critical part of fall roofing maintenance. Proper attic ventilation is critical in controlling moisture/heat buildup in an attic space – and preventing winter roofing issues such as ice dams and structural damage due to pooling water and ice build up.

    During the summer, adequate ventilation can help prevent heat from building up inside the home’s upper reaches, where warm air tends to collect and stagnate. In the winter, attic ventilation helps prevent excessive indoor moisture and humidity, helping guard against potential problems like mildew and mold.

    Specific to roofing, it’s also important to remember that some shingle manufacturers list suitable attic ventilation as a warranty requirement, so it’s especially important to perform a thorough check in advance of any roof upgrades.

    Fall Roofing Maintenance: 8-Point Attic Ventilation Checklist

    An Attic Ventilation Checklist Used by Home Inspectors

    Professional home inspectors use the following 8-point checklist when evaluating the suitability of a home’s attic ventilation strategy:

    1. Does the system follow the principles of balance? Exhaust vents, located near roof ridges, and the intake vents near the soffits need to be balanced one-for-one. Many homes have inadequate intake venting, a problem best relieved by adding continuous intake vents.
    2. Are the vent holes properly sized? It isn’t enough to simply balance the number of vents; they also need to have holes that facilitate adequate airflow relative to the size of the space being ventilated.
    3. Does the system feature insulation baffles? Baffles prevent soffit vents from getting blocked off, which essentially renders them inoperable.
    4. Is there any evidence of moisture problems? Warped or degraded wooden framing and the presence of mold and/or mildew indicate problems with excess humidity, which itself is a sign that the ventilation system isn’t performing the way it should.
    5. Are the vents free of obstructions? Over time, leaves, dirt and other debris can clog vents, limiting or even eliminating their efficiency. They also get painted over sometimes, a problem that should be remedied immediately if detected.
    6. Do all vents use the same system? There are various attic ventilation systems, including gable louvers, power vents and others. These systems can’t be mixed and matched in a single home; all vents should use a single system to ensure operational viability.
    7. Are there cathedral ceilings? If so, you’ll need to take a different approach to inspection, physically checking for signs of moisture penetration like cracked or chipped paint, stains and evidence of condensation, mildew and/or mold.
    8. Does the vent meet code standards? There are two main types of code requirements: 1/300 and 1/150. Consult the International Building Code (2000) for specifics on how to calculate the standards to achieve specific airflow rates, guided by the principle that 1/150 ventilation is needed if the attic has no vapor inhibitor or has an uncorrectable imbalance, and 1/300 ventilation is needed if it does, or if the system is already balanced.

    Have Your Attic Ventilation Checked

    If you’re unsure whether or not you have adequate attic ventilation, consult a professional roofing contractor.  Achieving proper ventilation can be a technical undertaking, so you’ll need to eliminate any possible guesswork from the equation to achieve optimal results. A small investment today can save you thousands of dollars down the road in unnecessary repairs, not to mention hours of inconvenience.

    If you want a healthy and efficient roof system, you need to find a quality installer who won’t cut corners.

    Contact All Roofing Solutions, a local Delaware roofing contractor with a team of skilled, loyal and hardworking crewmen. We serve customers throughout Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania, and are happy to check the integrity of your attic ventilation or handle any other roofing issues.

    Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania to request your FREE ESTIMATE.