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Tag: roofing inspection

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.

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

#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

#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

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
- 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!
November 15, 2023
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.

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
- 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!
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
September 26, 2023
Residential Roofing: 4 Easy Steps to Chimney Leak Repair
When it comes to safeguarding your home from the elements, one challenge that demands particular attention and careful planning is chimney leak repair.

Chimney leaks are among the most common roof leaks homeowners experience and can be challenging to deal with, especially if you’ve never dealt with them before. Typically, however, if there is a leak around your chimney you’ll most likely need flashing repair/replacement.

It may be that the flashing around the chimney is inadequate, worn, or corroded, or that it was improperly installed in the first place. Do not use caulk to repair these flashings! Whenever it’s practical to replace damaged roof flashing, have your roofing contractor do so.

4 Steps to Chimney Leak Repair
1. Thorough Inspection: A comprehensive chimney leak repair job kicks off with a thorough inspection. Rushing into flashing replacement isn’t the solution. Your chimney’s base and walls undergo scrutiny to assess the extent of the damage. This evaluation guides your roofer in determining the precise repair approach. Expect potential replacement needs not only for flashings but also for siding and decking, all pinpointed during this thorough assessment.
2. Clearing the Way: Often, the initial task involves removing worn-out materials from the chimney’s base. Old flashings and seals make way for precisely installed new counterparts. Bid adieu to former roof cement and waterproof caulking that sealed the flashing-shingle-chimney nexus. This phase extends to the removal of all flashings, siding, and possibly even plywood that no longer meets the grade.
3. Flawless Flashing Renewal: Step and counter flashing inevitably warrant replacement. Any compromise—cracks, chips, tears, or bending—is unacceptable. The spotlight is on perfection. Restoring these elements is pivotal for a watertight and durable repair.
4. Airtight Seal: New flashing takes its place, followed by employing masonry caulk to shroud flashing-chimney junctures. To guarantee impeccable results, flashing seams are sealed meticulously using waterproof roofing cement or specialized flashing cement/caulking. Your chimney’s readiness to defy leaks is sealed alongside these materials, ensuring long-lasting protection.
Stop Chimney Leaks Today – Hire a Roofing Contractor

Since improperly installed flashing leaves your home unprotected from rain, wind & hail and will allow water penetration to occur again and again, it is critical to handle repairs immediately.

If you need an experienced Delaware or Eastern Pennsylvania roofing repair contractor, call All Roofing Solutions. Specializing in residential and commercial roofing repair and replacement, we are a skilled local roofing company with over 15 years of experience and a reputation for honest and thorough service. We’ll be happy to assist you with your emergency roofing repaisr, large and small.

To schedule your free consultation, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania. Contact us today and receive a discount of 15% off any roofing repair job.

Why Choose All Roofing Solutions
- Family-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!
June 2, 2023
Shingle Roofing Installation: Get It Done Right!
Shingle roofing installation is something every homeowner will eventually need to go through. Whether your shingle roof has been damaged by weather or aged to the point where it’s just deteriorated beyond repair, it will eventually need to be replaced.

Installing a new roof is a serious undertaking and one that very few homeowners will (or should!) tackle themselves. Because of the critical role your roof plays in protecting your home, this is a job that’s best left to your local roofing contractor experienced with the ins and outs of the roofing replacement process.

If you’ve never gone through the re-roofing process, it may seem a bit overwhelming and you may not know where to start. But, no worries. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned homeowner, we’ll show you the steps to tackling shingle roof installation the right way!

Shingle Roofing Installation: Get It Done Right!

Installing a new shingle roof is a huge commitment, so understanding the entire roofing replacement process from start to finish can be highly beneficial to you as a homeowner. From questions about the cost involved to knowing the installation pitfalls to watch out for, there’s a lot of information that you need to familiarize yourself with if you want a successful replacement with no costly surprises along the way.

1. Selecting a Roofing Contractor & Getting an Estimate

The most important part is researching and selecting the right roofing contractor for your replacement. When choosing a roofer, be sure to select an experienced, licensed and insured company that’s local to your area. Pick a few contractors and collect multiple estimates you can compare.

Remember, while total project cost is an important consideration, it’s certainly not the only thing you need to keep in mind. In fact, many homeowners make the mistake of going with a particular contractor simply because they’re the cheapest, only to learn later that shoddy workmanship and inferior materials led to unsatisfactory results.

All quality roofing estimates should include:
- Estimated project duration
- A detailed description of work, including roofing materials, flashing locations & underlayment type
- Type of sealant used to weatherproof flashing and nail holes
- Cleanup expectations
- Total project cost:
  - Building material costs (roofing material, fasteners, flashing)
  - Labor costs, broken down by man hours or listed as a project bid
  - Additional expenses, such as sheathing repairs, tear-out of old shingles, etc.
Roof Replacement, Wilmington DE 19803

2. Tear-off, Inspection & Replacing Underlying Materials

Roofing replacement will start differently, depending on whether you’re tearing off the old shingles or adding a top layer of new shingles to the existing roof. Most likely, however, your contractor will remove old shingles and underlying roofing materials completely in order to inspect the wood decking. Any soft or rotted wood decking will be removed and replaced as well—this will provide a solid base for your new shingles.

Next, a drip edge will then be installed at all edges of the roof. The drip edge prevents rain and snow from getting underneath your shingles around the roof’s perimeter.

Finally, your roofer will install an “ice and water shield” which is a special type of roofing underlayment. This is installed at the bottom few feet of the roof and around all roof penetrations, such as chimneys and pipes. Prior to installing the shingles, the remainder of the roof is covered with roofing felt (sometimes called “tar paper”), which prevents shingles from sticking to the wood & offers additional protection.

At this point, the roof is ready for a new layer of shingles to be installed.

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

3. Shingle Roofing Installation & Final Inspection

Working from the bottom of the roof toward the top, the roofing crew will install your choice of asphalt shingles.

The two most important things to look for in a quality asphalt shingle are its performance characteristics and its warranty. To get the most for your money, make sure that you consider life span, durability, weather resistance, and quality when you select your new roof shingles, not just the price tag. Choose roofing shingles with a lengthy, comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty since high-quality shingles come with warranties of up to 25 years or more. Also, look for roof shingles that complement your siding or brick.

After shingles are laid out, step and/or counter flashing, ridge vents, and ridge capping installation follow. A thorough clean-up of the job site is next, while any old roofing materials are hauled away. On that note: many homeowners choose to recycle old asphalt shingles rather than send them to a landfill, so if your contractor offers that option, be sure to consider it.

Every roofing replacement process should end with a thorough post-installation roof inspection!

Roof Replacement, Bear DE 19701

One additional aspect of roofing installation worth mentioning is warranty information—material, system, and workmanship warranties come in many flavors. This is a critical and often overlooked factor—ensure that you’re adequately protected for years to come by selecting wisely.

Shingle Roofing Installation Done Right, The First Time!

Roofing replacement is a costly project you want to be done right the first time, so finding a skilled contractor at a fair price should be your top priority.

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!

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 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!
January 9, 2023
Roofing Inspection 101: Contractor’s 3-Step Checklist
When it comes to roofing inspections, not many homeowners put it on their priority list. We often take roofs for granted – that is until there’s a leak. But a little regular attention can go a long way.

Truth is, shingle roofs typically last from 15 to 25 years, but that lifespan can be cut short drastically if early damage signs are missed or ignored.

Roofs are the first line of defense, protecting your home from weather damage, and can take a significant beating with changing seasons. Sun, wind, rain, snow, lichen, trees, and everything in between will lead to your roof deteriorating over time.

Quality of materials and installation is an important factor as well. Regular inspections will ensure that the roof is taken care of properly and early damage is dealt with swiftly, allowing you to repair small problems now rather than having to replace a neglected roof entirely later.

As with most roofing contractors, we suggest having your roof inspected twice a year, in spring and fall.

Do I Need a Roof Inspection?

Roofing inspection is an integral part of preventative roofing maintenance. When you have your roof inspected, you will gain critical insight into the condition of your roof.

Specifically, a roof inspection will answer those and many more questions about the state of your roof:
- Is the roof installed properly?
- Has the roof been damaged by recent hail or wind storms?
- What is the true condition of the roof or its life expectancy?
- Is the roof leaking?
- What repairs, if any, are needed?
Roofing Inspection – What’s Involved

A thorough inspection will include an interior and exterior evaluation of the roof’s structure.

Here are 3 basic steps your roofing contractor will take:

Step #1 – Interior Inspection

First, your inspector will examine the interior of the house, including ceilings, walls, and attic areas for internal evidence of wind, water, or hail damage. Leaks inside your house are an obvious sign of damage and need attention immediately, especially those around skylights and chimneys.

Step #2 – Exterior: Roofing Inspection

Next, the contractor will walk the perimeter of your home, noting the location and state of chimneys, gutters, vents, and flashing points. At the same time, the home’s siding and eaves are checked for external water stains, hail dings, and indications of dry rot.

Next, the roofer will ascend the roof to examine its construction, flashing, vents, and chimney. He will check for common roofing problems such as missing, broken, cracked, or cupped shingles, and broken shakes or tiles. He will look closely for granules in the gutter and downspout—an indication that shingles may be approaching the end of their life (shingles stripped of coating granules are vulnerable to UV radiation, and will crack then break off, allowing water to penetrate the surface).

He will check for cupped shingles, an indication that the attic is not vented properly, and evaluate your attic ventilation, insulation, and moisture levels as needed. He will check for cracked, damaged, or missing flashings, damaged chimney bricks, open seams or wear from extreme sun exposure, and note any algae growth on the shingles (unsightly though not usually damaging black stains).

Step #3 – Exterior: Gutter Inspection

Lastly, the condition of your gutters will be examined. The inspector will look for problems such as improper installation, debris buildup, or warped material. He will check for missing sealant, holes, and leaks, paying special attention to hangers, aprons, pitch, and any signs of sagging.

Always Hire A Professional

While many homeowners are perfectly capable of checking their roof for damage–with binoculars, walking around the perimeter of the house–a professional inspector has the skills, tools, and knowledge necessary to spot obscure problems a layperson will miss, including any structural, sub-surface damage.

Not all roofing issues are obvious, and the absence of drafts or leaks doesn’t necessarily mean your roof is structurally sound. A professional will offer a thorough evaluation of the state of your roof/gutters, backed by experience, and provide that peace of mind so you’re not caught off guard when the damage is eventually discovered later.

If your roof is older, hasn’t been inspected for a while or you simply suspect damage, call All Roofing Solutions, your local roofing repair contractor. We’re a family-owned business with nearly 20 years of experience in residential and commercial roofing and can handle all types of roofing, siding, and gutter repairs if needed.

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

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!
November 2, 2022