Tag: shingle roofing

  • 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)

  • 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!

    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
    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.

    Residential Roofing: Tackling Shingle Roof Installation The Right Way
    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
    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

    • 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!
  • Shingle Roofing: Repairing Valley Leaks in 6 Easy Steps

    Shingle Roofing: Repairing Valley Leaks in 6 Easy Steps

    Though roof valleys are common leak sites on shingle roofs, repairing valley leaks is fairly straightforward to handle if you know what you’re doing.

    Roof valleys are channels designed to drain runoff water, and like any other part of your roof, they can degrade over time with exposure to the elements. In other cases, water can become trapped under shingles that have been overlaid to create the valley trough.

    In either situation, the leaking roof valley can be fixed by removing affected shingles and structural elements and upgrading your roof’s flashing. Flashing is a transitional roofing material that connects the roof material to some other building material or to another part of the roof. And damaged flashing is behind most roof leaks.

    Roof Valley Leak Repairs, Newtown Square, PA 19073
    Roof Valley Leak Repairs, Newtown Square, PA 19073

    Shingle Roofing: Repairing Valley Leaks in 6 Easy Steps

    Prepare For The Repair

    Follow these three preparatory steps to master repairing valley leaks:

    1. Clear any debris in the roof valley and surrounding area and measure your roof flashing — most flashing is 14 inches wide, but yours may vary.
    2. Move to the highest end of the valley and work your way down, cleaning shingles from both sides of the valley whether they’re damaged or not. Experts recommend that you give yourself 8 to 10 inches of clearance on each side of the valley. Use a nail bar to loosen the shingles in the affected area —  insert the bar under a shingle and pry upward at the location of each nail to loosen a nail. Pull out the nails with the bar.
    Roof Replacement, Bear DE

    Repair Damaged Roof Valley

    Here’s how to install new flashing in your roof valleys:

    1. Begin by placing the replacement piece of flashing in the valley lining up the groove in the center with the middle of the valley. Make sure the flashing’s bottom edge is perfectly aligned with your roof’s lower edge. Valley flashing comes in standard lengths, ranging from 8 to 12 feet – if your valley is longer, install the lower piece of flashing first then overlap the lower edge of the next piece by a foot.
    2. Use a metal cutter to alter the length of the flashing to ensure it lines up with your roof’s lower edges. At the top edge of your roof valley, check to make sure the flashing is properly angled to line up with the slope of the roof. Use roofing nails to secure the flashing in place, driving nails at 1-foot  intervals along the outer edges of each side from top to bottom.
    3. Replace all shingles you removed, making sure their edges are at least 1 inch from the elevated center of the flashing piece. Work your way up, starting at the lower edge of the roofing and moving towards the top.
    4. Attach the shingles by nailing the upper edges with the appropriate 1 1/2-inch roofing nails for composition or 5d shingle nails for wood shingles. Trim and install rows of shingles that align with the existing rows at each side of the valley.

    Don’t neglect repairing valley leaks in a timely manner — they can lead to additional structural problems, mold growth, and high levels of moisture and humidity, all of which can be difficult and expensive to repair.

    Need Help Repairing Valley Leaks?

    Repairing a roof valley leak takes experience, and is especially difficult on steep and tile roofs. If you encounter problems, be sure to consult reliable roofing professionals. We can handle these types of repairs quickly and easily, no matter what caused the leak in the first place.

    Call All Roofing Solutions, your full-service roofing repairs contractor with over 20 years of experience in roofing and re-roofing. We will work with you to identify the damage and present you with options tailored specifically to your situation. Our priority is always to provide you with great service!

    Call us at 302-725-7663 in Delaware or 610-551-7663 in Pennsylvania to schedule your FREE repair estimate. And don’t forget to ask about our discount of 15% off any roofing repair projects.

    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!
  • 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!
  • Residential Roof Options: Pros & Cons of Shingle Roofing

    Residential Roof Options: Pros & Cons of Shingle Roofing

    Asphalt shingles are the most common material used in residential roofing today. There are many reasons behind the popularity of shingle roofing, from ease of installation to low material cost.

    While considering asphalt shingles for your next roofing replacement project, you should be aware of all the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this particular roofing material. After all, this is one of the biggest investments you will ever make in your home.

    GAF HD Shingles & Liberty Flat Roof Replacement, Clifton Heights PA 19018 - After

    Advantages of Shingle Roofing

    • Asphalt shingles are the affordable roofing material available on the market.
    • They work well on a steep-sloped structures.
    • Versatile, they adapt easily to different applications.
    • Easy to cut, fasten and fit, shingles are considered the easiest roofing materials to install (and ease of installation keeps the cost down).
    • Asphalt shingles don’t require specialized accessories for roof edges, wall terminations, and chimney or vent flashings.
    • They require low maintenance and can be walked on without damaging the material.
    • Although asphalt is not the lightest type of material, asphalt roof shingles are lightweight. They are compatible with most roof types.
    • They come in a wide range of prices, sizes and colors.
    • Roofing repairs are relatively easy with composite shingles.
    • Most brands offer Class A fire protection.

    Disadvantages of Shingle Roofing

    • Shingles are susceptible to high wind damage – strong winds can uplift or tear shingles off easily.
    • Asphalt roof shingles not only transfer solar heat into your home, they can become damaged by the heat.
    • Mildew problems caused by excess moisture pooling in shady areas of your roof can damage shingles easily.
    • Depending on the type of shingle, asphalt roofs are easily outlasted by tile, slate and metal, lasting on average 15 to 30 years.
    Roof Replacement, Yardley PA 19067

    Hire The Right Contractor

    If you need a new roof put on your house, shingle roofing is certainly a good option to consider. Affordability, versatility, ease of installation and repairs make shingle roofing an attractive option for any homeowner.

    But remember, hiring a quality contractor who knows the ins and outs of the roofing installation process can make all the difference in the proper installation of a shingle roof. Mistakes are common, and there are plenty of fly-by contractors not interested in quality but a quick buck.

    When re-roofing your home, selecting the right roofing contractor is key.

    If you’re looking for a shingle roofing specialist with decades of roofing experience in both Delaware and Pennsylvania, contact All Roofing Solutions. We are a family owned & operated roofing contractor specializing in new roof installation and complete roofing replacements

    Call our DE office at 302-725-ROOF (7663) or our PA location at 610-551-ROOF (7663) for your FREE roofing installation estimate!