Tag: shingle roofing

  • Shingle Roofing Replacement: Tear-Off vs. Adding a Top Layer

    Shingle Roofing Replacement: Tear-Off vs. Adding a Top Layer

    There comes a time when roofing repairs just won’t do anymore – your roof sustains extensive damage, whether through a storm or just over time, and your local roofing contractor recommends installing a new shingle roof rather than repairing the damage.

    Once you decide on replacing your roof, there are further decisions you will have to make. Before figuring out the color or style of your new shingles, you need to decide – with the help of your roofing contractor – whether to tear off the old shingles or simply add a top layer of new shingles to the existing roof.

    Shingle Roofing Replacement: Tear-Off vs. Adding a Top Layer

    Shingle Roofing Replacement: Tear-Off vs. Adding a Top Layer

    The decision whether to tear off or add a new layer is an important one to make, and will potentially save you a lot of money and/or trouble down the road – it all depends on your particular circumstances.

    The Case Behind An Overlay

    Adding a top layer of shingles to the existing structure may sound like “quick fix,” but in certain situations, it is a safe and widely used technique for replacing a worn roof.

    Called an “overlay,” this roofing method can save time and money without compromising the integrity of the roof. An overlay is your best bet assuming the wood decking is in good condition, and especially if you’re planning to sell your home soon. The cost of doing a tear can substantially increase the cost of re-roofing, so if you can avoid it that’s great for your wallet.

    Check building codes in your city – most allow it once (never lay a roof over a roof over a roof).

    The Case Behind a Tear Off

    Re-roofing from the bottom up, or tearing off the current roof, can be more costly and labor-intensive than an overlay, but it’s often necessary, and, in some areas of the country, required.

    Often, homeowners must undergo a tear-off versus adding a top layer of shingles if the current roof meets certain conditions:

    • Two layers of shingles, slate, tiles or shakes already exist on the roof
    • The roof is soaked from water damage
    • Wood decking needs repairs or replacement
    • The roof consists of asbestos/cement tile, wood shakes, slate or clay materials

    Tearing the old materials off provides your roofer with an opportunity to look at any issues that might be creeping up underneath the existing roof. Additionally, an overlay cuts the life expectancy of the second layers of shingles in half, so if you want your new roof to last longer removing the old roofing materials is recommended. And while you’re at it, consider recycling the old materials!

    Consider All Options When Having A New Roof Installed

    Your roofing contractor should be aware of state and local regulations and requirements regarding roofing and upon inspection of your home, will be able to tell you with certainty whether you are looking at a total roof replacement or if the possibility of an overlay exists. Since a new roof can be a costly investment, all options should be considered.

    If you need an inspection, or you’re considering installing a new roof and are not sure which way you should go, call All Roofing Solutions, an experienced residential roofing company serving Delaware & Pennsylvania customers since 1998. We will provide you with several new roof installation options that best suit your taste, needs, and budget.

    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!

    Call today at 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania to request your Free Estimate or to learn more about our roofing, siding, door installation, gutter repair and window replacement services!

    Roofing Replacement Contractor in Delaware & Pennsylvania
  • 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!!!

  • Winter Roofing & Shingle Damage: Ice Dams, Roof Leaks & How to Prevent Them

    Winter Roofing & Shingle Damage: Ice Dams, Roof Leaks & How to Prevent Them

    Winter weather can be hard on your roof, especially on the East Coast. In places like Delaware, the wet winter can put a significant strain on your shingle roofing. Several issues can creep up if you don’t pay attention and, if not adequately addressed, may lead to costly repairs come spring.

    Today, we’re discussing the two most common winter-related problems in residential roofing and how to prevent your home from incurring expensive and extensive roof repairs.

    Winter Roofing & Shingle Damage: Ice Dams, Roof Leaks & How to Prevent Them

    Winter Roofing & Shingle Damage: Ice Dams, Roof Leaks & How to Prevent Them

    Problem #1 – Ice Buildup

    Ice buildup can become quite a problem in shingle roofing, particularly if your area has received significant snowfall. The fluctuating temperatures consistent with a DE winter can cause ice to melt and re-freeze on the surface of the roof. The ice that accumulates on the edge of the roof forming ice dams.

    Ice dams create a barrier that impedes melted snow from draining normally through your gutter system. Sections of ice that remain on the upper portions of the roof are problematic as well, for similar reasons.

    3 Ice Dam Prevention Tips:

    1. There is no doubt that ice dams lead to shingle damage & roof leak incidents. Clearing your roof thoroughly – and safely – after a snowfall can prevent the formation of ice dams, and protects the shingle roofing from weather-related damage.
    2. A more proactive solution is to ensure adequate insulation & ventilation systems are in place, before winter arrives. Proper ventilation in the attic of your home is an affordable solution that keeps your roof at a stable temperature even on the coldest days of winter. This encourages ice to melt without damaging the roofing materials.
    3. Additionally, make sure your home’s gutter system is in good condition before the first frost. Your Delaware roofing professionals can provide comprehensive gutter inspection as part of your fall roof inspection, so remember to schedule one this year!

    Problem #2 – Roof Leaks

    Roof leaks are an extremely common problem in roofs of all kinds, including shingled types. Leakage in the flashing near chimneys and skylights are perhaps the most common areas that sustain damage. Water damage can impact not only your roof but your home’s interior as well, but can be easily prevented.

    Other damage include cracking, bruising and blistering of the surface of the roofing material. Aggressive storms could even cause you to lose whole shingles from your roof. Damage of this kind must be repaired to retain the function and integrity of your roofing structure.

    3 Winter Leaks Prevention Tips:

    1. Combat potential water damage in your home by making any required repairs to your siding, windows, flashing or shingles in the summer or autumn. A leaky roof can also occur during the spring rainy season – fixing minor issues during the dryer times (fall and summer) of year may help prevent more costly roofing repairs later.
    2. Schedule a pre-winter roof inspections to make sure your home is ready for the cold and wet winter conditions. Aside from typical external check of your roofing structure, your roofing inspector should check ventilation, insulation and moisture levels and offer appropriate steps to remedy any potential problems before winter arrives.
    3. After big storm, 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.

    Need a Reputable Shingle Roofing Contractor?

    The integrity of your roof is critical in maintaining your home’s value. Proper maintenance and inspections, especially before winter snow storms, can significantly extend the life of your roof.

    If you’d like to schedule an inspection to diagnose specific problems or evaluate the overall condition of your roof, contact All Roofing Solutions. Serving residential and commercial customers in Delaware and southeastern Pennsylvania, we’ve been installing & repairing roofs since 1998!

    Backed by our satisfied customers and a proven track record for excellence, we offer generous warranties, top-quality materials and experienced contractors who get the job done right the first time. We are proud of our craft and stand behind our work 100% – please check our project gallery & read customer reviews on Google.

    Protect your home by scheduling a roofing & gutters inspection/maintenance today! Call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania or request a Free Quote online!

  • 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!!!

  • The Cool Roofing System: Six Benefits of Reflective Roof Coating

    The Cool Roofing System: Six Benefits of Reflective Roof Coating

    You already know that your house and business need a sturdy, well-installed roof to ensure years of trouble-free service. But did you know that applying a roof coating could increase the lifespan of your roof, whether it was installed recently or a decade ago? Consider a cool roofing system.

    Coating your roof can reduce heat energy costs and increase UV and waterproofing protection for the roof. As a roof is exposed to heat and ultraviolet rays over the years, materials break down. This chemical breakdown begins to ruin the roof’s appearance and function. Roof coatings lend strength and longevity to roofing materials while maintaining the aesthetic appearance of any structure.

    The Cool Roofing System: Six Benefits of Reflective Roof Coating

    The Cool Roofing System: Six Benefits of Reflective Roof Coating

    Reflective roof coatings act as a barrier between your roof and the elements, and many are approved by ENERGY STAR for their proven advantages. These include:

    #1. Reduced cooling bills

    ENERGY STAR-qualified roof coatings lower the roof’s surface temperature & home’s interior temperature by an average of seven to 10 degrees. This happens in two distinct ways:

    1. A reflective roof coating when applied to roofs helps reflect more sunlight from the surface reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the structure, which then translates into reduced energy cost.
    2. Quality roof coatings will also reflect damaging ultraviolet and infrared sunlight away from your building (this is called thermal emittance), allowing for cooler roof and building temperatures resulting in a reduction in air conditioning energy usage.

    #2. Extended roof life

    Roof coatings create a resilient barrier between the elements and the uppermost layers of your roofing material. The right roof coating increases your roof’s waterproof quality guarding your roof against harmful sun rays, preventing UV damage, and reflecting heat away from the roof’s surface. This increased the longevity of your roofing while lowering maintenance expenses.

    #3. Useful with a variety of materials

    Roof coatings are formulated to adhere to a wide range of roofing surface types, including metal roofs, asphalt roofs, composite roofs, galvanized metal, wood, and others. However, before applying roof coatings to materials such as shingles, check your manufacturer’s warranty to see if these spray/brush-on products void your warranty. And when replacing a roof, consider upgrading to reflective coating shingles to benefit from the “hot” cool-roofing movement taking place in America.

    #4. Avoiding early roof replacement

    Small leaks and other minor damage can be repaired before a roof coating is applied. In some cases, you may be able to avoid full-scale replacement of your roof for several years if you utilize the right coating for the job. “Roof restoration using a coating system can save the owner 50-70% when compared to replacing the entire roof,” said David Bade, owner of St. Louis-based Bade Roofing Company “With a roof restoration, owners avoid the cost of tearing off the existing roof, purchasing new materials and paying labor fees to replace the existing roof. Not to mention the environmental impact that roofing materials have when disposed of in a landfill.”

    #5. Fade resistance

    Reflective roof coatings help your roof maintain its color over time improving the overall look of your home as it ages. Since the roof coatings are reflective, the color of the roof is maintained for a longer duration, which makes your house look more appealing.

    #6. Sustainable and environmentally-friendly roofing

    One final peripheral benefit of roof coatings is that they help reduce waste by extending the life of your roof thus minimizing the amount of debris produced during maintenance and repair. Today, most coatings are specially formulated for environmental safety as well, so you don’t have to worry about production techniques or dangerous chemicals. Cool roofs also benefit the environment by reducing local air temperatures (the urban heat island effect) and lowering peak electricity demand.

    GAF Golden Harvest Shingle Installation, Velux Skylights & 100% Silicone Coating On Flat Roof, Newtown Square PA 19073
    GAF Golden Harvest Shingle Installation, Velux Skylights & 100% Silicone Coating On Flat Roof, Newtown Square PA 19073

    Consider Investing In a Cool Roofing System

    Reflective roof coating is your answer to a long-lasting roof! If you’re considering this simple yet effective method of extending the life of your roof, call All Roofing Solutions, a family-owned & operated DE roofing contractor with over 20 years of experience. We are fully licensed and insured to do roofing & siding installation, maintenance, and repair work in Delaware and Pennsylvania!

    We’ll help you decide which roofing material, and coating, is the best for your family residence, commercial facility, or office complex – and handle all your installation projects, large and small.

    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!

    To learn more, call 302-725-ROOF (7663) in Delaware or 610-551-ROOF (7663) in Pennsylvania, or request Free Estimate online!