By The Roof Mentors Residential Roofing 0 Comments

The Three Most Popular Types of Roofing Materials for Residential Roofing

Generally, residential roofing refers to any roofing work done on a home or other residential building. Thus, the services of a commercial roofing contractor are inappropriate for residential roofing projects, and you have to make sure you hire the right contractor. Since your roof is an essential part of your home, it also improves its visual appeal besides protecting its inhabitants from weather conditions. Numerous materials and designs are available for residential roofing, each with its features and drawbacks. Furthermore, after work is done on your roof, it’s equally important to maintain your residential roof to ensure it lasts.

Keep reading because this blog will discuss different roofing options and the factors to consider when making a final decision.

Asphalt Shingles

For quite some time now, asphalt shingles have dominated the U.S. residential roofing market, and it’s no wonder why. As a result of its lower cost, ease of installation, and broad assortment of aesthetic choices, asphalt shingles are quickly becoming the number one roofing material for homes. They come in three types; 3-tab shingles, dimensional shingles, and luxury shingles.

They are resistant to many types of weather since they are made of a mixture of asphalt and fiberglass. However, their lifespan is short compared to other roofing materials, averaging only 15-30 years.

3-Tab Shingles

The simplest of the three styles, 3-tab shingles, are installed in a single overlapping layer, just like any other type. As they overlap, the subtle tonal differences between each shingle create a lively appearance.

Architectural Shingles

Stronger and more resilient than 3-tab shingles, architectural asphalt shingles have a lifespan of 30 years or more. The most noticeable distinction between these and standard 3-tabs is that they typically have two or three layers. Furthermore, architectural shingles are even more preferable when considering the return on investment. Their higher initial cost is more than justified because they are more aesthetically pleasing.

Luxury Shingles

The appearance of slate and cedar shingles can be imitated by luxury asphalt shingles but at a far more affordable price. As a result, they are frequently installed on older properties that desire to keep the natural look.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing’s popularity has risen in recent years as more people learn about the material’s longevity, resistance to extreme weather, and ability to reduce monthly energy bills. Metal roofing, in any of its numerous varieties (including standing seam, corrugated, and metal shingle), has a predicted lifespan of 50 years or more with regular upkeep. Additionally, they are not easily torn apart by fire, wind, or hail, making them a tempting option in areas that frequently experience these risks.

Slate Roofing

The use of slate for roofing is considered a more upscale alternative due to the material’s reputation for being long-lasting and naturally beautiful. These roofs, constructed from natural slate stone, have a lifespan of one hundred years or more when properly maintained. Due to their longevity, low energy consumption, and resistance to fire, they are a popular option for homeowners looking for sustainable roofing material. However, slate roofing is costly and requires professional installation, so those working with a limited budget may need more suitable options.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Material for Your Home in Hope Mills, NC?

Our company is led by expert roofers who are knowledgeable, hardworking, and dedicated to doing a great job every single time. Because of our thorough understanding of roofing services, we are committed to providing superior quality to our clients.

If your home needs a new roof, contact The Roof Mentors, a leading roofing contractor in Hope Mills, NC.

By The Roof Mentors Residential Roofing • Roof Repair 0 Comments

Ten Biggest Dos and Don’ts of Your Residential Roof Maintenance

Besides providing comfort and security, a roof serves as a vital component of house protection from any weather conditions. Unfortunately, many homeowners tend to neglect their roof’s maintenance, which can lead to expensive repairs or a complete roof replacement. Of course, you’ll need to hire experts to check the condition of your roof, but there are a few things you can do by yourself and a few things you should avoid.

In this blog, we will provide the ten biggest dos and don’ts when it comes to residential roof maintenance, so make sure you check these things out so that you can react in time if needed.

DO

Check for Damage

When it’s raining, the raindrops have an easy passageway into your home, so you have to ensure that your roof is not leaking because that could cause catastrophic damage. Furthermore, strong winds can blow or damage your shingles, so check for any signs of wear or missing shingles.

Clean Your Gutters

When it comes to roofs, changing the seasons also means that a lot of dirt, leaves, and branches get blown into the gutters. To ensure that your gutters are working properly, we recommend checking them, and if you wish, you may run some water through them to ensure there are no leaks or blockages.

Address Leaks Immediately

Leaks can cause enormous damage to your house, so if you notice any leaks, call your roofing contractors immediately. The thing is, if you notice them and you do nothing about them, no matter how small leaks are, they can quickly escalate into a much bigger problem.

Trim Branches

Storms and high winds can cause branches to overhang, and therefore, these branches can damage your roof. You should, therefore, prune or remove any branches that are too close to your roof if you suspect they could cause serious damage to your home.

Call Inspection

Finally, after doing all the steps above to ensure the best possible protection and safety, you can invest in a proper professional roofing inspection. Schedule the inspection to ensure your roof is in the best condition possible and can endure the weather in the upcoming months.

DON’T

Ignore Small Problems

As mentioned earlier, minor problems shouldn’t be ignored. So, make sure you do not ignore leaks or other problems with your roof, as they can lead to expensive repairs or even result in a complete roof replacement.

DIY Repairs

There is a risk involved in attempting DIY repairs, and if you don’t take precautions, you may end up causing more harm than good. So it’s better to call a professional and ensure the job will be done correctly and with all the necessary knowledge and tools.

Neglect Ventilation

To ensure that your roof remains in good shape, it is important to maintain proper ventilation. The accumulation of moisture, caused by a lack of ventilation, may lead to the growth of mold and rot.

Ignore the Age of Your Roof

If you’re aware that your roof is near the end of its lifespan or you notice signs that indicate that, it’s essential to start planning a repair or replacement. Ignoring the age of your roof can lead to unexpected failure and significant damage to your home.

Choose Wrong Materials

The materials you choose for your roof should be compatible with the rest if you need to replace a section of your roof. Using incompatible materials can lead to leaks, damage, and other issues.

Don’t Hesitate to Contact Trusted Roofing Contractors

By doing these small things, you can improve the safety and condition of your roof in the long run. Having your roof inspected by a professional regularly is also an excellent idea to ensure it is in good condition. Taking time to prepare your roof can be intimidating, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for any assistance or concerns.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact The Roof Mentors, a roof repair company that is available for any questions.

By The Roof Mentors Residential Roofing • Roof Replacement 0 Comments

Need a New Roof? Here’s Why This Spring Is the Perfect Time for a Roof Replacement

Spring is probably, the most beautiful time of the year. Nature wakes from its winter sleep, bare tree branches turn green again, and love is in the air, as they say in that song.

However, spring is not only associated with new beginnings and love, yet this season is ideal for putting a new roof on your home. Wonder why? Continue reading and find out the reasons why spring is the ideal time to replace the roof; since they are more than concrete.

Perfect Weather

With the arrival of spring, air temperatures are higher, and the weather, in general, is nicer with many more sunny days. Likewise, spring is not too hot, so it is much easier to work outdoors, unlike summer, when it is burning hot and working at heights is more difficult to bear.

Furthermore, as your house is weather-vulnerable during the roof replacement process, it is way safer to do this roofing project during the spring when the number of sunny days is higher and the rains are less frequent. However, to ensure that the weather will not surprise you, it is safest to follow the weather forecast and arrange the replacement of the roof accordingly.

Roof Inspection Is Easier to Conduct

A roof inspection is always the first step in all roofing projects, whether roof repairs or a complete roof replacement. Since the roof has just come out of the cold winter days full of rain or snow, it is much easier to detect the roof’s actual condition and organize the roof replacement processes accordingly.

Spring Isn’t Overbooked Like Summer

Perhaps because summer is full of sunny days, roofers are overbooked during that time of year, and it isn’t easy to hire them. But, on the other hand, spring also brings rainless days, and roof replacement can be carried out as efficiently and safely as in summer.

Your New Roof Will Be Prepared for Summer Heat

Another reason to replace the roof in the spring is that you will have a completely functional and safe new roof during the summer, which will allow you to spend less during the cooling process of your home. What we mean by this is that the new roof will remove all the oversights that the old, deteriorated roof had, like holes in the roof structure and a lousy ventilation system that consumed a lot of electricity and resulted in higher energy bills.

Signs Your Roof Needs a Replacement

Several signs indicate that the roof of your house is ready for replacement, and the most common are a large number of damaged, curled, cupped, and missing shingles, huge leaking issues, and worn flashing that no longer protects the joints on the roof around the chimney or other roof joints. Also, if your roof is sagging and shows signs of deterioration, your next step is, most likely, a roof replacement.

Need a New Roof in Fayetteville? Contact The Roof Mentors

If your home in Fayetteville is craving a new roof and has most signs mentioned in the above paragraph, don’t panic, yet contact the Roof Mentors, the best roofing contractor in Fayetteville NC.

Our team of professional roofers brings a wealth of experience, unwavering dedication, and a strong work ethic to every roof replacement project we undertake. With an in-depth understanding of all aspects of roofing replacement, we are committed to providing you with the most cost-effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Opting for us, you gain highly skilled and professional roofers who are dedicated and hardworking and who will provide you with peace of mind. Also, by choosing The Roof Mentors, you gain premium-quality service at fair prices and cost-effective, individualized roof replacement solutions. Therefore, don’t hesitate to reach us if you are interested in replacing the roof of your house this spring; we are at your disposal.

By The Roof Mentors Roof Repair 0 Comments

Most Common Roofing Problems That Require Immediate Attention

At the end of the day, you want to come back home knowing it’s safe and comfortable while your roof protects you, are we right? But, unfortunately, like other parts of your home, your roof can run into problems. While some issues are due to aging, others could be due to poor maintenance or weather conditions. These problems can be small and easy to fix, or they can be extensive and costly. Also, some of these problems can carry health and safety hazards to your home, and you need to deal with them as soon as they occur.

Therefore, if you’re experiencing any of the following problems with your roof, it’s important to address them immediately to avoid significant damage.

The Appearance of Water Leakage

If you’re experiencing a water leak, you must immediately reach out your local roofing contractor. A water leak is one of the most common indications of a roofing problem that needs repair. The leak may be hidden within the roof structure or inside the walls, where you wouldn’t expect to see it. If you notice any signs of leakage inside your house, it could mean that the shingles are damaged or cracked or that the flashing is damaged. However, there could be other possible explanations for the leak. Therefore, it’s crucial to contact a professional roofer who can provide more detailed explanations and investigate the cause of the problem.

The Formation of Moss Growth

Your roof is constantly exposed to external elements, and it can easily become a breeding ground for mold and fungus if there are any areas where water can sit. This might be under raised shingles, on a flat roof, or even inside the structure if there is a leak. Moss and mold commonly grow on roof shingles, especially in the areas between shingles where spores can gather. In humid climates, moss can grow to be several inches thick. This stored water can seep underneath shingles and soak through the protective underlayment before reaching the wooden roof deck, potentially causing the mold growth in ceilings and walls if left untreated. Not only can this growth damage your roof, but it also poses a serious health risk.

Granules Are Filling Your Gutter

There are a few purposes for granules, including protecting against UV rays, equipping fire resistance, and providing the aesthetic aspect of your shingles. However, if you notice granules falling off your roof, this is a sign that the shingles are reaching the end of their lifespan since shingles shed their granules due to age and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, shingles deterioration could be a sign that you need to replace your roof, or there could be more underlying issues.

Indication of Dropping Roof

A drooping roof is a sign of structural damage. There are various reasons why this could happen, such as incorrect roof installation or poor ventilation, making your roof more susceptible to heat and changing shape.

Don’t Neglect Roof Problems. Start Repairing

There are a number of roofing problems that can arise and require immediate attention. Just like the explanation above, some of the most common include leaks, missing or broken shingles, and moss or algae growth. If you notice any of these issues on your roof, it’s important to take immediate action to address them.

Since a local roofing contractor is always the right solution for your roofing needs, if you live in the Raeford area, contact The Roof Mentors, the most trusted Raeford roofing company. Our goal is to help those in our community have a safe and protected home in this Raeford weather. Therefore, if you are considering getting a new roof or need repairs or maintenance, our friendly team is here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach us.

By The Roof Mentors Residential Roofing 0 Comments

5 Reasons Why Working With a Local Roofing Contractor Is a Great Idea

Hiring roofing contractors can be a complicated process. When you face roof damage, it is better to have a professional roof repair than a DIY approach. It is common for homeowners to do outstanding research to be able to choose one roofing contractor that will do their projects. However, not many people know that the best roofing contractor is the one who operates in your area. Having a local roofing contractor is the ultimate best with great benefits. Not only are they the expertise of the area, but they are also close to your home, which makes them very accessible.

In our blog, we help you choose the right roofing contractor. Here are some reasons why hiring local roofing contractors is the best idea.

The Expert of Codes and Restrictions

Local roofing contractors know inside out about your area’s legal installation and building codes. With various rules and regulations of each state, they have the best knowledge of what kind of roof is suitable for you. Local roofers are experienced in working with detailed guidelines that are explicitly made within your area’s legal standards. You don’t need to worry if there’s any change in the building code because your local roofing contractor is guaranteed to be the most updated professional in the field.

Specialist in Local Weather and Climate

Working with your local roofing contractor is a great way to prevent unnecessary damage caused by natural forces. Local roofers are specialists in understanding weather patterns and recommending the best type of roof to defend your home from harsh weather. Your local roofing contractor is familiar with installing your roof of choice. When working with a local roofing contractor, you will have the most proper roof with adequate installation.

Licensed and Insured

It is essential, and a plus point, when your roofing contractor is licensed and insured, that will protect you and them. You don’t have to worry if there’s an accident or damage while your roofers are working on your roof. It is also easier to check and verify their license if you’re hiring local roofers, which you can do online. You can also ask them to show their license prior to working on any project.

Portfolio Speaks for Itself

It is important to get to know your roofer from their previous clients or have a reference. You will get so much insight into the process of the project and the work quality of your local roofers. This way, you can determine whether the roofing contractor of your choice is up for the project or repair you need. Having a reference also help you to know how your roofers like to maintain their relationship with their clients. They usually have a warranty on their workmanship, so if you have any problems after repair or installation, your roofers will help you fix them. A great roofing contractor is likelier to have great relationships with past clients.

Accessible and Flexible

One of the best things about having local roofing contractors is that the roofers are most likely to live in the same or near your neighborhood. So, if there’s any crisis or emergency damage that needs a quick fix, you know that they will be able to fix it in a short time. Also, they can answer your questions seamlessly if you have any concerns about your roof.

We Are One Call Away

These are the benefits of working with local roofing contractors in your area. Not only do local roofers have the best knowledge about your specific location, but they are also a part of your community, which means they have the best intention and wants the best for you. So, what are you waiting for? Contact The Roof Mentors, your local roofing contractor in Hope Mills, NC. We guarantee to deliver the best quality work and materials for your home.

By The Roof Mentors Residential Roofing • Roof Replacement 0 Comments

Signs Your Fayetteville Home Needs a Roof Replacement

Living in Fayetteville brings a lot of benefits and privileges, and for many, Fayetteville is one of the best cities in North Carolina. Vivid nightlife, rich history, many museums, proximity to beaches, low cost of living, safety, and excellent home values are just some of them.

Yet, to have a competitive house on the market, you need to have a top-notch, appealing, and attractive roof; therefore, you must keep your home’s roof in the best possible condition.

Unfortunately, sometimes it’s just time for a roof replacement, no matter how good you were at maintaining it, and here are the most common signs that your home is ready for it. Read them carefully, and if you notice them, prepare yourself since roof replacement is inevitable.

Roof’s Age

The average lifespan of a roof is 20 to 30 years; therefore, if your roof is older than 20 years, it’s definitely time to start planning a roof replacement. If you postpone it, you can encounter considerable costs in the future and possibly massive damage if the roof collapses.

Shingle Problems

If you notice that your roof consists of damaged, curled, cupped, and missing shingles, that is one more tell-tailing sign that your roof is nearing its end. Shingles are essential parts of a roof, and their primary function is to protect the roof from leaks and water damage.

Also, if you notice that your gutters are full of shingle granules, pay attention to them since that is a sign that the shingles on your roof are losing their protective layer against the sun. Granules are the last line of defense for shingles not to warp and cup because of the sun’s heat, and cupped shingles can’t protect the roof.

Water Issues

Leakage and water damage is the most notorious enemy of any household, and if your roof shows signs of severe leakage, you are on a fast track to a roof replacement. Also, leakage can lead to moisture and mold, which affects human health.

To avoid putting yourself in a situation where your home suffers from massive leakage, call a professional roofer immediately and arrange a roof inspection as soon as you notice the first signs of leakage.

You Can See Daylight Through Your Roof

Another sign that your roof is ready for a replacement is if you can see daylight through it. You can check this by going to your attic and observing if you can see the sun’s rays and the light reflected on the floor during the day.

If that is the case, your roof will not protect you from the elements; therefore, it needs to be replaced.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is a piece of metal used to protect joints on a roof from water and direct it from the roof into gutters. If it is damaged, water penetrates through joints, and massive leakage is next.

Therefore, keeping a flashing in good condition is a must, and if it is damaged to the point that it can’t be repaired, replacement is the next logical step if you want to have a roof that protects you and your family.

Sagging Roof

The surest sign that your roof is a perfect candidate for a roof replacement is if it is sagging. A sagging roof is a sign that your roof has structural damage, which can lead to a collapse; therefore, if you notice this sign, call a professional roofer at once!

The Roof Mentors as Your First Choice for Roof Replacement in Fayetteville, NC

If you have realized that your roof needs to be replaced, do not despair yet contact The Roof Mentors, the reliable Roofers Fayetteville NC, with years of experience in the roofing industry.

When choosing us for your roofing project, you are choosing highly skilled and dedicated roofing professionals known for their integrity, transparency, and premium-quality service at fair prices.

Therefore, if your roof needs replacement, contact us and schedule an appointment and a free roof inspection so we can evaluate the situation and the next steps regarding a roof replacement.

By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips 0 Comments

Common Winter Roof Damages and What You Can Do About Them

Winter and everything it brings might be your favorite season, but your roof might not think so. Snow, rain, ice, and cold temperatures test roofs in North Carolina. That’s why we’ll warn you about winter roof damages we see all the time. When you know where the problem might occur, it’s easier to prevent it, so you won’t have to deal with any damage.

Missing Shingles

Even the new, perfectly installed roof can lose shingles due to strong winds. But roofs that aren’t maintained are prone to blow-offs. Luckily, they rarely happen out of the blue. There are usually some early signs, such as cracked or bent shingles. We always say that everyone should check their roof after every storm to be sure it’s intact. Weather doesn’t forgive and uses every chance to show its might on random homes.

And roofing problems grow fast, especially during winter. If you notice those signs or already have missing shingles – consider that your top priority. Once all your shingles are in perfect condition, your chances of getting leaks during winter are much lower. But be careful…

Ice Dams Are Known To Cause Leaks

We all love the warmth of home during winter, but the temperature inside the house warms up the attic hence the roof. If there’s any snow on top, it melts and then freezes again once it touches the edges of the roof. If that keeps happening, your home gets a pretty white ice dam. And while it might look romantic, it’s a glacier on steroids.

Ice dams cause leaks because they slowly melt and freeze from the bottom all the time. Warm air from the house melts them, and cold from the outside freezes them. And as that happens, drops of water accumulate in tiny lakes. Yet lakes like to grow, and water loves to seek new ways, so it penetrates under shingles.

And that’s not the worst part…

Some roofs endure months with early signs of leaks. But ice dams are different because once water enters small cracks and the temperature falls – it freezes and expands. So literally every time water freezes and melts, the crack grows, and the leak gets more serious. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain and inspect your roof.

Icicles Can Get Heavy

Tiny icicles might look nice, and, to be fair, they aren’t the most dangerous thing in the world. But can still cause damage.

Melting water can get into small cracks, freeze, expand… You know the drill. So look at every icicle as a tiny ice dam that might give you a headache if you let it grow.

But if the weather gets penguin-worthy and big icicles form around the edge of your roof, it may be better to call someone. They can get heavy and solid. So do everything you can to remove icicles before they take over your roof. And don’t be too proud to seek help.

It’s Always The Punch You Didn’t Expect That Gets You

As you probably noticed, proper maintenance is the key to getting through the winter without roof damage. But that includes taking care of your whole property. Not just your roof. If you don’t trim your trees, strong winds will. And then you can only hope that big, heavy branches don’t hit your roof or even worse.

Luckily most homeowners are aware of that danger. But while they deal with big branches, twigs plot against them. Dead leaves and small branches clog gutters which either cause overflows (sometimes leads to flooded basements) or freeze and expand. And if something that should be watertight expands, it loses its purpose.

That’s why it pays off to seek help from someone who deals with roof damage daily. And if you’re looking for an experienced roofing contractor in Winston-Salem, NC, we are here to help.

By The Roof Mentors Roofing Tips 0 Comments

3 Reasons Why Roof Repair Should Be Your Top Priority

“If it isn’t broken, don’t repair it” might be true in some cases, but if we’re talking about roofs, that’s one of the worst strategies. If you notice any issues on your roof, don’t let them grow because roofing problems sometimes grow exponentially.

So it’s safe to say that…

The Longer You Wait, the More Expensive It Gets

Many homeowners think that losing a shingle isn’t a big deal, so they don’t do anything about it for months. And having a roof with missing shingles is terrible because it’s only a matter of time before more shingles get blown off.

Without shingles, the underlayment is exposed to weather conditions which almost always leads to leaks if not addressed for a long time. That’s how a small problem can grow into something serious. And it doesn’t always take long for a roofing issue to evolve.

If gutters need repair and a storm hits the area, the homeowner can expect water damage on the walls and in the basement. Unlike slow-developing leaks that sometimes take months to show visible signs, overflows cause damage in a couple of hours. Cracked walls, blistering paint, cracked sidewalk, or flooded basement. All of that can happen to people who don’t repair their gutters.

And each roof part can cause problems if not maintained.

If you notice your flashings are rusted or have hail damage, don’t wait. It’s easier to replace flashings than repair leaks. The same goes for roof vents. It takes 5 minutes to check it and a couple of hours to repair it, but neglect it; it could turn your attic into an empire of mold (and eventually cause leaks).

That’s why it pays off to deal with the problems before they get out of control, especially if you can do some of those repairs alone. But we still advise you to choose professional over DIY roof repair because it pays off in the long run (and you aren’t risking your health).

Poor Roof May Put Your Health At Risk (And Raise Your Bills)

We can’t talk about neglected roofs without mentioning what they do to everyone living under them. Roof vents and attic insulation affect your energy bills by regulating the temperature of the house, so they’re indirectly responsible for the health of your entire home.

Yet don’t forget that roof vent keeps your family healthy.

Mold loves humid, warm attics. And the worst thing is that you probably won’t notice before mold takes over the attic and starts showing as tiny black dots on your ceiling.

That’s why you should check your roof vent and attic more often. It takes you 5 minutes. Just climb to the attic with a smoke stick, light it and watch the smoke. Call your contractor immediately if the smoke floats around you because it’s a sign that your roof vent doesn’t work.

You Won’t Have Trouble With the Insurance Company

Insurance companies must protect themselves from irresponsible homeowners, so every policy says that wear and tear aren’t covered. It means that a representative of your insurance provider will come to check the roof before a repair to determine if the problem could’ve been avoided by proper maintenance.

That ties back to the first point – the sooner you address problems on your roof, the more affordable the repair will be. Neglect the problem, and it will develop into something more serious, expensive, and time-consuming.

So inspect your roof after every storm to be sure you’re up-to-date with all the problems (so you can avoid getting bad news from the insurance company). And it’s advisable to have at least one professional roofing inspection a year because contractors have the experience and tools needed to diagnose the issues before they become massive problems.

However, it matters who does the inspection. And to be sure you called the best local roofing contractor, get in touch with the roofing contractor Dunn NC with rich experience.

By The Roof Mentors Roof Repair 0 Comments

Why Choose a Professional Over a DIY Roof Repair?

We hope you’re one of the responsible homeowners who understand that roofs need care. But we also hope you’re reading this to decide if climbing to the roof and repairing it yourself is a good idea.

DIY roof repairs aren’t necessarily a bad idea. Yet you must know your limits. Or something from the list below might happen.

You Might Fall Off the Roof

There’s no need to sugarcoat things. Roofing is a dangerous job. If you aren’t a professional roofer, you shouldn’t do more than replace a missing shingle and clean gutters.

Some people forget that falling off the roof isn’t something that happens only in movies. Even pros sometimes take the wrong step and ruin their health. So if you don’t have to do it yourself, our advice is to call your roofer, especially if your insurance covers the damage.

You Might Pick Wrong Materials

Another mistake that happens during DIY roof repairs is using the wrong materials. People read stuff on forums without realizing that they live in a different climate. Or try to save money by using random shingles they find in their garages. Some homeowners put used shingles on their homes because it seemed like they’d work.

Don’t do that.

Even if you decide to replace a couple of shingles on your own, find the exact same model. Or call your roofer. It’s always best to pick someone local who has experience with North Carolina weather.

You Will Make Mistakes With Flashings

Everyone fears leaks. Yet some people approach flashing replacement like they aren’t a big deal. We’ve seen many poorly installed flashings in Dunn, NC. Most of them were DIY replacements, but it happens to some pros that they don’t seal everything properly.

So if you don’t have experience with flashings, please, don’t try to replace or repair them. There’s almost 100% that you won’t do a flawless job. And water finds its way under everything less than perfect.

You’ll Think You’re Nailing it; But Your Home Will Just Get Hammered

Replacing one or two missing shingles is a simple DIY roof repair, so we understand if you’re tempted to give yourself a go and nail those shingles to the roof.

However, the technique matters. You can’t just put 50 nails in a shingle; it’s not an old leather shoe. You can’t put 4 random nails either.

Your location determines the type of shingles your roofer recommends and the technique they use to install them. In Dunn, NC, rain and strong winds aren’t rare. So if you add new shingles without using the proper nails, technique, or nailing pattern – the repair will be for your eyes only (at best).

You Probably Postpone Problems, Not Resolve Them

Sorry for the pun(s) above.

For your eyes only means that your DIY roof repair might be simply masking the problem. Of course, if you have some experience, and the problem isn’t big, go ahead and bond with your kids or friends. But if you feel that reading blogs and watching roof repairs on YouTube isn’t enough, save yourself from trouble.

There are better ways to bond than replacing rusted flashings. Let us, the reliable local roofing experts from Dunn, NC take care of your roof. You’ll be sure it’s in perfect condition (and you’ll be sure you won’t fall from your roof).

By The Roof Mentors Gutters • Roof Repair 0 Comments

5 Unexpected Dangers of Clogged Gutters

Life in Raeford, NC, is beautiful. Yes, summers are hot, and rain can be annoying. But at least winters aren’t like the one from the Game of Thrones. In Raeford, most people don’t brace themselves before the winter comes.

And that’s a big mistake because Raerofd gets rain every month (and some snow during the coldest part of the year).

We won’t talk about the importance of a healthy roof. You know you need to replace a roof that leaks more than the colander. We’ll focus on gutters. People neglect them, which leads to the terrifying things you’ll see below.

Clogged Gutters Are Like a Fuse Around Your Home

Most people don’t think about this… Homeowners connect gutters only with rain and water. But another element is known to take advantage of neglected gutters.

“Fire!”

Yes. Dry leaves, twigs, granules from damaged shingles… All of that is perfect for catching a spark. However, it’s not very often that a fire starts in the gutters. So if that disaster doesn’t make you clean your gutters, the next one surely will.

How Much Faith in Your Foundations Do You Have?

Gutters are there to escort water away from your house. If they’re clogged during heavy rain, overflows are inevitable. Sometimes walls crack because of that much water. However, that’s not very often.

You’ll probably notice that paint peels at some places long before they crack (address that problem on time, so you don’t have to deal with serious issues later).

But… Even though seeing cracks in the walls of your home may seem scary, that’s not the cause of the problem. Walls cracks usually happen when the foundation of a house suffers water damage (or your roof leaks a lot).

Soil and concrete around the house absorb water and put pressure on the foundation. That’s where the real problem is. Yet, water damage on foundation walls is sneaky. People who never go to their basements don’t notice it on time. That’s why we suggest inspecting your whole house after every storm (especially if you had overflows).

Because if you don’t… You might get a free swimming pool. But it won’t make any of your neighbors jealous.

Do You Plan to Turn Your Basement into a Swimming Pool?

So let’s recap.

Clogged gutters can’t take water away from the house. That leads to overflows. And thanks to simple physics, water has nowhere to go but down. As you already know, that tests your foundation.

But if there’s too much water, your basement could flood even if your foundations were fine before that. Note that we used were fine instead of are fine because once your basement floods, you can expect water damage on your foundation.

Would You Like to Pay For Sidewalk Repairs?

We know you’re a good person who gives to charity and cares about people around you. But would you do your community a favor and pay for the new sidewalk in front of your house?

Yes. Not cleaning your gutters can cost you that much.

Concrete absorbs water. And water creates more space every time it passes. That’s how canyons are made over millennia. Yet, concrete is much softer than rocks, so it doesn’t take 10 million years to erode and crack.

Fascia Boards Aren’t Diamonds, Wood Isn’t Forever

We know that all those gutter scenarios are scary. Those are all serious issues. And they don’t happen all the time (but they aren’t rare either).

Still, leave all that debris in your gutters, and you’ll notice water damage on your roof. Wooden fascia boards are the first to suffer. Wood absorbs water and widens. That makes it crack, and as the board dries, it shrinks, which makes the paint peel (and widens the cracks).

Then because problems don’t come alone, you’ll start noticing other roof issues. And almost all of that could be prevented by showing your roof enough care.

So… Do what you can for your roof. Call the experienced Redford, NC roofer to do the rest. Even if your roof is new, letting pros inspect it once a year would make you sleep peacefully during storms.