Using Your Gutters for Rainwater Collection

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Services
Using Your Gutters for Rainwater Collection

When you have a good gutter system on your home, you can do more than simply move the rain away from your home. You can use your gutter system to collect rainwater and have usable water for a variety of activities around the home. When water is in high demand, you can harvest this natural resource using your gutters.

Set Up Near Where Water Is Needed

Your first step is to decide where you are going to use water, and set up a collection barrel near this area. If you want to use collected rainwater to irrigate your garden, the collection barrel should be in the downspout closest to your garden. Consider what type of barrel you want to use, and choose one that is the right size for the amount of water you want. While whiskey barrels are great, so are plastic trash containers and other types of collection devices.

Know How Much Water is Coming

When it comes to collecting rainwater, you have to be prepared for any overflow. You will want to know the square area of your roof to be able to determine how much water you can expect. For every 100 square feet of space, you can expect 60 gallons of water for every inch of rain. When your barrel begins to overflow, you will need to make sure water flows away to protect your home.

How to Use Collected Rainwater

Once you collect your rainwater, it can be used in a number of ways. The water you have collected has not been properly treated and you or your pets should not drink it. In addition, any water collected should be used within a week or two to avoid algae growth. You can use it to irrigate your lawn or garden, but be sure to wash any vegetables you have grown before you eat them. You can use the water to wash clothes, water indoor plants, and cleaning your home.

s Winter Approaches

With freezing weather coming, you aren’t going to be able to collect rainwater. Remove the barrel over the winter months, and reattach the rest of the downspout on your gutter system. Clean out your water barrel so that it is ready for the next season. Make sure that any water that flows over the next few months will be guided away from your home.

Contact Weatherguard Gutters for Gutter Maintenance Services Today!

At Weatherguard Gutters, we are ready to help you keep your gutter system working great. If you want to figure out how to collect rainwater this season but aren’t sure what to do, contact us today. We have been helping homeowners in Vancouver and the surrounding area for more than 25 years better manage the gutter system on their home and we are happy to provide you with a free estimate.

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Climate Change and Problems with Your Gutters

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Cleaning
gutters

Climate change is causing an impact on our environment in a variety of ways. The water cycle is impacted, and this means more fluctuations between significant droughts and times of heavy rain. Average temperature rates are climbing, and this is causing changes to weather patterns. With the water vapor concentrations and flow patterns affected, this is causing downpours that are fast and furious.

Changes in Weather Patterns Means Worsening Storms

As climate change continues, extremes in weather are only expected to get worse. This results in storms that cause heavy saturation, flooding, and damage to your property. When your home has gutters, they may not be large enough to handle a downpour. It may be time to consider updated your gutters so that your home is protected from heavy rains causing your current gutters to overflow.

Gutter Maintenance and Heavy Storms

When a heavy storm brings tons of rain to your area, clogged gutters are going to be a problem. When the rain is heavy enough, this can cause damage to your gutters and lead to a mess of water in your basement. If your gutters are clogged, it’s time to have your gutters cleaned before the next storm. You should have your gutters cleaned twice a year to avoid damage to your property.

Watch for Gutter Functionality

During a heavy downpour is the best time to see how well your gutters are working. As the rain is pouring down, it becomes possible to see where your gutters are leaking and if you have water flowing over the sides. Your downspout might be clogged, or your gutters could be at the wrong angle to move water from your roof and away from your home. Look for areas where water has gone over the side of your gutters and caused damage to your landscaping or home. It is easy to spot problem areas once you know what to look for.

As climate change progresses, it becomes even more important to pay attention to precipitation rates and heavy storms. Protect your home with a gutter system that is the right size. Understand that gutters play an integral role in protecting your home, and have your gutters maintained whenever you see a problem.

Contact Weatherguard Gutters Today

When your basement floods or your bushes are getting destroyed because rain is pouring over the top of your gutters, it’s time to get the help your property deserves. When you need gutter maintenance or installation in metro Vancouver and the surrounding area, it’s time to contact Weatherguard Gutters. We have providing homes with protection and enhancement for more than 30 years.

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Seamless Gutters vs Regular Gutters – Which Is Better?

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Improvement
Seamless Gutters vs Regular Gutters – Which Is Better?

Seamless Gutters vs Regular Gutters

When installing new gutters on your home you might be surprised to find you have more than one option. When choosing between standard K-style gutters and half-round gutters, you also have the option of seamless gutters vs regular gutters. Both will effectively usher rainwater away from your home when installed properly, but which one is better?

Regular Gutters

Tried and true, regular rain gutters are installed on most homes throughout the Delaware Valley. They are made by joining sections of the gutter to fit the roofline of your home. There are many customizable options for regular gutters such as their material (copper, steel, vinyl, and aluminum). Aluminum gutters are the most common because they are typically more affordable and long-lasting, creating the best value. Because the regular gutters come in mass-produced, standard lengths, they are easy to get, easy to install, and easy to replace.

Seamless Gutters

Because they are a single piece of material, seamless gutters tend to be stronger than regular gutters. If you live in a wooded area or get a lot of debris on your roof, seamless gutters are ideal because they have significantly fewer areas where debris can get trapped and clog your gutters. Without those seams, you also have less risk of leaks. Custom cut and formed for your home, seamless gutters do tend to cost more than regular gutters but with reduced maintenance cost and effort, they are a great option for many homes.

Still Have Questions About Seamless vs Regular Gutters?

When researching seamless gutters vs regular gutters you will find that they both have pros and cons. Because there are many other factors to consider outside of personal preference it’s a good idea to speak with a gutter installation professional. PJ Fitzpatrick can help you choose the best gutter system for your home in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey. We’ll install it for you, protecting your home and property for years to come. We can also install gutter guards or you can reach out to us to schedule professional gutter cleaning services. Contact PJ Fitzpatrick for a gutter estimate today.

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12 Indications It’s Time for a Gutter Replacement

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Improvement
12 Indications It’s Time for a Gutter Replacement

Gutter Replacement

When your gutters are in tip-top shape and working properly, they guide rainwater away from your home, preventing mold, sagging, rust, erosion, and more. Your gutters will need to be repaired or replaced if they are damaged to ensure they function at full capacity. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s important to schedule a gutter replacement as soon as possible before your home becomes damaged.

Gutter Replacement and Installation Needs

If you are a homeowner in Delaware Valley, PJ Fitzpatrick can quickly and affordably replace your gutter system. We specialize in gutter replacements, so don’t hesitate to give us a call if you notice any of these signs.

1. Standing Water or Dirt Channels

Pools of water or dirt channels may be an indication of a blockage in your gutter, but sometimes these symptoms can occur when no obstruction is present. Pooling water can become a breeding ground for mold and mosquitoes, and it is a sign that your gutter isn’t draining correctly.

2. Sagging or Pitch Issues

If your gutter is sagging, it could be improperly pitched, or the brackets may be loose. When sagging gutters are left unrepaired, the entire gutter system can become damaged and may need to be replaced. Sagging gutters can also break loose from your home, causing damage or injury if they fall on someone.

3. Fractures, Cracks, Gaps, or Separated Gutters

Any of these symptoms need urgent attention and repair, as cracks and gaps will allow water to leak out and damage the fascia or siding of your home.

4. Mold or Mildew

Mold and mildew are health hazards, and damaged gutters can cause leaking moisture to become a catalyst for growth. If you notice mold in your basement, near your roof, or inside your gutters, you may need to schedule a gutter replacement.

5. Rust or Orange Discoloration

Rusted metal is prone to cracks and breakage. If your gutters begin to rust from excessive rain, it’s best to get them replaced before they become inefficient.

6. Peeling Paint

Leaky gutters allow moisture to reach your home, which can lead to unsightly paint peeling. If you’ve noticed peeling paint on your home, it may be time for a gutter replacement.

Gutter Replacement - Soil Erosion

7. Eroding Soil or Landscape

When working properly, gutters direct rainwater away from your home in a steady stream. When large amounts of water reach your soil due to leaky gutters, erosion can occur and cause water damage to your home and your flower beds.

8. Foundation Issues

Standing water in your yard can seep down into the soil around your home, causing the foundation to shift. If you are having issues with your foundation, faulty gutters may be to blame.

9. Unidentifiable Nails and Screws

When gutter brackets break, nails and screws may show up on the ground around your home. If your gutters are starting to break apart and lose screws, it’s time for a replacement.

10. Overflowing Water

Overflowing, unobstructed gutters indicate that they are poorly designed or installed incorrectly. Your gutters will need to be replaced by a professional who can recommend a quality gutter system for your home.

11. Evidence of Water Damage

Water damage looks unsightly and it can lower your home’s curb appeal and value. Worn out, leaking gutters are the likely culprit.

12. Flooded Basement

If you notice water seeping into your basement during heavy rainstorms, it’s best to schedule a gutter replacement as soon as possible to prevent further flood damage.

Call PJ Fitzpatrick Today for a Gutter Replacement

If you notice any of these gutter issues, call us today at 1-877-246-4354 or schedule an appointment for your gutter replacement service. We offer upfront pricing, quality customer service, and skilled, professional replacements to ensure your gutters can do their job again. Did you know we also offer gutter cleaning services and gutter guard installations? Call now and talk to one of our team members about what PJ Fitzpatrick can do for your home gutter system.

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What Are the Benefits of Gutter Guards?

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Cleaning
What Are the Benefits of Gutter Guards?

Gutter Guard Systems

PJ Fitzpatrick Offers Gutter Guard Installation Services

If you are a homeowner in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, or Maryland, the expert team at PJ Fitzpatrick can install Klean Gutter Leaf Guards to keep debris out so water can drain easily. The Klean Gutter guard system is designed to take a beating from snow, ice, wind, and heavy rain. We have forty years of experience with gutter installation and repair services, so we can provide you with the highest level of knowledge and expertise. Here’s what you can expect from Klean Gutter guards in addition to PJ’s 5-year no clog guarantee!

Perks of the Klean Gutter Guards

Klean Gutter guards keep leaves, pine needles, other debris, ice, and animals out of your gutters so they never get clogged again. This sturdy system not only keeps your gutters clean, but it also helps strengthen your gutters. Klean Gutter Leaf Guards are compatible with 5- and 6-inch gutters. This rust-resistant system allows you to say goodbye to clogged, warped gutters.

Low Maintenance Option

The Klean Gutter guard system makes it so you never have to waste another Saturday precariously perched on a ladder removing gunk from your gutters. They’re designed to maintain the natural pitch of your roof so that leaves, debris and pine needles will fall to the ground. Never choose a gutter guard product that lies flat on the gutters as this will act like a shelf and collect debris. When you choose PJ Fitzpatrick to install a Klean Gutter Guard system at your home, you’ll be able to cross gutter cleanout off your to-do list.

Patented Technology

Klean Gutters are different than other gutter guards because they utilize a fine filter as opposed to a wide-open mesh. The tight central seam is used to force water to follow this path rather than continuing its flow from the roof straight over the system.

Efficient Drainage and Installation

Klean Gutter offers 70% more filtering area than any other system on the market today. This offers the best performance since the filtering area is not limited. Make sure the water is being properly directly away from your home with help of PJ Fitzpatrick’s gutter guard installation services.

Resistant to Bugs and Bad Weather

Clogged gutters can be a breeding ground for all kinds of pesky creatures. Mosquitos, worms, spiders, and beetles love to call crowded gutters home. With the Klean Gutter Leaf Guards in place, your gutters will be protected from wet debris that draws insects to your home.

Call Us Today for Klean Gutter Leaf Guards

If you are ready to clean out your gutters once and for all, give PJ Fitzpatrick a call or fill out the estimate form on our website today. We pride ourselves on upfront pricing and quality customer service, so there’s no need to put off your next home improvement project.

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Why You Shouldn’t Underestimate Your Gutters

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Services
Why You Shouldn’t Underestimate Your Gutters

 

Maryland Gutter Installation

Gutters may seem like a small part of any home, but don’t underestimate the role they play. We’ve seen a lot of rain this summer and there’s only more to come, but with proper gutters, your home can stay safe. When it rains, your home’s gutters help direct rain off of the roof and away from your foundation, and if your gutters are damaged, sagging, or clogged, it could see some serious damage.

If You Didn’t Have Gutters

If your home didn’t have a gutter system, you’d find water dripping over the edges of your roof, which could weather your siding and pool up in the areas where your foundation is low. If this happens, the water will start to wear away at your foundation as well as your siding.

During larger storms, water would spill over the edges of your roof and soak the ground right next to your home. Since that area would experience water from the falling rain plus all the water from your roof, it would become a weaker surrounding area for your foundation and could cause the structure to crack.

Gutters also help protect outdoor hardscapes, like decks or patios, from wearing down under a lot of moisture and losing their aesthetic luster. Many homeowners plant landscaping features like bushes or shrubs near their homes and gutters also help protect those as well.

If Your Gutters Are Damaged or Clogged

While not having gutters is a problem, having damaged or clogged gutters is also a problem. If your gutters are rusted, they could be leaking; if they’re sagging or pulling away from your home, they could be failing to carry water away properly; and if they’re clogged with ice, leaves, sticks, or other debris, there’s nowhere for your roof water to escape.

When water sits in your gutters or overflows back onto your roof, it can soak into your home and damage your home’s structure. It can also provide a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can not only weaken wood, but affect the health of you and your family members as well.

What to Know About Gutter Installation

When it comes to gutters, you can’t just install any size. You need to measure the length of your roof, the square footage of your roof, know the average rainfall in your area, and know your zoning laws. These factors will determine how wide your gutters need to be. You’ll also need to know how far away from your foundation the downspouts need to be.

We recommend leaving all of this to the experts at P.J. Fitzpatrick. We’ve been providing quality Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland gutter installations for years, and want to help you protect your home. Give us a call or fill out our contact form to get started.

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Home Improvement History Lessons: Gutters

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Services
Home Improvement History Lessons: Gutters

gutter installation

Today, rain gutters are an essential part of any home: they’re designed to collect and move water away from your roofing system, siding, foundation, and more to prevent water damage. From the time they were first invented until now, gutters were just as important then as they are today. Here, our gutter installation experts explore the history of gutters:

B.C. Years & The Roman Empire

Rain gutters date back to the Indus Valley Civilization of 3,000 B.C.-1,500 B.C. Back then, they were constructed from drains that were covered in bricks made of burnt clay.

Once the Roman Empire came to power in 27 B.C.-14 A.D., they revolutionized the drainage system of roadways by building them higher in the middle so that the rain flowed down into “gutters.” They brought this system to England around 47 A.D., however, little was done to reform it.

The Norman Empire

It wasn’t until the spread of the Norman Empire between the 10th and 13th centuries that gutters systems were incorporated into architecture. Many homes, churches, and other buildings were rebuilt with stone roofing systems and parapets that gave way to gargoyles. These gargoyles would expel the excess water through their mouths, essentially making them gutters.

The 1700s

In the early 1700s, cast iron became a widely available and affordable material, so manufacturers began creating gutters out of it. (Years later, cast iron will replace lead as the most common gutter material.) Later in the century, wood was carved into V-shapes and fastened to public buildings and wealthy homes for use as gutter systems.

The 20th Century

During the Second Industrial Revolution, new technologies and materials were invented to revolutionize gutters. Once metal rolling machines were introduced in the early 1900s, builders were able to roll half-round steel gutters and place them on the edges of buildings.

By the 1960s, seamless aluminum gutter machines were invented and completely revolutionized the world of gutters. Aluminum was preferred to steel because it was strong, more lightweight, and easy to manipulate. This is the main reason many of today’s gutters are still made from aluminum.

If your home is in need of a new gutter system, contact our gutter installation experts today for more information.

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Power Wash For Your Home Exterior

Robert Milam Gutter Cleaning, Gutter Services , , ,

Pressure washing with pros at https://www.martinipressurewashing.com/rain-gutter-cleaning-orange-county is probably one of the easiest and cheapest ways to improve your home’s resale value and a great way to avoid the time, cost, and trouble of future leaks. So why not protect your largest investment: your gutters! Gutters are integral to preventing water from getting into and damaging your roof. This article will help you learn how to pressure-wash your gutters to keep them looking great.

Start by removing all debris from your gutters. Take out as much debris as possible because if you don’t remove it then you are just throwing it in the garbage and possibly ruining it for many years to come. After removing all of the debris, you should rinse off all of your leaves and branches from around your home. The best way to do this is with a garden hose by using a telescoping extension wand. This will save you a lot of time and energy!

pressure washing

After rinsing off the leaves and dirt, you should empty out your gutters and start a new block of dirt. You can purchase a pressure washing attachment for your garden tools so that you can clean all of your gutters in one fell swoop. When doing this, you need to make sure that you put down a tarp under the debris so that it doesn’t get pushed into your gutter and clog it.

After cleaning your gutters and attaching your extension wand, you are ready to begin your pressure washing. Use your garden hose and start down the path where you want your driveway to be. When you reach the end, you will have a nice layer of dirt to act as a barrier against future debris.

The next step is to line your garden hose up with the edge of your driveway. Start spraying gutters down with your pressure washers. If you have any extra leaves or other debris on them, you can use a leaf blower to blow them away.

As you are spraying your dirt, be sure to check your back yard. You may have some leaves and other debris on there that can be easily removed with a garden hose without the use of a pressure washer. The easiest way is to use a pressure sprayer attachment for your garden tool belt and clear away whatever you find. Be sure not to miss any nooks or crannies that might hold dirt or debris.

If you find yourself with a rather large mess to clean up, consider purchasing some pressure washing attachments for your garden tools. These attachments can help remove large areas of dirt very quickly. Just be sure that you don’t use a jet nozzle to do this. You will be blowing all of your dirt out at once and this can lead to an explosion of water if you aren’t careful. Use a longer hosing cord for these jobs and make sure you clear away all of your gutters before you start with the cleaning.

Before you start washing your home exterior, be sure to wear eye protection. You will need to do this no matter what type of pressure washing equipment you are using. You should always wear eye protection when performing any type of hard physical work. The last thing you want is to get hit in the eyes by one of these implements. You can save yourself some pain later if you take the time to protect your eyes before you start.

When performing your house washing service, you will need to purchase a pressure washer attachment for your garden tool set. These attach to the garden hose and spray water from your pressure washer gun at high pressure into the gutters. Be sure that you have plenty of hoses to carry the water back and forth from your pressure washer gun so that you can clean the sides and roof of your home as well. Be aware that these guns leave residue behind on the sides of your home and these can cause unwanted problems later. If you have any problems cleaning on the roof, your green grass may be slippery and you may end up slipping.

It is recommended that you only clean soffits that are completely open. If you do not open all of the soffits, you will have more difficulty reaching them and spraying the water from your pressure washer. This will prevent soffits from stiffening up during your washing. It also prevents soffits from being damaged by excess water which could cause unsightly water stains and mold.

Power washing your home exterior can provide you with a tremendous amount of savings on your electric bill, reduce your energy consumption, and beautify your outside landscape. If you are planning on doing a power wash on your home exterior yourself, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional. There are many contractors out there that will do a great job and charge a fair price. Do not attempt to power clean your home. It does take time and practice to master the process. Plus, your power wash leaves a sooty residue behind that could attract termites, attract wildlife over time and attract potential thieves who would see an opportunity in a dead bird or mouse within your home.

Vinyl vs Aluminum Gutters – Which Is Better?

Elene Chamberlin Gutter Improvement
Vinyl vs Aluminum Gutters – Which Is Better?

Many homeowners don’t think much about their gutters until they cause a problem. They actually play a very important part in your home’s safety. Rainwater and melting snow need to be diverted away from your roof, walls, and foundation to help prevent premature deterioration and internal water infiltration. Thankfully you have options when it comes to your gutter system. The vast majority of homes have gutters already installed but if you need to replace your gutters or install gutters where you don’t currently have them, the most popular choices are made of aluminum or vinyl. When choosing between vinyl vs aluminum gutters there are a few factors to consider.

Which Gutters Are Right For You?

K-style gutters are the most commonly found gutters in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland. They come in different sizes depending on the size and pitch of your roof. Aluminum gutters are the most traditional form of water mitigation. Both types are made of lightweight material so they do not cause added stress to your home when they are filled with water. Choosing between vinyl vs aluminum gutters typically comes down to aesthetics but there are other attributes to help determine which is best for you and your property. Overall, the home improvement experts at PJ Fitzpatrick highly recommend aluminum gutters over vinyl.

Factors to Consider When Choosing New Gutters

As with any choice of building materials, several determining factors impact your decision. Your home’s location, roof style, design, and material cost are all important things to consider when researching vinyl vs aluminum gutters. Performance and ease of repair or replacement are also paramount. Consider the following factors so you can make an informed decision.

Gutter Durability

You will be hard-pressed to find a better material for gutters than aluminum. Aluminum gutters are very light, resistant to erosion, and should last 20 years or more. Vinyl gutters are also lightweight but the material is more susceptible to expanding/contracting and cracking. With the difference in temperatures and weather throughout the seasons, that added stress can cause the need for replacement in 10-15 years.

Gutter Performance

Vinyl gutters come in sections so there are areas where water can escape the channel and they have a greater reliance on connecting pieces. Aluminum gutters come in sections or seamless options. Even a sectional aluminum gutter system will typically have tighter seams than vinyl and hold together better for more efficient performance.

Gutter Installation

While most homeowners don’t try to tackle the installation of their gutter system, it’s important to understand how it works and that impact on the project cost. Vinyl gutters typically snap together but they have more seams that take more time to install. Gutter professionals prefer working with aluminum for ease of length customization and versatility.

Gutter Cost

The cost of vinyl vs aluminum gutters is a mix between material and installation costs. Vinyl gutters are usually cheaper from a materials standpoint, but they don’t last as long and take longer to install. Aluminum gutter materials cost is a little more, but they are easier to find, will last longer, and are more efficiently installed.

Install Aluminum Replacement Gutters
Aluminum Gutters Are a Great Choice

When weighing in the factors of vinyl and aluminum gutters it’s no surprise that aluminum is the most popular choice. From affordability and lasting performance to customization and replacement costs, aluminum gutters check all of the boxes for those trying to protect their property and look good doing it. Aluminum gutters are also infinitely recyclable so if you do need to replace yours, you can rest assured they can be repurposed.

Choose PJ Fitzpatrick for Aluminum Gutter Installation

PJ Fitzpatrick has been providing gutter replacement, gutter repair, and gutter protection throughout the Delaware Valley for over 40 years. If you’re ready to install new aluminum gutters on your home, give us a call or schedule an estimate today. Our skilled and courteous gutter professionals will inspect your home and go through all of the options with you so that your home can stay protected from water infiltration.

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Shingles Or Vinyl Siding – Which Roofing System Is Best?

Helen White Roofing , , , ,
roofing

roofingIf your roof is leaking, you need the roofing services of a qualified and experienced roofing contractor. The roof is the most expensive part of your home. The damage caused by leaks can cause you to lose your home, your personal belongings, and all of the equipment stored in your home. Leaks can start small and end big – they can start with a small leak in one area and end up with an entire wall leaking water. When you call a professional roofing contractor to come and inspect your roof and see what the problem is, you are taking that step to ensure your home’s continued safety and functionality.

When you have an existing roof, or you just want a brand new roof installation, a roofing company will come out to inspect your home, evaluate the situation, and provide free estimates for roofing replacement. These estimates are generally provided on the spot, and can save you time and money. They can also help you determine the extent of the damage, and let you know the best course of action to take. When you are considering a new roofing installation, you should keep in mind the type of materials used, the amount of wear and tear you may have to endure, and the likelihood of leaks or other damage. You want a quality system, but one that is less likely to cause damage in the future.

Roofing contractors can also recommend commercial grade roofing materials for your residential needs, including high quality roofing shingles. This will reduce the chance of leaks or other damage. Leaks are not the only cause of damage to a roof. Weathering can cause it to crack or bow, and wind damage can cause it to bend and lift off its surface. A qualified roofing contractor can analyze your situation and recommend the best solution for your particular needs, whether it is repairing leaks, replacing damaged shingles, repairing damage or energy efficiency.

There are several types of roofing system. There are roofs that are attached to the home, called gable roofs. There are homes withperimeter-mounted roofs, which rest on the foundation and are known as domino roofs. And there are flat roofs, which are generally not gable or domino, but are attached to the home and sometimes slope to the driveway. All roofs have two layers: the top layer is the structural exterior of the home, which is called the fascia, and the bottom layer is called the sheathing, which is typically made of fiberglass, asphalt or tar paper. The roofing materials used for these systems can vary greatly, as can the choices of materials for the top, bottom and other layers.

It is common for a new roof installation to include the installation of new roofing materials, such as shingles and slate. If your existing roof is weak and prone to leaks, you might want to consider replacement shingles for the entire roof. This is particularly true for older homes, which might have undergone more damage from the weather than newer homes. However, if you live in an area that experiences colder temperatures for part of the year, you might be able to save money by choosing to use slate instead of shingles. Slate is a very durable roofing material that is also fairly easy to install.

If your home has had a recent leak, you may also want to consider vinyl siding. Although this option is often associated with older homes, it can work for new construction as well. Vinyl siding has been proven to be highly resistant to fire. Plus, if you choose this product, you will find it to be highly aesthetically appealing. In fact, many homeowners with homes built in the 1970s have opted for vinyl siding due to the appearance of ease with which they can clean and maintain the product.

If your roofing system has extensive damage, there are a number of steps you can take to ensure the least amount of damage is inflicted on the interior of your home. For example, if your attic or exterior wall has visible damage, you should contact a roofing contractor to identify how the damage was incurred. This information can help you avoid placing materials on the wall in the future that could cause additional damage, such as adding insulation to the wall. In some cases, if the cause of the damage is not clearly identifiable, the roofing contractor may suggest replacing the existing insulation.

Unfortunately, most roofing contractors cannot offer a guarantee on the condition of your roof or your gutters because most leaks occur after years of neglect. If you notice small amounts of water leaking onto your ceiling or walls, you should speak with a professional roofer immediately. He or she can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action to repair the leaks.