Tag: Roofing maintenance

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Roofing

How to install guttering

Gutters channel the water away from your home so that it does not cause damage to your foundation or walls. If your gutters are clogged or need to be replaced, they can end up costing you more in repairs in the long run. You might think that repairing or replacing your guttering yourself is a good option, but this is one project where you can get into more than you imagined, so it might be a good idea to hire a professional. If you decide to do it yourself, here is what you can expect. 

How do you know if your gutters need repairing or replacing?

One of the biggest things that you might be wondering is if you need guttering replacement or whether someone can repair it. The first thing you need to do is determine if your gutters are clogged and require cleaning out. Whether they need to be repaired or replaced, cleaning them is the first step. If you clean your guttering and you find that you still have water leaking from them in a few places, then you might be able to repair it with silicone sealant. If your guttering is corroded, hanging loose, or pulling away from the roof, then it might be time for a replacement. 

The guttering price depends on the type of guttering that you choose and how much you need. Continuous guttering is a popular choice because it comes in various shapes and has a seamless look. If you select this type of guttering, it is also more challenging to install correctly. The average cost for guttering is between $30 to $160 per metre. PVC is the least expensive, with stainless steel being the most costly type. 

Can I install gutters myself?

It is technically possible to install guttering yourself, but you must be licenced to carry out this work in many parts of Australia. Any guttering work that involves drainage work might require a plumber’s licence. Replacing gutters in many parts of Australia is considered a licenced trade. Once the job has been complete, you will often need a compliance certificate for your home records. This means that you are not allowed to do the job yourself, and we do not recommend it. The information in this article is for information only. 

Source: Ultimate Gutter Cleaning

Materials and tools

If you decide to install your gutters despite local regulations, here are a few things that you will need. 

Materials:

  • Guttering material
  • Gutter flashing
  • Hanging straps
  • Elbows
  • Downspouts
  • Rivets
  • Hex head screws
  • Self-tapping hex head screws
  • Sealant approved for outdoor use

Tools:

  • Cordless drill
  • Crimping tool
  • Duckbill tin snips
  • Hex head driver
  • Offset tin snips
  • Pop rivet gun
  • Spirit level 
  • Pencil
  • Appropriate ladder

How to install gutters

Now that you know what you need, it is time to discuss the process. The exact procedure depends on the style of your home. Here are the general steps of the process. 

  • Plans and sketches: The first thing you need to do is draw a sketch of your house and note how much guttering you need. You will also need to know how many things like elbows, hangars, and downspouts. You will need to make a detailed plan of your guttering system. 
  • Remove the old guttering: The first step is to remove the old guttering. You must remove it carefully so that you do not damage the roof or walls beneath.
  • Measure and cut the pieces: It is easier to measure and assemble the guttering on the ground and then install it. You will need to measure the pieces and assemble them on a large work surface. You must know how to notch the guttering properly to join pieces. It is difficult to fix any mistakes that are made in this phase. An accurate measurement can mean having to purchase more guttering and starting over. 
  • Assemble the pieces: Now it is time to assemble the pieces. Most pieces snap together. Use rivets to attach the sections together permanently. You must apply a sealant to the seams to make them watertight.
  • Cut the downspout holes: Next, measure and cut the holes for the downspouts. This must be carried out with precision, or they will not fit properly. Rivet the downspout outlet to the gutters. 
  • Set the slope: Now, use a spirit level to mark the proper slope all around the fascia of the house. 
  • Mount the guttering: Screw the gutter to the fascia, add the gutter flashing, and attach the hangers. Attach the downspout brackets to the house, and assemble the downspout elbows. Rivet the downspouts to the brackets. 

Contact local guttering experts

How to install gutter guards

Gutter guards are an excellent way to keep gutters from becoming clogged with leaves and debris. You must carefully lift the edge of the roofing up with a putty knife so that the gutter guard can be placed underneath it and snapped to the edge of the gutter on the side opposite the house. You will have to mitre the corners and make proper joins. Some guards are fastened to the fascia with screw brackets. 

How to hire a gutter installer

As you can see, there is more to installing guttering than it would seem at first. Even if you were allowed to do it yourself, there are many reasons why you would not want to attempt it, especially being up on a ladder for that amount of time when you are not used to it. Here are a few questions you should ask when hiring a guttering installer. 

  • Are you licenced to install guttering in this state? 
  • What is your experience with the type of home that I have? 
  • What is included in the installation, such as regular cleaning or a similar offer?
Categories
Roofing

Tips for roof cleaning

Many people don’t consider the work that goes into maintaining a roof until there is a problem. It doesn’t hurt to periodically inspect your roof to see if there is anything that needs to be done or if it is holding up under the weather and elements. Having someone look at it can help keep costs down as problems will be detected before they become big issues that will require a lot of money and time to properly fix.

How to clean a roof

Your roof type will determine the best method to clean it. Know what material your roof is made of before you get on it for cleaning. Here are the most common ways to remove built-up algae from your roof:

  • Pressure washing the roof. This will work best when you are dealing with a metal or tiled roof.
  • Chemical washing is best for any type of roof. Make sure it is safe to use with your roof and that it will be effective for your problem.

How to pressure wash it

First, acquire a pressure washer. Consider all the options you have, whether it is to rent or purchase a pressure washer. Once you have the pressure washer, do the following:

  • Start at the peak. This way you will work down and shoot the dirty water off the roof and avoid getting it under the shingles.
  • Do a small area first. Use medium pressure and keep the head about 30cm from the roof. Lower the wand to the roof until you are able to remove the mould and algae. Make sure to not use too much pressure and damage roofing materials.
  • Stand on a dry area while pressure washing. Only stand on areas already clean once you have started as algae becomes very slippery when it is wet.
Take lots of caution when using a high-pressure cleaner on a roof / Source: The Dirt Hunter

Using chemicals

The best option to use when doing chemical cleaning is chlorine. You can also use a weak solution of sodium hydroxide, however this is the more dangerous of the two options. Protect yourself from chemical burns by donning eye and hand protection.

Be safe

  • Have a spotter. If the roof has a steep pitch make sure that you have someone near to watch and get help if necessary.
  • Make sure the chemicals you use will not harm you or the plant life below as you spray it off the roof.
  • Make sure to use minimal pressure with the pressure washer. It will help you control it and will reduce any harm you may do to your roof.

Removing moss 

In addition to adding a rustic and charming look to your roof, moss may actually be damaging your roof. You’ll want to have any visible moss removed as quickly as possible to reduce your chance of roof damage. 

Why should you remove moss?

The damage caused by roof moss actually comes from rain water runoff. Large sections of moss can impede the flow of water from your roof. These sections of moss act like a dam and cause the water to back up under the shingles on your roof. Additionally, These pools of water take longer to dry and reduce the life of your roof. Over time, large patches of moss can cause roof damage and leaks. When you find small patches of moss, it’s a good idea to have them removed before they become larger and start causing these problems.

Contact local roof cleaners

How to remove moss from your roof

While a pressure washer can remove moss from your roof, it can also damage your roof. It’s best to have a professional pressure wash your roof to remove moss to avoid major roof damage. When done right, a high-pressure jet of water will lift the moss from your roof. Done improperly, your roof will be damaged or removed along with the moss.

Another option is to scrub the moss from the roof using a broom or brush with stiff bristles and soapy water. While it’s more difficult to damage your roof while removing moss in this way, it’s also a difficult and slow-going job.

If you catch the moss early enough, you can remove it by treating your roof with a solution of copper sulphate. Simply mix 45 litres of water with 2 kilogrammes of copper sulphate and apply the solution to your roof according to the product’s instructions. This will provide enough solution for an average size roof. However, larger or smaller roofs can adjust this recipe to suit their needs.

Before and after roof cleaning / Source: Maxxy Roofing

Stopping moss growth

The best way to stop moss from growing on your roof is to treat your roof with zinc carbonate on a regular basis. If you don’t feel like mixing up a batch and spraying it on your roof regularly, then you should consider using zinc strips. Simply install zinc strips at special places along your roof and wait for rain. Every time it rains, the zinc strips will release zinc carbonate which will wash over your roof. This reduces the amount of future moss growth with one easy installation.

Should you hire someone to clean your roof?

It’s much safer and easier to hire a professional to clean your roof. Scrubbing your roof by hand from a ladder is a precarious task, and improper use of a pressure washer could remove your roof along with the moss, algae or dirt. Instead, most people opt to hire a professional pressure cleaner or a roof maintenance company. Their experience enables them to remove moss with minimal damage to their roof. They’ll also be able to make recommendations for preventing or slowing future dirt and moss build up.

Categories
Roofing

What are gutter guards?

It seems like no one really worries about their gutters, or thinks that guards are worth it – until it’s too late. Clogged or damaged gutters can have major financial implications if you don’t take the necessary precautions to protect them. Check out our guide below for a look at how you can protect your home’s gutters.

What are gutter guards?

Essentially, gutter protection just refers to installing physical barriers to prevent debris, leaves, insects, and animals from getting into your gutters. The concept is rather simple, since these guards are made up of mesh that can be purchased in rolls.

As you might guess, you can simply place the mesh over your gutters, which will ensure that most debris cannot get through. Leaves, rocks, and litter can all clog up your gutters over time, causing them to be ineffective or even break when it rains and the water is forced to build up. The finer the mesh is in your gutter guards, the less debris can get through.

Gutter guards protect your roof from building up debris and excess water / Source: Powerclean Exteriors

The benefits of gutter guards

There are many benefits of installing gutter guards on your roof.

  1. Maintain water flow: the most important reason is ensuring any water in your gutters can run along the surface seamlessly until it reaches the area where it can safely fall into a drain. When debris builds up, it blocks the water’s path. Blockages can lead to your gutters overflowing when there is a lot of rain. Having too much water sit in one area of your gutter can put extra weight on your house, breaking the gutters, causing stains down the side of the house, damaging your home and its foundations.
  2. Avoid gutter cleaning: With gutter protection, you don’t have to worry about getting onto the roof every six months or less to clean the gutters of debris that is blocking them up. Bonus, you can also save money by not having to hire a professional for this job. You may still need to clean the gutters, but you’ll only have to do it once every few years instead of every six months.
  3. Keep pests and rust at bay: When blockages occur, stagnant water accumulates, attracting mice, cockroaches, spiders, and mosquitoes. With gutter guards, this isn’t such an issue. More than this, gutter guards physically prevent birds, rodents, possums, and the like from getting into your roof space. standing water and wet debris can also attract premature rust.
  4. Water tank win: Water will flow freely through your gutters and downpipes when gutter protection is in place. If you’ve got a rainwater tank, this will ensure that it fills faster. In addition, the water that is collected by the tank will be cleaner as well, since fewer contaminants, leaves, and debris will filter down through the pipes.
  5. Bushfire protection: If you live in any area where bushfires are common, dry materials that build up in your gutters can cause a fire hazard, as travelling embers from nearby fires can light them up. Metal gutter protection, therefore, is important in minimising this build up and eliminating this potential hazard.

Contact local guttering experts

Gutter guard options

In general, a gutter guard will be a mesh made out of aluminium, polypropylene, or stainless steel. The size of the holes in the mesh is just one option to think about as you choose your gutter guards. Consider the types of debris your home seems to be prone to. If you are most worried about larger debris or large pests, such as rats, the mesh you choose does not have to be particularly fine. If it’s small debris you are worried about, you need to select gutter guards with the smallest openings possible.

Most gutter protection is in the form of a thin metal mesh / Source: JK Handyman

You also have a choice when it comes to colours. If you want your gutter guards to be hard to see, you can buy them in the same colours as your gutters. You also have a choice when it comes to the material. The mesh is usually made of metal, such as aluminium or steel, but you can also opt for gutter guards made of nylon or foam. For bushfire protection, be sure to choose the metal mesh rather than the plastic-like material.

Categories
Roofing

What are the different types of gutters?

A good guttering system is vital to any roof, but many homeowners know very little about the gutters that protect their home. In addition, todays gutters can come in a wide range of colours and shapes and can offer both high-profile and low-profile aesthetics for your rooftop.

What are rain gutters?

Rain gutters steer water drainage that comes off your roof away from your house to prevent water damage to the exterior of your home, the foundation of your home, the interior of your home and to your landscaping. Many people don’t realize the importance of rain gutters until it’s too late and the damage is already done. If your home doesn’t have rain gutters, you should consider having them installed to prevent damage to your house.

Source: Francos Bros Roofing

Different types of guttering systems

While all rain gutters are designed to direct water away from your home, they don’t all work the same way. Each type of rain gutter is better for different situations

  • Fascia: Fasica gutters (also known as eaves gutters) combine both the fascia and the gutter, thus eliminating the necessity to install a separate fascia system. Typically installed onto the rafters of the roof, fascia gutters are made from materials such as ColorBond or Zincalume, and can be purchased in a variety of different colours or in a traditional plain finish. They are visible, yet attractive with decorative shapes and are installed on the outside edges of the roof.
  • Box: Box gutters are called this because they’re boxed or positioned into the edge or middle of the roof in a way that is virtually invisible from below. Box gutters are typically made from stainless steel or ColorBond. You need to fit them with an overflow accessory during heavy rains, or the water will accumulate on the roof.
  • Square: Square gutters are square-shaped and are available in different sizes. They’re convenient because they can handle a high deluge of water and are typically made from heavy materials such as Zincalume, galvanised steel or ColorBond. Aesthetically, square gutters are desirable because they come in different colours and offer an attractive-looking profile for your roof.
  • Quad: Quad gutters, also called “D” gutters, are the most popular type of rain gutters. These come in low profile models for small buildings and high profile models for large buildings and work equally well on new homes and older constructions. They’re made of durable materials, such as galvanised or stainless steel, Zincalume or ColorBond, and are made to fit a variety of widths and roof profiles. Quad gutters are either slotted or without slots, but the slotted ones are popular because they’re constructed to handle water overflow.
  • Half round rain gutters: are designed for use in areas that have a lot of trees. These gutters have a “C” shaped base to prevent leaves and other debris from falling into the gutters and clogging them.
  • M-Type rain gutters are designed for use in areas that are subject to a lot of rain. These gutters have overflow slots that prevent the gutters from becoming overloaded with water during heavy downpours.
  • Smooth line rain gutters are an attractive option. These gutters have a flat mounting surface and are half rounded in the front.

Rain gutter materials

Rain gutters are most commonly made of vinyl, aluminium or other types of metal. Here are the advantages to each type of material.

  • Aluminum: is the most popular material for rain gutters. Aluminum is inexpensive, corrosion-resistant, and very lightweight. You can install it yourself if you’re handy. Aluminium rain gutters are available in a wide range of colours to match the exterior of your home.
  • Galvanised steel: Finished with a zinc coating to protect it from corrosion and rust, galvanised steel is very durable and long-lasting. However, it’s not compatible with every type of roofing material. This type requires professional installation
  • Stainless steel: rain gutters are extremely durable and will likely last the lifetime of your home. These rain gutters are expensive and require professional installation.
  • Vinyl: rain gutters are inexpensive and are easy to install yourself.
  • Timber: A timber gutter is a rainwater drainage system installed along the roof’s edge, traditionally made from timber, that channels water to downpipes. They are commonly found in older houses of a specific architectural style and require regular maintenance and periodic painting or sealing to avoid rot and deterioration.
Source: Roof Guard Pty Ltd

To resolve the issue of deteriorating timber fascia boards that can damage the guttering system, homeowners can install metal fascia over timber. Colorbond fascia is a popular choice due to its excellent durability, low maintenance requirements, and range of colours. Metal fascia over timber is easy to install and provides a hassle-free solution that supports the guttering system while adding style and value to the home’s exterior. Installing metal fascia over timber is a durable and long-lasting solution that protects the guttering system while adding an attractive finishing touch to the home.

Buying Rain Gutters

When shopping for rain gutters, keep the types and styles in mind. You want to choose rain gutters that are in your price range, look good on your home and are designed for the weather conditions in your area.

Before you make your choice, decide if you want to install coloured gutters on your roof or if youre content with basic white or black. You’ll also want to decide if you want gutters that can be seen from your roof or if you want to invest in low-profile varieties that are virtually invisible from the front of the house.

Categories
Roofing

The importance and benefits of regular roof maintenance

Maintaining your roof with regularly scheduled checkups can ensure the structure covering your home is stable to keep you and your families safe. Homeowners give importance to roof health, the moment something severe occurs. For instance, there could be water accumulation in the house. And the chances are that the potential damage is already done. Hence, there’s a need for regular roof inspections and maintenance activities.

Regardless of whether you run a high-volume plant or a little boutique business, keeping up appearances and protected property is likely high on your need list. That is the reason such a large number of business and mechanical ventures put resources into intermittent business material upkeep. In any case, there are a higher number of advantages to doing as such than just wellbeing and appearance.

At the point when rooftop spills are not distinguished and tended to in time, they will at last lead to discolouring steel just as debilitating materials, consequently bargaining the auxiliary respectability of the house. Fixing spilling rooftops is generous speculation for property holders. It’s essential to have a proactive support plan for your home or business rooftop by distinguishing and repairing small issues before they become significant problems. Being prepared can also mean that your expenses for new materials. Here are some benefits that Patriot Roofing and Construction, a roofing company in the United States, highlight for systematic and regular roof maintenance.

Dark grey colorbond roof of a single storey house on an overcast day.
A freshly cleaned roof can add extra street appeal to your property / Source: Evolution Gutters & Downpipes

It prevents your roof from the visible wear and tears

With time your roof will undergo ample wear and tear! And it is necessary to inspect it regularly. It would be best if you hire a professional roofer to check your roof when there’s a need for it. Also, getting the roofer for an annual check is essential. Solar energy, wind, snow, and rainstorms usually wear out the roofing materials. Completing essential roof maintenance and repairs will keep you strategically distant from costly fixes and upkeep. It’s imperative to comprehend that most makers of roofing materials put it clearly on their guidelines that inability to do appropriate support could void the guarantee given.

Adds more years to your roof

Roofs are costly and will eventually come towards the end of their lifecycle! But when you deploy the best roof maintenance steps, you can make your roof more durable. It also saves you from investing in new roofs before the end of its lifecycle. Today, the best roofing contractors are available to assist you in providing the best maintenance and upkeep tactics to expand the roof’s lifespan. It would be best if you averted expensive repairs as you sort out major and minor damages with time.

Also, proper roof maintenance helps you to add to the savings as well. You likely don’t contemplate your rooftop except if something turns out badly with it. Tragically, when that you notice something isn’t right, the fix might be costly, or the harm could be broad to such an extent that it is hopeless. At Superior Roofing Company of Georgia, Inc., we realise that there are some valid justifications to enlist a natural material and fix administration to turn out to your home at ordinary interims. With ordinary assistance calls, your home will hold its worth, appearance, and claim.

Aerial view of an orange tiled single storey house with 3 skylights and a cimney
Aerial view of a well-maintained tiled roof / Source: All Roof Repair Pty Ltd

Repairs the damages in perfect time

Almost anything can lead to roof damage! It can occur from strong winds to the tree falling atop the roof! Also, the damages come in every size and shape. Hence, it’s best to repair the same at the earliest. The moment your roof undergoes major or minor damage, roofing repair is essential. If you find tree limbs and branches on the roof, you can eliminate it before its weight results in excess loss.

Helps to clear the fauna and flora from the roof

Having fauna and flora on your roof is a common phenomenon! However, it’s a smart call to get it cleared before the damage. When you find the winds are blowing seeds to the roof, it’s common that a few of them would germinate, in the rainy season. Clearing the greenery from your roof has both functional and aesthetic benefits. The fauna and flora on the roof affect the drainage that, in turn, leads to the debris trapped on the roof tracks. Probably the most significant duty you have as a property holder is ensuring your venture. Even though you may live in a protected neighbourhood, you despite everything need to ensure that each part of your property is up to code.

Removing moisture from the roof

When you eliminate the excess roof moisture, you automatically maintain the roof health! When you say yes to systematic and regular roof inspections, you will have a clean and stable roof. The moisture removal is essential as standing water gives rise to mosquitoes and other germs and bacteria as well. Much the same as everything else, time will in general negatively affect your rooftop, particularly on the off chance that you don’t have it usually assessed. Making meetings with an expert roofer guarantees that the rooftop in our inspections and repairs. Rainstorms, day off, and even sun oriented vitality will, in general, wear out roofing materials so keep in touch with your roofing professional.

Conclusion

These are some of the reasons for which you need to say yes to regular roof maintenance. Make sure you take the guidance from an expert roofing company to leverage the benefits. All mortgage holders will require their homes to expect the best and great structure consistently. Remember maintaining your home’s rooftop will not only make your home look great but ensure it is safe!