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Roof Education
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The Roof over your head is more than just shingles – it’s a complex system of different elements that work together to keep your home or business weatherproof, comfortable, and energy efficient. While Roofs can be constructed in a variety of forms and materials, there is more to choosing a roof than just color and style. Budget, practical site restrictions, and the look you are trying to achieve can help you decide what Roof solution is right for you.
To help you envision your new roof or prioritize repairs on your existing roof, take a look at these diagrams describing some basic roof concepts. For more detailed information or answers to any specific questions you might have give us a call at 250-474-1519. We can explain different roofing systems and go through your options for repair or replacement. We also offer free estimates and would be happy to come take a look at your project.
STAY AWAY FROM ROOFING SCAMS
6 Tips for Choosing the Right Contractor
Your roof is a major part of the safety and security of your home, and repairing or replacing your roof is a big decision. Hiring a reputable and trustworthy company can give you peace of mind and confidence that the job will get done right. Here are 6 tips for choosing the right contractor for your job:
- Ask for Referrals from friends and family or others you trust.
- Don’t sign documents or pay any deposits until you’ve chosen the contractor. Avoid door to door solicitors offering to give you a deal, especially if they want you to make a decision immediately.
- Research the companies reputation. Check out their standing with the Better Business Bureau, look at their online reviews such as on Google and Facebook, and ask the company if they can provide references from past clients.
- Confirm the company is licensed, has liability insurance, and is in good standing with WCB. A licensed contractor is certified that they are qualified to do the job. You can request proof by asking for a copy of their industry certification, liability insurance certificate and a WCB clearance letter.
- If a contractor claims to be a part of a larger company, confirm with the larger company that this contractor is qualified and covered under their insurances and WCB.
- Get your estimate in writing, making sure the cost of the project as well as details about the warranty policy are included.
IS MOSS BAD FOR YOUR ROOF?
WHAT TO DO WHEN MOSS ATTACKS
Should you be concerned about Moss growing on your roof? For the most part, it’s not really a problem, but yes, it is bad for your roof. Here in our cool, wet, west coast climate, mossy roofs are very common.
The biggest problem with moss growing on your roof is around all the protrusions such as skylights, chimneys, plumbing and vents. Moss can cause a dam and then water will find it’s way in. Because moss absorbs a lot of water, it can cause rot from constant moisture, not to mention the additional weight from the heavy spongy wet moss that your roof was not meant to bear. Also, moss can grow under tiles and shingles, pushing them up creating damage and homes for pests.
The best way to protect your roof from moss is to prevent it in the first place. Keep your roof clear of debris such as branches, leaves and existing moss. Keep your gutters cleared, as moss thrives in moisture and can grow up from the gutters. And, apply a moss preventative treatment. If you’ve already got a mossy roof, first you’ll need to remove the moss and then follow a regular roof maintenance regime.
Moss must be removed from your roof gently. If moss is not removed gently you could ruin the condition of the roof rather than improve it. By removing the moss gently, you keep from removing the granules which are attached to the asphalt. When the granules are removed from the asphalt the shingle is exposed to the UV and they will break down much faster.
If you are going to have the moss removed by a professional or do it yourself, keep the following tips in mind:
- Don’t use a power-washer with a lot of extra power
- Don’t shoot the power-washer under the shingles, shoot above the shingles down toward the gutters edge
- Don’t use a course broom that could agitate the granules to come off the shingles, use a softer broom to roll off the moss balls
- Make sure to use the proper moss treatment depending on your roof material
Regular maintenance such as clearing your roof and applying moss preventative treatments are the best way to keep your roof in good condition, but it must be done properly to avoid causing problems and damaging your roof. If you are concerned about the Moss on your roof, give us a call and we would be happy to come take a look.