We are a local and family owned business founded in Virginia. This means we know all about the extreme humidity and what it can do to your roof. The black streaks on the roof are cause by algae growth. Many homeowners might mistake it for dirt, or mold. The streaking doesn't mean your roof is defective, but it might be a good idea to treat it properly so it doesn't affect your curb appeal.

What is causing the black streaking?

The black streaks running down roofs are actually a hardy algae called gloeocapsa magma. This is commonly found in the warmer, humid parts of the U.S. They develop a dark, hardened outer coating, which results in the black stains that appear on your roof.  

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Can I remove the black streaking from my roof?

When you start to notice the black algae on your roof, you'll want to treat it as soon as you can. If you're looking to sell your home in the future, you will want to make sure your roof looks as good as possible. It is much easier to treat early on, rather than waiting until the stain spreads.  

To reduce the appearance of black algae, create a 1:1 mixture of bleach and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area and let the bleach do its work for about 20 minutes. Depending on how thick or dense your streaking is, you will want to repeat these steps to ensure you clean the area thoroughly. Then spray your roof with lots of water to wash away all of the bleach. Make sure your plants are protected and aren't harmed by the run off. You can water your plants to make sure that any trace of bleach is no longer present.

Do not scrub or use a power washer to clean your roof. This could reduce the lifespan of your roof and ruin your shingles.  

If you do not have experience with roof cleaning or have the correct safety equipment, do not try to treat your roof yourself. Call a professional to clean your shingles for you, so you can avoid those costly mistakes.

Care for your roof

In the process of cleaning your roof, inspect it for any damages. A roof is a vital part of your home and if you have any concerns, call an expert. If you have missing shingles or streaking, they can be repaired for a short time, but it would be wise to replace it if it is old. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of replacing your roof.  

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When searching for the perfect window for your home, there are a lot of things you need to consider. There are so many options out there as far as style, color, and material. We recommend you do your research to determine all of your options. Both Casement and Double hung windows can offer you a much needed upgrade, but which one is going to be right for you?

Double Hung Replacement Windows

Double hung windows – also known as double sash windows – have the ability to move up and down in the frame. A lot of homeowners choose this type of window for their home because the maintenance and ability to operate is very easy. These windows are the most popular type of window, and for good reason.  

• Affordable
• Easy to open due to the spring-loaded balance system
• Failure rate is lower than casement replacement windows
• Low maintenance  
• Adds a stylish look to your home
• Customizable
• Lasts longer than other window options

Our double hung windows can be the perfect fit to your home. We offer a wide range of styles, colors, and materials to make your dream home a reality.

Casement Windows

Casement windows – also known as crank windows – open outwards, while double hung windows slide up and down. These windows provide a great, firm seal on all four sides to keep the drafts out. There are a lot of benefits to casement windows. If you are interested in replacing with an energy efficient window, casement windows are a perfect choice.

• Energy Efficient
• Customizable
• Limits the airflow into your home
• Provides a modern clean style to any contemporary styled home
• No sash that divides the window like with the double-hung option
• Great for temperature control
• Extremely easy windows for opening and closing

These windows are the perfect option for your sunroom, bathroom, sitting room, or kitchen.  

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Style  

Both windows will give you a major upgrade for curb appeal. Both windows are customizable and will give you the option of wood or vinyl, with a variety of colors to choose from. If your home has more of a traditional look, double hung windows might be a great option for you. However, homeowners with a more contemporary aesthetic might choose casement windows to fit their home.

Maintenance

The good news is that both windows are very low maintenance and easy to clean.

Durability

If you live in a more wet climate, you may want to consider double hung as your option for replacement. Casement windows open outwards, so they are more exposed to the elements and will more than likely degrade faster. Double hung windows are in a frame that makes them a little more secure and durable than casement windows.

Energy Efficiency  

When choosing the right window for your home, we understand that energy efficiency might be a priority. Since casement windows are designed to have an airtight seal on all four sides, this would be a great option to consider. However, that doesn't mean that double hung windows lack in energy efficiency. If you are considering double hung windows, we guarantee that you will have that airtight seal on any window you choose.

Interested in replacing your windows?

If you are interested in learning more about what window is right for you, schedule an estimate with one of our Exterior Specialists. We will guide you through the process to make sure you are finding the best windows for your home, wallet, and needs. Schedule your VIRTUAL quote today

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A lot of homeowners are phasing out their asphalt shingles with metal roofing in the country. Not only does metal roofing rarely break, dent, or crack, but it also has a longer lifespan than your conventional asphalt shingles. Although quite rare, metal roofing can still leak when it’s exposed to a variety of different elements of the weather.

One of the main causes of leaks on metal roofing is the improper installation of mountings and sealants. In most cases, leaks on metal roofing can be easily remedied. However, this does not necessarily mean that this is the sole cause of leaks on your roof.

But before we get into what are some preventive measures that we can do, we have to identify why your metal roof is leaking in the first place.

Why Is It Leaking?

Water damage and leaking are the main causes of damage to your roof. The last thing that you want when your roof is leaking is when mildews, molds, and rusting will form on your roof. In some extreme cases, your roof will warp and sad which is a clear indicator that you will need to replace your roof.

Fluctuating Temperature

Compared to non-metal materials like slate tiles, clay, concrete, or even wooden shingles, metal roofing has a higher thermal expansion coefficient. This means that every time that it is exposed to warm weather, it’s bound to expand. Although it won’t expand more than a few centimeters, this will still create gaps in the nails that are being affixed. Moreover, this can also stress out the sealants that are used on the gaps.

Botched-up Installation  

Even a professional can make mistakes from time to time. Since there are numerous ways to install a roof and rivet in the nails and the adhesives of your roof, there’s bound to be some man-made errors and mistakes that can cause leaks to form on your roof. The best way to remove these leaks is to hire a licensed roofer who specialized in metal roofing.

Preventive Measures

When your roof gets to the point were the damage is irreparable and permanent, the best course of action is to replace your roof. Since the process of replacing your roof can be stressful and time-consuming, it’s recommended that you shouldn’t get to this point. Preventing problems from happening is better than having to remedy and repair the problem.

Installing At The Right Time

Most roofing contractors would suggest installing materials and applying sealants during warmer seasons. Naturally, metal is known for expanding and receding when exposed to fluctuating temperatures. When a metal roof expands and recedes in certain conditions, this can lead to roofing cement and sealants stretching out and causing leaks to form. The best course of action is to hire a licensed and qualified roofing contractor that can seal back these damages.

Additionally, sealants that are exposed to colder weather conditions won’t be able to activate as quickly as sealants in warmer conditions. In fact, some sealants will usually more than a few weeks to activate in colder weather.

Impact-resistant Roofing

Although quite rare, hailstorms can also cause punctures on metal roofing. Compared to shingles that are more vulnerable to impacts and hailstorms, metal roofing is more resistant to the effects of impacts. This, however, does not guarantee that your roof is already immune to damages from hailstorms. One of the best ways to mitigate damages on your roof and your home is to find roofing materials that are impact-resistant. Shingles and metal roofing with a UL 2218 standard are quite resistant to the effects of impacts.

It’s also recommended that you install snow guards if your home is situated in colder parts of the country. Since roofs are susceptible to shifts in weight which can cause leaks to form, having snow guards can help equalize the weight on your roof.

The Right Contractor

Lastly, it’s paramount that we have the right roofing contractor for the job. Most data have shown that leaks that do form on metal roofing are caused by the improper installation of nails, seals, and other mountings of your roof. Having a seasoned and experienced contractor can ensure that any future damages to your roof are mitigated.  

If you’re new to the industry, you can start out by asking questions and doing your own research on the services that a roofing contractor can offer. It’s highly recommended that you don’t hire the first contractor that offers a deal to you; knowing your contractor should be a priority over anything else. After you have contacted a dozen contractors, you will now have a bigger picture of the industry and you will be able to plan on your roof’s installation or replacement.

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You might notice that most residential homes will have an extra gap that’s protruding out from the roof. An eave is simply the lower edge of a roof that projects beyond the face of the wall. While it might look like a part of a roof that does not serve any purpose other than being aesthetic, eaves play an integral role in keeping your roof and your home’s foundations dry.

Historically, the word itself springs from an Old English ‘efes’ which translates to the word border in the standard English language that we know today. But before anything else, what are eaves and what is its primary function?

What Are Eaves?

Eaves evolved into one of the most common words that we know today – eavesdrop, which was coined from the sound that raindrops make when it passes through the eaves onto the ground. It is also said that one can only hear the sound when he or she happens to be standing too close to the house itself, hearing other private conversations as well.

Aside from its beauty, eaves also serve a practical function as it serves as the intersection point of your roof and attic. This means that it provides a place for insulation just as long as it does not hinder other parts of the roof from doing its purpose. Furthermore, it has a crucial role as it protects the foundation of the overall structure which means that it keeps the moist and cold temperature away from your entire home as it serves between the barrier between your walls and overhangs. It also serves as extra protection for windows as it casts its shadows over it during the changing weather helps maintain the internal balance of your home.

How Is It Built?

It is very important that your home is built with symmetry and that is why the dimensions of your eave should be in proportions with the pitch of the roof. Though roofs are built to be strong to protect you from external factors such as rain and debris, it is just as important to consider the maximum weight that it can support because this determines the way your home system is built.

In general, the steepness of the roof usually requires a narrower eave and vice versa while retaining height of 45% angle to maximize the amount of heat and water that is blocked while allowing sunlight to penetrate your home. If you happen to live in an area wherein it constantly snows, this also works well for you because it allows heat to enter your home without compromising on the eaves’ functionality.

Is it Necessary?

Aside from the aforementioned reasons above, eaves can also be a foundation for a channel to be installed along the sides. This can help lessen the extra weight that tends to accumulate on the roof during the rainy season as it guides where the water should flow and hence encourage proper drainage.

It can, in turn, prevent leaks on the wall since water is now contained in the channels instead of dripping out on the sides where moisture can reside and cause your home materials to decay.  With the water that is properly disposed of, it saves your lawn from turning into mud.

Most homeowners who use a gutter usually store the rainwater to their tanks which helps them reduce their usual consumption which can be beneficial as it serves as a wise financial and environmental investment. The water can be used to flush toilets, water the plants and clean your cars without worrying about the bills.

However, not all houses are built with eaves and that is why some homeowners opt for awnings to provide an extra layer of shade.

Types of Eaves

If you’re not familiar with housing, an eave can come in three different forms: it can be closed, open or boxed. A close eave usually has no roof overhang or side extensions to it while an open eave has the opposite and oftentimes allows its roof beams and brackets to be seen. The third one, which is a boxed-eave, is commonly enclosed with a soffit which is its horizontal underside.

Though it is not necessary, a lot of homeowners go the extra mile by widening their respective eaves so that they can place decorative brackets either in classical style or modern touch to it. With the wide array of designs to choose from, your options can seem limitless at this point.

Either way, this is a sure way to catch anyone’s attention Make sure to reach out to your local roofing contractors to see which type of eaves work best with your home’s current condition. In addition, it also pays to understand how these changes – whether for decorative or practical purposes – may affect the home you’ve always envisioned.

Flat roofs are getting increasingly popular among homes and commercial establishments in urban areas. Compared to gable shaped roofs, flat roofs have a unique set of characteristics and a more modernist approach to roofing. However, flat roofs are also vulnerable to ponding, which can be caused by a multitude of different reasons. In most cases, building owners will just let this be, but in the long-run, this could pose serious problems to your flat roof.

But before we get into how we can remedy the issue of ponding on our roof, we have to discuss the effects of ponding. By doing so, we will be able to root out the problem.

Long-term Effects

Sure, a little puddle of rain on your flat rooftop won’t hurt, but in the long run, you’ll be facing with problems. These are the long term effects of ponding on your roof.

Leaks

One of the main causes of damages to roofs is in the form of leaks. If left unattended, leaks could become a major problem for roofs since it will create a wider corridor for water to enter in. Moreover, leaks can lead to several other problems which can also erode the foundations of your home as soon as it seeps inside your roof’s interiors.

Growing Vegetation

One of the more serious tell-tale forms of damages to your roof is growing vegetation. No, we’re not talking about green eco-friendly roofs; we’re talking about harmful fungal and organic growths. Water and moisture are the main catalysts in the growth of molds, mildews, and mosses on your roof which can accelerate the rotting process of wooden beams and other supporting structures on your roof. These organic growths can compromise the integrity of your roof, especially when left unchecked.

If you see mosses, molds, or any form of rotting on your support beams, you should contact your local roofing contractor as soon as possible.

Accumulated Weight

Home and building owners should never ignore water that’s ponding on a roof. Not only will this shorten the lifespan of your roof, but it will accumulate as additional weight. In most cases, the support for flat roofing will be able to take on around 600 – 1000 pounds; anything more than that can place stress on your roof’s supporting structures.

These roofing problems can ultimately lead to a shortened lifespan of your roof. Once the damages to your roof have reached to the point of permanent and irreparable damage, the only best course of action is to replace your roof. Replacing a roof can be an investment that will set you back time-wise and financially. Not only are you spending a week on average in installing a new roof, but you’re also going to be spending thousands of dollars on new materials. It’s best not to get to this point while your roof is still in good condition.

Fixing And Preventing Ponding

Now that we know what are the long-term effects of water damage from ponding on our flat roofs, we have to make the necessary preparations in mitigating any forms of damages. As to what we have discussed previously, prevention is better than getting to the point of permanent damage on your roofs.

Fixing The Lowest Point

Normally, water will always flow towards the lowest part of your roof. This is usually called the ‘low spot’ by most roofing contractors when they’re working on flat roofs. Water will usually pond in this certain area.

You can have a roofing contractor fill up the depression with rolled-up asphalt roofing. First, you’ll need to dry out the puddle before applying a thin sheet of roofing cement. Then, place the asphalt roofing on the center of the low spot while pressing it firmly.

If you’re not up for the task, you can always ask a roofing professional to plaster your roof for you. The roofer will have the necessary tools to fill the low spot and adhere to the slope of your roof.

Fixing Your Drainage System

Another cause of water ponding on your roof is that the drainage system or your gutter system has been clogged. You can have a roofing specialist look into your drainage system. It’s best to keep a constant eye on your drainage pipes year-round to reduce damages from leaks and ponding.

If there are trees near your roof, it’s recommended that you keep the foliage of these trees at a distance from your roof since dead leaves, branches, and other debris could clog up your drainage system.

Adjusting The Pitch

Normally, flat roofs are installed with at least a pitch of 0.5/12 or 1/12 just to make sure that the water will flow towards one direction of the roof. There are some cases that contractors don’t put this into account and would install a roof without a pitch. If this is the case, then there is a serious problem and you should contact your roofing contractor as soon as possible.  

However, there is a remedy to this problem and most contractors will offer the solution of having tapered insulation to provide a slope to your flat roof. These aren’t the cheapest solution, but this will help you save money in the long run when you won’t need to replace your roof.

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