When it comes to enhancing natural light in your home, the choice often comes down to sun tunnels and skylights. Both options offer unique benefits and can transform a dimly lit space into a vibrant, inviting environment. However, understanding the differences between these two solutions is essential for making an informed decision.
Sun tunnels, known for their compact design and efficiency, contrast sharply with the larger, more open skylights. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between sun tunnels and skylights, helping you make an informed decision about which option best suits your home and lifestyle.
Sun tunnels, also known as tubular daylighting devices (TDDs), are innovative structures designed to capture sunlight from the roof and funnel it into interior spaces. They consist of a rooftop dome, a reflective tube, and a diffuser that disperses the natural light evenly into the room. Sun tunnels are particularly useful in spaces where traditional windows or skylights are impractical or impossible to install.
Sun tunnels utilize advanced reflective materials to maximize the amount of sunlight they capture. The rooftop dome acts as a light collector, capturing daylight from various angles throughout the day. The sunlight is then directed down the reflective tube and diffused into the room through the diffuser, providing a soft, natural glow.
Skylights are windows installed on the roof or ceiling of a building to allow direct sunlight into the interior spaces below. They come in various shapes and sizes, offering different design options to suit architectural preferences and lighting requirements.
Both are roof penetrations that allow for light into your home. Skylights are larger and take longer to install; their installation involves two large holes in your roof and ceiling. Sun tunnels are a much smaller footprint on your home, but they also provide much less light. Also, it’s worth keeping in mind that there are two different types of skylights and sun tunnels.
Skylights are either fixed or vented. Fixed are sealed to your roof, while vented let in fresh air along with natural light. Sun tunnels are either flexible or rigid; this really only has to do with their installation and not their performance. Fixed sun tunnels are used if a straight shot from the ceiling to the roof is possible, while flexible is used if there is some obstruction in the way.
The installation process for skylights begins with careful planning and measurement. Once the location is determined, a frame is created where the skylight is attached securely to the roof structure.
After ensuring proper sealing, the finishing touches are added, allowing the skylights open to provide natural light and ventilation effectively.
The cost of installing sun tunnels varies depending on factors such as location, materials, and installation complexity. Generally, homeowners can expect to spend between $500 and $2,500. This price includes both the tunnel and professional installation fees, ensuring optimal performance and aesthetic appeal.
Additional expenses may arise for roofing modifications or accessories like solar-powered fans. However, the long-term benefits of natural lighting and reduced energy costs often outweigh the initial investment.
Installation costs can vary significantly due to several key factors. One major factor is the complexity of the project, which can increase labor time and material requirements. Additionally, location plays a crucial role, as remote areas may incur higher transportation costs.
Another important aspect is the type of materials used; premium materials typically lead to higher expenses. Lastly, the experience of the contractor can impact costs, as skilled professionals may charge more for their expertise.
As mentioned earlier, sun tunnels are easier to install. This is because you only need to cut two relatively small holes in your roof and fit a premade tube into those holes. From there, an acrylic dome is sealed onto your roof and a light diffuser to place on your ceiling. A skylight, however, needs two large holes in your ceiling and roof that will be unique to your home and will need to be refinished by a painter once the job is done. This is why a sun tunnel will take two professionals about 3 hours to complete, while skylights could take as long as a week.
Consider a skylight as a window incorporated into your ceiling, whereas a sun tunnel functions more like a reflective tube that captures sunlight. In simple terms, a skylight will permit significantly more light to enter. This is why skylights are the favored option if you aim to brighten a dim space in your house.
When considering the best locations for skylights, the roof of your home is a prime spot to enhance natural light. For tighter spaces, solar tubes are an excellent alternative, as they resemble tunnels and are generally more budget-friendly. Ultimately, the choice for your home should focus on maximizing brightness.
Sun tunnels are an ideal choice for areas where natural light is needed but space is limited. Unlike traditional skylights, solar tubes are generally more budget-friendly, making them accessible for various projects.
These innovative solutions can brighten up hallways, closets, and bathrooms, providing an effective way to enhance interior spaces. A skylight lets in expansive views, while sun tunnels focus on maximizing light without compromising structural integrity.
When selecting roof and ceiling types, light sources play a crucial role. Incorporating solar tubes and skylights can significantly enhance natural lighting while improving energy efficiency.
Moreover, for those on a tighter budget, tunnels are generally more budget-friendly options, allowing for adequate illumination without the higher costs associated with traditional windows.
Understanding energy efficiency in skylights is crucial for optimizing natural light while minimizing heat loss. Proper installation and selection of materials can enhance insulation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and heating. Additionally, integrating energy-efficient technologies, like low-emissivity glazing, can further improve performance and sustainability in residential and commercial spaces.
Sun tunnels are innovative structures that harness natural light, significantly reducing the need for artificial lighting. By channeling sunlight into interior spaces, they create bright environments while minimizing energy consumption.
This reduction in reliance on electricity leads to lower utility bills and a smaller carbon footprint, contributing to overall energy savings.
Natural light into your home significantly enhances your living space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. By maximizing daylight, you can reduce reliance on artificial lighting, leading to energy savings.
Additionally, a skylight is a good investment for increasing natural light, as it brings sunlight directly from above, brightening rooms and improving mood.
Maintaining your skylight is essential for maximizing its benefits. When installing a skylight or a sun tunnel, it's crucial to consider factors like heat gain in the summer and the amount of light they bring into your home. A traditional skylight might let in much light, while solar tubes can be a more efficient option.
Choosing the right option between a skylight and a sun tunnel involves understanding the pros and cons. Sun tunnels are generally easier to install than a traditional skylight. However, both can effectively bring natural light into spaces like a hallway or a closet while enhancing your light fixture choices.
Furthermore, proper maintenance can help you avoid the issues that skylights aren’t immune to, such as leaks or damage to the roofing material. Utilizing solar tax credits for a new skylight or adding a skylight or sun tunnel can also be beneficial for energy efficiency and aesthetics. Always consult a skilled installer for optimal results.
Sun tunnels may be easier to install than a sun tunnel and are often more budget-friendly. They effectively bring light into the room, adding natural light to your home while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Unlike traditional skylight installation, solar tubes focus on funneling natural light without the need for extensive modifications.
Although skylights come with ventilation options, skylights cannot always provide the same efficiency as sun tunnels. Understanding what's the difference helps homeowners choose wisely. A skylight is a window that lets light in, while sun tubes are designed to let light in through a reflective tube, maximizing benefits of natural light.
To ensure optimal performance, regular care and maintenance for sun tunnels is essential, especially during summer and heat loss seasons. Using a blind can help control brightness, while the installation of sun tunnels guarantees a flexible approach to adding more natural light to your space.
Common issues in homes often include inadequate lighting and ventilation. Skylights can provide natural light and fresh air into your home. When choosing a skylight, consider whether a big skylight or a flexible sun is best suited for your space.
For more affordable options, installing a sun tunnel is a good alternative. Sun tunnels take a fraction of the cost of traditional skylights, making them a practical choice for bringing light to a room without creating a hole in the roof.
Understanding the difference between a skylight and a sun tunnel is essential. While rigid sun tunnels provide direct sunlight, they may not allow heat loss in the winter to be minimized as effectively as some skylights.
Ultimately, both options can help you effectively turn off the light during the day while ensuring your home is bright and airy. To complete the installation, consult with professionals for best results.
If you want natural light in your home, it is better to get a skylight. Sun tunnels are great when you want sunlight in sections of your home that would not allow for a skylight. However, they do not provide the type of light that a skylight can. While they are more expensive and take longer to install, skylights simply work a lot better for what they have to do than a sun tunnel.IBEX Roof offers installation services and repairs for skylights and sun tunnels to improve natural lighting in homes around Vancouver and Portland. If you’re still not sure whether a skylight or sun tunnel is better for your needs, give us a call. Our skylight experts would be happy to point you in the right direction.
Have you ever wished that your house had more natural light shining through? Then sun tunnels are the perfect addition to your home. Let’s break down what they are, how they work, their installation cost, and when to replace them.
Sun tunnels, or solar tubes, are metal tubes that are fitted to your home through holes cut into your ceiling and roof. They are meant to allow natural light into places that are situated in the middle of your home and are usually dark. There are two types of sun tunnels: flexible and rigid.
Flexible sun tunnels are used when there are things between the roof and ceiling that do not allow for a straight shot. Rigid sun tunnels are used when there is nothing between the roof and ceiling and a straight shot is possible. Both permit the same amount of natural light into your home, only the installation is mildly different.
Sun Tunnels are basically polished metal tubes that work like mirrors to shoot sunlight from the roof into your home. It all starts with the acrylic dome, which captures and magnifies the light from the sun. It is then shot down the polished metal tube to the light diffuser in your ceiling. This light diffuser is not as strong as direct sunlight but will still give any room a pleasant natural light.
The purpose of the diffuser is to disperse the light evenly throughout the room, creating a natural and pleasant lighting effect. Sun tunnels are a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to bring sunlight to areas that would otherwise remain dim. They can enhance the atmosphere and make a room feel more spacious and inviting.
Sun tunnels, also known as tubular skylights, are a great way to bring natural light into your home. Unlike traditional skylights, which are typically large windows installed in the roof, sun tunnels are smaller and more discreet. They consist of a tubular form that extends from the roof to the desired room, such as a bathroom, closet, or hallway.
The tubular structure captures sunlight through a small roof-mounted dome and channels it down the tube, dispersing the natural light into the room below. Installing a sun tunnel is a cost-effective and energy-efficient way to brighten up dark areas in your home without the need for electricity.
Moreover, sun tunnels also offer additional benefits such as adequate ventilation, reducing the dependency on artificial lighting during daylight hours, and providing a pleasant and healthier living environment. With their easy installation process and ability to bring natural light into areas that traditional windows cannot reach, sun tunnels are a popular choice for homeowners looking to maximize natural lighting in their homes.
Your local roofer should be able to install a sun tunnel in 2 to 3 hours with a two-person crew, regardless of whether it is rigid or flexible. The process starts with cutting a hole in your roof and ceiling. The metal tube will then be fitted so that no water or other debris can squeeze into your home. Once that is installed, your roofer will install the acrylic dome on the roof and the light diffuser on your ceiling. Depending on the quality of sun tunnel you get, this installation should only cost you between $500 to $1,000.
The cost of a sun tunnel can vary depending on several factors. The size and type of sun tunnel you choose will have an impact on the overall cost. Additionally, the materials used in the construction of the sun tunnel can influence the price. Sun tunnels made with high-quality materials such as acrylic tend to be more expensive than those made with cheaper alternatives. Another factor to consider is the presence of a light diffuser. Some sun tunnels come with a built-in diffuser, while others may require an additional purchase.
The installation process will also contribute to the overall cost. If you hire professionals to install the sun tunnel, you can expect to pay more compared to a DIY installation. Lastly, the type of roof you have may affect the installation process and therefore the cost. It's always best to consult with a professional to accurately determine the cost of installing a sun tunnel in your specific situation.
When it comes to bringing natural light into your home, there are a few options to consider, including skylights and sun tunnels. Both options have their own benefits and it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Skylights are windows that are installed into the roof, allowing natural light to enter a room from above. They come in various sizes and can provide a significant amount of natural light, brightening up any space. On the other hand, sun tunnels are tubular structures that are installed in the roof and direct sunlight into a hallway or room. They are great for smaller spaces and can bring natural light into areas that may not have access to windows, such as a closet or hallway.
One popular brand of skylights is Velux skylights, known for their high-quality installations. Whether you choose a skylight or sun tunnel, both options will help to brighten up your home and bring in much-needed natural light.
Sun tunnels are a popular alternative to traditional skylights for bringing natural light into dark spaces. However, one common concern is whether sun tunnels leak. The answer to this question depends on the quality of the installation and the materials used. When properly installed by a professional installer, sun tunnels should not leak. It is important to choose a reputable installer who has experience with sun tunnels and can ensure a proper installation.
The roof needs to be properly prepared to accommodate the sun tunnel and ensure a watertight seal. Velux is a well-known brand that offers high-quality sun tunnel products, such as the Velux Sun Tunnel. Velux sun tunnels are designed to prevent leaks and come with a warranty for added peace of mind. With a reliable installer and quality products like Velux sun tunnels, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of natural light without the worry of leaks.
A well-installed sun tunnel could last as long as your roof does, as long as you properly care and maintain it. Your acrylic dome should last around ten years, while your light diffuser can go as long as twenty. Note that your light diffuser will have to be regularly cleaned, especially if it is located in the kitchen. The most common problem that people run into that could lead to a full replacement is water leakage. This tends to happen when your sun tunnel is improperly installed, or there is a crack in your acrylic dome. Caught early enough, and this should not be a major problem, so be sure to keep an eye out for water droplets or discoloration near your light diffuser.
If you’re unsure whether or not your sun tunnel needs repair or replacement, give IBEX Roof a call. We have been installing and repairing skylights and sun tunnels for customers for years. We can advise you on the most cost-effective way to keep your roof functioning while also looking good.
Ideally, you should never see the nails on your roof. Properly installed nails should be flush to the shingle they are inserted into and covered by the shingle above them. The ensures that they are secure and unseen. Over time, however, even correctly installed nails can become exposed, usually from severe weather conditions. While it may not sound like much, these exposed roof nails can cause havoc to your roof and home.
One of the most common ways that roof nails get exposed is by harsh weather. When shingles come loose because of high winds or heavy snow, they often leave their nails behind. While this should not be a problem for a well-installed roof, this can happen fairly often if a nail is overdriven into a shingle or placed in the wrong spot. Also, improperly nailed shingles can void a manufacturer’s warranty on a roof. Once you notice the exposed nails ruining your home, you may not be able to cash in your warranty.
Another way for nails to get exposed is when a contractor repairs a part of your roof by simply nailing shingles over the damaged sections instead of taking the time to fit them under the preexisting shingles. Under this new section of roof will be exposed nails that could be letting moisture in.
The enemy of any roof is water. If water is allowed into your roof, rot and mold are bound to follow it. This can cause significant problems that will be costly to fix. Simply put, an unaddressed exposed nail will let water in eventually. They let water in because once they are exposed, they are liable to rust away, and once they do, you are left with a hole in your roof. This is why it is so important to spot exposed nails and deal with them before they can endanger your home. Even one exposed nail can lead to water damage.
If you suspect exposed nails or other nail-related issues with your roof, give IBEX Roof a call. We can send someone over to take a look at your roof. Once we have evaluated your roof, we can make the proper recommendations on how to best repair your roof. In most cases, a simple repair can be done, but there is the possibility that you will have to totally replace your roof if the damage is extensive enough. This is another reason why it is so important to identify exposed nails early and take care of them before they become dangerous.
Unsurprisingly, it’s never ideal to have a moss garden (or any greenery!) growing on your roof. A common way to avoid or clean moss on roofs is by installing zinc strips. On paper, zinc strips sound like the perfect solution to keeping your roof moss-free. But while it may keep the moss off your roof, it could be letting water in. Today, we’ll dive into the benefits and disadvantages of zinc strips and some better alternatives.
Zinc strips are metal sheets that are installed onto your roof just below the ridgeline. Zinc is poisonous to algae, moss, lichen, fungus, and mold, making it ideal for keeping those pesky plants off your roof. It is installed just below the ridge of your roof. When rain falls, it will hit the zinc strip and carry tiny particles of zinc all the way down your roof, effectively killing anything plantlife it touches. They are sold in rolls of 50 feet and have to be installed at least every 15 feet for them to operate effectively.
Any harsh chemicals can quickly deteriorate your roof and greatly reduce its service life. The most significant problem with zinc strips is that they are only effective for 5 to 8 years. Afterward, you will have to rip them out and install brand new ones. Not only is this costly and time-consuming, but it can leave nasty nail holes in your roof. Furthermore, because they are installed under the shingles, they have a tendency to work nails out of their holes. When they eventually warp, they allow water to squeeze between shingle and deck, leading to even more water damage. This potential damage greatly outways the cost of getting your roof cleaned on a yearly basis. Zinc is also toxic to fish, making it extremely environmentally hazardous in coastal regions.
There are plenty of services out there to keep your roof clean and free of plants. Our goal at IBEX Roof is to maintain the integrity of your roof so that it lasts as long as possible. We have a two-phase moss removal process that involves treating your roof with a solution that will not cause damage to your roof. We then wait about one to two months to let the moss die off naturally before coming back for a final cleaning phase. While this process takes some time, we promise it’s worth it for a beautiful and reliable roof.
If your roof happens to be more susceptible to moss and algae growth, consider an annual cleaning plan. Our team at IBEX Roof can work with you to come up with a plan to ensure your roof looks great and lasts longer. Don’t wait until your roof becomes a “green roof” to consider a thorough roof cleaning. No matter what roofing issues you have, from maintenance to repairs to replacement, IBEX Roof is on top of it.
We’re a few weeks into spring, have you scheduled your spring roof inspection, yet? An annual roof inspection is a simple yet effective way to stay on top of your roof’s health. Early spring and late fall are two of the best times to get a roof inspection.
If you didn’t get a chance to inspect your roof before last winter, now is an opportune time to get your roof checked out. We don’t get too much snow or ice dams around here, but making sure your roof survived the cooler season and is ready for the warmer seasons is always ideal.
In the spring cleaning mood? As part of general roofing maintenance, it’s always a good idea to clean your roof and gutter systems, as well. We know it’s not always easy to prioritize your roof when everything seems to be working, but even just setting aside an hour a week to tackle a small part of your roof care can extend the life of your roof.
In addition to scheduling your spring roof inspection, here are a few articles so that you can stay on top of your roof’s care without breaking a sweat.
IBEX Roof’s Spring Inspection Checklist
Is Roof Cleaning Really Necessary?
Common Gutter Cleaning Mistakes
The Right Time for a Gutter Replacement
The Best Way to Remove Mold from Your Roof
Homeowners can partially evaluate their own roof by going to the attic and checking for signs of moisture. However, we never recommend our customers or any homeowners climb their own roof to inspect it. Roof damage is often undetectable from the ground or with the untrained eye, so it’s best to leave the roof inspecting to a roofing professional. We have the training and safety equipment needed to thoroughly evaluate your roof.
If you suspect something is not quite right with your roof, give our team a call today. We will thoroughly assess your view and provide you with the most cost-effective advice to ensure a safe and reliable roof.
Let’s set the scene: you’ve just installed a brand new roof and it’s about to be tested by its first big storm. This should be a piece of cake for a properly installed roof, but before your know it, there seem to be water leaks all over. Shingles are blowing in your yard. Unfortunately, your roof was improperly installed and you are faced with two options. Option one is a long journey of endless repairs until you eventually have to totally replace your roof. Option two is to tear off your newly installed roof and replace it once again.
If any part of your roof was installed improperly by an inexperienced or unknowing contractor, your whole house could be in jeopardy. This danger will become apparent the first time it rains. There are three main reasons how your roof was installed improperly, and all of them can be very destructive.
Though often overlooked, ventilation is an essential part of any roof. Roof ventilation is made up of multiple intake and exhaust vents that make sure your attic is not getting too hot or cold. If your roof has an inadequate ventilation system, cold and hot air gets trapped in your home, leading to moisture buildup. This moisture buildup can cause your home severe damage. If bad enough can mean you will have to replace your band new roof in as little as 2 years. Improperly ventilated roofs can also void a manufacturer’s warranty, meaning you’ll be paying full price for your contractor’s mistake.
While it may seem trivial, nails have to be driven into a roof correctly or serious problems will occur. For example, if your shingles are lifted or your nail heads are laying sideways, your roof was poorly nailed. This can lead to water damage. If your shingles were not nailed on the nail line, then your manufacturer’s warranty will be void.
Unsurprisingly, if your roof is installed during bad weather, it will not last as long as it should. Any roof that is installed during rain or snow will allow dangerous moisture to enter under your shingles and rot out your roof. Roofs should be installed on dry, warm days.
The problems that come with a poorly installed roof greatly outweigh the headache of just getting a new one. An improperly installed roof can lead to water leaks, rot, and structural damage to the rest of your home. In the long run, a full replacement will save you cash on repairs and your roof will last longer. In addition, your warranties will not be in jeopardy with a well-installed roof if something bad happens. But most importantly, you will have the peace of mind that your roof is prepared for the elements. While it is a colossal pain to have to replace your brand new roof, it’s worth finding a new contractor to fix the problem before your house really gets damaged.
IBEX Roof is a manufacturer-certified roofing company that has the knowledge, experience, and accreditations to back up our roofing expertise and workmanship. We have worked with many homeowners who have had improperly installed roofs from other contractors. It’s always an unfortunate situation, but replacing an improperly installed roof sooner than later will always be the safest option for the rest of your home. If you suspect your roof was improperly installed, give our team a call.
There are many ways to ventilate your home and one of the most common is with a box vent. That said, your choice of box vent is essential when it comes to the preservation of your roof and your home along with it. Installing the wrong box vent could lead to dangerous leaks and unnecessary repair costs.
Box vents are square-shaped exhaust vents made for expelling hot air from your home. They are installed high on your roof but not on the ridge. They are non-mechanical, meaning they rely on natural airflow and wind to rid your home of hot air. Most roofs will require multiple box vents to ensure that no dangerous hot air remains in your attic. Their ability to be placed anywhere on a roof makes them ideal for houses with complicated roofing systems where ridge vents may not be feasible.
Ventilation is an often-overlooked element when one is thinking about building a home or even replacing a roof. Just like a person, a house needs to be able to breathe to remain healthy. Fresh air must be coming in while dirty air is expelled. Box vents work on the latter side and ensure that no hot, polluted air is contaminating your home. Without this exhaust system, your home would be exposed to leaks, roof damage, peeling paint, and an overburdened HVAC system. Not to mention unhealthy air quality for you to breathe, too.
Many places will try to sell you on why a plastic box vent is the way to go because it is cheap and allegedly less likely to dent than a metal box vent. While this is true — a metal box vent will cost around fifteen dollars more than your typical plastic vent and metal may dent when impacted — the key is that metal does not crack as easily as plastic.
The biggest flaw in plastic box vents is their ability to crack. Large hail may dent a metal vent, but it will not destroy its ability to function. A cracked plastic vent will succumb to the elements, particularly in the winter. In the summer, however, plastic has the tendency to curl and discolor. This not only allows for debris and water to get into your home but also stands out as an ugly blemish on your roof.
The simple fact is that a plastic box vent is built to last around 10 to 15 years. A metal vent built out of aluminum can easily last as long as 50 years. This means that it will most likely outlive your roof since it is recyclable and can be used on your next roof. Yes, metal box vents are more expensive than plastic, but if you want your vent to beat the elements, then they are the superior way to go.
Patching holes is a common roof repair that is important to get done as soon as you realize there is a problem. You may notice there is something wrong if there’s a leak in your home and your drywall is wet. Holes in your roof can also lead to pest infestations, which, over time, can get worse if not fixed. Here’s what you need to know if you’re trying to patch a roof hole.
Some roof repairs may seem simple enough that you may want to try fixing it yourself. If you are proficiently handy around the house, you could try to do it on your own. However, NEVER climb onto your roof without the proper safety precautions, and do not climb your roof when it is raining or if your roof is wet. You should also never climb your roof if you suspect there to be rotten areas; one wrong step and you could be falling through your roof! If you do think that there is major damage underneath your shingles, call a professional roofer for an inspection.
The first step to knowing where you should patch your roof is finding where the damage is. You may know there’s a problem because your walls or ceiling are wet or because there’s a leak, but you may not know where the source of the leak is right away. Therefore, we have to narrow down where the damaged area may be.
Begin by going to your attic and looking for areas of moisture, such as a leak or wet stains. From the outside, you can also try to spot missing or damaged shingles, as well as any penetrations in your roof, including the chimney, vents, or anything else that goes through your roof. If you can’t find the source of your leak in your attic, run water from your hose onto different sections of your roof. Have another helper watch out for visible drips from the inside of your house to confirm whether or not the area you are watering is the damaged part of your roof.
Holes in your roof can be caused by a number of things, including fallen tree limbs, wood rotted over time, or pesky animals creating an entrance through your roof from what used to be a small crack. It might also be an old roof penetration you want to get rid of altogether. Depending on what type of damage or hole you are patching in your roof, there may be different steps and precautions you need to take.
Here are just some basic materials you might need to patch a hole in your roof:
Step 1: Climb onto your roof. As mentioned above, climbing your roof is extremely dangerous and you should always take the proper safety precautions before going on top of your house. Make sure your ladder is 100% secure before climbing up.
Step 2: Remove the shingles and nails that are covering the damaged area on your roof. Use a pry bar to slightly lift up the shingles above the damaged area (be careful not to damage them.)
Step 3: Use a pry bar to slightly lift up the shingles above the damaged area. If the hole in your roof’s plywood is irregular or an odd shape, use your reciprocating saw to cut out a square or rectangle shape around the hole. Remove the wood.
Step 4: Install a 2-by-4 plank underneath the hole; the plank should be three times the width of the opening. Then, cut your plywood to be the exact size and shape of the hole. Make sure the plywood you are using is the same thickness as your existing roof. Then, insert the new plywood into the hole. Nail the plywood sheet to the plank underneath and cover the wood borders and bracing screws with roofing tar.
Step 5: Lay tar paper over the area with missing shingles, making sure the top of the paper is slipped under the flaps of the shingles above the now-repaired area. Nail the tar paper on every 12-18 inches along the perimeter. If you used more than one sheet of tar paper, nail down any overlapping areas, as well.
Step 6: Lay on the new asphalt shingles, starting with the bottom row of shingles. Secure each shingle with three roofing nails across the horizontal center-line and coat each nail with roofing adhesive for water protection. Tuck the top new shingles underneath the shingles you previously lifted up before, then press down on the lifted shingles so that they are laying on top of your new shingles.
Patching holes in the roof is a common roof repair. However, it still involves a lot of care and safety precautions; stay safe and make sure to not cause any further damage to your roof! If you have done roof work before, then you may want to try fixing it yourself. But if you cannot get to your roof safely, suspect there is major damage on your roof that can’t be seen, or if you can’t find the damaged area on your roof, then it’s time to call a professional roofer.
The roofing experts at IBEX Roof are equipped to inspect your roof safely, even if dangerous areas cannot be seen. We can also come and inspect your roof before you notice any damage to make sure your roof is protecting your home the way it should. We aim to provide the best customer service and quality work to our customers. If you need some roof work done, fill out our online form or call 360-218-3104 to get a free estimate today!
Keeping your gutters clean is essential to protecting your roof and home from water damage. But if the task of cleaning out your gutters seems often to slip your mind, or if you’re not quite comfortable climbing up a ladder, it’s time to consider gutter guards. Our team can show you the options for the best gutter guards for your home.
For the skeptic who’s wondering, “Do gutter guards work?”, the answer is yes! There are plenty of reasons why you should invest in gutter guards or covers. While they aren’t 100% maintenance-free, they do cost less over time than hiring someone to clean your gutters once a year. Finding the best gutter guards for your home will also greatly reduce the dangers of having to clean out gutters yourself. According to the World Health Organization, 37.3 million falls a year require medical attention. So if you’re worried about your elderly parents climbing up a rickety ladder, or if you have a serious fear of heights, then gutter guards are definitely the way to go.
We want you to get the best gutter guards for your home, so here is what to keep in mind. First, make sure you’re getting removable gutter guards; this makes any problems easy to take care of. Second, gutter guards are made out of all different materials and in different designs, but they all come with their own pros and cons.
Foam gutter guards are commonly found at large box stores. They’re inexpensive and easy to install, but they get easily clogged with decomposed organic material. Seeds could also fall into them, turning your gutters into planters. Plastic gutter guards don’t last long, either, as they easily warp and break under UV rays.
Washington and Oregon are both home to large fir trees, and screen gutter covers with large holes won’t keep the fir needles out of your gutter. The acidity from fir needles and leaves will also cause galvanized steel gutter guards to rust.
Lastly, stay wary of companies that offer “maintenance-free” covers. The right gutter guard will take care of 90% of clogging issues. However, they will still need to be cleaned every few years.
Consider the type of environment you live in when looking for the right gutter guards. IBEX Roofing services the Vancouver and Portland area, and rusting is a general problem in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve found that stainless steel mesh screens are the best gutter guards for the region. Stainless steel won’t rust, and the mesh screen will keep out most small needles. Not only do they perform better than other types of gutter guards, but our customers like that they are also less expensive than other big-name gutter covers. Gutter guards with an aluminum finish are also recommended to prevent rust issues.
IBEX Roof can help you install new gutter guards at your next roof maintenance or gutter cleaning appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the best gutter guards for your home, or about gutters in general, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Summer is a great time to get any necessary roof work done while the weather is still dry and sunny. It’s also the season when the kids are out of school and a great time for families to get together. Many of our clients wonder if it’s okay for them to stay home during a roof replacement or any other type of roof work. It’s usually up to our customers if they want to stay at home during a roof repair or replacement. While it’s not necessary to completely move out of the house during a roof replacement, there are definitely some precautions you should take.
The duration of replacing a roof depends on various factors such as the size of the roof, the materials being used, and the weather conditions. Generally, for an average-sized home, replacing the roof can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
The process usually involves the removal of the old roof, inspecting the roof deck for any damage, installing new roofing materials, and performing necessary repairs. It is advisable to hire a professional roofing contractor to handle the replacement, as they have the expertise and experience to efficiently complete the job. Additionally, a roofing contractor can provide a more accurate estimate of the time required based on the specific details of your roof.
Weather conditions can also affect the duration, as rain or extreme heat may cause delays. Proper planning and communication with the roofing contractor can help ensure a smooth and timely completion of replacing your roof.
When it's time to replace your roof, there are a few things you can expect. First, the process of replacing your roof can take a few days to complete. The duration may vary depending on the size of your roof and the complexity of the project.
You will need to hire a professional roofing contractor to carry out the work. They will start by removing the old roof, which involves tearing off the existing shingles, underlayment, and sometimes the roof deck.
Once the old roof is removed, the contractor will inspect the roof deck for any damages and make necessary repairs. Then, they will install the new underlayment followed by the new shingles. Throughout the process, you can expect some noise and disruption but the contractor will take measures to minimize the impact on your daily life.
It is important to communicate with the roofing contractor and ask any questions or concerns you may have to ensure a smooth replacement process.
It’s a top priority that our customers stay safe whenever we come over to repair or replace a roof. When replacing a roof, we often have to remove the old shingles and nails before installing your new roof. This means there will be falling debris and nails on the ground while we get the roof work done.
It’s crucial for everyone to stay inside or away from the lawn and anywhere near your roof. Even after roof work is finished, it’s always a good idea to be cautious around your property in case there are any pieces of leftover debris.
Another factor to consider is the noise from hammering shingles onto your roof. Some homeowners have larger homes or basements where they can relocate to another room to minimize the noise. However, if you work at home, the hammering noise could be very distracting!
Roof work noise can also be very distressing for pets, so you may want to consider having them stay with a neighbor, friend, or family. Homeowners are not required to stay at home when we’re working on a roof, so you can also make plans to take your family out on a day trip to avoid the noise, and return home when the work is done for the day.
Your roofer will let you know what to expect prior to your scheduled roof repair or replacement. And if you have any questions (even if it’s if you should stay home during a roof replacement), don’t hesitate to ask! Your roofing contractor can let you know what they need from you. The roofing proposal will also let you know how long your roof work will take. That way, you can make the necessary arrangements for your family ahead of time.
As we’ve mentioned, it’s preferable for homeowners to get their roof repairs and replacements done during the dry seasons of the year. That will ensure that your project won’t get delayed or paused by bad weather. Not sure if your roof needs work? Then schedule a roof inspection with IBEX Roof today! We will assess your roof and let you know if it needs maintenance, repair, or replacing.
If your roof is healthy and doesn’t need any work done, then we’ll let you know that, too! Call us at 360-218-3108 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment today.
