There are a few different materials homeowners can choose when it comes to installing a new roof. From asphalt roofs to cedar shake to metal, these materials have different looks and require different maintenance routines. Today, we’ll go over the basics of the most popular roofing material used: asphalt roof shingles!
Traditionally, asphalt roof shingles were made of recycled organic materials. They were then saturated in asphalt for waterproofing and covered in granules. While you can still get organic asphalt shingles today, another common option is fiberglass asphalt shingles. As the name suggests, these shingles have a base layer of fiberglass and are then coated with asphalt and granules.
Asphalt coating is what makes these types of shingles waterproof. The top layer of solid granules, which can be made up of a variety of stone, minerals, or ceramic, are what block UV light and give shingles their color.
Asphalt roof shingles are by far the most popular type of roofing material for residential homes. In fact, 4 out of 5 homes have asphalt roofs. One of the main reasons why asphalt roofs are the top choice for homeowners is because it’s a very well-rounded material. It’s the least expensive type of roofing material to install and lasts anywhere between 15-30 years. It’s both an economical choice and a great investment!
Another reason why people love asphalt roofs is because they come in a variety of shapes, colors, and texture. You can find asphalt shingles that look like other materials, including wood, slate, tile, and more.
The two main types of asphalt roof shingles you’ll see are architectural or 3-tab shingles. 3-tab shingles come in one size and shape and are thinner than architectural shingles. This will give your roof a flatter and more uniform look. Architectural shingles, which are also called dimensional shingles, vary in size, shape, and color, thus adding extra visual interest to your home. Because they are thicker than 3-tab shingles, they are a little more expensive and tend to last longer.
The newer your roof, the less maintenance is required during the first few years. The best way to maintain your asphalt roof is by keeping it clear of debris and overhanging plant growth. It’s also beneficial to schedule annual inspections to make sure your roof stays in its greatest shape. One way to easily do this is simply look up at your roof from the ground; if you can see some shingles missing, call your local roofer right away to get it repaired! The quicker small repairs are made, the longer your roof will last without any costly problems.
IBEX Roof offers both inspection and cleaning services for our customers. We understand the ins and outs of roofing specific to the Pacific Northwest and have a comprehensive approach to keeping your roof in working order. Learn more about our maintenance program today by calling our team at 360-218-3108. You can also reach out for a free estimate using our online form.
We’re kicking off the month of December with a chilly and rainy week! Indeed, it is starting to feel more like winter, which means it’s time to share some tips for winter roof safety. While much of this information is nothing revolutionary, it’s good to keep in mind to avoid any roofing emergencies when you least expect it!
It may seem very simple, but keeping your roof clear of debris is basic winter roof safety. Seeing a pile of pine needles and leaves on top of your roof may not seem like a big deal, but, under the right conditions, it could lead to possible damage right in the middle of winter. Over time, these large piles of debris can create blockades that trap water instead of letting them flow away into your gutters. Additionally, trim back any overhanging tree branches that could unexpectedly fall on your roof.
Often times, what could’ve been a small repair turns into a bigger problem because homeowners don’t get it fixed right away. Don’t wait for a small issue turn into a roofing emergency in the middle of winter to get it fixed! Not sure if there are any problems with your roof? Schedule an inspection with your local roofer today!
Gutters are an important part of your roofing system as they help guide water flow away from your roof. If your gutters are full of debris, water is unable to properly drain away. This could cause water to seep into your roof and cause damage like uplifted shingles, wood rot, or a leak inside your attic. If the temperatures get cold enough, this could also lead to water freezing inside your gutters, which could potentially cause your gutters to rip away from your roof. Avoid such problems by cleaning your gutters of debris and make sure they stay clear throughout the winter!
We often discourage homeowners from climbing their roofs any time of the year and winter is no exception. If anything, it’s even more dangerous to climb or walk on your roof in the winter time, especially if it’s wet from rain or snow. Furthermore, there could be ice on your roof that is invisible to the eye. If you suspect something is wrong with your roof, call your local roofer right away; they will be better equipped (and insured!) to inspect your roof safely.
The best way to gauge the health of your roof is by schedule a roof inspection with your local roofer! At IBEX Roof, we go over a standard checklist to inspect your roof. This ensures that our customers are protected throughout the winter and the rest of the year. Our goal is to deliver peace of mind for our customers; this means we never recommend or upsell services you don’t need.Â
Call our office today at 360-218-3194 to learn more about our roof inspection and cleaning services!
We’ve talked about how to prevent ice from building up on your roof earlier this week. But what about if you didn’t take the time to winterize your roof and we’re suddenly hit with snow and freezing rain?
Build up of ice on your roof can cause water damage and leaks within your walls, ceiling, gutters, and more. It’s better to de-ice your roof the moment you notice ice dams forming. If not, you risk the ice dams becoming bigger and eventually causing more damage. Avoid costly repairs by de-icing your roof as soon as possible. Or, better yet, take the time to prevent them from forming at all!
There are a variety of methods for de-icing your roof. However, always put your safety first. We don’t recommend anyone climb their roof at any time and we further discourage doing so when there is rain or snow present.
If you are using a ladder to reach the edge of your home, always make sure that your ladder is sturdy and secure before you climb up. It’s also recommended to have a partner who can help spot you when doing roof work on the ladder. Also, beware of falling ice or snow when clearing away icicles from the edge of your roof.
Never use rock salt to melt snow or ice on your roof, as this can damage your shingles and decrease the longevity of your roof. You can find other ice melting products that are designed for ice dams on roofs at your local hardware store. Make sure to follow the instructions accordingly.
Prevention is the best way to avoid ice dams on your roof, but if ice is already starting to form, you can try to keep the edges of your roof clear so that the ice dam doesn’t get bigger. As mentioned above, beware of chipping icicles off your roof; falling ice is not just a hazard to your safety, but you also want to be careful not to damage your home’s exterior.
Another way to keep ice off the edge of your roof is by clearing away any snow or debris that is sitting on the edge of your roof. This will allow existing snow or ice to melt away and flow away from your home. If accessible, you can remove snow by lightly sweeping the edge of your roof with a broom. For multi-story homes, it’s best to call your local roofer to remove snow or ice so that you can avoid climbing on top of your room.
A quick Google search may result in tutorials on how to chisel away ice dams and icicles off your roof. However, this can ultimately damage your roof shingles and gutters if not done properly. Additionally, it’s risky to hack away at icicles above your head! Your local roofer will be better equipped and trained to remove ice from your roof without causing any further damage or costly repairs.
We don’t get a lot of snow in Vancouver, WA and the Portland metro area, so ice dams are not often a common problem our customers have to deal with. However, not all homes in the PNW are exempt from icicles forming on the edge of their roofs.
Although our region doesn’t get much snowfall, even just a little snow or freezing rain combined with warmer temperatures can lead to ice dams. Ice dams are the result of ice building up near the edge of your roof. It’s caused by snow or ice melting on your roof and refreezing before it can fully shed away from your roof. Ice dams and icicles may lead to further roof damage by seeping underneath your shingles and leaking into your home. Signs of ice dam leaks are peeling paint, water stains on your drywall or ceiling, and rotting wood underneath your roof.
Well-insulated attics are vital to maintaining the temperature in your attic and preventing hot or cold air from escaping through your roof. Not only can insulation help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof but it can also prevent your utility bills from skyrocketing in extreme cold or hot weather. Have your insulation inspected annually for any gaps, rips, or moisture.
Nowadays, it’s a given for newer homes to have roof vents to keep the attic properly ventilated. However, there are still some older homes where kitchen and bathroom vents lead straight into the attic instead of outside the home. Vents that lead into the attic will raise the temperature, leading to potential ice dams when it snows. If you’re unsure where your house vents lead to, call a professional roofer for an inspection.
Any debris or leaves stuck in your gutter will prevent water from flowing away from your home. Instead, it will cause the water to sit and freeze right in your gutter. Not only will this lead to an ice dam in freezing temperatures, but it can also cause damage to your gutter. The weight of ice can even rip the gutters off your home, creating further damage to your roof. The end of fall is an ideal time to clean out your gutters as part of your roof winterization checklist.Â
If you’ve ever noticed icicles on the edge of your roof in the past, now is a good time to think about how to prevent ice dams on your roof this year. It’s also a good idea to consider how to prevent ice dams if you live further north where there is a little more snowfall. Prevention is always the best way to avoid damage to your roof and home; don’t wait until ice has built up on your home to deal with it!
Ice dams are not the only roofing issue that can ruin your holiday. Even if your home has never had an ice dam, it’s still important to winterize your roof and get an inspection before the colder months are upon us. Call IBEX Roof today to schedule a roof inspection at 360-218-3194. The best thing that can happen is your roof is in great shape and you’ll have peace of mind this winter!
The holidays are fast approaching and we’re excited to see how our customers are sprucing up their homes for all the upcoming festivities. Whether you’re just hanging a few string lights or planning a full-on home display of lights, here are a few tips to follow to keep your roof shingles intact for the holiday season.
As professional roofers, we know a thing or two about roof safety! And your safety is always our top priority. We know how exciting it is to decorate your home, so be sure to follow these safety tips
Double-check your equipment: Before hanging your lights, it’s crucial to take a second look at your lights and related equipment to ensure that they are safe to use. Make sure to use UL approved extension cords that are specifically designed for outdoor use. Many holiday lights will also be labeled for indoor and outdoor use; make sure you’re using the correct type of lights in the appropriate environment! You should also double-check for damaged wires before hanging them up as decorations.
Follow ladder safety rules: Never climb up a ladder that isn’t safety secured on the ground. Just like cleaning out your gutters, move your ladder to different sections of your home as needed so that you are not overreaching. Overreaching greatly increases your chances of injury or falling. It’s always a good idea to have a partner on the ground that can pass you any tools or equipment you’ll need, as well as keep an eye on your ladder.
Avoid climbing on your roof: It’s always best to stay off your roof if you can. Walking around on your roof without the proper safety measures can be very dangerous, especially for the inexperienced. There are many tools out there for homeowners to use when hanging outdoor holiday lights, like light hanging poles, so that you don’t have to climb onto your roof to decorate it. If you’re feeling extra festive in your decorating, you may even want to rent a bucket lift!
Never nail decorations into your roof! Puncturing holes into your roof will damage your shingles and can also cause leaks through your roof. Trust us – a decked out roof is not worth paying for the damage! There are a variety of clips, hooks, and adhesives that can be attached to your gutters or shingles without causing any damage.
Roofs are designed to support a certain amount of weight and it’s important to be mindful of the weight you’re adding onto your home. Consider the decorations you are putting on top of your roof; not only can careless installation damage the material, but too many decorations could also add stress to your roof. Unsure of how much weight is too much for your roof to handle? Consider calling a local roofer for an inspection.
Lastly, we urge homeowners to be as careful taking their holiday decorations off as they were putting them on. Don’t yank your lights off from the ground as pulling them off carelessly can rip away shingles or your gutter system from your roof. Take care in removing your lights one section of your home at a time to ensure that your roof doesn’t get damaged!
Hanging outdoor holiday lights is a fun tradition for many families. IBEX Roof is excited to see all the fun displays this holiday season! If your roof isn’t quite ready for holiday decorating, call our friendly office staff at 360-218-3194 to set up a routine roof cleaning or inspection. We’ll make sure your roof is clean and pristine and ready for those holiday lights.
It may be a bit early to start decorating your home for the holidays, but we know that it’s only a matter of days before the decorating frenzy hits! Whether you are preparing for autumn or winter festivities, it’s important to do so safely! The fireplace mantel is one of the first places homeowners choose to decorate for the holidays. Follow these safety tips for decorating a mantel (and schedule a chimney inspection!) to keep your home fun and festive this holiday season.
Before decorating your mantel or any area around your fireplace, make sure to follow basic fireplace safety rules. Place a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies and have a fireplace screen in place if you have an open-hearth fireplace. A fireplace screen will keep sparks from flying out of your fireplace as well as keeping outside items away from your fire. Also, never leave a burning fire unattended.
Some homeowners will spray fire-retardant on their decorations if placing them near the fireplace. Many artificial Christmas trees come with fire retardant sprayed on them already. If you are using a live tree in your home, keep it hydrated so that your home’s heat doesn’t dry it out, making it more flammable.
Although fire-retardant reduces your chances of decorations catching on fire, the safest way to avoid an unwanted housefire is by keeping all items away at a safe distance. There should be no items that dangle directly in front of the fireplace when there is an active fire.
Whether it’s stockings, garlands, ribbons, or banners, you should never let anything drape or hang off your mantel while using your fireplace. You can still decorate your mantel with these items but set them aside to a safer location when burning a fire.
Speaking of tips for decorating a mantel, when was the last time you had your chimney inspected? According to the National Fire Protection Association, the safest chimneys are ones that are annually inspected and cleaned. We always recommend getting an inspection before the holidays, especially if you plan on using your fireplace through the winter. It’s also best to do so before hanging up any decorations.
IBEX Roof cares about the safety of your family and your home. Not only is it important to look after the interior of your chimney, but the exterior as well; after all, the chimney is another hole in your roof! Schedule a roof and chimney inspection today by calling our office at 360-218-3104. We’ll take a look at the flashing around your chimney, check for cracks in your chimney’s brickwork, and ensure there won’t be any leaks in your home this holiday season!
Skylights can last between 10-15 years before needing a replacement when they are properly installed and maintained. Over time, you may notice little cracks in the glass or around the frame. While minor issues can usually be repaired with caulk or sealant, most repairs will be short-term solutions. Once a skylight starts deteriorating, it’s time to start considering a full replacement.
Condensation isn’t always a tell-tale sign that you need a skylight replacement, but keep an eye for other problems if you notice water droplets around your skylight. Some homeowners may experience condensation at certain times of the year and it’s not a problem. But if constant condensation around your skylight turns into leaks or result in ice dams, then that is a sign that you may need to replace your skylight.Â
Skylight windows can be made from a variety of materials, from acrylic and plastic to glass. The older a skylight gets, the more susceptible it is to cracking. Skylights can also be damaged from debris collecting on your roof or an overhanging tree branch that fell the wrong way. Depending on the type of damage inflicted on your skylight, you may be able to get it fixed without a full replacement. Call a roofer to inspect any injured skylights as soon as possible if you want to avoid further damage.
Has your energy bill suddenly gone up for no reason? It could be from a drafty skylight. There are a few possible reasons for heat transfer and energy loss. If accessible, you can check if your skylights are causing the problem by placing your hand an inch from the window. If the temperature near the window feels different from the rest of the room, then your skylight is likely the culprit.
Homeowners due for a roof replacement often ask if they can reuse their existing skylight in their new roof. It really depends on if there is any remaining life in your old skylights. Because skylights have a similar lifespan to a roof, you’re probably going to want to replace your skylights when replacing your roof. It’s possible for old skylights to be improperly installed and misaligned, leading to leaks within just a few years. You should also ask about what it means for your skylight and roof warranties when reusing skylights on your new roof.
If you’re experiencing problems with your skylight, including leaks or damage around the frame, give IBEX Roof a call. There are many reasons why a skylight may need repair, from improper installation to old age. We’ll come to assess the damage and give you an estimate without any hidden fees. Then, we’ll make the necessary repairs to ensure your home is safe. To set up an inspection, call our Vancouver, WA office at 360-218-3108 or our Lacey location at 360-352-1885.
Winter is coming which means the rain and colder temperatures will be upon us in no time! If you haven’t already, now is the right time to winterize your roof and get a roof inspection. This will ensure your home protects you and your family through the next few months without any problems! IBEX Roof is here for our customers all year round, but it’s always less stressful for homeowners to get minor repairs fixed so they aren’t stuck with an emergency roofing situation later on. One of these potential emergencies may be leaking skylights in the winter.
Skylights are a great source of extra light and can also add value to your home, but there’s a common misconception that all skylights leak. When installed properly, however, you shouldn’t experience any problems. And just like any other part of the home, they need to be properly maintained over time.
The most common reasons why skylights start to leak include:
While these issues are not difficult to get repaired, it can lead to other problems when not addressed right away. And the best way to avoid further roof damage is to be proactive and routinely inspect and maintain your skylights.
Proper skylight maintenance starts with keeping your skylights clean of dust and debris. Although skylights look like windows on your roof, they are not always made of glass and you should not clean them with regular window cleaner. The safest way to clean your skylights is with a long-handled dry mop to remove dust. If there is hardened debris, you can use a damp cloth with some mild dish soap. Always take the proper safety precautions when using a ladder inside your home. Or, if your skylights are out of reach, call a professional roofer to clean your skylights for you.
The second step to maintaining your skylights is to make sure all the parts are in working order. A skylight inspection will:
A simple inspection is all it takes to avoid leaking skylights in the winter; even if you find there are no repairs necessary, you’ll have peace of mind through the holiday season!
Prevent leaking skylights in the winter by scheduling an inspection today! In addition to skylights, IBEX Roof also specializes in roof repair and gutter systems. Our number one priority is to ensure our customers’ roofs last a long time and we never upsell our services. Give us a call today at our Vancouver location (360-218-3194) or Lacey location (360-352-1885) to get a free estimate or schedule an appointment!
Condensation is usually an issue homeowners face during colder seasons. When the warm air in your home meets the colder temperature from the outside, it causes moisture. You may notice water droplets developing on your attic ceiling or below your roof. When there is nowhere for the moisture to escape, it shows up inside your home and can seep into your walls, roof assembly, or other areas of your home’s foundation.
Attic and roof condensation is also often caused by vents in your home that lead to nowhere. For example, maybe your kitchen and bathroom vents lead to your attic instead of outside your home. This brings excess moisture into your attic with nowhere escape.
When condensation is not a constant problem for your roof, it might not seem like a big deal. However, excess moisture is always a problem for roofs and homes. Excess moisture could seep into your walls or roof, causing structural or roof damage over time. Depending on other factors, such as whether or not you have proper ventilation in your home, condensation may also lead to mold or mildew in your attic or underneath your roof.
Proper ventilation: Airflow is the key factor in keeping your home rid of excess moisture. If you notice condensation in or around your roof, call a local roofer to inspect the affected area. They will advise you on the best way to properly ventilate those areas to prevent any roof damage.
Insulation: Insulation is what helps maintain the temperature in your home. Condensation builds up when extreme temperatures meet together; proper attic or roof insulation can greatly reduce condensation by keeping your home’s temperature at a level to minimize moisture.
Vapor barriers: You can install vapor barriers or retarders to your roof to combat severe condensation issues. They are often made of polyethylene and prevent water vapor from passing through. Talk to your local roofer about whether or not vapor barriers would be the right solution for your roof, as they are not the ideal solution for all regions or climates.
Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier can be used as a short-term solution for condensation issues. It may also be a more budget-friendly solution for homeowners who only experience roof condensation during certain months or seasons of the year. However, it’s not a permanent solution that can protect your home if you are experiencing a lot of condensation caused by other roof or ventilation issues.
Part of our mission at IBEX Roof is to help educate homeowners on how to properly take care of their roofs for home security and longevity. Whether it’s a simple roof cleaning, a repair, or even a replacement, we’re on top of it! Give us a call today at 360-218-3108 to get a free estimate on your next roofing project.
If some of your roof shingles look like they have droplets of water on them, but there’s no rain, it could be blisters on your asphalt shingles. You may notice this problem more during the summer as heat and moisture are what causes shingles to blister. However, if you haven’t taken the time to have your shingles checked out, now is an excellent time to schedule a roof inspection!
There are two main reasons why asphalt shingles will blister. First, it could simply be from trapped moisture during the shingle’s manufacturing process. The trapped moisture will try to evaporate under the sun’s heat, causing your shingles to blister. The second reason is poor ventilation. If your roof is poorly ventilated, intense heat can cause blistering asphalt shingles, as well as damage to your attic siding and roof’s edges.
Blistering asphalt shingles definitely do not help your home’s curb appeal, but it’s not just a simple cosmetic problem. If any blisters on your shingles pop, those areas of missing granules will start to deteriorate faster. This will affect the longevity of your roof and could lead to a roof leak. Prevent blistering shingles from popping by staying off your roof and keeping it clear of debris.
If you see any blistering asphalt shingles on your roof, don’t fret! Schedule an inspection with your local roofing contractor to make sure your shingle granules are intact and replace any damaged shingles. It’s also vital to also make sure any underlying problems, like if you have a poorly ventilated roof, are resolved. Otherwise, your shingles may start blistering again.
When you see damaged or cracked shingles on your roof, call IBEX Roof right away! We specialize in roof maintenance, repair, and replacements, and service the regions around Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA. Get a free estimate for your next roofing project by filling out our online form today!
