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!
You may have heard tips from other homeowners about the best type of roof to get. Some say to get a light-colored roof when living in a hot area or a dark-colored roof when you live in a colder region to save on energy costs. And while these little tips might save you a few cents off your energy bills, the biggest way to keep your utility costs low is by making sure your home is properly insulated.
Insulation is the key to maintaining your home’s internal temperature. Roof insulation sits between your roof deck and underneath your roof’s surface. It acts as a barrier to keep the temperature you want inside the house while keeping extreme external temperatures out. Without proper insulation, your home will have to constantly work to keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter, driving up your energy bills.
There are many other benefits to proper insulation other than lower energy costs, too. Some types of roof insulation are mold-resistant. And because insulation helps maintain the temperature in your home, it reduces the amount of expanding and contracting to your roof’s foundation from extreme weather and temperature changes.
Roof insulation isn’t the only type of insulation to help your home maintain its temperature. There’s also attic insulation, which is installed on the ceiling plane rather than the roof slope. Most homes have at least one or the other; attic insulation is usually easier to install, replace, or fix than roof insulation. However, having both can be cost-beneficial in the long run. Homeowners due for a roof replacement may want to consider having roof insulation installed, as that’s the opportune time to do so!
Yes! The average asphalt roof will last 25-30 years. According to the International Association of Home Inspections, insulation can last 80-100 years, depending on the type you choose to use. Even so, it’s a good idea to have your insulation inspected every ten years to fifteen years to ensure that there is no damage or degradation.
It’s also a good idea to inspect the insulation of any house you plan on purchasing. Unfortunately, not all homeowners keep track of their property history. So even though insulation has a long lifespan, you may not know when the last time your insulation was installed when buying an older home.
In the event your utility bills have suddenly increased, it’s possible that there is something wrong with your insulation. If you have attic insulation, check for any gaps or tears that may be letting a draft in. Moisture or mold-growth can also diminish the performance of your insulation.
If you suspect there is something wrong with your roof or insulation, consider getting your roof inspected. IBEX Roof offers methodical inspection services to make sure your roof is functioning the way it should. This includes looking for water stains or signs of leakage, missing shingles, damaged flashing, and more. From there, we can advise you on the best way to move forward. Give us a call today at 360-218-3134 or request a free estimate using our online form!
Earlier this week we talked about how to tell the difference between algae, moss, and mold on your roof. Now that you know the difference, here’s what to do when you know what you’re dealing with!
Algae and moss growth is more commonly found on roofs than mold but is often confused for mold. Although it may be ugly, having algae or moss are less damaging to roof shingles than mold. It’s still a good idea to get it cleaned right away, though, to prevent more growth which can lift shingles and cause debris to get stuck underneath.
Oxygenated bleach or trisodium phosphate (TSP) mixtures can be used to remove algae or moss growth on your roof. Some contractors may also recommend using a 50/50 mixture of bleach and water. However, it’s important to be mindful of using any chemical treatment, as the water runoff can damage any metal, wood, or landscape around your home. Always read the directions to make sure you’re using the right amount of treatment. Or, call a professional roofer and they will take care of all the cleaning for you!
Unfortunately, mold is a whole different story from algae and moss; the solution might not be as simple as just getting rid of it. Mold that grows anywhere in your home indicates there are ventilation and moisture issues. Even if you get rid of the mold on the surface, it can come back if you don’t resolve those underlying issues. Another big issue with mold is that if you discover it too late, it could have damaged or rotted construction material that will need to be replaced.
Because mold growth is a dangerous health hazard, we do not recommend you clean it yourself. Instead, call a licensed professional who can pinpoint the source, assess the damage, sanitize the affected areas, and let you know what other steps you need to take to prevent mold from growing back.
While there are different things you can do to both prevent and treat algae and mold on your roof, there are also some methods that you should never consider. This includes:
Pressure washing: What looks like your roof being cleaned is really granules on your shingles being destroyed. Pressure washing is an easy way to decrease the lifespan of your roof more quickly!
Aggressive scrubbing: Just like pressure washing, aggressively scrubbing away at your roof will cause your roof to deteriorate more quickly. Scrubbing the wrong way or using the wrong tools can also damage your shingles, requiring repair sooner than later.
Using harsh chemicals: There are a lot of different cleaners out there, some chemicals harsher than others. You always want to make sure you’re using the right solution for whatever your roof problem is. It’s also important to remember that any chemical you put on your roof will wash off onto the rest of your home and landscape. By using harsh chemicals, you risk damaging other parts of your home or hurting your lawn and plants.
If you discover mold growth in your home, it’s best to call a professional right away to take a look. If caught early enough, you may be able to get it removed easily. But if not, you may be looking at a more costly removal service. That’s why we always recommend scheduling routine cleanings for your roof.
Regular moss or roof cleanings should get rid of any debris that doesn’t belong on your roof and dramatically reduces the chances of mold on your home. We will also inspect your roof during cleanings for any necessary repairs to prolong the life of your roof.
If you do suspect there is mold in your attic or underneath your roof shingles, give IBEX Roof a call at 360-218-3108 to schedule an inspection. Depending on where the growth is (as well as what it is), we can better assess the situation and let you know the best solution.
It’s quite the concern when homeowners look up and see what looks like black mold on their roof. Not only is it unsightly, but breathing in mold can be dangerous, too! The good news is that those ugly streaks on your roof are most likely not mold, but algae on your roof.
Algae and moss are way more common roof problems homeowners face than mold. Both travel and spread through the air, thriving more in humid climates. If you see a next-door neighbor with moss or algae on their roof, it’s possible that it might show up on your roof, too! Unlike mold, algae and moss are not toxic or a major health risk to your family. They also won’t eat away at your roof as mold would. However, it’s still advisable to get your roof cleaned if you notice algae on your roof. In addition to curb appeal, getting your roof cleaned will also ensure water and debris don’t get stuck underneath any roof shingles, which could cause damage over time.
Mold, on the other hand, is a more serious matter. It doesn’t typically show up on the surface of your roof. Instead, it will usually grow in warm, damp areas that are poorly ventilated. Moss is not as common of a roof problem for homeowners as moss and algae but can be found in your basement, attic, or siding if they are improperly ventilated. It can also show up on the areas of your roof that are not in direct sunlight or shaded by overhanging tree branches.
So what’s the best way to keep algae, moss, or mold off your roof? Simply with regular roof cleanings! Prevention is vital to keep your roof in its best shape; when your roof is clear of debris and properly treated, you won’t have to spend time wondering whether you’re dealing with algae or mold.
IBEX Roof has been taking care of roofs in Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR regions for decades. We make sure your roof is sparkling clean while protecting the rest of your home and landscaping. Our experts also never use harmful chemicals or pressure wash your roof; we want your roof to last as long as possible!
Even if you don’t see any algae on your roof, it’s never a bad idea to schedule an annual inspection or maintenance services to make sure your roof stays in tip-top shape. Give IBEX Roof’s office a call today at 360-218-3134 to see what services will fit your home the best.
