Posts on Keeping a roof over your head

Important Installation Considerations When Choosing a Roof Truss for Your Home

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:32:57 +0000

When designing or upgrading your home, roof trusses play a crucial role in both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Trusses are prefabricated frameworks that support your roof efficiently and cost-effectively. However, before installation, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that your choice suits your home’s unique needs and meets local building standards.

Assess Your Home’s Structural Requirements

Every home has specific structural demands based on its design and size. Before choosing a roof truss, take the time to identify the load-bearing requirements of your building. Roof trusses must be able to support the weight of materials like tiles, insulation, and additional live loads such as snow or maintenance access. Partnering with a structural engineer or consulting a roofing professional helps ensure your chosen truss meets safety and performance criteria.

Understand the Different Types of Trusses

Familiarise yourself with the various types of roof trusses available, as each one serves a different purpose. For instance, a king post truss is ideal for simple, open spaces, while a fink truss works better for areas requiring added strength for heavier roofing materials. Matching the truss type to your home’s architectural style and roofing needs is key to achieving both functionality and visual harmony.

Consider Local Building Regulations

Before installation, review the relevant building codes and regulations in your area. Many jurisdictions have strict guidelines for trusses, especially in areas prone to high winds, heavy rainfall, or seismic activity. Compliance with these regulations is not only essential for safety but also ensures you avoid potential fines or complications during inspections.

Evaluate Material Choices

Roof trusses come in a variety of materials, with timber and steel being common options. Each material offers distinct advantages. Timber trusses, for instance, are lightweight and cost-effective, while steel trusses provide durability and resistance to pests. When making your decision, consider factors like climate, maintenance needs, and budget to select the option that aligns with your home’s requirements.

Plan for Expert Installation

Proper installation is critical to the performance of roof trusses. Even high-quality trusses can fail if installed incorrectly. Engage experienced professionals who understand the nuances of fitting trusses to your specific structure. A well-installed truss system not only ensures safety but also reduces the likelihood of future repairs or adjustments.

A Lasting Investment

Selecting the right roof trusses and considering key installation factors can transform the security and charm of your home. By planning carefully and partnering with skilled professionals, you’ll create a roof that reliably supports your home for years to come.

4 Reasons Missing Shingle Granules Are Bad for Your Roof

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 15:39:42 +0000

The shingles used to cover many roofs generally have an outer layer of rough granules that give them a texture similar to sandpaper. Many people assume those granules are only present to make the roof safer to walk across whenever additional work is required, but they actually help protect the roof itself.

Unfortunately, granular loss can develop over time. When it does, you may notice dull or worn patches across your roof — in some cases, you may even notice granules collecting around drains after heavy rainfall. This doesn't immediately impact your roof's waterproofing, but there is still a wide range of reasons why you should consider replacing the affected shingles or even the entire roof. Here are just four.

1. UV Damage

It should go without saying that your roof is going to encounter a high level of UV exposure over its life, and those UV rays can cause asphalt shingles to deteriorate at an increased rate. Granules are partly responsible for protecting underlying layers from UV exposure. Additionally, they provide a barrier against high temperatures, which can also cause damage. Given how much sun many parts of the country enjoy, a loss of shingle granules can greatly reduce the life of a roof.

2. Impact Damage

When people think about how impacts can damage their roofs, they usually think about things like tree branches. However, even hail and small bits of debris can cause damage. Over time, such damage can lead to anything from leaks to structural problems. Granular loss can increase the risk of such issues since the tough granules that cover your shingles provide protection against physical damage.

3. Water Shedding

Granules might provide added traction for anyone who needs to work on your roof, but they also help water slide down its surface. When those granules start to be lost, water will be more likely to sit on your roof. This can be a real issue since even small pools of water can create further damage and potentially start to soak through to the underlay.

4. Fire Resistance

Most people worry about fires coming from inside the house. However, sparks or debris from any nearby fires can spread to your own home. Granules add a vital layer of fire resistance to your roof, so they can be the difference between a fire that catches and a fire that doesn't. Even if a fire does start, granules should slow the spread of flames and give firefighters more time to save your home.

For more info about roof replacement, contact a local company.

2 Reasons To Install A New Metal Roof

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 12:22:58 +0000

Metal roofs last for years; however, they don't last forever. While you can repair some damage over your roof's working life, you will need to replace it at some point.

How can you tell if your roof is close to the end of its useful life?

1. Your Roof Makes Your Home Look Unattractive

Sometimes, homeowners replace an old metal roof a little early. They don't wait until they absolutely have to do this but install a replacement roof to improve the way their homes look now.

For example, if your metal roof looks worn or has lost a lot of its surface coat, then it won't enhance your home. Peeling paint, wear and tear and corrosion discolouration make for a roof shabby.

Plus, older metal roofs don't look as sleek and professional as newer products. They won't necessarily match any refurbishment work you've done on your property.

If you aren't happy with the look of your roof, then think about replacing it. You can go for a simple replacement that matches your current design or switch things up and build a different style of roof. In either case, your new roof will make your whole home look better.

2. Your Roof Has Rust Problems

Metal roofs usually have some protective treatments before they are installed. You might have recoated your roof a few times over the years to keep corrosion at bay.

However, it's hard to fully protect metal roofs from corrosion and rust as they get older. Once a roof develops rust problems, they will spread. Ultimately, your roof might not have the strength or stability to cover the top of your home effectively.

For example, if rust eats a hole in a panel, then you could have a leak coming into your home. If rust spreads to the roof's fasteners, then they might get so damaged that they can't hold panels and tiles in place. They might then move out of position or warp out of shape.

Initially, you might have been able to keep rust at bay by replacing fasteners and treating minor rust on the roof. However, if you have recurring problems that are getting worse, then consider cutting your losses and replacing the roof.

At this stage, the costs of replacing your roof could be more cost-effective in the long run. You'll get a sound new roof and won't have to pay out for regular repairs that will only get more expensive as your roof gets older.

To find out more about the condition of your roof and what you should do next, call metal roof replacement contractors.

Commercial Roof Coating Advantages

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 14:52:38 +0000

If installed and maintained correctly, your commercial roof should last for many years. As a part of ongoing maintenance, you'll need to look for tell-tale signs that it is time for repair, restoration or replacement.

If your roof no longer looks good and doesn't perform to its full potential but is still structurally sound, you can benefit from a roof coating job.

As the name suggests, roof coating involves applying a specially formulated product to the surface of an existing roof. The purpose of roof coatings is to improve the performance and appearance of old roofing material.

Read along to acquaint yourself with the top advantages of commercial roof coating.

It increases the life of your existing roof

All roofs deteriorate over time and will eventually require replacement, but that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do to make them last longer.

When you coat your commercial roof, you get a durable surface coating that seals leaks and protects the substrate material against inclement weather. The watertight seal restores your roof to its optimal performance, thus prolonging its life.

It can increase energy savings

As a commercial facility owner or manager, you understand that cutting your operating costs helps increase your profits. Using cool roof coatings can help you accomplish this goal.

A cool roof has a highly reflective surface to curb solar heat gain through radiation. When radiant heat from the sun reaches the surface of your roof, most of it gets reflected away, reducing the opportunity for heat transfer into your building.

Since cool roofs stop heat gain, they reduce or potentially eliminate the need for air conditioning. As a result, they can enhance the energy efficiency of your commercial building while saving you money on energy bills.

It costs less than re-roofing or roof replacement

While you may still need to re-roof or replace your current roof in the long term, coating it can return it to its original condition without breaking the bank. A roof coating job doesn't require a tear-off or new roofing material, thus cutting roof renewal costs.

One major drawback of roof coating systems is that they only work on structurally sound roofs. If your roof has suffered significant structural damage, you may need to repair or replace it, depending on the extent of the damage. Contact a roofing contractor that serves your specific area if you need more information about roof coatings and other roofing services.

How could you could use laser cut roofing panels?

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 16:32:39 +0000

If you know anything about cutting metal, you will be aware that much of metal these days is cut using computer-controlled laser cutting machines. While it is possible to find craftsmen to cut small volumes of metal sheets manually, it is much more common to find laser cutting used for large volume production. Laser cutting offers numerous advantages over traditional cutting methods. Principally, it is faster and greatly reduces the possibility of error, and therefore is much less wasteful of time and materials than manual cutting techniques. One industry that has certainly taken advantage of laser cutting is the roofing industry. Here are two ways your roofing company could be using laser cutting.

Use laser-cut roofing panels

When you need a lot of roofing panels, laser cutting is the obvious choice. Laser cutting can produce perfect panels, the exact size and shape needed, and it creates as many of those panels as needed with perfect results every time. As the machine operates via computer control, the operator only needs to press the button and set the machine running, following the programmed coordinates. Laser cutting can reproduce whatever custom design you might need for your roofing panels. Speak to a laser cutting company today, to find out what designs are possible for your metal roofing panels.

Install a pergola

If you have an outdoor space, you may be looking for a way to make better use of it. Many homeowners like to install a pergola to create a feature in their garden. Adding laser cut roofing panels to your pergola allows you to create shade, but also to add some architectural interest to the space. You can choose almost any design for the panels to produce a unique space for your property. Similarly, you could use panels to act as dividers, creating more privacy for those in the garden. Panels can also enhance dull, uniform fencing along the boundary of your property.

Which metal should you pick?

Your choice of metal will depend on how you intend to use the finished product. Many laser cutting companies can cut almost any metal including mild and stainless steel, brass, and aluminium. However, not all metals are equally easy to cut, and not every metal will be a good fit for your project. It is best to discuss your needs with the laser cutting company and be guided by their judgment and their experience gained on many similar projects.

Benefits of Using a Granny Flat Kit

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 13:58:54 +0000

If you build a granny flat in your garden, you can use it for a home office or a holiday retreat for friends. Alternatively, a family member might like to live there. You're allowed to rent a granny flat to a stranger in some states, but you need to check with your local government as the rules differ across Australia. You may wonder whether it would be better to build one of these structures from scratch or use a kit home. Here are several reasons why granny flat kits are a good choice.

Design

Granny flat kits come in a vast array of designs. For example, you could choose a quaint cottage look with weatherboard exterior walls. Alternatively, you might opt for an industrial flat with an angular design using corrugated steel. Another possibility is a sleek modern design. The benefit of granny flat kits is that they're designed by experts. The features are colour harmonised and all parts of the building complement each other. Plus, you can see what the granny flat will look like before you purchase it, so you won't face an unwelcome surprise of the building being different from what you expected.

Landscaping Options

A granny flat kit gives you the best of both worlds as you'll get a predictable building that matches your expectations. However, you can alter its appearance with landscaping. For example, you could lay beautiful natural stone pavers or set up garden beds around the perimeter. Another idea is to spread colourful pebbles or crushed stone around the granny flat in hues that flatter the external walls. You could create a gravel patio area. So you'll benefit from an expertly designed kit home, but you can personalise it with landscaping.

Construction

With a granny flat kit, you can set it up yourself if you have the necessary skills and knowledge. Otherwise, you can hire an expert to construct it. Remember that a plot of the garden may need levelling and a concrete slab poured. Additionally, the plumbing and electricity will need to be connected.

Economical

Using a granny flat kit is typically more economical than building a design from scratch. The elements have been prefabricated in bulk, which lowers costs. As a result, everything won't need to be made on-site to create a massive construction bill. Thus, you'll save money with a kit home while getting the benefits of expert design and architecture.

Why Metal Roofs Are a Popular Choice for Commercial Roofing Projects

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 07:28:48 +0000

Because commercial roofs tend to have a low slope or are entirely flat, they're not good candidates for the roofing materials typically used on residential projects. Some of the popular types of roofing materials you'll often see being used on commercial buildings include rubber roofing, single-ply membrane roofing, built-up roofing, and metal roofing. Each roofing offers a unique combination of pros and cons that must be carefully looked at before making a final decision.

With that said, metal roofing's popularity has been soaring in the commercial market in recent times. This is largely due to the fact that commercial property owners are increasingly becoming aware of the huge benefits it can bring. If you're considering a metal roof for your commercial building, continue reading to find out the top benefits you stand to realise.

Available in a range of options

When it comes to metal roofing, not all products are created equal. Metal roofs come in a variety of materials, colours and styles to meet the requirements of different projects and users. For example, steel roofing panels are generally the most cost-effective choice for commercial property owners while aluminium is favoured for use in highly corrosive environments where steel isn't a viable option.

Metal roofing is also available in an array of colours and finishes to cater to the commercial heating and cooling needs of different users. Metal roofing products that come with solar reflective coatings are great for minimising solar heat gain in commercial buildings located in regions with predominantly hot climates.

Has a lightweight design

If you don't intend to place heavy items like air conditioning equipment on top of your roof, then a metal roof can be the perfect choice for your commercial building. This type of roof is incredibly light in weight, reducing the overall load on the building.

The lightweight design of metal roofing material also makes roofing installation easier, as the roofing materials can be carried to the top of the roof with relative ease. This can lead to substantial savings on labour costs.

Choosing a roof for your new or existing commercial building is a big decision. The type of roof you invest in will be the building's frontline defence against rain, strong wind, snow, ice, direct sunlight and other weather elements. It's also going to influence the external appearance and beauty of the building. Choosing the right roof for your commercial project is vital. Contact a commercial roofing contractor near you to find out more about metal roofing and other roofing options available for your commercial project.

FAQs About Wooden Wall Frames

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 08:54:45 +0000

Timber wall frames have been around for ages for good reasons. Compared to the alternatives, wood is safe for the environment, which lowers your carbon footprint. Wooden walls also insulate your home efficiently, therefore reducing your energy costs. These are just two of the many more reasons why most people choose wooden wall frames over others. If you are still uncertain about this choice, the following FAQs will help you make a more informed decision.

Are Wooden Frames Affordable?

The answer is yes. Constructing a timber wall will cost you a little more compared to others like steel. However, other advantages make wooden walls an irresistible choice. You have already seen that wood has insulation abilities which lower your monthly HVAC energy expenses. Also, working with wood is much easier than with steel, meaning reduced labour costs.

Are Timber Wall Frames the Same As Log Frames?

Although both use the same material, the structures are quite different. Just as the name suggests, log homes use treated logs stuck on each other. There is no additional finishing needed here. On the other hand, wooden walls are made using milled timber from the factories and finished with a different siding such as vinyl.

How Versatile Are Wooden Wall Designs?

Wood allows you to be as creative as you want with your home. You can be as simple or sophisticated as you wish. As earlier mentioned, wood is easy to work with, so you can get any shape, size, and colour matching your dream house. Lastly, wood holds paint longer, so no worries about repainting any time soon.

How Long Do Wooden Homes Last?

A properly constructed wooden home can last for years without needing any renovations. Even a fire would still leave your home standing. That is because wood is highly resilient towards fire.

Will You Still Need a Heating System When You Have Wooden Wall Frames?

Generally, wooden walls will keep you warm enough without needing to use your HVAC system. However, some factors could prompt you to use your heating system still. For instance, the gradient of your home can affect interior temperatures. The best thing to do is to talk to your architect about it before building.

How Long Does It Take to Construct a Wooden Wall Frame?

The time frame is purely dependent on the design at hand. A more sophisticated design would take longer than a simpler one. However, only your contractor can tell you how much time they need to finish the project.

These are a few of the questions you might have in mind about wooden wall frames. Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of this choice. But, to make wiser decisions, work with a seasoned contractor.

3 Risks You Are Likely to Face By Neglecting Roof Leak Repairs

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 16:16:59 +0000

If you see a small leak in your roof, you should hire a roofing expert to repair it immediately. Failure to rectify the issues exposes your belongings and property to water damage. Additionally, once you ignore minor leaks, they might escalate and damage the entire roof. Read on to learn the risks you are likely to face by neglecting roof leak repairs.

You Are Risking the Growth of Mould and Mildew in Your House

Ignoring a leaking roof creates a perfect environment for the growth of mould and mildew. These harmful substances live in moist areas.

When mould and mildew grow inside your house, they may damage the property. Besides, they may cause different diseases that will be expensive to treat. Therefore, once you ignore water leaks in your roof, you will compromise the structural integrity of your property as well as the health of everyone who lives in your home.

You Are Risking Electrical Damage and Electrocution

A water leak is dangerous, especially if it reaches your electrical system or electronics. If you ignore a small leak, it will allow water to drip down slowly through the walls and settle at the lowest points of your house.

If the lowest point is your electrical systems or powered electronics, water leaks might damage them, cause a fire in case of a short circuit or cause death as a result of electrocution. However, water leaks might not cause immediate damage. It might damage the electrical circuit first, which might expose the electrical cables. And, the next time water leaks, it might cause any of the above-mentioned problems.

You Are Risking Damaging the Entire Roof

If you overlook a minor leak, the problem may worsen within a short period, which might require expensive repairs or even replacement of the entire roof. As the small leaking hole enlarges, it allows more water into the house, which destroys the frames that hold the roof and other parts of the house. Therefore, it is not advisable to ignore a leaking roof. You might spend a lot of money replacing your damaged roof, and the problem could have been solved if you rectified the minor leak at its early stage.

Repairing your roof should be a routine exercise. When renovating your house, roof repairs should be one of your priorities. If you ignore a small leak on your roof, the problem might worsen in a few weeks, and it might cause havoc that may cost you a fortune. So, you should call in a professional roofing contractor to repair your roof immediately when you notice leaking problems.

To learn more about repairs, reach out to a local roofing contractor.

When to Replace Your Gutters

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 15:16:23 +0000

Gutters protect your home from water damage by directing the rainwater away from your house. Guttering should protect your walls, interior fixtures and foundation and keep your home in optimal condition. Look out for the telltale signs below to determine if your house needs gutter services:

Cracks and Gaps

If you notice small cracks in your gutters, it is best to hire professional services to keep them from growing into larger splits. Cracks let water in to the fascia boards, shingles and foundation, which is why you need to call roofers as soon as possible. Gutter replacement is needed to repair gutters that are pulling away from the roof and to protect your home from excess moisture.

Peeling Paint

Cracks in the gutters can result in peeling paint or orange flecks due to rust. Rusted gutters are characterised by small holes that let water through to the walls, windows, and foundation. Leaking gutters can also cause the paint on your home to leak due to excess moisture, and you may have to repaint your house if the problem persists. The best approach to preserve your home's paint is to call experienced roofers to repair your gutters.

Water Pools

If you notice stagnant water collecting in your gutters, you will need professional roofers to deal with blockages in the system. They will unblock the gutters so that the water drains the way it should during the rainy season. The problem can be as straightforward as a clog or as complex as a malfunction, which is why you need to contact an expert roofer.

Water Damage Marks

Many homeowners spend a lot of time and money sprucing up their home's exterior, and discolourations on the walls due to leaky gutters can lead all this effort down the drain. Roofers will check the area beneath your gutter regularly for stains and discolourations and repair your gutters to prevent watermarks.

Seam Stress

Homeowners with older or blocked gutters commonly complain about seam stress, where the seams separate due to pressure and let water through. The seams are very vulnerable to stress, which is why they are likely to weaken if there is too much buildup in the gutters. An experienced roofer can install seamless gutters to give your home a sound drainage system.

Rotting

Damaged gutters leave rainwater to trickle down your home and cause the fascia and soffit to rot. These fixtures are located around the roof's edge, and they absorb a lot of water if the gutter is leaking. You will need gutter replacement to keep the fascia and soffit in good condition.

The Cheapest Way To Get A Quality Pool House Or Other External Living Space

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 14:37:07 +0000

For many people, the idea of a pool house or external, self-contained living space is the height of luxury. Not only does it allow you to provide guests with their own private quarters when they come to stay, but it also allows you to move around when working at home or just taking some time off. However, for a long time, these houses did cost a significant amount of money. However, with the invention of the granny flat DIY kit, now this additional living space is within your grasp.

What Is A Granny Flat DIY Kit?

There are several companies that offer granny flat kits which are basically small, prefabricated buildings that you assemble yourself. There are many customisable options, from the size of the granny flat kit to the amenities involved, such as the number of bathrooms, electrical outlets, kitchen fixtures and so on. You can also make minor stylistic choices, such as the doors and windows and options like that. There are also a lot of different architectural designs to choose from, from a classic modern look to Mediterranean or plantation designs that create a wholly different, but equally thrilling, atmosphere.

How Much Do They Cost?

The great thing about granny flat kits is that, because everything is sourced by one vendor, you don't have to pay multiple smaller businesses that you would normally have to deal with. That means that you can find granny flat DIY kits starting around the $25,000 range, which is less than a price of quite a few new cars! If you want the larger, more expansive granny flat kits then you can start looking towards more expensive options, which is still much less than it previously cost for anything remotely similar.

How Do You Install The Kit?

You will need to contact a professional construction crew to assemble your DIY granny flat kit for you. It is still construction, and not a lego set, so you need people who are properly qualified to do the heavy lifting for you. However, because all the pieces are already there and you have all the instructions as well, the construction time on these granny flat kits is very minimal. Often you will see a granny flat DIY kit get set up within a few days, generally no longer than a week. For larger granny flats this might be a little different but still far quicker than previous options.

The risks of delaying essential property maintenance

Wed, 26 Oct 2016 08:11:31 +0000

If you lead a busy lifestyle and money is a bit tight, it can be tempting to postpone routine property maintenance and repairs. However, those small signs of deterioration, which may seem harmless initially, could eventually lead to far more serious problems. If you want to keep your home in good condition and maintain its value, you simply cannot ignore the need for preventative and reparative work. Read on to find out what can happen if you neglect some of the most important types of property maintenance.

Roof restoration

A lot of homeowners make the mistake of postponing roof repairs for as long as possible because they don't want to incur the expense of a hiring a roofer. This can result in several different issues. A neglected roof will inevitably start to leak; this will then lead to rainwater getting into the property and causing water damage to the ceiling, plastering and wall cavity insulation.

The holes through which the water leaks will also allow heat to escape from the home during colder months; this, in turn, will increase the cost of the household's energy bills. If the gaps in the roof are relatively large, homeowners may also have to deal with a rodent or insect infestation. Last but not least, the presence of moisture could also, over time, result in the development of mould, which is a potential health hazard and can be very tricky to get rid of.

As such, postponing roof restorations is a very misguided way to try to save money. The truth is that the cost of addressing the above-mentioned issues will be far greater than the amount you would pay for a straightforward restoration job. Talk to a contractor like Blue West Roof Restorations for more information.

Plumbing maintenance

Perhaps because you can't see your home's entire plumbing system, it's all too easy to convince yourself that it's in perfect working order and doesn't require any significant maintenance. However, even a seemingly inconsequential, minor problem could end up causing irreparable damage if it is ignored for too long.

A persistently slow-running or blocked drain, for instance, isn't usually something that would alarm most people; but this type of problem can actually lead to a whole host of serious issues. A build-up of water in a plumbing system can cause leaks in its pipes; depending on the location of the leak, this could then allow water into the walls or floorboards, which in turn could result in warping, mould formation, discolouration and even structural damage. Similarly, excessively high water pressure can damage plumbing fixtures and, in some instances, cause burst pipes and leaks.

Chemical Constituents to Look Out for When Selecting Acrylic Coating for Your Roof

Wed, 14 Sep 2016 14:31:26 +0000

Acrylic coating is a popular water-based roof paint for combating weathering and eventually prolonging the life of your roof. They provide a reliable package that offers good performance and cost effectiveness at the same time. Notably, the quality of acrylic coating produced varies among different manufacturers in the market because of the individual chemical components that they include or exclude in their product. With knowledge on various components of acrylic coating, you can judge its quality to determine if it will meet your performance expectations. Here are some of the constituent chemicals that you should look out for when buying acrylic coating:

Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is an important chemical component that you should look out for when you are buying acrylic coating. This chemical adds to the "white" element of the acrylic coating, making it reflective to the sun's radiation. This influences the overall insulation ability of the coating, which translates to the energy efficient of the roof. Moreover, you should also note that acrylic coating will be subjected to weathering because of the prolonged exposure to ultra-violet radiation. Thankfully, titanium dioxide is opaque to ultraviolet radiation and stops the harmful rays from reaching the inner substrate of the acrylic coating.

Aluminium Trihydrate

Fire safety is an important consideration when you are choosing acrylic coating. Considering that roof structure comprises other material such as wood or oil-based paint, you need to use any available means to reduce the chances of a fire spreading in case there is a breakout. Therefore, you should look out for aluminium trihydrate when you are buying acrylic coatings. The chemical is a retardant that will come in handy in case of an emergency.

Extender Pigments

Good quality acrylic coatings should have one or more extender pigments. They provide additional blockage to ultraviolet radiation, colour and resistance to fire. Moreover, they protect the coating against abrasion from elements such as dust particles. Depending on the quality of the acrylic coating that the manufacturer would like to reinforce, they will opt for various extender pigments. They are important chemical supplements for your acrylic coating. Examples of extender pigments are calcium carbonate, silica, talc powder and clay.

Preservatives

Basically, acrylic roof paint is water-based and highly susceptible to infestation by mould and other species of microorganisms. These microorganisms ruin the aesthetics of the roof coating and inhibit the effective transfer of heat from the attic (insulation). To keep the microorganisms at bay, go for an acrylic coating that has zinc oxide as a preservative.

Most manufacturers indicate the composition of the acrylic coating on the packaging. Check carefully for the above constituents before paying the price.

Home Improvement 101 | Tips for Replacing Your Roof

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 07:32:17 +0000

A good roof over your house will greatly increase its appeal as well as protect you from the outside elements. However, like many things, it undergoes wear and tear as time inexorably exerts its toll. While roof repair may present a quick solution to many of the problems seen on roofs, it isn't always enough. Serious structural damage will necessitate a roof replacement; nothing else will do. That said, roof replacement is a costly endeavour that will require a lot of time and money. If you are a homeowner looking to replace your roof, here are some valuable tips to get your money's worth.

Consider the season.

The current season is a major factor when planning to replace your roofing. This is because harsh weather conditions normally make roof replacement much harder. Snow and heavy rain will also make the replacement dangerous for you or your roofers. When planning for a roof replacement, consult your weather forecast for a number of days with sunny or cloudy weather. Typically, such conditions are found during spring or summer. These seasons are consequently very popular for roofing and other home renovations. The demand for roofers increases dramatically, so finding a contractor can be time-wasting and expensive. Therefore, secure the services of a roofer beforehand and build a steady working relationship to ensure you aren't left out.

Choose the right material.

It very important to pick the right material when making a roof replacement. In fact, the reason you may need a replacement at all is because the previously used material failed. Base your considerations on a number of factors and not just the cost. Look at their longevity, suitability for various climates and need for maintenance. Consult your roofing contractor to help you make the best choice. Asphalt shingles are cheap and easy to install but have a relatively short lifetime. Clay or concrete tiles are durable and fire-resistant. However, installation is difficult since they require additional framing due to their weight. Metals are a very popular option in Australia since they are durable, lightweight and resistant to many weather conditions.

Ensure proper ventilation.

Ventilation is a major factor that will determine the longevity of your roofing. Without proper insulation, heat can build up in your attic during summer and encourage wood rot that will compromise your roof. During winter, proper ventilation will reduce accumulation of moisture in the attic that provides good conditions for growth of mildew and mould. Therefore, ensuring your roofer includes venting alongside the roof installation will significantly increase its lifetime.

Roofing Maintenance to Do in the Fall

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 10:01:10 +0000

Every time the season changes, it is a good idea to do some basic house maintenance. In the fall, it is important that you not ignore your roof, otherwise the winter won't treat you well. Follow these easy tips for preparing your roof for the fall season.

Clean Out the Gutters

Don't leave your gutters as-is until you realise they are causing a problem. When you first start working on maintaining your roof for the fall season, that is a good time to clean both the gutters and the downspouts. A lot of leaves will start falling from trees during this season, which will quickly cause the gutters to become clogged. Not only should you clean them out before the season begins but periodically during the fall as well. This keeps them clean so you don't weigh down the gutters or cause ice dams when winter arrives.

Keep the Trees Trimmed

Due to the heavy winds and sometimes rainstorms that occur in the fall, you also want to keep your trees trimmed. If the branches are close to your home or hanging over the top of the roof, they could do damage with very little wind speed. Make sure these are trimmed not just to protect your roof from scratching and other damage, but to reduce how many leaves and branches end up on the roof and in the gutters.

Look For Signs of Roofing Damage

After you have done your basic cleaning and maintenance, walk around on your roof and look for any signs of damage or holes. You can help avoid a serious problem by getting certain issues fixed now instead of later. You may find that some shingles have started to peel away from the roof, so you know they need to be replaced. If there are large areas of missing roofing materials, you may have a hole which could eventually turn into a leak. Get roofing renovations or repairs done before rain and snow season starts.

Have the Roof Inspected

Near the end of the fall season, hire a roofing contractor to visit your home and do a thorough inspection of the roof. Some things you won't be able to tell on your own, so it requires a professional. They will not only inspect your roof and materials, but they will also make the repairs needed as well. It is important that you do this just before winter starts so you aren't dealing with problems along with a heavy snowstorm.