Archive for the ‘Roofing Tips’ Category
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Put On A New Roof?
Friday, March 30th, 2012If you are thinking of replacing your roof, putting on a new roof with new construction or making roofing repairs, you may wonder what time of year is the best time to work on a roof. For some, with new construction, the roof will go on while the construction is occurring, which can be throughout the year in Georgia. For those who want to replace or do major repair work you may want to plan the job for when the temperatures will be above freezing and when wind and rain are least expected.
Georgia Roofing Contractor
In Georgia, roofing contractors are able to work twelve months out of the year. There may be some days that are just too stormy, rainy or windy to work on the roof or expose the under-structure to the elements or the North Metro area of Atlanta may see some days of snow, ice and freezing temperatures where work is generally not scheduled to begin or work is put on hold until the weather cooperates. In the event of bad weather during a roofing job, special measures will be taken to protect the home from damage at all times.
Cummings and Dahlonega Area Roofer
If you need to have major repairs made to your roof, or need a failing roof replaced when the weather is bad, our North Georgia roofer will work with you to provide immediate coverage and protection until the needed work can be accomplished. Your Cumming roofing contractor, Cornerstone, is available for free consultations and would be happy to plan out a work schedule with you that not only meets your needs but takes the weather into consideration as well.
Atlanta Roofer Cornerstone
Our North Georgia roofer, Cornerstone, works with each individual homeowner and family to meet their needs. They will provide a free evaluation and inspection of your roofing needs. Don’t worry about the weather – your Georgia roofer has over 15 years of experience in the area and they will keep your home safe during any kind of weather situation. Call Cornerstone Roofing today for a free visit!
Serious About Buying an Older Home? Having a Roof Inspection is Critical
Friday, March 23rd, 2012If you are in the market for buying an older Georgia home you will more than likely have a general inspection of the house performed. Having the roof inspected by a roofing contractor is critical to know for certain if there are damages to the roof and interior structures, and what it may cost to have them repaired.
Georgia Home Buyer Roofing Inspections
The selling price of the home is expensive and you do not want to discover big problems and put down thousands more to replace or repair a bad roof after the paperwork is signed. The roof may appear fine from the ground and the sellers may not have had any problems with the roof in the past giving you a false sense of security. Having a professional Georgia roof inspection can find hidden issues that can lead to structure failure and big expenses down the road.
Cumming Roofer Provides Roof Inspections For Home Buyers
Our Cumming roofer team looks at the condition of the roofing materials, their age, signs repair, and the probable remaining life span of the roof. In addition your Atlanta area roofer will inspect for proper venting, hidden mold or mildew, poorly installed flashing, dry rot, water stains in the attic, ill repair of gutters, the presence of vermin, and many other defects that can lead to extensive roof damage or allow water and mildew to enter your home and damage the structure and the main living areas of your home.
Home Buyer Atlanta Roofing Inspections
If you want to have a Georgia roof inspection prior to buying a home, call your Dawsonville roofer for a roof inspection. Get the answers you need before making an offer or signing any paperwork; you may make an offer pending a clean “bill of health” from your home inspection and roofing inspection. Cornerstone Roofing has been providing quality professional services to the North Metro Atlanta area for over 15 years. Call today to arrange for your roofing inspection on the home you are serious about buying. What you can’t see can hurt your wallet!
What Is Ice And Water Shield And Do I Need It On My Roof?
Thursday, February 16th, 2012With the Georgia winters becoming more unpredictable with snow and ice accumulations, the value of having Ice and Water Shield installed on your roof becomes very important. Your Cumming roofer, Cornerstone, is experienced in the installation of this optional yet highly recommended product.
Georgia Roofer Recommendation
Ice and Water Shield is a sticky and rubberized product that is applied to the first three to six feet of your roof decking. It starts at the eaves edge and goes back several feet protecting up to the final six-feet of your roof’s edge where snow and ice buildup and accumulate the most. Ice and Water Shield is also applied in the roof valleys and roof protrusions, such as chimneys, pipes, vents and skylights, for optimal protection.
Cumming Roofer Provides Free Inspections
If you are thinking of putting on a new roof, or replacing an old one, call our Georgia roofers for a free roofing estimate. Ice and Water Shield is a critical new component to a roofing system subject to cold weather, ice and snow. This product forms a strong barrier to water, ice and snow and is applied directly to the roof decking, beneath the underlayment and shingles.
Cornerstone Roofing Installs Ice And Water Shield
Use Ice and Water Shield where snow and ice tend to build up such as around venting, skylights, flashing and other areas where there may be an opening for rain or melting snow and ice to find its way into the structure of your house. An added benefit to the use of Ice and Water Shield is that it is a flexible membrane that seals around any nails that are used to complete your roofing job. It can be used under all standard asphalt roof coverings, as well as cedar, metal, tile or slate roofs.
Call Cornerstone Roofing today for a free roof inspection and to discuss any roofing plans or concerns that you may have.
Can I Put More Than One Layer Of Shingles On My Roof?
Tuesday, January 31st, 2012Check with your local ordinances before putting another layer of shingles on to your existing roof. Most local communities will only allow two layers of shingles on a roof, although there are some areas that do allow up to three layers. Be sure to check your local building codes to be sure you are in compliance if you plan on doing the work yourself.
Cumming Roofer Provides Free Roofing Inspections
There are several things to consider before adding a second (or even third if permissible) layer of shingles onto your home’s roof:
- Most roof structures are able to support the weight of two layers of shingles. Inspecting the structure and framing before starting the job would be advisable. There may be inadequate support, or wood that is compromised from dampness, mold or rot. Call your Cumming roofer, Cornerstone, for a free roofing inspection so that you will know upfront how to make sure your structure is strong and secure.
- Inspect for any existing leaks. Adding a new roof over another roof does not always fix the underlying issues. The area of concern may be around the flashing or vents and these will need to be repaired before you install an additional roof. Georgia roof repairs are too important to the security and protection of your home to only partially correct a problem.
- Get a thorough Dawsonville roof inspection to assure that all of the shingles lay flat. Shingles added on top of old warped or curled shingles will take on the shape of the shingles underneath. Not only will the life span of the new shingles significantly decrease, but the warranty may be void as well.
- Get a good evaluation of the roof decking and structure from your attic or crawl space. For example, are the boards and wooden support warped, soft, damp and moldy? Adding another layer to your Georgia roof will not fix the problems below.
Dawsonville and Roswell GA Roofer
Protect your home and your family and save wasted expense from trying to cover up a problem instead of properly repairing the concern. Call your Cumming and Roswell roofer, Cornerstone, for a free roofing inspection today.
What Are The Five Most Common Roofing Problems?
Monday, January 16th, 2012There are many problems that can occur with any roof and the earlier you catch the problem the more likely you are to save money. Letting a known issue go leads to further structural damage which turns into a more expensive repair job.
Five Most Common Roofing Problems – Cumming Roofer
l. Roof Leaks and Moisture Build-up – Leaks can occur for a number of reasons, such as loose or missing shingles, damage to the flashing, improper seals around vents, age and deterioration of the roofing material, poor installation, growth of moss or algae, a inadequate gutter system, and so on. Call your Cumming, GA roofer, Cornerstone, for a free roofing inspection. Find out if you have a problem with your roof now before time allows further damage to occur.
2. Shingles Blowing Off or Tearing – Shingles are a major protection barrier for your roof structure and the inside of your home. Shingles that become worn, have blown off, torn, or lifted up during a storm, or shingles that were improperly installed provide an open invitation for water to enter your Cumming area home. You may not notice the water entering into your attic or crawl space until it finally reaches your ceiling leaving stains and possibly dripping down into the room.
3. Improper Installation of Roofing Materials – During tear off of the old materials, inspect prior problem areas and make sure that all the flashing is tight around vents, chimneys or skylights you may have. Replace any damp or rotted areas with new materials – Letting damp wood remain leads to continued deterioration, mold growth and decay. Call your Atlanta roofer, Cornerstone, for a free roofing inspection.
Dahlonega Roofing Contractor
4. Maintenance Not Performed in Timely Manner – Take a walk-around and check all sides of your North Metro Atlanta roof. A lopsided or missing shingle, water splashing out from the sides of your gutters, debris on the roof, or dark stains on the roof are examples of potential problem areas. Receiving a Cummings area Free Roofing Inspection is a quick and easy way to know for sure if there are any issues that need correcting now before the problem grows more expensive.
5. Improper Roofing Repairs – The key is to use the right quality materials for the job and know how to properly repair the problem. If you do not know which is the right shingle or underlay for your roof, or have never put a shingle on a roof, it may be a wiser choice to find a reputable roofing contractor who can provide a quality job in short order, and clean up all the discarded materials too! Dahlonega roofer Cornerstone today for a free roofing inspection.
Will the Moss or Algae Growing on my Roof Damage it?
Friday, December 16th, 2011Moss and algae grow in damp and shady places. In order to bring more sunlight to your roof try to remove any leaves or debris laying on the roof, and cut back any tree branches that hang over your roof. Both of these plant growths can damage not only the roof shingles, but the roof structure as well. Call your Cumming, GA roofer, Cornerstone for a free roofing inspection to be sure damage has not already started to occur.
Atlanta and North Georgia Roofer
Algae damages the roof as it will actually feed on the limestone filler that is part of shingle construction. The longer algae is on your roof, the more granules that protect the surface of the shingle loosen and wash away. Once the shingles lose part of their protectant, it shortens the shingles life span and does not reflect the sun’s heat as well; this in turn increases what you pay in air conditioning bills. In addition, the presence of algae on your roof will encourage the growth of both lichens and roof moss which also damage your roof. Find out if damage has already occurred with a free roofing inspection.
Moss and lichens that appear on the roof actually anchor into the top layer of your shingles. As they dig into the shingle they cause granules to loosen and fall away. Moss and lichens also cause the edges of the shingle to lift up which makes your roof more susceptible to both wind damage and water leaks. Since moss and lichen retain moisture, they keep the area where they are growing damp, inviting more plant growth.
Cummings, Dawsonville and Dahlonega Roofer
Leaving plant growth on your roof will eventually lead to leaks and rot. The roofing material that is affected may need to be removed and replaced. Catching damage early can save you thousands of dollars. Call your North Georgia roofer, Cornerstone to schedule a free roofing inspection. Don’t delay and let “nature take its course” on your roof!
How Can I Safely Clean My Roof?
Wednesday, November 30th, 2011Cleaning a home’s roof is a commonly neglected maintenance chore. Over time, grime, mildew, mold and stains buildup and not only mar the appearance, but can cause roof damage to the roof structure itself. Cleaning a roof is an important preventative measure; however, improper cleaning can damage the roof you are trying to protect.
A home with a clean roof will enhance its curb appeal as well as help to maintain a good market value. In addition, a clean roof will help your wallet by helping to improve the overall energy efficiency, extend the life of the roof, and helps you to discover and repair any problems that may occur before any major damage occurs.
While there are many good reasons to keep your home’s roof clean, your skill and safety needs to be examined. Trying to clean your roof is a dangerous job that can lead to serious injury. A single fall or slip from the roof could cause not only injury, but death.
What Are The Methods To Clean A Roof?
Roofs are generally cleaned by one of three common methods; pressure washing, and the application of solutions that contain either sodium hydroxide or chlorine bleach. The cleaning process generally needs to be repeated every six months to a year and a half. You need to clean the roof properly following the correct procedure or you could do more damage to your roof than good. When in doubt, hire a roofing professional to clean your roof.
What Kind Of Roof Damage Could Occur?
Cleaning your own roof could lead to possible damage. For example, pressure cleaning can wash off the asphalt granules on the shingles or wash away layers of color on a tile roof. With use of cleaning solutions, not thoroughly rinsed off, leads to continuing corrosive action causing damage to the shingles. In addition, plant life, pets and anyone who may come in contact with the cleaning solutions could be injured by these toxic solutions.
Call your Dahlonega roofer, Cornerstone for a free roof inspection and estimate. Cornerstone has been servicing the North Atlanta area for over 15 years.
What Can I Do To Prevent Roof Damage?
Friday, September 30th, 2011Prevention and proper repair or replacement of any problems is the best way to keep your home secure and safe from damage from wind, rain and snow. There are a number of things that you can do that will help to prevent roof damage. If you do notice any problems you can take immediate steps to repair or replace any concerns before they become a major problem.
Top 10 Roof Damage Prevention Tips:
- Keep your roof free from the collection of leaves, twigs, moss, and other items that could block proper drainage.
- Check to be sure that air can flow freely through all the soffit and roof vents to prevent heat and moisture buildup.
- Replace missing shingles. Replace shingles that are curled, broken or cracked.
- Trim overhanging branches from the edge or top of your roof so no branches hang on or scrape against the top of edge of the roof.
- Check to be sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and allow good flow of water off of your roof. Look for rust, holes, pulling away from the house, and for areas of water backup or spill over.
- Examine the roof flashing around roof vents, skylights, the chimney, valleys and connecting roof areas. Flashing should fit tight to the house.
- Look at the edge of your roof for loose or missing shingles. Damage to the edge can allow water back up as well as create a weak spot for high winds to cause further damage.
- Check inside your attic or crawl space for signs of leaks or if points of light can be seen through the roof decking.
- Examine all the roof vents and flues to be sure they are clear and are working properly.
- Consider hiring a professional Georgia roofing contractor for expert inspections. Your Cumming area roofer, Cornerstone, provides free roofing inspections and would be happy to schedule a time to discuss any concerns you may have.
Protect your investment in your home. Call Cornerstone Roofing today for a free roofing inspection.
How To Keep Your Gutters Clean
Wednesday, September 14th, 2011Cleaning your gutters is often a dangerous job and is generally time consuming as well as one that requires time on a ladder and a lot of effort. While maintaining and cleaning the gutters on your home is a very important part of home maintenance and helps to protect the roof, it is often a task that most homeowners would prefer not to do.
Your Cumming roofer, Cornerstone Roofing, has an excellent alternative for home owners. Cornerstone, an authorized installer, offers the LeafX Gutter Protection System that will take that time consuming and dangerous job off of your list of necessary chores.
What is the LeafX System?
LeafX is a unique system that is guaranteed to not only work for life, but comes with a lifetime guarantee to never clog! LeafX, professionally installed by Cornerstone, will protect your gutters and your home from leaves, pine needles, debris, animal intrusion, snow and ice – for life.
Call your Cumming area roofer, Cornerstone for a free roof inspection and estimate. Cornerstone can thoroughly go over the LeafX Gutter Protection System with you and let you see how you can either add to your current gutters, or install a totally new system. LeafX comes in 14 colors that will fit into any color scheme or roof design. LeafX connects directly into your gutter with no brackets, screws or nails into your roof.
If you have gutters that clog up, overspill, are in poor shape, or cannot handle the load of rain that you get, your home is in danger of roof damage, mold growth, decking panel decay, ceiling stains and damage, and so many other problems that occur from water damage. The LeafX system completely encloses the gutter system to keep out debris and has been tested to handle any amount of rainfall effectively and completely.
Protection To Your Gutter System
Call Cornerstone today to set up a time for your free roofing inspection regarding your gutters. Your home is a big investment and you want to be sure you protect it and your family now and in to the future.
What Should I Look For When Inspecting My Roof?
Thursday, June 30th, 2011It is a good idea to do a roof inspection at least twice a year, generally in the spring and fall – prevention and finding any potential problems early is the key to keep your roof and your home in good shape. With rainier summer months, it’s possible you may realize unfortunately there are problems without an inspection. If you notice problems, contact your area Cumming roofing company, Cornerstone Roofing.
Certainly don’t do anything that would be unsafe to you or to the structure. The following questions are just ideas for what you can look for as warning signs that something might need to be fixed with your roof. Our company would be glad to provide you with a thorough roof inspection.
Interior Inspection: Begin inside your house by checking out the attic if you can gain access to it. Look for any areas where the roof may be sagging, wet or damp, where they may be dark spots or signs of mold from poor or faulty ventilation, or where you may even see light shining through in spots.
Exterior Inspection: Once you have given the inside a once over, go outside and take a good look at the exterior of the roof. You can do a visual inspection from the ground or from the side of a ladder; walking on your roof can cause shingle damage or break tiles if you have that type of roofing material.
Can you see any buckling, sagging of the roof line, curling of shingles, missing shingles, moss or mold growing along the edges of the roof?
Are there rotted areas, dark stains on the roof, or color changes across an area of the roof?
Are there areas where the flashing is pulled away from the roof along roof angle changes or around pipes and vents?
Is there anything that just doesn’t look quite right when compared to the rest of the roof?
Are the gutters free and clear of debris? Are the gutters and downspouts properly attached?
Are all vents that exit your home free and clear to allow good ventilation?
What if I think there is a problem? Cornerstone Roofers has been serving the North Metro Atlanta area for over 15 years. We offer free roof inspections and provide quality materials, quality workmanship, and a high level of professionalism. Call our Cumming roofing company today with any questions or concerns that you may have.
