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So, Is roof cleaning a good idea?

Yes, in fact, roof cleaning is one of the most important things you can do for you home as matter of maintenance. However, it is easy to forget to have it done, or to do yourself, it is dangerous and time consuming. What can roof cleaning do for your home?

• Remove Algae, Lichens, Moss: Not only does this make your roof unattractive and degrades your home’s appearance, the algae, lichen, and moss are eating away at the shingles, shortening the lifespan of your roof. Algae, moss, and lichens harbor mold spores and fee mold growth. The negatives to your family’s health can be ongoing and for those with breathing issues, life threatening. Mold can cause various negative health consequences throughout your home. One thing that many homeowners do not realize, the algae, lichens, and moss are airborne and travel in the air to other homes.
• Shingle Damage: Failure to have a roof cleaning service will leave the debris, leaves, and limbs on the roof to rot away. That rot is forming the algae, lichens, and moss we discussed above and can affect your roof with water damage and decrease the energy efficiency of your roof.  
• Wood Rot: Algae and moss left on the roof, allowing ice dams to form and the water backing up under the singles or overflowing the gutters. All of this leads to wood rot to the decking under the shingles and to the fascia around the house.

Who does a roof cleaning?

In addition to roof cleaning, this should also include gutter cleaning. You can do either yourself, and we’ll discuss how NOT to do a roof cleaning, or you can hire a professional contractor that does roof cleaning and gutter cleaning.

Most roofing contractor companies offer gutter cleaning and roof cleaning as a part of their inspection service.  Having your roof inspected once or twice a year is recommended, and with a professional roofing contractor doing the job, they will know what to look for in the way of possible roof damage.

Siding and window contractors sometimes offer gutter and roof cleaning with their other services. Professionals recommend that you have a gutter and roof cleaning and inspection twice a year: once in the spring and again in the fall as the seasons are changing.

Is it okay to pressure wash a roof?

While the annual or bi-annual gutter and roof cleaning and inspection will do a lot for your home’s health, and prevent expensive and long-term issues, you do not want to have a hard or high pressure washing done.

Pressure washing can damage the shingles or tiles, loosening them and pushing them off the roof. Once a shingle or tile is missing, the roof is open to water damage to the substructure of the roof. Choose a company that uses a biodegradable solution and regular water pressure.

When should you clean your roof?

Generally, a professional roof cleaning every twelve months is as far apart as you should have this service performed, while twice a year is the most recommended.  Based on the area where you live, like a lot of trees, you should consider twice a year. Every twelve months, a professional roof cleaning contractor will have the chance to inspect your roof and catch any issues before they become expensive problems.

Can I clean my own roof?

There are homeowners that love nothing more than completing DIY projects around their home. From landscaping and painting to remodeling. So, when it comes to standard maintenance like roof cleaning, it is best left to the professionals.  Why?

Danger of Falls

Roof cleaning may seem easy from the ground, but once you’re up the ladder on that slick, wet surface, you may have different opinion. One-third of all construction fatalities is from falling off the roof.  Don’t be one of those fatalities!

Critters and Insects

There is a fairly good chance once you get up on that slick, wet roof, 20 feet or higher, you won’t be alone. The bees, hornets, and wasps have called your roof home for some time now  and you’ll an intruder. Other creatures like birds, squirrels, etc., may have nests built in the chimney, gutters, or vents. When you try to dodge and get away from an angry hornet, you may end up as one of the fall fatalities we mentioned above.

Experience

Will this be your first roof cleaning? How much do you know about roof cleaning process? Not only will and experienced roof cleaning contractor know How to do roof cleaning, they have the proper equipment too.

What Type of Roof Shingles are Best?

Whether you are in need of shingle roofing repair or a roof replacement, it is important for you to consider the best materials for your home or property. In order to get a good idea of what to look for, please review the following recommended roof shingles to discover more.

• Asphalt roof shingles. These shingles are incredibly popular across North America due to their affordability and integrity. There are many different brands of asphalt roof shingles, so please be sure to review your choices with your preferred roofing company.
• Faux slate roofing shingles. These roofing materials look very similar to slate, but they cost far less. These shingles can be composed of different materials such as plastic and polymer, clay, rubber or asphalt, and more. Fake slate is more slippery than regular slate, which is important to consider, particularly as wear and tear are concerned. 
• Metal roof shingles. These shingles come in different materials, such as steel, aluminum, copper, and alloys. Metal roofs come with the added advantage of increased longevity. 

In order to understand which roofing material will be best for your home or property, please be sure to consult with a proper roofing company. A good project manager will go over your options, budget, and repairs after a roof inspection to determine the best course of action.

What Roofs Last the Longest?

Are you wondering which roofing materials last the longest? If so, you will be pleased to know that the roofing materials that last the longest are concrete, clay, or slate tiles. These materials can greatly perform other roofing products such as wood shakes or manufactured roofing materials. However, it is realistic to consider that these roofs will be more expensive and may cost more to install. 

Are Black Roof Shingles a Bad Idea?

Black is a beautiful color and should be used in all manner of ways. Yet the question remains: are black roof shingles a bad idea? With roofs, it’s critical to think of solar reflectivity. The darker the roof, the more solar rays it will absorb. This means that with a black roof, the building will be much, much hotter in the summer. Black roofs also translate to a lower amount of energy efficiency due to the fact that air conditioning bills will be higher in the summer. With white or light-colored roofs, homeowners will have lower energy bills in the summer. Cool roofing options are highly recommended for property owners that live in hot or arid climates.

Which is Better Light or Dark Roof Shingles?

As previously alluded to, the darker your shingles are, the more they will absorb heat. Dark roof shingles will also absorb heat faster than light-colored roofing shingles. In areas of the country where there is cold weather, dark roofing shingles may not have a net-negative impact. This is because darker shingles will help melt off snow easier than light-colored roofing shingles. 

Where to Recycle Roof Shingles

One of the most responsible and honorable things that you can do is to recycle as many of your materials as possible. This initiative includes roofing shingles. Shingle recycling is actually available in most major markets in the United States. Shingle recycling is also available in some sites in Canada. 

Will Roof Shingles Burn

In truth, most asphalt shingles are Class A fire rated. That means that if there is a fire, they will withstand the external damage from the fire quite well. This is not the case if the fire occurs from inside of the property. As a matter of fact, if the fire starts inside the house and reaches the roof, then the shingles will burn in conjunction with the roof decking.

Can Roof Shingles Be Painted

While it is true that it may be possible to paint roof shingles, the better question is whether or not such paint will last for the long term. If the roof shingle color has already faded, then painting the shingles can make the home look better.

If you need a great consultation about roof shingles in Cincinnati, OH, you can rely on us first. Please give us a call at 513-563-9988 today!

Should you clean your roof?

Roof cleaning should be conducted in order to lengthen the life of the materials on your roof and prevent the growth of algae and mold. Certain roofing materials have protection against certain conditions from developing so it’s important to know what kind of maintenance is necessary for your particular roof. For asphalt shingles, you may be able to get rid of moss, algae, and other damages if they come about.

Does cleaning your roof damage it?

Roof cleaning is a regular part of roof maintenance from sweeping away fallen leaves and debris to other methods that are more in-depth like getting rid of mold. Essentially there is a risk of not keeping up with our roof where leaks, premature damages, mold formation, and other scenarios can befall your roof. In order to not stack up the costs of repairs and replacements make sure you are incorporating annual roof inspections with safe solutions to maintain a durable and clean roof.

How often should you clean your roof?

Roof cleaning should ideally be done by a professional roofer once a year. This will be enough to where if any problems develop as they do across seasons they can be caught early on. With newer roofs consider once every two years as they are more likely to be in better shape. After particularly harsh weather consider having a roof inspection done sooner than later.

How long does it take to clean a roof?

Roof cleaning can actually take anywhere from two to five hours depending on the condition and size of your roof.

What do black streaks on roof mean?

If you are noticing black streaks on your roof than it’s likely that a certain type of algae called Gloeocapsa magma has formulated on your roof. This type of algae is actually blue-green in color yet as it accumulates it develops into a darker color from it’s hardened outer coating. Essentially the reason this algae grows is that it feeds on the limestone found in shingles. Make sure to get your roof cleaning done by a professional roofer who will know which solution will work best to get rid of mold and how to remove this issue from your roof.

Is it OK to pressure wash a roof?

Pressure washing with roof cleaning can be particularly damaging to your roof with asphalt shingle materials as too strong pressures can wash off protective granules. That’s why it’s important to have a professional conduct roof cleaning in order to use the right power with tools such as these. 

How do I clean my roof myself?

There are some solutions available that you can incorporate with your roof cleaning depending on the use you have with it. Make sure that the products you’re using aren’t damaging to the materials and age of your roof. What’s more, keep in mind that certain mixtures may damage your plants so be sure to wet your foundation’s plantings first and rinse everything with clean water once you’re finished.

What chemical is used to clean roofs?

Most roof cleaning products use Sodium Hypochlorite which is commonly known as bleach. Other ingredients can include Sodium Percarbonate or Sodium Hydroxide.

Will bleach damage roof shingles?

When it comes to certain roof cleaning solutions only chlorine bleach or TSP chemical with phosphates combinations can dry out shingle roofs which can shorten the life of the roof due to the materials curling in reaction to it. Chlorine as well as certain roof cleaners sold can contain harmful ingredients such as lye which can not only hurt the environment and eat away at your gutters but kill your grass as well as your plants.

Reach Out to Your Local Roofers for Quality Roof Cleaning

When roof cleaning is required for your property hiring trained and certified roofers will ensure that your materials are taken care of with care. Roof cleaning can be a particularly tricky task to handle as the condition and materials of your roof can vary which will require different roof cleaning protocols. With a trained roofer you’ll be able to see what issues lie with your roof through a roof inspection where problems are caught with expert eyes. See how roof cleaning with a reputable roofing company can be beneficial for the longevity of your roof. Incorporate professional roof cleaning for your property today.

If you need help with roof cleaning in Cincinnati, OH call 513-563-9988 with Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection!

Do you Need a Permit to put on a New Roof?

Generally, a homeowner will not apply a roof installation or replacement onto their own home for a few reasons, but one of the biggest being that a permit is a requirement to do so. Whether it is renovations, adding to your home, applying a structural change, adding or taking away from, or doing anything to your roof then you will need a permit in and around Cincinnati, OH. 

As it pertains to roof installations or replacements for that matter, it is best to leave such a labor to the professionals like those at Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. The reason being for any roof, anyone doing work will have to be comfortable with a practiced process, heights, and a quite a bit of equipment being within arms reach. Whereas a team of professional roofers take a relatively short amount of time to replace a roof, a homeowner will take a significantly longer time especially if they are not familiar with the process. Furthermore, if there is a mistake in the roofing, the possibility for leaks will affect the home in the future, especially if the climate is cold and the leak freezes.

What are the materials needed for roofing?

Still on the topic of why a homeowner should leave a roof installation, repair, or replacement to the professionals, one needs an immense list of materials in order to complete the job. On top of an expansive tool kit and protective equipment being worn, a person would need to have at their disposal materials like: 

• Roofing shingles or respective materials
• Roofing nails
• Industrial stapler with staples
• Water proof adhesive
• Underlayment
• Flashing
• Sealant

Taking this list and then doubling it with more materials would also be applicable in understanding what it takes to be prepared for a roofing endeavor. You will also need to understand that with the roofing materials, they should be stored sufficiently in a way that they are neither damaged nor breakdown. With that in mind, you will have to be able to carry the materials up and down a latter more than several times, taking an ample amount of time throughout the process so you do not damage the parts that will eventually protect your home.

• ROOFING – rain should run from your roof, in the gutters, to the downspout, then out and away from your home. If you haven’t had a house gutter cleaning performed, they become clogged and filled with debris, dirt, leaves, and small limbs, the rainwater pools up inside the gutter. Without house gutter cleaning service, they will either overflow the gutters or back up under the shingles, breaking and cracking them.   

What happens if you don t clean out your gutters?

A house gutter cleaning job will keep your roof from damage by the sediment buildup in the gutters and drainage system that has no place to go but u under the shingles of your roof. After some time, the shingles and wood components of your roof will decompose and begin to leak. If the leaks aren’t address, then even bigger problems happen to the inside of your home with drywall damage, mold, and electrical hazards.

Clogged gutters become an ideal nesting environment for insects, rodents, and other unwanted guests, like mold. An annual professional house gutter cleaning service that will help you avoid this from happening, keeping your home healthy, your family healthy from mold causing sinus congestion and respiratory problems.

What does gutter cleaning include?

Homeowners dread house gutter cleaning. It is nasty and time-consuming. Therefore, many homeowners hire a professional gutter cleaning service. So, how do they do this nasty job so easily, fast, and neat?! Gutter cleaning professionals will have a commercial powered, truck-mounted vacuum on their truck with attachments that are gutter-sized. They will have power washers that have a strong power that will blast the clogs out. Other companies use a wet/dry technology that enables the technician to alternate between the power washing method and a vacuuming process to remove all the debris. Both processes will include cleaning the downspouts, and any gutter runs that are broken or loose, they will repair them to make sure they are in good working order. Must house gutter cleaning services will include gathering all the debris they cleaned out and place in garbage bags for disposal.

What is best way to clean gutters?

You’ll need a ladder so that you can safely reach the gutter runs for your house gutter cleaning project.  We recommend a thick pair of gardening gloves and protective eyewear. Many homeowners will use a power washer to blast the debris out and then, using their gloved hand, rake out any stuck debris. Other homeowners have found that using gutter cleaning with leaf blower works just as well and you won’t have the worry of the ladder being wet.

Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

There is a very big difference between a simple roof repair and a total roof replacement. The odds are that if a professional roofing company is recommending a total roof replacement, there are very serious reasons why. Here is a list of roof repair symptoms that would merit a total roof replacement.

• Upon receiving a thorough roof estimate for repairs, the repairs are deemed more expensive than the action of simply replacing the roof.
• When storm damage occurs that completely decimates the roof. For instance, if a tree limb has fallen on the roof and damaged not only the shingles but the underlayment. When multiple roofing membranes are penetrated, it is important to weigh one’s options.
• When roof damages necessitate a roof upgrade. Sometimes it is important to consider the cost-benefit analysis of upgrading to better roofing material. For instance, while asphalt shingles are very popular and affordable, a clay tile roof can last a lifetime and provides lots of curb appeal.
• When a roof is truly worn out or old, it is important to get it replaced as soon as possible. Roofing material has different estimated lifetimes. For instance, an asphalt shingle roof has a shorter roof lifetime than a standing seam metal roof.

What to Use to Glue Down Shingles?

Roof tar is generally used to glue down shingles. Roofing tar is a dark and oily glue that is used to repair roof leaks. The principal components of roofing tar are petroleum byproducts and coal tar. Tar is used both as a commercial and a residential roof sealant and should be applied when weather conditions are optimal.

Will Lifted Shingles Reseal?

If you have lifted roof shingles, you should not expect them to reseal. They can be hand sealed with roof cement or roofing tar. The wind has the propensity to lift shingles, so it is urgent to contact a professional roofing company when storm damages are suspected on your property.

At What Wind Speed Do Shingles Come Off?

At approximately seventy miles per hour, asphalt shingles can become detached from the roof. In particularly unlucky circumstances, a very strong blast of wind can peel off shingles. A category one hurricane can also do some very serious damage to a roof. This is particularly true for manufactured homes.

Can You Repair Roof Shingles

For minor roofing issues, it is certainly possible to repair roof shingles. For example, if a shingle is cracked or torn, a thick bead of roofing sealant can be applied.

Roof Shingles Repair Near Me

If you require roof shingles repair near your home or property, it will be important to secure a roof inspection from an insured roofing company. A professional roofing company will be able to diagnose exactly what the problem is with your roof and give you a qualified roofing estimate. In order to find a good roofing company, you can ask a friend or neighbor for a referral, or you can conduct a simple internet search. Please be sure to ask about years of work experience and credentials.

Repair Asbestos Roof Shingles

Asbestos is an extremely harmful material and has been found to be a carcinogen. As a matter of fact, all forms of asbestos have been found to cause cancer in humans. If you have a property that has asbestos roofing or siding, it will be important to contact an appropriate roofing resource to remove the roof shingles.

Would you like to schedule an appointment for your roof shingles repair? Our friendly operators at Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection are available now at 513-563-9988. Discover more about the quality roofing material available for your roof shingles repair in Cincinnati, OH today!

• Clogged gutters
• Overhanging branches
• Standing water
• Porous roofing material
• Poor roof ventilation

Gloeocapsa Magma, commonly called algae, is a black/green stain that is accented by mildew and mold. We can find it on the roof and sides of houses, typically the north side. Except just under the metal flashing of the chimney and roof vents. Why? They make roof flashing from a galvanized sheet metal that is coated with either copper or zinc. Algae has a toxic reaction to these coatings, so each time it rains, small amounts of those metals wash down the roof and algae growth is inhibited.

Your next question may be, “Is algae on roof bad for it?”, and the answer to this is an astounding YES!  First, algae live off asphalt shingles and your roof is a smorgasbord, all-you-can-eat buffet for it. Then, when algae are left there, it not only thrives off the asphalt shingles, but it becomes airborne and off it goes to other roofs, spreading itself.  Then moss is soon to follow, which feeds off the algae and it becomes like a sponge, collecting and holding rainwater.

After enough time, that layer of moss gets heavy and moisture seeps under the shingles, onto the decking, and into your attic. As that moss keeps building up, along with the algae on the roof, eating the shingles, the moss is causing the shingles to decay. What can you do about this?  Well, you could move, or you could have your roof professionally cleaned, which is the more logical approach.

How do I get rid of roof stains? 

There is a variety of algae roof cleaner products available at your local big-box home improvement store. They are labeled specifically designed as algae remover. You can also use a mixture of household bleach and water. Unfortunately, these algae on roof stains will return, so you must plan to do this roof cleaning periodically.

Keep in mind that repeatedly using harsh chemicals and pressure washing to remove algae on the roof, it can cause erosive effects, damaging and shortening the lifespan of your roof. The better solution is to hire a professional roof cleaning contractor to do the job for you.

They have the experience, knowledge, supplies, and tools to do the job right and causing no damage to your roof, siding, or the landscape below and around your house. You can have a roofing contractor install copper or zinc-coated sheet metal strips along the sides of your roof, under the ridge to prevent the return of algae on the roof.

Can you pressure wash a shingle roof? 

If your purpose of pressure washing your shingle roof is to remove dirt and leaves that have accumulated, you can do this with a broom or a leaf blower. Or your water hose with the regular sprayer on it. This, of course, would require that you don’t have a fear of heights and can climb up and down the ladder with a broom, leaf blower, and/or water hose.

Gloeocapsa Magma may sound like a fancy thing to have, but it isn’t. It is dirty, nasty, and ugly algae on the roof that will destroy your home one at a time, slowly, but surely. Your home is an expensive and important investment for you and your family.  Taking care of it by having the roof and siding professionally cleaned periodically will ensure your home will provide many years of enjoyment. If there is algae on your roof in Cincinnati, OH, call 513-563-9988 today!

Along with your shingles, your roof’s underlayment will need to be replaced. The underlayment is the water-resistant barrier installed over the roof’s deck. Most commonly, this is roofing felt that uses asphalt for a protective material. In addition to shingles and underlayment, flashing around chimneys and vents may need to be replaced or installed. The flashing, normally made from rust-resistant metal, protects these areas from leaks and water damage. Similarly, metal drip edges will be installed around the roof to improve drainage. In Ohio, where ice and snow are common in the winter, waterproof material is installed that prevents ice building up under your shingles.

If it’s time for roof replacement in Cincinnati, OH, you can rely on the experienced professionals at Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. We offer a full range of roof repair and replacement options. Find out how we can help by calling 513-563-9988.

What are the signs of a bad roof?

A well-maintained shingle roof should last between 15 to 25 years before it needs to be replaced. As your roof ages, it will see plenty of wear and tear. You’ll probably need to make some repairs over this time, as well, from patching leaks to replacing damaged shingles. But, you’ll also have to decide when it’s time to replace the roof. There are some common signs that indicate you’ll need to replace your roof, as outlined below.

A large amount of missing shingles.

• Large sections of curling, cracking or dry and blistering shingles.
• A roof sag.
• Dark areas where granules are shedding will begin to appear. You may also see dark patches indicating algae or moss growth.
• You begin to see an excessive amount of granules appearing in your gutters. As your shingles age they’ll show signs of wear such as granule loss, and become less effective.
• You begin to see several loose or exposed nail heads. 
• Serious problems with leaks may indicate the underlayment is no longer adequately protecting your roof or attic. Mold and mildew can result as well.
• Missing or damaged flashing can open your home up to leaks and water damage.
• If your roof is over 20 years old, have a professional come out and inspect it to determine if it needs to be replaced.

Roof replacement in winter

Roofs can have problems throughout the year. Winter can be particularly difficult, with the weight of ice and snow and risks of leaks and water damage. Whether aging or severe damage has led you to consider roof replacement, if necessary you can replace your roof in the winter. Of course, no matter how severe the damage, to replace asphalt shingles it’s best to wait until the temperature reaches at least 40 degrees. Asphalt shingles are best installed at temperatures between 40 and 85 degrees. At the wrong temperature, asphalt shingles can break when struck. Adhesives are also less effective at temperatures below 40 degrees. When roofing at colder temperatures, the most essential thing to do is to keep the shingles warm, which can be done by placing them in a heated garage.

While you may not think about your air conditioner in the winter, eventually it will warm up, and you’ll definitely want an air conditioner that runs properly. As spring approaches, it will be time to have your system checked, whether you have American Standard Air Conditioners or other brands.

How long does a 30 year roof really last?

Often in roofing, you’ll hear that roofing shingles have a 30-year guarantee. Under ideal conditions, your roofing shingles could last up to 30 years. For the most part, however, it’s unlikely your shingles will last longer than 25 years. That lifespan requires regular maintenance. Usually, once most roofs reach about 20 years, it’s recommended to have your roof inspected to determine if roof replacement is in order.

What does it cost to replace a roof?

The costs for roof replacement will vary. Two of the main factors that will affect the cost will be the materials used and the square footage of the roof. Roofing contractors normally charge per 10-by-10 foot section (100 square feet) known as a roofing square. An average 1,200-square-foot home with asphalt roof ranges between $4,100 and $6,000. Asphalt shingle roofs are generally the most affordable followed by wood, metal, tile and slate. A metal roof can cost as much as $1,800 per 100 square feet.

Does insurance pay for new roof?

Normally, when it comes to roof replacement, homeowners insurance does not cover it. The only exception is if the replacement is required because of damage caused by a covered peril such as from a storm or even from heavy snow or ice. Replacements may be either full or partial.

Is roof replacement tax deductible

A roof replacement is not tax deductible. New roofs are considered a home improvement, and these costs are not deductible.

Roof replacement for low income

If you need to have your roof replaced, but are of low income, you may qualify for government assistance through several different grant programs. The Department of Energy offers the Weatherization Assistance Program for low-income households. The Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants program is designed for low-income individuals 62 or older or for very low-income families that earn less than 50% of median income.

Because roof shingles are the visible part of your roof, a part of your home’s aesthetics. With the variety of colors, patterns, and textures, a homeowner can match their home perfectly and according to the taste. 

What type of roof shingles are best?

Asphalt roof shingles are inexpensive and relatively light, which makes them easier to install. With all those factors considered, for most homeowners, asphalt shingles are the first choice. Asphalt shingles come in a sheet and are layered and will give any roof the illusion of being expensive singles that are laid one at a time like cedar or slate.

Other shingles that you could consider in addition to various asphalt roof shingles for your home are:

• Coal and Tar
• Cool Roof Aluminum Coated
• Clay
• Concrete
• Copper Roofing
• Composite Plastic
• Fiber Cement
• Green Roofing
• Metal Roofing
• Simulated Slate, Slate Tiles, Tile Roof
• Wood

How long do roof shingles last?      

Manufacturers guarantee asphalt shingles 20 to 30 years, but roofing contractors recommend at 20 years, it is time to have your roof inspected. Depending on the climate and the weather elements like hail, high winds, ice, rain, snow, and UV rays can take a toll on a roof.

Wood shake roof shingle last approximately thirty years, ceramic tile roofs 25 years, and metal roofing can last up to 100 years or longer. Just like with asphalt roof tiles, the climate and weather can speed the aging up on these roofing materials.

How much are shingles for a roof?

The most common asphalt roof shingle type can cost anywhere from $80 and up per square, with a square covering 100 square feet. This pricing can vary from region to region, while the brand and quality influence pricing.  

How much does it cost to replace a roof on a 1500 square foot house?

There are several factors involved in determining the cost of installing roof shingles on a house of any size, with the size of the house being the biggest factor. Other factors that go into consideration are the roof shingle, the different pitches of the roof, and any unforeseen problems that can arise.

It can also depend on who to install roof shingles for you, with each contractor having their own rate schedule. Some are inexpensive and others are the top dollar. We recommend it a homeowner research several contractors for quotes, the same you would with auto repair, furnace repair, etcetera. The highest price is not necessarily the best quality, nor is the lowest price the worst quality. 

We have answered the commonly asked questions, and while it may seem like a silly question, many people wonder are roof shingles waterproof? Asphalt roof shingles are the most common material in the roofing material. They come with a solid waterproof material, either roofing felt or tar paper that is positioned between the rafters and roof shingles. There is a new product on the market today that is lighter and stronger for waterproofing, thermoplastic polyolefin.

Another question that many ask, “Can roof shingles be installed in cold weather?” and the answer is yes. Asphalt roof shingles can be installed in cold temperatures with success, provided the contractor uses safe practices.

Being on a roof of any height with ice, rain, or snow makes for a dangerous working condition. The human body changes when the temperatures drop and so does the equipment used for roofing.  With proper shoes and safety gear, the job can be safely and successfully completed. Need shingle roofing installation in Cincinnati, OH? Call Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection today at 513-563-9988 for expert roofing services!

Why is my roof turning black?

The accumulation of moisture can cause damages to a roof in many ways, be it through leaks or the formation of moss, mold, and mildew. Moisture damages can be made from water accumulation from rainfall or even if you live in a particularly humid region. With asphalt shingles, you may see black streaks running down your roofing material. These streaks are actually hardened algae called Gloeocapsa Magma. These blue-green algae can spread by airborne spores and the algae itself can develope from accumulations of dirt, mildew, mold or from defective shingles. The black color comes about when the algae accumulate and hardened. Essentially, these algae are sustained by feeding on the limestone in shingles.

Does cleaning your roof damage it?

Certain products can be harmful to your roofing materials so it’s important to consider the composition of certain roof cleaning products and methods before committing to them. There are solutions out there that are EPA approved and can prevent future damages.

Can you clean your roof?

Whether you have algae or debris on your roof there are several avenues to take with your roof cleaning. Consider the options to take when you do have algae. Some options include pressure washing or soft washing with detergents or bleach yet it’s important to know that these solutions, as well as other types of roof cleaning chemicals, can cause more harm than good down the line depending on your roofing materials. Take for instance that the harsh detergents in a soft wash can actually discolor such materials as tile and wood shakes, break down the granules on asphalt shingles as well as corrode metal roofing systems. Not only that, but the runoff can damage plants and accelerate the corrosion of gutter and downspout metal materials. With pressure washing, you may even loosen granules on asphalt shingles. Even after all of this, these solutions won’t prevent algae from returning and recycling this roof cleaning method can cause roof wear over time. Roof cleaning without pressure washing can be a solution with such alternatives as using fungicide or algaecide. Such products as Roof-A-Cide can be lightly sprayed and can prevent the return of algae for two years. This product is rare in that it is approved by the EPA in roof cleaning, stain prevention as well as preventing algae regrowth. There are such solutions that are caustic and chlorine-free which can effectively and safely clean a roof without risking damages.

Why is roof cleaning important?

When you ignore the duties of keeping up with your roof be it with roof cleaning, repairs or inspections you are essentially allowing your roof to become compromised with damages over time. You can prevent damage and extend your roof’s life span by maintaining the pristine roofing materials you first installed. Not only will maintaining your roof lessens the risk of damages, but you’ll also save on repair costs down the line and even heighten the curb appeal of your home upon resell. 

How do I keep my roof clean?

There are many preventive measures to take before roof cleaning is necessary like removing overhanging tree debris and any build-up of plants which can cause moisture problems. You can gently remove moss, algae, mold, and mildew with gentle roof cleaning products as well. After a particularly bad storm make sure to have your roof inspected by a professional to see if any protective measures need to be done. If a storm has spread to other areas and you need gas line repair contact your local services. You can prevent the formation of roofing damages by relying on roof cleaning contractors that provide residential roofing services. Don’t let the formation of algae or other issues with your roof accumulate. Be proactive and attentive with your roof and you’ll find roof cleaning to encompass less of your time in the present then if ignored for the future.

If you’re interested in roof cleaning in Cincinnati, OH call 513-563-9988 with Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection!