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Why should you clean your gutters?

worker adjusting a home's gutter

The Necessity of Gutter Cleaning

Ask any homeowner, and you’ll find that cleaning gutters is NOT something anyone likes to do, yet it has to be done. This homeowner’s chore ranks with cleaning the cat litter box and raking leaves. Luckily, you can usually find a gutter cleaning service that can do that for you. Why is gutter cleaning important though? Is gutter cleaning necessary?

Yes, regular cleaning is absolutely necessary. This is one home maintenance chore that is crucial to your home and too often overlooked. Yes, before winter sets in, you have a list of must-do things, and if gutter cleaning isn’t on that list, you need to add it there. 

Gutter cleaning services your home by removing debris, leaves, and sticks so the rain, melted ice, and snow can flow freely off the roof on out past your home. This is a crucial step in protecting the foundation and the roof. Here are five reasons why gutter cleaning is so important: 

  1. Water Damage Prevention. Keeping gutters and downspouts clean will from debris and leaves allows the gutters to drain as designed and intended. When they are clogged, the water overflows the gutters,  runs down the siding, and causes water damage to the exterior and interior.  
  2. Roof Protection. With clogged gutters, the rainwater has nowhere to flow, so it backs up under the shingles, rotting the shingles and the under decking, creating leaks. 
  3. Pest Control. Clogged gutters create a desirable home for birds, insects, and rodents. Once they get in the gutters, they find a way into your attic and home. 
  4. Foundation Protection. When the gutters are clogged, what water doesn’t back up under the shingles will spill over the sides and pool around the foundation of your home. As the water gets under the foundation, it freezes and thaws through the winter, and will cause the foundation to crack. Then when the weather warms up the ground, your home will begin to sink in places. 
  5. Money Saver. Yes, if you don’t clean your own gutters and have a gutter cleaning service do the work, it will cost upfront. Down the road though, it will prevent having expensive and unexpected projects, like foundation leveling and repair or replacing the roof. 

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Now that you know the importance of why gutter cleaning services are valuable, the next question is when to do gutter cleaning? It depends on the foliage around your home. For most homes, gutter cleaning twice a year is recommended. If there is heavy foliage around your home, like pine trees, three times a year may be needed.

Other factors to consider in determining the frequency and when is the amount of rainfall and snow your home gets during the year. Having a gutter cleaning service at the end of fall and before winter will remove leaves and twigs, other debris that has collected over the fall. Schedule gutter cleaning service after the spring rains is recommended. This gets the bird and critters that have nested out of the gutter runs. 

What does gutter cleaning include? 

You may be wondering, does gutter cleaning include downspouts? Just what is included in a professional gutter cleaning? A professional gutter cleaning service is usually going to be more thorough because they have the experience (they do this every day, not just once a year). They have the proper equipment and tools to do a more effective cleaning too. 


Most professional gutter cleaning services will use either a truck-mounted vacuum or an industrial-strength shop vacuum that has attachments specific for gutters. This will blast out any debris, leaves, and twigs from the gutter runs and out of the downspouts. 

One they have blasted out what they can using the vacuum, they will use a pressure washer to finish cleaning and make sure there aren’t any more clogs. A professional gutter cleaning service will repair any broken gutters or hangers and fix any seams that have separated. 

What is the best gutter cleaning solution?

If you want to save money and do the gutter cleaning service yourself, use a water hose with a nozzle that has a strong forced stream with a mixture of water and white vinegar. This makes one of the best gutter cleaning options to clean the gutters and downspouts without corroding the aluminum gutter runs. If the exterior of the gutters needs polishing, use water and cream of tartar to create a paste and gently buff the gutter and downspout exteriors. 

close-up of a worker pulling leaves from a gutter

Conclusion

Perhaps you have some more questions, such as whether you should be doing your own gutter cleaning. Or maybe a gutter cleaning service is the better choice? Okay, do some gutter cleaning yourself and you may decide it is worth paying to have it done. Don’t trust the local neighborhood kid for this job, either. Hire a professional gutter cleaning service. And before you make that call, you may want to know – what is the average price for gutter cleaning? The average cost can range between $75 and up to $250, depending on the size of the house, the gutter run lengths, and the number of downspouts. Usually, a company will give you a quote before scheduling your service so you have a better idea of what you’ll be paying.

Are gutter guards worth it?

view from above of gutters with guards on a shingle roof

Protecting Your Roof and Home

Gutters are what go around the edge of your roof, redirecting rain as it comes off so that it goes out and away from your home’s foundation. Unfortunately, rain isn’t all that ends up in the gutter runs. Assorted debris gets in the gutters too, from leaves and limbs to bird nests and more, which is why having a gutter guard installation is recommended. 

What is a gutter guard installation though?Gutter guards are a perforated topping that is installed over the top of the gutter runs. They keep the leaves, limbs, bird nests, and other debris that can clog up a gutter system and keep it from working. 

Do gutter guards work?        

There are two sides to every story, even with a gutter guard installation story. Some experts will tell you that gutters guards are the newest “must-have” on the market today. Then there are that will tell you a gutter guard installation won’t give your home foolproof protection from all the debris that can clog your gutters. 

The truth is somewhere in between those two sides. There are pros and cons of gutter guards:

The Pros of Having Gutter Guard Installation:

  • They can be installed on your existing gutters.
  • They prevents debris like leaves, limbs, sticks from clogging the gutters and the downspouts.
  • The prevent birds, rodents, and other critters  from building nests in the gutters.
  • They prevent insects from breeding in the debris and water build-up common for gutters.
  • They will help prevent water leaking in your home by eliminating those build-ups in the gutters. 
  • They minimize how often you need to do gutter cleaning.
  • They extend the gutter service by prevent debris and water collecting and causing the gutters to rot and rust.

The Cons of Having Gutter Guard Installation:

  • They do not keep all small debris out like pine needles and seeds.
  • Can enhance issues of ice dam on the roof (there are heated gutter guards now that will prevent these issues.
  • Gutters will still need some cleaning even with gutter guard installation. 
  • Gutter guards can dent, minimizing their effectiveness.
  • Adds weight to the gutters so when gutters are not cleaned when needed, there is additional weight on the gutters and fascia.

What should I look for in a gutter guard?

One thing that all experts will agree on is that if you have the wrong types of gutter guard systems installed, it could make matter worse than if you didn’t have any at all. They don’t have to be installed by a roofing contractor, you can purchase them at a big box home improvement store or local hardware store. The things to look for with your gutter guard installation are:

  • Choose an all-aluminum gutter guard, installation of these will last as long as your gutters. 
  • Choose one with perforated holes for water to get in but tree stuff is kept out. 
  • Choose gutter guard installation that will fit flat in your gutters and can’t be seen from street. 
  • Choose a gutter guard installation where you can visually inspect the gutter runs inside easily. 
  • If you’re a DIY homeowner, choose a gutter guard installation, maintenance, repairs, and replacements will be easy. 

What is the best gutter guard for leaves?

Perforated gutter guard installation is the best for keeping leaves out of the gutters. These gutter guards have larger holes, allowing a better flow of water but keeping small debris out. Typically an aluminum or metal material that will give you years of enjoyment with minimal maintenance. For areas where snow is almost guaranteed every winter, this is the best type of gutter guard. 

Will a gutter guard stop birds?

Yes, a gutter guard installation will keep the birds out, so they aren’t building nests in your gutters. They also keep other debris out like leaves and limbs. In turn, this can do a lot to keep both your gutters and your home safe and to reduce how often gutter cleaning is necessary.

What are the best gutter guards?

Below are the gutter guards available online that are considered to be the best in certain categories as stated.  A note to keep in mind is that some roof warranties will be voided where there is a gutter guard installation. Check with your roofing contractor before making this investment. 

  • Best Overall: Gutterglove – The Raptor Micro-Mesh Gutter Guard 
  • Best Heavy Duty: A-M  – Aluminum Gutter Guard 
  • Best Value: FlexxPoint – Gutter Cover System
  • Best Brush: GutterBrush – Simple Gutter Guard
  • Best Budget: Frost King  – Plastic Gutter Guard 
  • Easy Gutter Guard Installation: Amerimax Home Products – Lock-In Gutter Guard
red gutters with gutter guards

In Closing

How much does gutter guard installation cost? This is a common question for many. The size of the roof will determine the cost of a gutter guard installation, but the average can start around $970 and go up to $2,000 with a medium price at $1,400.00. For the budget-conscious homeowner, you can do your own gutter guard installation. So how do you install a gutter guard?

Step 1: Choose an appropriately sized ladder for your home’s height. 

Step 2: Clean the existing gutter runs then measure each gutter length and width.  

Step 3: Refer to the gutter guard installation instructions provided by the manufacturers. Most gutter guard installation is a snap into place method.  Start on one end and work your way down the gutter run.

This fairly simple process can do a lot to protect your gutters and your home. Meanwhile, this service is offered by many roofers so if you find yourself in need of help, you can reach out for gutter services including gutter guard installation.

Asphalt Shingles Pros and Cons

brown shingles on roof

Choosing asphalt shingles

There are so many different roofing materials available today, it can be confusing and difficult to choose the “right one”. So, why not stick with what is tried and true, asphalt shingles? They are the most common roofing material found on homes all across Texas and around the country. 

Other than they’ve been around forever, why choose asphalt shingles? Besides being perhaps the most visible part of your home, the first thing many people will notice is the roof. Why? Because it either looks old and worn or spectacular and eye-catching. Roofing esthetics is important and with the following asphalt shingles benefits you can have, why not choose asphalt shingles?   

1. Versatility

Asphalt roof shingles are available in a multitude of angles, forms, and shapes, working perfect with almost any roof type. No matter the size or complexity of your roof, there are asphalt shingles that will provide a seamless coverage.

2. Design Choices

Asphalt shingles come in different architectural styles. From the traditional  3-tab asphalt shingles that work with any home design to the dimensional and premium asphalt shingles in multiple styles. Some even mimic the look of cedar shakes, slate tiles, and other roofing materials, giving you a design advantage without the drawbacks of those other roofing materials.

3. Color Choices 

Asphalt shingles come in a multitude of colors. Choose a color that will improve the curb appeal or provide a totally different look. Other roofing materials won’t offer you as many colors to choose from.

4. Quality with Cost-Effectiveness

One of the top benefits of asphalt shingles is the high performance you get for a lower cost. One of the most cost-effective materials you’ll find that has a long lasting reputation, giving you a high ROI for your dollar.  

5. Energy-Efficient

Today, homeowners are all about energy efficiency and asphalt roof shingles is there for you! With a professional installation that includes underlayment, asphalt shingles will make any home more energy efficient.

6. Impact-Resistant Rated  

A big concern for most homeowners, besides the cost, they want to know, “Are asphalt shingles impact resistant?”. No matter where you live in Texas,  the roof needs to  endure different types of severe weather, with hailstorms at the top of the list.  Asphalt shingles come specially modified to be impact resistant. 

7. High Wind Resistant 

The high winds that blow across Texas can be a problem. Asphalt shingles that are installed correctly are wind resistant because they won’t lift up, making the underneath vulnerable to roof leaks. Asphalt shingles are manufactured today that meet and exceed the required Class F wind rating. 

8. Class A Fire Rated

Not only are asphalt shingles wind rated, but many of them come with Class A fire rating, the highest rating possible, providing homes with superior protection of external fires spreading. 

9. Sound Deadening 

One feature of asphalt shingles that is often underestimated is the sound insulation they provide with their composition.  When it comes to external noises, asphalt shingles are significantly quieter than other roofing materials like metal. With some asphalt shingles, depending on the design, they are a lot quieter in hailstorms and heavy downpours.

10. Algae-Resistant

A tough problem for the roofing industry is algae growth, especially wood based roofs. That ugly black stain can distract from a home’s beauty and is a concern for homeowners as to the damage that this blue-green growth can do to their homes. Asphalt shingles come with an algae-resistant coating to protect your home. 

11. Easy Installation

Asphalt shingles are a favorite for roofing contractors because of the ease of installation. The easier a roofing material is to install, the faster the job goes and that keeps the overhead down.  

12. The Weight

Asphalt shingles are the ideal weight for the structure of most homes, unlike other roofing materials on the market. No special additions or changes are needed to the structure for weight support with asphalt shingle roofing. 

13. Easy Repairs

Having an asphalt shingle roof repaired isn’t as challenging as other roofing materials like ceramic tile. The matching of replacement shingles is easy and the process of repairing the roof is easy too. Stay with the same contractor that installed the roof will make it an easy process. 

14. Integrating with Roof Features

Asphalt shingles are a flexible material that can integrate with chimneys, dormers, gables, and skylights. 

15. Recyclable Material

The asphalt shingles in the years past would be taken directly to a landfill after tear-off. Today, asphalt shingles can be recycled when they have reached their end-of-life on roofs. Old shingles are being used for improved roads and generate power.

shingle roofing system

How many types of roofing shingles are there?

There are 3 categories of asphalt shingles, knowing the difference between them is key in choosing the right one for your home and your budget. 

  • STRIP SHINGLES aka 3-TAB SHINGLES: The way these asphalt shingles are cut into simple strips gives them their name. As they are installed on a room, they form a single asphalt layer and have flat appearance that has the look of slate. typically offers a slate look. This single layer of roofing material has a lighter weight and lower cost compared to other roofing materials, including the other 2 categories of asphalt shingles. 
  • DIMENSIONAL SHINGLES aka ARCHITECTURAL SHINGLES: Of the three categories in asphalt shingles, these are the most prevalent. Multiple layers are used in manufacturing, then they are fused to get a thick multi-dimensional appearance. They can be engineered to mimic natural slate or  wood shake roofing materials. Typically heavier than the 3-tab asphalt shingles and have an improved warranty. 
  • LUXURY SHINGLES: These asphalt shingles are the highest-quality with a differentiated appearance and functionality of the dimensional shingles. A heavyweight class that gives your roof a premium protection against the climate and weather. They give a home a stunning appearance with their high quality and exquisite coloring and dimensionality. 

What is the difference between architectural shingles and asphalt shingles?

The architectural asphalt shingles have an additional layer of asphalt shingles that are laminated along the lower portions without any cutouts. The basic tree-tab shingles have distinguished cutouts that give them the “tabs” along the lower edge.

How thick are asphalt shingles?

What may not seem thick enough, the 3/16” thickness of the average asphalt shingle becomes thicker as they are installed overlapping each other. By the end of the installation, they have doubled in thickness. 

How long does an asphalt shingle roof last?

Each asphalt shingle manufacturer will have their own stated lifetime. When installed on a roof that been properly vented, the average home will get as much as 80% to 85% of the state lifespan from the asphalt roof. For the basic 3-tab asphalt shingle, that equates up to 22 years and for the dimensional asphalt shingle, that equates up to 28 years.

Is there a 50 year shingle?

Yes, and they are ideal for Texas homes!  The 50-year asphalt shingles are more expensive, but with a lifespan of half a century, if they can withstand the climate, weather, and the test of time, you may never have to re-roof your home again. Call 513-563-9988 today for your shingle roofing system in Cincinnati, OH.

Is Storm Damage Covered by Insurance?

damage to roof

How do you know if your roof is damaged?

Ohio isn’t any stranger to different types of weather. The state is considered a humid continental with a humid subtropical climate in the extreme south. Yet, most people think of Ohio as cold and wintery, which we have that too.  Between the two distinct types of climate, we experience hot summers with UV rays, cold winters with snow, and spring storms that leave storm damage roofs. 

 Knowing what storm damage looks like on your home can save you a lot of inconvenience, money, and worry. Storm damage exposes your roof and your home to potentially serous problem. From water damage and rot to mold and wildlife infestations, all costing you hundreds and thousands of dollars in repairs. Some storm damage warning signs would be any of or a combination of the following: 

  • Water Damage

Where there are dark, dingy stains on the ceilings and walls, these are the most obvious you have a roof leak. You may see mold and moisture on the rafters in your attic, another indication you may have storm damage 

  • The Shingles

Where there are missing shingles, stones, or other roofing materials, could be from heat and high winds loosened them and they were blown off or fell off. Animals will pull singles up when there is a corner or edge lifted. All of this leaves your roof vulnerable to other wildlife and storm damage. 

  • The Fascia and Soffits

When the fascia and soffits start to crack, decay, or have missing wood around them, this is often from storm damage that allowed water damage to create and spread. This can also happen from clogged gutters and downspouts. 

  • The Gutters

Asphalt granules will rinse off into the gutter runs and on to the downspouts as they age. The granules also come loose because of other various elements like hailstones, heat, and heavy rains, as well as  basic aging. The bare shingles leave a roof exposed and vulnerable to other damage, including storm damage.

  • The Vents

When you have curled shingles and ice dams, you probably have poor attic vent for your roof. These curled edges are waiting heavy rains and high winds leave storm damage behind. Make sure your new roof has proper ventilation to keep this from happening again, aging your roof quicker than it should. 

How much does it cost to repair the roof?

The answer to this can be varied based on several factors. Like the size of the house and the type of roofing material.  On an average, for a house between 1700 and 2100 square feet, to tear off the existing asphalt and install new asphalt shingles, the cost can be from $1,700 and upward of $8,500. 

Should I replace or repair my roof?

It isn’t any secret that a home should have regular maintenance and upkeep. This keeps your home looking good and will make it easier on the bank account to catch small issues before they become big problems. 

When it comes to major home improvements though, the decision isn’t always a cut and dry matter, like the roof. Sometimes, a small repair from storm damage will suffice and other times, storm damage can be so extensive, a roof replacement is the best solution. 

The best way to start this decision process of storm damage repair or replacement is to have get 2 to 3 professional roofing contractors to inspect your roof. Ask them for written estimates and their recommendations. While it may just look like a shingle or two missing, there could be more severe storm damage to the decking or underlayment. 

shingle damage

Is replacing a roof covered by homeowners insurance?

So, you have several roofing contractors inspect your roof and yes, you have storm damage. Now you’re wondering, “Can I claim for storm damage on my homeowners’ insurance?”. The answer is maybe.  You need to file your claim, and if you’re not sure how to report storm damage, your insurance company should have it on their website or have a phone line that is answered 24/7/365 just for things like this. 

They will send an adjuster out to inspect the storm damage and decide if it is purely storm damage that is the problem, or if homeowner neglect allowed the storm damage to be as severe.  The homeowner neglect will be along the lines that the roof was aged and weak and couldn’t withstand the storm. 

As you do your storm damage clean up, take pictures of everything before you move anything. Ask the roofing contractors to take pictures on top of the roof and send you copies. Make notes of everything that has storm damages. 

Does a new roof help sell a house?

Absolutely!  Any potential homeowner will be ecstatic about one off the biggest expenses being replaced already. You will get most of your investment back on this upgrade too!  Need storm damage repair in Cincinnati, OH? Call 513-563-9988 today.

When to repair your roof

damaged shingle roof

When can a roof be repaired instead of replaced? 

A brutal winter for most of the country has started wrapping up only to be followed by a wet spring. Once all that snow melted away, have you noticed some areas on your roof looking a little worn, like maybe you need some roof repair? Or do you need a complete roof replacement? 

There are some questions you need to ask yourself and talking to a professional roofing contract can give you some insight to which is better or needed, a roof repair vs roof replacement. Sometimes, a roof repair job is sufficient and sometimes, new roof replacement is necessary. 

So, why roof repair instead of a roof replacement? Well, for most of us that choose to get a roof repair instead is because of money. Not everyone has $5,000 or more sitting in the bank or available on credit cards. But then gathering $500 or less to make some minor roof repairs is possible, or at least easier to obtain. 

So how do you make the decision between getting a roof repair job done or pull the rope and get a new roof? Do you really need a new roof, or will a roof repair job suffice for now? There are a few different factors that will help make that decision:  

  • Moisture Damage or Water Damage – If you don’t know just how power water is, look at the Grand Canyon. The persistence of nature and flowing water carved that beauty. When it comes to roofs and the structure of you home, the end results are not so beautiful. When water seeps beneath roofing shingles, it will quickly find way inside your home. Then that is were really serious damage can occur to the structure of your home and your family’s health. Any indication that there is moisture inside the home, like brown spots or water stains on the ceiling, peeling paint, and worse of it all is mold, a roof repair job isn’t going to be sufficient. These are indications that you need a new roof installed, and the sooner the better.  
  • Disaster – If there has been a recent weather event like a high winds, a hurricane, or tornado, the is a chance your roof has suffered some extensive damage that isn’t visible to the untrained eye. This past winter was harsh for most of this country, and here in Ohio, the winters are fairly harsh every year. Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof is a good idea. If a roof repair job will get you by, then great. If your roof has some questionable areas, it is better to know now and create a plan of action. 
  • Roof’s Age – A 5 year old roof  that is leaking is probably the results of poor workmanship or defective roofing materials. A 20 year old roof that is leak needs to be replaced. 
  • Roofing Materials – The type of roofing materials your home has can make a big decision on when it should be replaced.  A slate tile roof will last up to 80 years or longer. An asphalt shingled roof however, you’ll be lucky to make that 20 year mark, unless it is a high quality premium asphalt shingle, then with routine maintenance, you could get a 50 year lifespan. 
roof in good condition

Do you know how to fix a damaged roof or how to repair damaged roof shingles?  

Okay, money is tight, and you know there are few places that a roof repair is as simple as replacing some shingles, so you’re going to do your own roof repair job this time. Sadly, there isn’t any ready-make roof repair kit available at the home repair stores.  

However, if you aren’t afraid of heights and you have somebody to help you, small roof repairs like replacing shingles or flashing won’t take much, even for a novice DYI homeowner: 

  1. Slip a flat pry bar under the broken or damaged shingle and pop the roofing nails out then remove the shingle(s).
  2. Place a new shingle(s) where you removed the broken or damaged shingle and secure with roofing nails in the same manner the original shingle was installed.
  3. To fix cracked or curled roof shingle, a roof repair can be done with caulking and hold pressure on the area you’re flattening or repairing with a brick. 

Homeowner’s Insurance

Yes, you make monthly premium payments, and you want to get as much from your insurance company as possible, totally understandable However, will homeowners insurance cover roof repair? This is something that can vary from home to home, policy to policy and even company to company.  In general, most homeowner’s insurance policies have roof repair coverage insurance for damaged that was unpreventable. This type of  roof repair insurance is for damage caused by burglary, fire, hailstorm, high winds, tree limbs or trees falling, vandalism or other type of unpreventable accident. Call 513-563-9988 today for your roof repair in Cincinnati, OH.

Planning Your Spring Roof Maintenance

shingle roofing system

Keeping your roof at its best

Ah … yes! Spring has arrived, according to the calendar anyway. Sometimes the weather makes us wonder though, right? Regardless, spring cleaning fever has hit and besides cleaning out the closets and flowerbeds, we need to pay attention to the roof maintenance on our homes too. 

Yes, every spring, you should have a roof maintenance plan in place right along with all your other spring maintenance duties around the house. You already have a routine of changing the air filters, mowing the lawn, and trimming the hedges because it is instrumental in your home overall health, which roof maintenance is just as instrumental. You can do your own roof maintenance throughout the year, but once a year, professional roof maintenance, inspection, gutter cleaning, and advice are helpful in keeping your home healthy too. 

When roof maintenance isn’t performed, small damages and issues will pile up, creating the need for extensive repairs or worse,  a total roof replacement. You’re probably asking yourself, “In addition to professional roof maintenance services, how do I keep my roof in good condition?”, and to answer these, we offer the following roof maintenance tips, which you can use as a roof maintenance checklist too: 

The Shingles 

As homeowner, you should do a frequent walk-a-round your home checking the roof. Pay attention for any dark streaks, loosened, missing shingles, or any appearance of curled shingles. Once a month or so, if you can and are comfortable with climbing a ladder and take a look from different angles around your home. 

The Chimneys, Skylights, and Vents 

While on the ladder, check around the chimneys, skylights, and vent openings. When the rubber boots or metal flashing become bent, loose, or are rusted, water can intrude into the roof, damaging the decking and more. 

The Attic

Check inside the attic a regular basis as part of your roof maintenance. Look for any signs of water stains on the underside of the ceiling, wet insulation, or any type of water damage. 

Debris

The next DIY roof maintenance task is cleaning off any debris that has collected on your roof. This includes leaves and twigs. Use a broom or leaf blower to clear these things off, never use a power washer though. A power washer, when used incorrectly, can cause more damage than it helps. Leave power washing off to a professional service when your roof maintenance budget allows it.

The Gutters 

While cleaning the debris off the roof, check the gutters and downspouts for debris and roofing granules. These can be cleaned out with a water hose or use a professional gutter cleaning service. When gutters are full of debris like leaves and twigs, they get clogged, and rainwater can’t flow through them and to the downspouts.  This puts weight on the fascia and soffit, which can lead to damaging the roof and foundation.

If you notice a lot of roofing granules in the gutters, you should get a professional roofing contractor do a thorough roof inspection. It may be time for a new roof. The roof takes a lot of abuse from the UV rays and weather events. A good quality asphalt roof will give you 20 years of protection, but at 15 years, it is recommended to have a professional roof inspection once a year and keep low hanging tree limbs cut back from your roof too. 

The Ventilation 

The attic ventilation is key in a healthy roof. Inadequate or inappropriate attic ventilation leads to heat and moisture damage. During your routine roof maintenance check in the attic finds any moisture, that is an indication that the ventilation in your attic isn’t sufficient or working properly.  Left along, the winter will see ice dams forming and that leads to roof leaks, in addition to the summer heat making more moisture that weakens the shingles. 

shingle roofing system in need of maintenance

Why do gutters need cleaning?

After you’ve read this article, if you’re still not clear on why gutter cleaning as part of your roof maintenance is so important, let’s review. The gutters on your home have the job of collecting rainwater that runs off the roof. That rainwater flows to the downspouts and then out and away from the foundation. What will unclog gutters do to your home? 

  1. Prevents water damage to the fascia, roofing, and soffit. 
  2. Keeps small critters, insects, pests, and rodents from nesting in the gutter runs an clogging them. 
  3. Keeps from causing the foundation from cracking with water pooling up around the foundation. 
  4. Saves you money by not having to replace the roof or get foundation work done. 

These routine roof maintenance tips we’ve provided will go a long way to keeping your roof healthy and minimize roof repairs or new roof installation. If you’re not comfortable with doing your own roof maintenance or inspections, hiring a professional roofing service can save you from needing a new roof. Call 513-563-9988 today for roofing maintenance in Cincinnati, OH.

What causes algae on roofs?

roof with algae and moss

Is Moss on Roof bad?

To know what causes algae, we need to what it is, where it comes from, how it develops.  Moss or algae on roofing, along with fungi and lichens are bacteria that most people refer to as roof mold. This blue-green yuck leaves behind growth and unsightly stains when it dies, leaving your roof looking dirty and old. So, is an algae-free roofing possible? Keep reading for more information! 

Algae is an aquatic plant without flowers, leaves, or roots. It thrives in humid environments, heat and moisture are what it feed from, especially in a damp, shady area. It does require nutriments, like anything else, and it gets the nutriment it needs from asphalt shingles. The limestone used in asphalt shingles is a favorite food for algae. Does this mean for an algae-free roofing, you can’t have the most popular roofing material, asphalt shingles? No, it just means a different approach to roof maintenance is needed. 

One single spoor of algae or fungus can be blown onto your roof from who knows where. They could come from a neighbor’s roof, a tree branch hanging over your roof, or your own gutters if they aren’t cleaned regularly. If the conditions of your roof are an open buffet of limestone and other asphalt shingle making materials, then it stays, dines, and spreads. We are going to talk about the steps you can take that will clear your roof of the issues that cause this and make your roof an algae-free roofing zone. 

There are pros and cons to the growth of moss on roof tops. For many, depending on the architecture of the house, moss on the roof is “charming” or “quaint”, but for others, there is a fear of what impact moss has when left to itself. Will moss damage your roof? Should you be focused on having a moss and algae-free roof more than worrying about the appearance being charming and quaint? 

If your home is surrounded by trees and in a damp climate, it is susceptible to being inhabited by algae, lichens, and moss. As we noted above, what may be just one spore of moss can feast on your asphalt shingles and spread its ‘love’ all over roof and blow on to neighboring roofs. Moss is to roof that COVID-19 is to humans.  

  • Mold: This abundantly growing matter will retain moisture and water, becoming heavy. That moisture and water leads to bacteria, rot, and more mold growth. While this isn’t harmful to human life, it is to asphalt roofs and will significantly shorten the lifespan. Mold attracts critters, insects, and rodents which will make their way into your home after feeding off the mold growth. 
  • Holes: As moss is allowed to sit on your roof, it creeps up under the shingles, slates, or tiles, causing them to lift and loosen. Holes form under the roofing materials and leaks can begin while the structure of the roof is degenerated. Once this has started, any cleaning of the moss will raise the loose shingles, slate, or tiles and allow the moss to get even further under the roofing material and spready more. 

So, yes, moss is 100% bad for your roof, it can create damage that is irreparable, causing you need to need a new roof.  More bad news: Your homeowner’s insurance isn’t going to pay for that new roof. They see moss removal as homeowner’s upkeep not an Act of God or peril accident.

Okay, so is algae on roof bad for it? Algae stains start off as small spots, and with time, those spots will become streaks. Algae is frequently confused as mildew or moss, and while it doesn’t have a curb appeal to your home’s appearance, it isn’t harmful. 

Can I brush moss off my roof?

That green moss layer on a roof can look charming, cozy, quaint, even rustic, but not everyone wants their house to look like it came from a fairy tale book. Follow these three steps for a straightforward way to remove that moss: 

Step One: Hose the roof off using your garden hose to brush any loose moss loose off the shingles. Do not use a pressure washer, a garden hose is sufficient. Do this on cloudy days so the sun’s UV rays don’t evaporate your cleaning solutions too fast.

Step Two: Once you have your roof wet, apply a DIY cleaning mixture of to remove the moss, letting it sit for more than 20 minutes but no longer than 45 minutes. Then scrub with a soft bristle brush. After the scrubbing, rinse with clear water from the garden hose. Some different DIY mixtures include: 

  1. Eight ounces dish soap to two gallons of water.
  2. One pound powdered oxygen bleach to two gallons of water.
  3. One and half to three and half cups chlorine bleach to two gallons of water.
  4. One and half to three and half cups white distilled vinegar to two gallons of water.

How do I get rid of algae on my roof?

You now know that algae on your roof isn’t good for it, but how to get algae off roof to have that algae-free roof without paying a contractor is a common question among homeowners.  One of the most effective ways for algae roof cleaning, is a mixture one part laundry liquid chlorine bleach with equal part of water applied with a sprayer. Spray the roof and then let the solution sit for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 20 minutes. Then thorough rinse with a low pressure. 

algae roof

How do I clean my roof myself?

Absolutely, if you’re not afraid of heights and being on wet surfaces at high levels.  Once you get up that ladder, you may decide hiring a professional isn’t a bad idea after all. For those who want to give it a try, we offer the following steps: 

  1. Protect Landscaping by wetting it down with water before starting and after you’re done.  – 
  2. Mix the Roof Cleaning Chemicals in the garden sprayer using a 50/50 ratio for asphalt roofing. Remember, with chemicals, less is more. 
  3. Start at highest point of the roof and work downward, applying an even coat in sweeping motion. 
  4. Double coat any stubborn areas after 5 minutes of first round. 
  5. Rewet the landscaping to rinse off any of the chemicals that have gotten on them.  
  6. Carefully come off the roof, get a cool drink, then sit back and enjoy your work! 

All of this information is helpful, but it didn’t tell you, “How do I stop algae growing on my roof?” The following are tips to give you that algae-free roof every homeowner desires: 

  • Keeps the trees trimmed back off the roof.
  • Keep standing water eliminated around the house and in the gutters.
  • Have the roof professionally washed twice a year.

The big thing you can do is have a new roof installed that is an algae-free roof. Is there such a thing? Yes, you can have a copper roof installed that has been infused with chemicals that stop algae growth. Or ask your roofing contractor about shingles that are algae-free roof treated. Need help with an algae free roofing system in Cincinnati, OH? Call 513-563-9988 today.

When should you have your gutters cleaned?

gutters full of algae and leaves

If your home has rain gutters, do you realize the importance of them?

They aren’t just for a finishing touch to your home’s exterior décor. Nor are they to give you a chore of gutter cleaning every three months. They serve an important purpose, and we are going to discuss the importance of gutter cleaning and why gutter cleaning and repairs are so important.

Rain gutters are a water management system that channels the  water flow from the roof and through the downspouts, then directs it to pre-determined appropriate areas out and away from your home. A roof that doesn’t have a rain gutter system will pick up debris like leaves, limbs, and more which will cause the water to collect on the roof, sticking that debris to the roof, form algae, and start deteriorating the shingles. Gutter cleaning is important so that they don’t become clogged up and create even bigger issues.

What happens if you never clean your gutters?

The gutters are your home are important to the overall roofing system. If they are maintained though with regular gutter cleaning and repairs, your home won’t benefit from them. In fact, you home will become susceptible to damage that can become severe quick. Here are ten possible problems that can be created when you ignore gutter cleaning:

One: A Flooded Basement

Clogged gutters will overflow with water and run down the exterior sides of your home, working its way into the basement. This can result in a flooded basement, once you have dealt with that, you’ll understand why gutter cleaning is so important.

Two: The Foundation

What if you don’t have a basement? Maybe you have a crawl space, or your home is on a slab foundation. An overflowing gutter system will damage the foundation as the clay, dirt, or sand under your home becomes too wet. The foundation will buckle, crack, and shift. For a pier-n-beam house, the standing water will deteriorate the piers, weakening it and causing it to shift and the floor to become weak.

Three: Destroy the Driveway

As the water comes off your roof, with a gutter system in place to redirect it to safer areas, the water will collect under the driveway and create the do the same damage as it does the crawl space or foundation of your home.  Buckling, cracking, holes and shifting, making your driveway a hazard to cars and creating a tripping hazard.

Four: Landscaping Destroyed

Without a gutter system or when gutter cleaning is ignored, a heavy rain will fill the gutters and the water will overflow, running into and over the landscaping. Your mulch will wash away and the flowers and shrubs will be severely damaged.

Five: Ice Damage

When gutter cleaning is skipped, the gutters become clogged, then as the temperature drops below freezing, the rain freezes and forms ice, causing issues like pulling the gutters away and off, allowing the water to overflow and freeze on the deck, driveway, porch, or sidewalks.

Six: Critters and Pests

Gutter cleaning will eliminate standing water in the gutters and avoid creating a breeding ground for small critters, insects, pests, and rodents.

Seven: Damages by Water

When you skip a gutter cleaning, the gutters will become full and overflow with water that will then run down the exterior sides, finding its way eventually inside your home. Because that water will be behind the siding, inside the window frames or under the flooring, you may not notice it until significant damage has been done.

Eight:  Damaged Fascia & Soffits

Standing water is heavy and the weight of that when combined with the debris that is clogging the gutter system will damage the fascia and soffits. This creates cracks that allow water inside your home.

Nine: Algae, Lichen, ad  Moss

No, that isn’t the name of a punk rock band. Algae, lichen, and moss grow and thrive in damp places and when a gutter cleaning hasn’t been done, this becomes the perfect place for them to form and grow. This will create an ugly façade for your home as it damaged the roofing.

Ten: Damage the Roof

When gutter cleaning isn’t done, there are several ways that the standing water in the gutters can damage the roof, starting with the shingles being damaged as they are sitting in water. Once the shingles are saturated, the decking is damaged and if that isn’t detected soon enough, the attic insulation will get wet, soaking into the rooms below.  

Can I clean my gutters myself? and What is the fastest way to clean gutters?

Absolutely, but you’ll need to purchase some gutter cleaning tools or design a way to use what you have for a thorough gutter cleaning process. Professional gutter cleaning services are equipped with the gutter cleaning rods and other equipment needed, but many homeowners do their own gutter cleaning and repairs with successful results. 

As for the fastest way for gutter cleaning, we first want to advise you to extreme caution as you climb the ladder and work from high areas of the rooftop.  Three of the easiest and fastest ways to clean your gutter system:

  • A Leaf Blower: With a leaf blower, you can avoid using your hands for gutter cleaning. This is a straightforward method when you climb onto the roof, and walk along the roof edge, and blow the leaves out of the gutters. With an extension kit, this method becomes safer as you use the curved extension and clear the gutter run from the ground with your leaf blower.
  • A Power Washer: If a storm blows through before you do your gutter cleaning, you can clear the sticky and wet leaves with power washer. The high-pressure force and a telescoping wand will allow you to complete a gutter cleaning from the ground. Afterward, clean the areas around your home with gloved hands and a rake.
  • A Wet/Dry Vacuum: Avoid making the mess on the ground with your easy and fast gutter cleaning method by using a wet/dry vac. You can purchase an extension kit that will allow you to do this from the ground instead of climbing a ladder while bringing a wet/dry vac up with you.

How do I know if my downspout is clogged?

A clogged gutter downspout will trap the water in the gutter system, causing it to overflow over the sides, this is an obvious indication of a blocked downspout. You can also have someone assist you as you climb a ladder with a water hose that has a power nozzle. Have the turn the water on and place the hose in the gutter system. If little to no water is coming out, you have a clogged downspout.

leaves fallen into a gutter

How do you unclog a gutter?

If the power of a nozzle water hose doesn’t unclog the gutter and downspout, a handheld drum auger will do the trick. You can purchase this auger at any big box home improvement store or hardware store for under $50 or a 25-foot unit.

Gutter cleaning isn’t something any of us want to do on a Saturday afternoon. However, with an investment as valuable as your home, these are things that are necessary. If gutter cleaning isn’t your thing, there are plenty of services that can do this task for you. Call 513-563-9988 today for gutter cleaning in Cincinnati, OH.

Is a Roof Cleaning Necessary?

shingle roofing

Cleaning a roof

What is roof cleaning?   As a homeowner, you take pride in your home and how it looks inside and out, right? You mow your lawn and rake the leaves, keep the shutters painted, and the snow cleared off the walkways.  What about roof cleaning? Oh, yeah, you clean the gutters twice a year too, but that’s not roof cleaning.

Not  be shocked we point that out, most homeowners don’t do the roof cleaning, or have it done either. It is important to clean the gutters, but roof cleaning is as important. By not having it done or doing it yourself, you’re setting up a scenario for costly damages later. Wait a minute, you’ve heard roof cleaning can damage a roof, so what’s the deal? Is a roof cleaning a good idea or not?

 Read on as we discuss the pros and cons of roof cleaning. We feel certain, that you’ll see what you should have your roof cleaning performed on your home at least once a year.

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.

tile roofing system

If You’re Insistent On Doing Your Own Roof Cleaning

If this hasn’t convinced you to hire a professional roof cleaning service, What is the best roof cleaner that you can use?  We don’t believe in using harmful chemicals, so we offer the following homemade recipes:

  • 75% Sodium Hypochlorite and 25% Water – This mixture cleans hearty algae, lichen, and  moss without killing your landscaping or damaging your siding.
  • 50% Sodium Hypochlorite plus 50% Water – This mixture will clean those black streaks and light black algae safely but thoroughly.

Want to get started on your roof cleaning in Cincinnati, OH? Call 513-563-9988 today.

What Type of Roof Shingles are Best?

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.

roof shingles

What is the Difference in Roof Shingles?

Are you wondering what the difference is in roof shingles? If so, it’s important to recognize that there certainly are answers. To begin with, the composition of your roof shingle will matter the most. Once you have settled on your preferred kind of roofing shingle, ranging from asphalt to metal, etc. you can then determine which type works on your roof. For example, there are many different types of asphalt shingles. The difference between three-tab asphalt shingles and architectural shingles is a matter of design and shape. For more details, please consult with your reputable, local roofing company.

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.

roof shingles

Is Roof Shingles

Asphalt roof shingles have many wonderful advantages. Please be sure to schedule an appointment with a roofing contractor today.

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!