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Importance of Attic Ventilation for Your Roof

Attic Ventilation for Your Roof

There are a few tangential areas or factors that will often play a key role in the performance of your roof, and one that’s especially important during the current Utah winter is that of attic insulation. Why is attic insulation important to think about with regard to your roof, and how does robust insulation help with several roof-related areas?

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to assist clients around Salt Lake City, West Valley City, West Jordan and nearby areas with all their roofing needs, from roof replacement and roof installations to roof repair, snow removal and more. Here are some of the basics on attic insulation and its connection to your roofing setup, plus what to think about during any roof repairs or other roof changes that take place on your property.

Connection Between Roof and Attic

Before we dig into some of the specifics on attic insulation and its effects on roofing, it’s important to understand the basic connection between the two. In general, your roof and attic are essentially two sides of the same coin – they work together to protect your home from outside elements, including weather events like rain or snow. Any changes you make to one are likely to have direct impacts on the other.

For instance, let’s say you decide to repair or replace your roof without considering the state of your attic insulation. Even if the roofing materials themselves are top-notch, any issues with attic insulation could quickly render these efforts far less effective. The reverse is also true – updating attic insulation without keeping an eye on your roof’s needs could lead to further problems down the road.

Role of Attic Insulation

Attic insulation plays a key role, one that interacts with both the roof and several other key areas of your home. For starters, insulation is a major factor in regulating temperature and preventing energy loss within the home – and it does so largely through working with your roof.

Attic insulation helps trap heat inside your home during colder months, which can reduce heating costs and keep your space comfortable. In summer, it prevents cool air from escaping through the attic, helping to keep your home cool and reducing air conditioning costs. Additionally, insulation also helps prevent moisture buildup in the attic, which can cause damage to both the roof and the rest of the home.

How Proper Insulation Benefits the Roof

There are several specific ways in which proper attic insulation can benefit your roof’s performance. Some of these include:

  • Reduced risk of ice dams or other snow-related issues
  • Longer lifespan for roofing materials, as they are not constantly exposed to extreme temperatures
  • Prevention of condensation buildup on the underside of the roof, which can lead to mold growth and damage over time

In addition, proper insulation also helps with energy efficiency and can save you money on heating and cooling costs in the long run.

Insulation and R-Value

One metric that’s commonly used to measure the effectiveness of insulation is called R-value. This refers to a material’s ability to resist heat flow – the higher the R-value, the more effective it is at keeping heat in or out.

When it comes to attic insulation, having a high R-value can make a big difference in reducing energy costs and maintaining a comfortable home.

Checking Insulation Quality and Quantity

If you’re unsure about the state of your attic insulation, it’s always a good idea to have a professional inspection. They can help determine the current R-value and whether or not there are any gaps or areas in need of additional insulation.

It’s also important to consider the quantity of insulation in your attic – generally, more is better when it comes to keeping your home properly insulated. If you notice areas with thin or missing insulation, it’s important to address these issues before they lead to larger problems.

Importance of Sealing Air Leaks

As we mentioned earlier, the roof and attic often work in tandem to keep your home protected from outside elements. This includes sealing off any potential air leaks, which can allow outside air to enter and compromise the effectiveness of your insulation.

A professional roofing contractor will be able to identify and seal any air leaks in your attic, ensuring that your insulation will work as intended and help maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

Attic insulation may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering your roof, but it plays a crucial role in its performance and longevity. By understanding the connection between the two and taking proper care of your insulation, you can ensure that your roof will continue to protect your home for years to come.

At The Roof Doctor, we are committed to providing our clients around SLC, West Jordan and West Valley City with top-quality roofing services and expertise. If you have any questions about attic insulation or need assistance with any of your roofing needs, don’t hesitate to contact us today!

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Basic Spring Roof Care Elements to Consider

spring roof care elements

While this Utah winter has seemingly lasted forever, and indeed is one of the longest and most significant on record, we’re finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. Spring is around the corner, and this is a chance for homeowners to check on several components of their properties – and one of the most notable here in many cases is the roof.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re proud to offer comprehensive roof repair, roof installation and other roof services for clients around Salt Lake City, West Valley City and West Jordan. Whether on your own or with help from our professionals wherever necessary, here are a few important spring themes to be looking at to help evaluate any issues from the prior winter, plus ensure your setup is ready to go for the warm season.

Simple Visual Inspection

One of the first things to do is a simple visual inspection. Look for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles or sheet metal, water stains on the interior of your ceiling, or cracks in your gutters. If you find anything, it’s time to call in professional help from The Roof Doctor.

Pay particular attention to the areas of your roof near exhaust vents, flashings and chimneys. These areas are well-known trouble spots that can be easily compromised during a harsh winter season.

Gutter Inspection and Cleanout

A related component that’s extremely important to look at is your gutters. Check for signs of damage, clogs or any other possible issues that could be causing problems with water drainage. Clogs can form quickly during the springtime when leaves and debris start to accumulate in the gutters.

Cleaning this out regularly is key to making sure your roof stays in tip-top shape. The Roof Doctor can help here as well, with advanced gutter cleaning services to ensure your gutters are in top condition and ready for the spring season.

Check for any Fungus, Mold or Algae

Especially after a winter that contained as much snow and moisture as the one we just went through, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of fungus, mold or algae growth on your roof. This can be a sign that there is too much moisture in the environment and can potentially lead to more damaging problems if left unchecked.

If you do find any of these signs, it’s important to call in an expert right away. The Roof Doctor can help with advanced solutions to get your roof back in the best possible condition and ready for the warm months ahead.

Look for Nests or Buildups

As you’re going through your visual inspection, make sure to be on the lookout for nests or other types of buildup that could be occurring across different areas of your roof. Birds and other animals can make homes in shingles and gutters if they’re not properly maintained – so it’s important to check these areas as well.

In many of these cases, it will be easy to remove or relocate any type of animal or insect buildup. Alternatively, The Roof Doctor can also help with specially designed solutions to keep unwanted guests away from your home in the future.

Don’t Pressure Wash

We also think it’s prudent to go over some things you should not be doing when it comes to your roof. In particular, pressure washing is not recommended for any type of roof – and this one especially with the tough winter weather we just experienced.

Pressure washing can damage shingles and other areas of your roof, as well as potentially blow away protective sealants that have been put in place. While it’s typically okay to use a basic hose or other types of mechanical tools to clean off the surface, do not use a pressure washer or any type of harsh chemical when it comes to your roof.

Safety is Always First

If you’re performing any of these checks or inspections on your own, be sure to take all necessary safety precautions. Wear proper clothing and footwear, use a ladder in the proper manner with someone holding it for you, and never work on a roof during inclement weather – or anytime there’s even a chance of rain.

And if you’re even slightly uncomfortable with any of the requirements involved here, you should not proceed. Simply call The Roof Doctor instead – and leave the roof inspection, cleaning, and repairs up to the professionals. We’re happy to take your call for this or any other roofing need you have in SLC, West Jordan or West Valley City!

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Roofing Themes to Consider If You’ve Just Bought a New Home

roofing themes new home

There are a number of specific components you may be thinking about if you’ve recently purchased a home and are assessing its quality, and one area that cannot be overlooked here is the roof. Even if you’ve been diligent in your purchasing process and have bought a home with a quality roof that’s relatively new, there will be a point at which you have to consider certain repairs or other fixes, and priming yourself for this ahead of time is valuable.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to help. We assist any and all clients with their residential roofing needs of all shapes and sizes, whether you have specific and immediate roofing issues that need addressing or are simply looking for a long-term partner for roof inspections and care. What are a few simple tips we offer to new homeowners on how to assess and understand their new roofing setup? Here are a few valuable themes.

Pre-Purchase Roofing Considerations

Firstly, we also want to speak briefly to those who are still in the process of negotiating a home purchase. It’s so important that you do not overlook the roof during this time! If you’re working with a quality real estate agent, they will hopefully bring any big-ticket items to your attention.

But it’s always good to get a second opinion, and if you have any doubts whatsoever about the state of the roof, it is worth getting a roofing professional to take a look. This is a significant investment, and you want to be as confident as possible in every element of the purchase.

Take a Quick Look

When you’ve finalized your purchase and are moving into your new home, take a few minutes whenever it’s convenient to just walk around the property and check out the roof from different angles. It doesn’t have to be a comprehensive or exhaustive inspection, but getting a general sense of its condition and any potential problem areas is valuable.

Of course, if you see anything that looks like an immediate issue, don’t hesitate to give us a call right away! We’ll be happy to help. But as much as anything else, this is just an opportunity to familiarize yourself with one of the most important components of your new home. How does your roof slope? Where are the gutters and downspouts located? Just getting a general sense of these basic details is helpful.

Know Your Primary Roofing Material

Another big theme to consider is your primary roofing material, as this will obviously have a big impact on the care and maintenance required over time. At The Roof Doctor, we work with all sorts of common roofing materials, including asphalt shingles, metal roofs, tile roofs, and more.

Asphalt shingles are by far the most common, and they offer a number of advantages in terms of cost, installation, and repair. But every material has its own quirks and benefits, so it’s worth doing a bit of research on your specific setup. This will help you understand what to expect down the road.

If you can’t tell which roofing material you have, or if you have any questions whatsoever, please don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. We’re always happy to help new homeowners get a handle on their roofing situation.

Care for Your Gutters

While gutters are technically separate from your roof, there’s no question these components are closely related, and they work together to protect your home from water damage. As such, it’s important to make sure your gutters are in good condition and properly maintained.

The gutters should be cleared of any debris on a regular basis, and you also want to be on the lookout for any signs of sagging or other damage. These issues can often be addressed relatively easily, but it’s important to catch them early before they become bigger problems.

Check Interior Ceilings

Both during your initial walk-around inspection and on a regular basis thereafter, it’s also a good idea to take a quick look at the ceilings in your home for any signs of water damage. This can obviously be a sign that there’s an issue with your roof, but it can also indicate problems with your gutters or downspouts.

In any case, if you see any signs of water damage in your home, it’s important to call a professional right away to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.

Monitor for Shingle Granules

If you have an asphalt shingle roof, another big theme to be aware of is shingle granules. These are the small pieces of stone or other material that make up the surface of the shingles, and over time, they can begin to degrade and fall off.

This is a normal part of the asphalt shingle roof lifecycle, but it’s important to keep an eye on granule loss to ensure it’s not happening at an accelerated rate. This could be a sign of a bigger problem, and it’s something we can help you assess and address.

Leave Repairs to the Pros

Whether immediately upon moving into your new home or at some point in the future, you may be tempted to take on roofing repairs yourself if you notice any issues. But as much as we understand the DIY impulse, this is almost always a bad idea.

Roofing repairs can be dangerous, and they often require specialized tools and materials. It’s almost always better to leave repairs to the professionals. Not only will this ensure the job is done right, but it will also help you avoid any potential accidents or injuries.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help new homeowners with all their roofing needs, from inspections and repairs to maintenance and more. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to give us a call.

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All You Need to Know About Roof Flashing

need know roof flashing

There are a few components within many roofs that it’s worth knowing about as a resident or building owner, and one of these that sometimes doesn’t get enough attention is flashing. Flashing is a component that plays a major role in preventing leaks and related issues on the roof area, and knowing about it will help you understand how it works, when it might require repairs, and more.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to offer a huge range of residential roofing services, including anything you might need involving your flashing. What exactly is roof flashing, what are its top purposes, and what are some various types of flashing that might be useful for your roof? Here’s a basic primer.

Basics on Roof Flashing

For those unaware, roof flashing refers to a component that acts as a preventive seal between the joints in your roof. These joints are particularly vulnerable to leaks, as they provide potential spaces for water and other materials to enter. Flashing is installed over these joints in order to make sure that they’re well-sealed and won’t cause any issues.

Flashing is made out of a variety of different materials, including metals like aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. In some cases, flashing might also be made out of asphalt-based materials, plastic, or even rubber. The specific material used will often depend on the location and purpose of the flashing itself, and may also be dictated by the type of roof that you have.

The Purpose of Roof Flashing

There are a few key purposes that roof flashing typically serves. First, as we’ve noted, it helps to seal up any joints in the roof and prevent leaks. In addition, flashing can also help to direct water away from areas where it might cause damage, such as near the chimney. Flashing can also help to hold shingles in place, and may even provide additional support for gutters or other components.

In short, roof flashing plays a vital role in protecting your home from water damage, and making sure that your roof lasts for as long as possible. It’s important to keep an eye on your flashing and make sure that it’s in good condition, as any issues with flashing can lead to significant problems down the line.

Areas Where Flashing is Typically Used

In addition to roof joints, there are a number of specific parts of a roof where flashing will often be used. These areas are those where leaks are more likely than in other areas of the roof, and they include:

  • Dormer wall roof surfaces: These are the slanted walls that project outwards from a pitched roof, and they often have windows. This kind of roof surface is particularly vulnerable to leaks.
  • Chimneys: The base of a chimney is another spot where water can enter, and flashing helps to seal it off.
  • Valleys: A valley is the point where two sloped roof surfaces meet, forming a V shape. These are also prone to leaks if not properly sealed. Luckily, using flashing in these areas can help.
  • Skylights: Skylights are another potential leak point, as they’re essentially holes in the roof. Flashing helps to seal them off and prevent any water or other materials from getting inside.

Types of Flashing

When it comes to the types of flashing available, they’re broken down in a few different ways. Some are based specifically on the area of the roof they’re meant to go in, while others are just a general type that can be attached to multiple different roof areas. Here are some of the top options available:

  • Chimney: One of the more specific types of flashing, chimney flashing is installed around the base of a chimney. It’s usually made out of metal, and can help to seal off this vulnerable area.
  • Valley: As we touched on above, valley flashing is installed in the valleys of a roof. Again, this is usually made out of metal, and can help to prevent leaks in these areas.
  • Vent pipe: Vent pipe flashing, on the other hand, is meant to be applied over pipes and flues on your roof, with a cone-shaped design that helps to seal them off. It also has a base flange that fits into the shingles of the roof.
  • Step: If you have a sloped roof or vertical wall that needs flashing, step flashing is a good option. This type of flashing is installed in sections, with each section overlapping the one below it. This helps to create a watertight seal that can prevent leaks. The step seal often contains drip edges to prevent water seeping under the surface at the eaves.
  • Integral: Integral flashing is often used alongside step flashing, particularly when skylights or other openings are present. This type is usually made out of the same material as the rest of the roof, and helps to seal off these vulnerable areas.
  • Saddle: For things like railing attachments, joists and beams, and other such areas, saddle flashing is a good option. This type of flashing is usually made out of metal or plastic, and helps to seal these areas off to prevent leaks.

As you can see, there are a number of different types of flashing available, each of which can be used in specific areas to help prevent leaks. Knowing which type is right for your roof will help you make sure that it’s properly sealed off and protected from the elements.

For more on roof flashing, or to learn about any of our roofing or related services, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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How to Interpret a Roof Repair Estimate

interpret roof repair estimate

When it comes to many services you’re considering for your home or property from outside specialists, receiving a cost estimate before the project begins is a common and often important element of the process. Roof repairs are no exception — property owners who are obtaining such repairs for their structures naturally want to have an idea of what those repairs are going to cost them, and estimates from roofing professionals are the simplest way to glean this information.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to provide cost estimates for any of our commercial or residential roofing services, including repairs you’re in need of. How precise do these kinds of estimates tend to be in the roofing world, and what are the factors likely to impact the total found on your estimate? Here’s a general primer on this important theme.

Estimate, Not a Precise Figure

First and foremost, it’s important to realize that while we’ll do our very best to pinpoint the precise cost of your roof repairs before we start work on them, the estimate you receive is just that — an estimate. It’s based on a number of factors, which we’ll go over in just a bit.

In some cases, unforeseen issues can arise during the repair process that result in additional time or materials being required to complete the job. (This is especially true in the case of older roofs, which may have structural damage that isn’t immediately apparent.) If this happens and the job ends up costing more than we initially estimated, we’ll of course let you know as soon as possible so there are no surprises.

Conversely, it’s also possible that the repairs turn out to be less involved than we initially thought, and thus cost less. In this case as well, you would only be charged for the actual work that was performed.

In any case, it’s important to remember that the estimate you’re given should always be considered a starting point rather than a final figure.

In our next few sections, we’ll go over some of the most common elements that impact your roof repair estimate.

Size and Extent of Damage

One of the first things our roofing professionals will do when you contact us about repairs is to come out and take a look at your roof. We’ll then be able to get a better idea of the size of the repair job and how extensive the damage is.

In general, larger repair jobs or those involving more widespread damage are going to cost more than smaller, more localized repairs.

The Age of Your Roof

Another important factor that will impact your roof repair estimate is the age of your roof. Older roofs are generally going to require more extensive repairs than newer ones, as they’re more likely to have structural damage or other issues.

If you have an older roof, it’s worth considering whether repairs are actually the best option, or whether it might make more sense to replace the roof entirely. Our roofing professionals can advise you on this based on the condition of your roof.

The Materials Used in Your Roof

The materials used in your roof will also play a role in the cost of repairs. Some materials, such as asphalt shingles, are less expensive to work with than others, such as metal.

If you’re not sure what kind of materials were used in your roof, our professionals can help you to identify them. In some cases, it may also be possible to use a different type of material for repairs than was used originally — again, our team can advise you on this.

Labor Costs

Some repair jobs are going to be much more labor-intensive than others. If your roof is easily accessible and the damage is relatively minor, repairs are likely to be fairly quick and straightforward.

On the other hand, if your roof is more difficult to access or the damage is more significant, repairs are going to take longer and be more complex, which will in turn impact the cost. For example, if your roof needs to be partially or entirely replaced, this is obviously going to take more time than making smaller, localized repairs.

In some cases, it may also be necessary to bring in additional labor to complete the job — for example, if special equipment is required.

Disposal Costs

Another potential cost to consider is disposal, a common element of most roof repair jobs. After all, the old materials that are being removed from your roof will need to go somewhere, and in most cases, this will be at an additional cost.

Some companies include disposal in their overall estimate, while others charge it as an additional fee. Be sure to ask about this ahead of time so there are no surprises.

In certain cases, if there’s quite a bit of debris that needs to be removed from the roof or property area, some companies will charge a specific fee for this, rather than including it in the disposal costs.

Material Transportation

Finally, there are some roof repair jobs where materials will need to be brought to the job site, which can impact the overall cost.

For example, if your roof needs to be replaced and materials need to be brought in from off-site, this is obviously going to add to the cost of the job. The same is true if special equipment is required for repairs and needs to be brought to the job site.

In some cases, companies will include the cost of transportation in their overall estimate. In other cases, they may charge it as an additional fee. Once again, it’s important to ask about this ahead of time so there are no surprises.

For more on how to interpret your roof repair estimate and what will be included in it, or to learn about any of our roof repairs, roof replacements or emergency roof services, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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How to Identify Missing Shingles on Your Roof

identify missing shingles roof

There are several important components to most roofs, and shingles are among these in nearly every case. Shingles serve as your roof’s primary form of protection against various elements, from moisture on down the list, and one of the more common roof issues out there today is shingles that are missing from the roof area.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re happy to offer a wide variety of roof repairs and roof replacements, and shingles are a common theme we assist clients with on a regular basis. As a home or building owner, you can play an important role here: Identifying when shingles are missing or otherwise having issues, so that you can call our team for help with replacing or repairing them. What are some of the simplest ways to identify missing shingles on the roof? Here are several basic themes to consider.

Visual Inspection

The simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles is also the most obvious: Take a look at your roof. If you can see any large patches of exposed roofing material where there should be shingles, there’s a good chance shingles are missing.

The easiest way to do this is to stay on the ground and utilize a pair of quality binoculars, which will help you get a closer look at the roofline without putting yourself in any danger. If you don’t have binoculars, see if there’s somebody else who does (maybe a neighbor or family member) that can help you out.

Another way to do this is to physically get on the roof, which we do not recommend unless you’ve been up there before and are comfortable with the safety themes required. This route should only be taken if you have trouble seeing the roof from the ground, and even then we recommend having somebody else on the ground to help guide you and make sure you’re safe.

If there are any large bald spots or patches where shingles are definitely missing, take note of them. If possible, try to find any smaller areas too, as they may not be as immediately noticeable but still indicate that shingles need to be replaced.

Now, if you find a few missing granules that should be present on your shingles, this usually isn’t anything to be overly concerned about. Shingles will lose some of their granules over time as they protect your roof, and a few missing granules here or there isn’t going to cause any serious damage. Just make sure you’re monitoring the situation so that it doesn’t escalate, and if you ever find a large number of granules in your gutters that’s definitely a sign you should give our team a call as soon as possible.

Other Possible Missing Shingle Indicators

While visual inspections are by far the simplest and most common way of identifying missing shingles, they aren’t the only ones. In some cases, certain other signs taking place within the structure, or even on the surrounding property, may give you some signs that this is happening. Here are some examples:

  • Large quantities of granules: If you’re finding lots of granules, either on the ground around your roof or in your gutters themselves, this is a good indicator that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. As we noted above, just a few missing granules aren’t anything to worry about, but larger quantities definitely are.
  • Leaks: If you’re starting to see leaks in your roof, or even just water stains on the ceiling, this may be a sign that shingles are missing and need to be replaced. In some cases leaks can also indicate other roofing issues as well, but this is definitely something to have our team take a look at as soon as possible.
  • Missing insulation: If you’ve noticed that your energy bills have been rising for no apparent reason, it’s possible that shingles are missing and heat or cold is escaping from your home. In some cases, you may even be able to see the insulation itself missing if you take a look in your attic.
  • Light shining through: This one’s a bit more difficult to notice, but if you go into your attic on a sunny day and see sunlight shining through, it’s possible that shingles are missing and need to be replaced.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs, or anything else that you believe may indicate that shingles are missing, don’t hesitate to give our team a call. We’ll be more than happy to take a look and let you know for sure, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that may need to be done.

Professional Inspection

If you’re confident something is going on with your roof, but you’re having trouble really nailing down what the problem is, our team here at The Roof Doctor would be more than happy to come out and take a look. We’ll be able to quickly and easily identify any issues that may be present, and we can also provide a free estimate for any repairs that need to be done.

Professionals like ours utilize several methods for identifying missing shingles, including both visual inspections and special infrared cameras. We may even utilize drones, which can view the roof from above without risking anyone’s safety. In most cases, we’ll be able to find any areas that are missing shingles and provide a detailed report on what needs to be done to fix the problem. We can also work with your insurance company if necessary to make sure you get the coverage you need.

For more on how to identify missing shingles on your roof, or to learn about any of our roof repair or replacement services, speak to our team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Subtler Indicators of Tooele Roof Damage

subtler indicators roof damage

For many who have been attentive home or property owners for a number of years, certain indicators are somewhat well-known as signs of roofing issues. Things like missing shingles, major water leaks and others are pretty obviously indicating you have an issue taking place with your roof — but what about some of the subtler, less obvious signs that something might be going on in this vital area?

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help with numerous client needs just like this. Our residential roofers are here to help Tooele, Utah clients with everything from issue identification through roof repairs and even re-roofing projects if needed. We often help homeowners identify issues with their roof that may not have been apparent to the untrained eye, including several subtler signs. What are a few of these that you should be aware of, and what might they be signaling with regard to your roof? Here are some basic examples.

Whistling Sounds

Have you recently begun to notice the strange presence of whistling sounds or unusual airflow coming from your attic space? If so, this is a serious sign that something might be amiss with your roofing. It could be an indicator of improper ventilation — or, in some cases, it could signal the presence of a hole or crack somewhere in your roof that’s allowing air to pass through.

Either way, this is not a sign to ignore. If you’ve noticed whistling sounds or unusual airflow in your attic, contact a roofing professional right away to have the situation assessed and rectified as needed.

Excessive Heat/Energy Bills

Have you also begun to notice that your energy bills have been spiking recently, even though you haven’t changed anything about your normal usage patterns? If so, this could also be an indicator that something is wrong with your roof. It’s possible that your attic space isn’t being properly ventilated, which is causing your air conditioner to work overtime in order to keep things cool — and driving up your energy bills as a result.

It’s also possible that significant leaks or cracks in your roof are present, allowing heat to enter your attic space and make it harder to keep things cool. If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills, contact a roofing professional as soon as possible to have the situation assessed.

Animals on the Roof

To be clear, there are instances where animals will run on your roof even if there’s no significant damage — especially if you have tall trees with branches that allow animals like squirrels or others easy access, this sort of thing isn’t unexpected.

However, there are other cases where animals regularly taking up residence on your roof could be an indicator of trouble. If animals are regularly nesting in your gutters or trying to enter your attic space, this could signal that there are holes or cracks present that they’re taking advantage of. These need to be repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage — and to keep animals from invading your home.

If you fail to notice or attend to these issues, you’re likely headed for a singular outcome: The animal(s) in question make the existing damage worse, and cause additional issues as they come and go. If you have animals taking up residence on your roof, contact a professional right away to assess the situation and make repairs as needed.

Black Spots

You may think black spots on your roof are just a bit unsightly, but they could actually signal a serious problem — especially if they’re present on your shingles. These black spots are often an indicator of the presence of mold, mildew or algae, which can shorten the lifespan of your shingles and leave your roof more vulnerable to leaks and other damage.

If you’ve noticed black spots on your shingles, contact a roofing professional to have the situation cleaned and remedied as needed. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may be something you can take care of yourself with a little elbow grease and the right cleaning solution.

In any case, don’t ignore these spots — they could signal serious trouble for your roof down the line if they’re not remedied.

Nails Along Home Edges

Have you recently begun to notice nails on the ground of your property near the edges of your home? If so, this could be an indicator that elements of your roof have begun to degrade, including some of the nails that hold exterior components in place.

This is not something you should ignore, as it could signal serious damage to your roof that needs to be remedied by a professional. If you’ve noticed nails on the ground near your home, contact a roofing contractor right away to schedule an inspection and repairs as needed.

Buckling Shingles

When it comes to shingles on your roof, the issue most people are conditioned to notice is when they’re missing — especially when a large area of shingles are all missing. However, this is not the only issue that can arise with shingles that can signal serious trouble. Buckling shingles are another key indicator, and they may be a sign of moisture damage or even fungus on your roof.

If you’ve noticed buckling in your roof, contact a professional right away to have the problem assessed — and taken care of if necessary.

For more on subtler signs of roof concerns that you should know how to spot, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof replacement services in Tooele or nearby parts of Utah, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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Signs Your SLC Roof Requires Emergency Repairs

signs roof emergency repairs

There are certain parts of a given home or building where certain physical issues or wear-and-tear concerns can wait on repairs at least for a little while — but also others where they can’t, and the roof is a great example. Certain minor roofing issues, such as a single missing shingle or a small gutter problem, won’t cause major problems if you can’t get to them for a few days or weeks; others, however, are emergencies that require immediate assistance from roofing professionals.

At The Roof Doctor, we’re here to help in both these situations. Our roof repair services are offered to clients throughout Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, and include both emergency repairs and more standard formats — both of which we cover. How can you determine whether an issue with your roof qualifies as an emergency? Here are a few of the telltale signs that this issue cannot wait, and that you should be calling our team for assistance right away.

Noticeably Sagging, Uneven Roof

If you’re viewing your roof from the outside, or even from inside your attic, and notice that it appears to be saggy or uneven, this is a major red flag. This could be caused by a number of things, such as damage from a recent storm or even wear and tear over time, but either way it needs to be addressed urgently.

A roof that’s uneven is more susceptible to water damage and other problems, so it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. If you don’t, you’ll be risking even more damage to your property and could end up paying far more for repairs in the future — or you may even have to replace the entire roof much earlier than you had planned.

Multiple Areas of Sunlight Coming Through

When inspecting your roof from the attic, seeing one or two minor instances of sunlight may not be too large a concern. This can happen over time, and may require a simple shingle replacement or some kind of patching job.

If, however, you’re seeing multiple areas of sunlight coming through, this is a much bigger issue and definitely qualifies as an emergency. This means that your roof is not doing its job in keeping moisture and other elements out, which could lead to serious water damage in the near future. In fact, many homeowners who see this happening to their roof will later realize that water damage has already begun to take place.

Excessive, Major Granule Loss

Granules are important roofing materials, used to protect the singles of your roof from the elements. They usually fall off gradually as your roof ages, but if you’re seeing an excessive amount of granules in your gutters or on the ground below your home, this is a sign that your roof is in bad shape.

The reason this is such a big deal is because it means that the protective layer over your roof is starting to wear away, which leaves your roof singles exposed and vulnerable to damage. If this problem isn’t fixed soon, you could be looking at a complete roof replacement in the near future, rather than just some minor repairs.

Significant Shingle Areas Missing

Again, this is an area where some context is required. Just one or two missing shingles on separate parts of the roof typically will not qualify as an emergency — this isn’t creating a major water damage risk, for one, and it’s also something that can typically be fixed in a day or two.

If, however, you’re missing several shingles in one particular area (or if they’ve been blown away by a recent storm), this is definitely an emergency. This opens your roof up to much greater water damage risk, as well as leaving it more susceptible to the elements in general. It’s important to address this as soon as possible, and our professionals can help get your roof back to its best shape in no time.

Curling or Buckling Concerns

Have you begun to notice your roof warping, curling or buckling? If so, this is another major sign that your roof needs emergency repairs. This is usually a sign that the roofing singles themselves are starting to fail, and if left untreated it could lead to even more serious damage down the road.

Major Unidentified Leaks (Especially in Upper Parts of the Home)

Finally, there may be cases where you’re having trouble identifying where a leak is coming from, or it’s in an area of the home that you can’t easily access. In these cases, it’s best to call in a professional who can help identify and fix the problem.

Roofing systems are complex, and as a homeowner you may not always be able to spot a problem right away. Just because you can’t see a leak doesn’t mean it’s not there — in fact, many leaks occur in upper parts of the home where they’re harder to detect. If you’re seeing water damage in any area of your home, it’s important to call a professional and have them take a look at your roof.

As a homeowner, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your roof needs emergency repairs. By being proactive and watching for these signs, you can avoid potentially costly and serious damage down the road.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our roof repair or roof installation services in Salt Lake City or any other part of Utah, speak to the team at The Roof Doctor today.

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How To Prepare Your Roof For Winter

How-to-Prepapre-Your-Roof-for-Winter

 

When it comes to getting your house ready for cold weather and freezing temps, forgetting to prepare your roof for winter can be a costly oversight.
 
An essential step in winterizing your home is making sure that your roof is ready for the severe weather conditions that come throughout these months. By performing routine maintenance on your roof before winter settles in, you can help your property stay cozy, and prevent costly repairs caused by leaks and ice dams.

 

Continue reading to learn what you can do to get your roof ready for winter.o

4 Things You Can Do to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Here are several things you should do before winter hits to prepare your roof for the season:

  1. Clean Your Gutters — A clean gutter system means an effective gutter system. Extend the lifespan of your gutters by cleaning out your gutters at least twice every year: once in the spring and again in fall. Autumn brings intense wind and rainstorms that can cause your gutters and downspouts to clog. If your gutters are not completely cleaned out for winter, the freezing temperatures can cause ice dams that inevitably lead to extensive repairs. With the Utah fall in full force, make sure to clear your gutters of leaves, twigs, nests, and other debris. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure your system works effectively and efficiently and address any concerns right away.
  2. Consider an Ice Melting System — During winter, snow falls on your roof and will melt and run down to the overhanging part of your roof. The water drips and quickly freezes, forming icicles because this portion of your roof has no insulation under it. While magical, icicles pose a serious safety hazard to people walking below, either by breaking and hitting them or by dripping onto sidewalks and driveways, then freezing and creating dangerously slippery ice patches on the ground below. To prevent this, you can install an ice melting system, also known as a heat cable. This self-regulating heat tape prevents ice dams and icicles from forming. 
  3. Professional Inspection — It’s essential that your roof not have any leaks before major snowstorms make their appearance. A simple roof inspection done by a knowledgeable professional can help you locate any potential issues quickly, such as curling or missing shingles, stains or wet spots, and any other signs of damage.
  4. Repair Damaged Areas — After your inspection, you’ll have a clear idea of where your roof stands. Areas with missing shingles, damaged flashing, or otherwise damaged spots leave your home susceptible to leaks that could lead to extensive (and expensive!) water damage. Prevent water from entering your house and repair damaged areas before they worsen by contacting a skilled roof technician.

Prepare Your Roof for Winter with The Roof Doctor 

If you need to prepare your roof for winter, let The Roof Doctor help! Our specialists can handle everything from regular maintenance, routine inspections, new installations, total replacements, and any necessary repairs; we do it all! If you live in Provo, Orem, or a surrounding city, contact our professionals for all of your roofing needs today.

 

 

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The Dos and Don’ts of Removing Snow from Your Roof

The-Dos-and-Don'ts-of-Removing-Snow-from-Your-Roof
 

Winter is just around the corner, and you can count on snowfall within the next few weeks. So here are some tips for removing snow from your roof.

Whether you are a Utah native who’s been dealing with snow your whole life, or a newcomer to the chilly weather, you must familiarize yourself with the best practices of removing snow from your roof. Improper techniques of snow removal can cause roof and home damage, or you could even harm yourself. But don’t worry, we have you covered with this dos and don’t guide. Keep reading to learn more. 

Do: Remove Snow If There are Six or More Inches

Roofs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s hard for us to give you an accurate number of inches of snow your roof can sustain before it’s time to clear it off. That being said, snow is heavy, and the weight on the rooftop can cause damage to not only the roof but your house’s structure. That’s why we suggest that everyone clears their rooftop of snow when there are six or more inches of snow resting on the roof.

Don’t: Wait Until You See Ice Dams 

Ice dams form when the snow melts then freezes around the edge of your roof. They can be harmful to your gutters, or they can back up in your shingles and cause water leaks in your ceiling. If you start to notice ice dams, call a professional right away.

Do: Clear Off Your Low-Pitched or Flat Roof More Frequently 

If you have a flat or low-pitched roof, we suggest that you clear it off more frequently. When a rooftop has a taller pitch, it can sustain more weight and even allow for some water and snow to trickle off the roof, but when it’s more of a flat surface, snow and ice can accumulate on the roof, and the weight can be too much for the home to handle. In this case, we recommend keeping your roof clear of snow when you can. Here’s a quick tip: freshly fallen snow is the easiest to remove yourself. 

Don’t: Take a DIY Approach in Hazardous Conditions 

If you have a high-pitch roof, tall home, or the weather doesn’t permit you to be outside, let alone on your roof, don’t take a do-it-yourself approach to remove snow from your roof. Instead, call your local professional roofing company to get the job done right and safely!

Contact The Roof Doctor for Snow Removal Services

If you’re thinking of removing snow from your roof yourself, think again. The Roof Doctor is ready and eager to help you. Not only do we provide exceptional service every time, but our roofers are also trained, knowledgeable, and equipped with all the tools to remove snow from your roof in a hazard-free and effective manner. We serve homes and businesses across the Wasatch front, including cities like Orem, West Jordan, Salt Lake City, and Ogden, Utah. So, contact us today to get your free project estimate and to schedule an appointment with us!