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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!

 

 

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Why You Shouldn’t Remove Rooftop Snow on Your Own

Why-You-Shouldn't-Remove-Rooftop-Snow-on-Your-Own

 

As the seasons change and snow starts to fall, you should never risk your life and attempt to remove rooftop snow on your own.

Clearing an excessive pile-up of snow off your roof is important, but it’s incredibly dangerous to take on this task alone. Today, we’re talking all about snow removal and why it’s essential to bring in the professionals for this winter task.

Icy Roofs Are Dangerous

It might be surprising to learn that the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death is falling. In 2019, 880 workers died in falls and 244,000 were injured badly enough to require days off of work. Climbing up to your icy and wet roof to remove snow increases your chances of becoming part of this statistic. As a homeowner, your risks are even higher because you probably don’t have appropriate safety gear to battle the ice. Rather than taking on snow removal yourself, hire professionals that have the proper gear and training to get the job done safely.

You Could Damage Your Shingles

Snow rakes work well to remove excess snow from your roof, but if you lack proper training, you risk causing damage. As you scrape your rooftop clean, you could potentially harm the shingles causing roof leaks and other environmental damage. When snow loads become too great for your house to safely handle, The Roof Doctor can quickly remedy the problem. Having a roofing expert on the job will give you the peace of mind that your roof won’t be hindered in the snow-clearing process.

Metal Tools Could Conduct Electricity

Power lines pose another danger when it comes to rooftop snow removal. People use various tools to clear snow from their roofs, but remember that metal tools can conduct electricity. If your home sits close to any power lines, this could be a deadly hazard that you don’t want to mess around with. Instead, call in professional roofers who proceed with caution as they expertly remove rooftop snow.

Call The Roof Doctor for Snow Removal Services

It’s dangerous to remove rooftop snow on your own, so reach out to the professionals at The Roof Doctor to get the job done safely and efficiently. With professional snow removal services, you’re reducing worry and increasing peace of mind. You’ll be prepared for whatever this Utah winter has to throw at you with our team on your side.

Contact The Roof Doctor today for all of your roofing needs! We serve Salt Lake City, Layton, Orem, Tooele, and neighboring cities in Utah.

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Here’s Why You Should Fix Your Leaking Roof Immediately

Why You Should Fix Your Leaking Roof Immediately?

Water damage from roof leaks can wreak havoc on your home, so even if it’s small, you’ll need to fix your leaking roof as soon as possible. 

You might think that a little bit of dripping water from your roof is harmless, and you’ll repair it whenever you get to it, but while it may seem that way, let us assure you that it is not. A roof that’s leaking can cause problems for your homes like mold and mildew, electrical damage, and structural deterioration- and that’s just scratching the surface. Let’s take a closer look at the consequences of a leaking roof.

Consequences of a Leaking Roof

While repairing a roof leak may cost you some time and money, we promise that an immediate repair will save you more time and money than you can imagine. The fact of the matter is that water damage is no joke, and if you’ve ever dealt with a leak, you know what we mean by that.

Even the slightest leak can encourage pooling and humidity problems, eventually leading to mold and mildew spores growing in your home. Not only is mold harmful to your home, but it can take days and weeks to clear out of your home, not to mention how expensive it is. 

Electrical damage is also a strong possibility when your roof is leaking. As you likely already know, when water comes into contact with electrical wiring, it can short the wiring or even cause a shock and a home fire. If you find a leak, we highly recommend that you shut off the power and call a local professional roofing company to fix your leaking roof. 

Believe it or not, structural damage can occur from a leaking roof as well. According to SF Gate Home Guides, “When water seeps through the roof, it may drip straight onto the attic floor, but it just as often runs along the underside of the roof decking to a wall and then down along the framing. Over time, the wet wood develops rot and loses its strength; the roof sags, the wall bows, and even the foundation may become waterlogged and spongy.” You can imagine just how expensive that repair might be. 

The message is clear: If you suspect a roof leak, get it fixed immediately. 

Fix Your Leaking Roof With The Roof Doctor 

When it’s time to fix your leaking roof, call The Roof Doctor. We offer repair services to homes in the Salt Lake Valley and Northern Utah, in cities like South and West Jordan, Bountiful, Ogden, and Orem. So don’t wait; even if you just suspect a roof leak, it’s better to be safe than sorry, so give us a call today!

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What Causes a Leaking Roof?

What-Causes-a-Leaking-Roof

 

Whether you're currently dealing with one or trying to prevent a future catastrophe, you might wonder what causes a leaking roof.

A roof with a leak is something you want to avoid at all costs, and one of the best ways to prevent that situation is to be prepared. You can start by learning what kinds of things cause a roof to leak and so you can catch it early on before disaster strikes. Keep reading to learn more. 

Age 

While extreme weather and other factors can lead to a damaged roof, one of the most common things that can lead to a leaking roof is age. Unfortunately, there's no way around it, but materials used for roofing will deteriorate over time and become less effective at keeping water out. According to Bob Vila, asphalt shingle roofs have an average lifespan of 15-20 years before needing to be replaced.

Debris 

Debris blown onto your roof can also cause a roof leak. As debris such as leaves and twigs can trap water on your roof, allowing it to seep through the shingles and flashing slowly. Ensure that you regularly clean up your roof and cut back any overhanging trees that could be dropping leaves or pine needles.

Cracked Flashing 

Flashing is thin pieces of metal installed under shingles and on the joints of your roof to create a water-resistant barrier. As the shingles on your roof age or are exposed to extreme weather conditions, the flashing will eventually be exposed. When exposed, the flashing can crack, breaking the water-resistant barrier. If this happens, get in touch with a professional roofing company to take care of the problem right away.

Clogged Gutters 

When your gutters are clogged, there's nowhere for rainwater to go, leaving excess water to pool on your roof and possibly leak through the shingles. Clean your gutters regularly, or consider gutter covers to help prevent debris from getting in there. 

The Roof Doctor Is Here to Help

If you're dealing with a leaking roof or trying to prevent one, call The Roof Doctor. We are experts in roofing and specialize in repairs, re-roofing, and preventive maintenance. Our team of experts will come to your house and do a thorough inspection and give you the options that are sure to get your roof back to its former glory and ready for anything that's ahead. Let's get your roof in tip-top shape! We serve homes and businesses between Draper, Salt Lake City, and Provo, Utah, so contact us today for a free estimate and to schedule an appointment with us. 

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3 Easy Ways To Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage in Utah

3 Easy Ways To Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage in Utah

There are a number of problems that can occur with your roof, but wind damage is one of the most common in Utah. 

Older roofs or those that haven’t been inspected and maintained are especially susceptible to damage due to high winds. The good news is that there are some easy ways that you, as the homeowner, can protect your roof from the wind so that when the next storm rolls in, you can rest with ease knowing your roof will make it through. 

  1. Secure Loose Shingles

It’s natural for shingles on a roof to loosen over time, but it’s important to keep them secured so no water can leak through during a storm. When a major storm is headed your way, it’s a good idea to inspect your roof for any loose shingles and secure them before any serious wind damage is done. They can be secured with roofing nails and caulked around the edges.

  1. Beware Falling Trees and Branches

Trees near your home are great for shade, but not so great for your roof during a storm. It’s important to keep the trees closest to your house trimmed up so there are no branches hanging over your roof. Falling trees and branches can cause serious damage to your roof during a windstorm, but it’s generally avoidable if you are sure to maintain your trees and remove them when they pose a threat to your roof.

  1. Visually Inspect Your Roof

Weak spots in your roof are often visible, so you can avoid a lot of heartache by visually inspecting your roof before a storm. Look for any debris on the roof, clogged gutters, or blocked drains. These can easily contribute to a damaged roof during a storm. It’s a good idea to call The Roof Doctor for a roof inspection if you suspect something might be amiss, since trying to DIY roof repairs can turn hazardous. 

The Roof Doctor Can Help

If your roof has suffered wind damage, it’s important to have it repaired by a professional right away. The expert team of roofers at The Roof Doctor can help inspect and repair your roof, and even replace it if necessary. We serve Salt Lake City, Murray, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, and the surrounding areas in Utah. Contact The Roof Doctor today for a free estimate.

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What You Need To Do Before Installing Solar Panels On Your Roof

 

Solar panels are an increasingly popular option for generating electricity into the home today, which is why many homeowners are making the switch.

Solar energy can help reduce the cost of electricity, provide backup power for outages, and positively impact the planet. Many homeowners are choosing to go solar, but first, there are a few steps you need to take to prepare your roof. Continue reading to learn more.

1. Have Your Roof Inspected

Before installing solar panels on your roof, you need to make sure that it can support the weight of the panels. We recommend having it inspected by a qualified roofing contractor, such as The Roof Doctor, for a stress-free experience. A professional can make sure that your roof is in tip-top shape and take care of any necessary renovations before the panels are connected.

2. Consider How Much Electricity You Typically Use

To determine how many panels you need, take a look at your home’s electric bills over the last few months. This will help you establish realistic goals concerning solar energy. Installing any number of panels will decrease your home’s dependence on the electrical grid, saving you money and grievances in the event of an outage.

3. Notice Where the Sun Hits Your Home

The amount and type of solar panels your home needs depend largely on the sun. These panels work best in direct sunlight, so pay attention to the spots on your roof that get the most sun exposure throughout the day.

4. Remove Objects in the Way

Objects such as antennas, vents, satellite dishes, and low-hanging tree limbs might get in the way of installing panels on your roof. Your roofing contractor can help you establish the best course of action for moving these items. If you have trees that shade a large portion of your roof, it’s a good idea to have them trimmed to reduce the risk of damaging your panels.

5. Determine the Best Time for Installation

While installations can take place during every season, many homeowners choose to have solar panels connected during the summer. Taking advantage of extended hours of summertime sunlight will build up energy storage that you can use year-round. You’ll also be delighted to see expensive summer energy bills plummet with the use of solar panels.

Call The Roof Doctor Roof Inspections, Repairs, and Replacements

Before installing solar panels on your roof, contact The Roof Doctor for an inspection. We’re dedicated to giving you the best options that work for your home while providing you with the best roofing service you’ll ever have. We provide superior roofing solutions to many cities in Northern Utah, including Salt Lake City, Tooele, Orem, Provo, and everywhere in between. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get a free estimate!

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Staying Cool in the Summer: How Your Roof Affects Your Bill

Staying Cool During Summer: How Your Roof Affects Your Bill?

Keeping your house cool in the summer is no small task, but did you know your roof affects your bill? 

As the summer heat in Utah soars to all-time high temperatures, it’s more important than ever to ensure your roof isn’t contributing to an ever-increasing utility bill. 

Your Roof’s Impact on Your Utility Bill

Sure, it’s difficult to keep your house cool in the summer. But isn’t that normal for every house? Not necessarily. Older roofs may not be properly insulated, allowing for too much heat to leak into your home and causing your air conditioner to work overtime. It’s easy to see how an old roof affects your bill.

Insulation isn’t the only concern with older or poorly installed roofs. Ventilation is equally important. A properly installed roof by The Roof Doctor will strike a unique balance between insulation and ventilation, protecting your home from excessive heat while also ensuring hot air doesn’t get trapped in your attic.

A poorly insulated roof will raise your utility bill, and it can shorten the life of your A/C unit. Meanwhile, if your roof isn’t properly ventilated, it can trap moisture inside and contribute to rotting insulation and mold issues.

So how do you lower your cooling bill and prolong the life of your insulation and HVAC system? A roof inspection is a good place to start. A professional roofer can take a look and tell you if your roof was installed correctly and has the proper insulation and ventilation. 

What to Look for in a New Roof

There are a lot of great, energy-efficient materials that can be used in a new roof. Here are some popular options:

    • Metal shingles – These are durable, lightweight, and extremely energy-efficient. They’re also fireproof, which makes them a popular option for homeowners.
    • Tile roofing – Tile offers great insulation and ventilation, making it a top energy-saving material. They’re also durable and flame-resistant.
  •      Asphalt shingles – While some asphalt shingles are considered energy-       efficient, not all are. Ordinary asphalt shingles can get very hot and won’t do     your utility bill any favors, so be sure you’re shopping for the right variety.

When you’re shopping for roofs, try to find one that’s endorsed by Energy Star. Roofing that has this endorsement is able to maintain a lower surface temperature, keeping your energy costs down. 

The Roof Doctor Is Here

If you’re having a hard time keeping your house cool this summer, there’s a good chance your roof is contributing to the problem. The quality of your roof affects your bill, and The Roof Doctor is here to help keep that bill from getting too high this summer. We’re located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and serve customers in the surrounding areas of Layton, Tooele, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and more. Give us a call today for a free quote!

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Are You Neglecting Your Roof’s Hail Damage?

Are You Neglecting Your Roof’s Hail Damage?

 

When was the last time you checked your roof for hail damage? It might be time to do a quick inspection of your roof for damages. 

Your roof is the first line of defense for your home against any elements, including hail. That’s why, as a homeowner, taking care of your roof should be one of your top priorities. Keep reading to learn about the signs of damage caused by hail and how to prevent it in the future.

Signs of Hail Damage on Your Roof

Different types of roofs and roofing materials react differently to hail, so it’s essential to understand what to look for depending on what type of roof you have. For today’s article, we’ll be focusing on asphalt shingles and wood shingles, two of the most common types of roofing seen in the state of Utah. 

Asphalt and Composition Shingles 

According to Travelers Insurance, here are the most common signs of hail damage to your asphalt shingle roof:

  • Random damage with no discernable pattern
  • Loss of granules 
  • Exposure of the roof felt
  • Asphalt that appears shiny 
  • Indents in the shingles that are soft to the touch (it will feel like a bruise on an apple)

Wood Shingles 

  • Signs of damage with no discernable pattern
  • A shingle or shingles that are split 
  • Shingles that are brown/orange in color
  • Impact marks or dents in the singles and along with the splitting 

Wear and Tear That Is Not Hail Damage 

Other types of damage can happen to your roof that will not be caused by hail, but you should still address the situation. If you notice any of the following, reach out to your roofing company to inspect and repair the damage: 

  • Shingles that are brittle and breaking 
  • Blistering
  • Cracking 
  • Granule loss 
  • Flaking 
  • Algae growth 

Preventing Hail Damage 

There’s no definite way to prevent damage to your roof caused by hail, but leaning on a professional roofing company that uses quality all-weather roofing materials will give your roof the longevity it needs to protect your home. If you’re concerned about hail, pick a roofer that does quality work and will provide you with various roofing options that will suit your home’s specific needs.

The Roof Doctor Is Available for Repairs and All Other Roofing Needs

Whether you have hail damage, wind damage, or any other kind of roof damage, The Roof Doctor has you covered with all things roofing. Need a quick repair or a whole new roof? We can do it, and we’ll do it with customer service that is sure to impress. We take pride in the work we deliver, and we know you’ll be more than satisfied with it, too. So don’t wait any longer to get your roof checked for damage and repaired; contact us today for your free roofing estimate! We serve Salt Lake City, Layton, Sandy, Ogden, Orem, Provo, and neighboring cities in Utah.

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How Often Should I Get My Roof Inspected?

How Often Should I Get My Roof Inspected_

Your home’s roof is your ultimate protection from the elements, so it makes sense you would keep it well-maintained. However, a professional inspection isn’t a priority for many homeowners, so when a major storm comes up and damages the roof, it can also damage your budget. The time for getting an inspection is just as important as getting one. Keep reading to find out how often to schedule a roof inspection.

 

When to Have Your Roof Inspected

Most homeowners will recognize damage after a major storm hits and hail or wind tear off shingles or throw tree branches against the house or on the roof. Still, that’s not the only time you should inspect your roof; the recommended time is in the fall before winter sets in. Too cold and it could compromise a newly installed roof since new shingles can’t properly seal it down when it’s frigid. Also, trying to repair a roof when it’s icy can be extremely hazardous, so most homeowners wait until next spring to fix it.

 

Professional Vs. Homeowner Inspection

There are simple things a homeowner can do when inspecting their roof and without needing to get up on the roof to check. Flapping or missing shingles can be seen with good binoculars. If your roof is fairly new and doesn’t show interior water damage or hasn’t been exposed to major weather events, you can likely perform an inspection from the ground and a quick check for attic leaks. Other damage may not be so simple and can’t be seen from an untrained eye. This is where a professional comes into play. 

For a more comprehensive roof inspection, a professional is best since they have the training and experience needed to do a thorough inspection. If your roof is older and you want a seasonal inspection, you need a reputable roofing contractor. They can look for leaks, abnormal wear and tear, improper shingle installation or other previous repairs, and damage caused by debris from winds or hail. The inspection is broken into four categories: materials, interiors, structure, and workmanship, which includes looking for

 

To Schedule a Consultation, Call The Roof Doctor

If after a roof inspection shows you need roof repair or replacement, we’re available here at The Roof Doctor. Some of the repairs we do include dirty gutters, cracked sealant, cracked plastic vents, and cracked plastic pipe flashings.

Our licensed roofing contractors take extra precautions to ensure yours and their safety during this time, so reach out and get a free roofing estimate today.