Summer is a season of the sun, but it can also be a time of severe weather that can take a toll on your roof. High temperatures, UV rays, thunderstorms, and heavy winds can all contribute to roof damage. It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of summer damage to ensure the longevity and integrity of your roof. Here are some key indicators to watch out for:
One of the most obvious signs of roof damage is missing or damaged shingles. High winds and heavy rains can cause shingles to loosen, break, or even blow off completely. If you notice shingles on the ground around your home or visible patches on your roof where shingles are missing, it’s a clear sign that your roof has sustained damage.
Shingles that have started to curl or buckle are also a sign of damage. This can occur due to prolonged exposure to heat and UV rays, which cause the materials to deteriorate. Curling shingles can no longer provide effective protection against water infiltration, increasing the risk of leaks.
Asphalt shingles are coated with granules that help protect them from the sun’s UV rays. Over time, these granules can be worn away by the elements. If you notice granules in your gutters or downspouts, or if the shingles appear bare in places, this indicates significant wear and tear. Granule loss can accelerate the aging of your shingles and lead to further damage.
You Might Be Interested: What Your Attic Goes Through During Summer
Flashing is the material used to seal and protect joints and seams on your roof, such as around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Over the summer, intense heat can cause the flashing to crack or warp. Damaged flashing can allow water to seep into your home, leading to leaks and water damage.
Water stains on your ceiling or walls are a clear sign that your roof is leaking. These stains can appear as discoloration, streaks, or damp spots. Leaks can be caused by damaged shingles, flashing, or underlayment. If you notice any signs of water infiltration inside your home, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.
A sagging roof is a severe sign of structural damage. This can be caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, which weakens the roof decking and supports. If you notice any areas of your roof that appear to be sagging or dipping, it’s crucial to have a professional inspect it immediately.
While moss and algae growth on your roof might not seem like a significant issue, it can indicate underlying problems. Moss can trap moisture against your roof, leading to rot and deterioration. Algae can cause discoloration and can also hold moisture, which can damage shingles over time.
Related: What Sparrows and Doves Can Do to Your Roof
If you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills during the summer months, it could be a sign that your roof is not providing adequate insulation. Damaged or deteriorated roofing materials can allow heat to penetrate your home, forcing your cooling system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
If you need an in-depth inspection of your roof for any damage this summer, don't hesitate to contact us at SJ Winn Construction. Just call us or visit our social media page to know more about what we can do for you.
Everyone loves summer. The heat is a welcome change from the moisty spring and the cold of winter. However, your home’s gutters may cause problems if it's in bad shape and hasn't had proper maintenance facing storms over the season. Overflowing gutters during heavy summer showers can lead to a myriad of problems that go beyond mere inconvenience. In today's post, we'll look at the potential consequences of problematic gutter overflow.
When gutters overflow, the water that should be directed away from your home instead cascades down the sides, pooling around the foundation . Over time, this can lead to foundation erosion, cracks, and even structural instability. Water seeping into the foundation can cause basement flooding and damage to the structural integrity of your home and even your roof.
Overflowing gutters can also wreak havoc on your roof and fascia boards. The excess water can back up under your roof shingles that can cause severe water damage inside your home. Additionally, the fascia boards, which are the vertical finishing edges connected to the ends of the rafters, can become saturated and begin to rot.
Your home’s landscape is another area that can suffer due to overflowing gutters. The excessive water can erode soil, wash away mulch, and damage plants and flowers. This can destroy your garden and lead soil compaction and root damage for larger plants and trees. The constant water flow can also create unsightly gullies and depressions in your yard.
Related: Things Your Roof Must Endure During Summer
The constant flow of water down the sides of your home can damage the exterior siding and paint. Over time, the paint may start to peel, and the siding can become warped or stained. Your home's curb appeal will look much worse due to poor gutter health and may head towards further deterioration and the need for extensive repairs or replacement.
Wherever water accumulates, mold and mildew are likely to follow. Overflowing gutters can lead to water seeping into your home’s walls and foundation, creating a damp environment that is perfect for mold and mildew growth. Furthermore, mold remediation is often a costly and extensive process that can be avoided with proper gutter maintenance.
Standing water and moist environments attract pests such as mosquitoes, termites, and ants. Overflowing gutters can create the perfect breeding ground for these unwanted guests. Mosquitoes, in particular, can become a significant nuisance, posing deadly health risks. Termites and ants can find their way into the wooden structures of your home and cause even more expensive damage.
Trust a roofer who can help you get your gutters in check, like SJ Winn Construction. Call us today or visit our social media page to get help from seasoned professionals.
Are asphalt shingle roofs the best choice for your home when summer rolls around? The fan favorite roof among many homeowners is known to resist high temperatures and intense sunlight. Should you replace your old roof with quality asphalt roofing shingles? In this post, we'll talk about the pros and cons of using asphalt shingle roofs for summer.
While asphalt shingles are a solid choice for summer, other roofing materials may offer superior performance in hot climates
A great alternative to shingle roofs is metal roofing. With the right coating, it can reflect a significant amount of sunlight, which can drastically reduce cooling costs. They are also highly durable and resistant to extreme weather conditions.
Tile roofs, particularly clay or concrete tiles, provide excellent thermal resistance and are ideal for hot climates. They are long-lasting and offer a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
Also consider cool roofs. These roofs are specifically designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. They can be made from various materials, including specially coated asphalt shingles, metal, or membrane systems.
If you're ready to have your roof replaced with quality asphalt shingles, call upon a GAF-certified roofer to install the best roofing materials for your home. You can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction. Call us today or visit our social media page to get started.
You're greatly investing in every roofing project, so a top-notch contractor should be up to task. However, choosing the best company to work with isn't always cut-and-dry – some may try to rip you off and never give your money's worth.
So, when hiring a company, always make sure to pay attention to each detail below that verifies their dependability, reliability, and overall capacity to accomplish your roofing projects and guarantee value-for-money.
Don't hire a contractor who's an expert in metal roofing if you have asphalt shingle roofs. They might say asphalt roofing is part of their service, but it's worth investing in a company that has worked with shingle roofs throughout their years.
Realistically, plenty of roofers are experts in asphalt shingle roofing. But, if you do have clay or slate tile roofs, consider looking for a roofing company specializing in those materials.
You can trust a manufacturer to know if a roofing company is worth their weight in gold. For instance, a GAF-certified roofer (like SJ Winn Construction) always provides value-for-money service – GAF itself trusts them to install their roofing materials effectively. That means homeowners with a certified GAF roofer get the full 50-year warranty on the product.
While we are GAF-certified, look for top local roofing material brands and see the local roofers they trust with their product installation. We guarantee these roofers (aside from us) will do a splendid job of replacing your roof or repairing it.
Fly-by-night roofers just take your money and run away. But, if you have a certified roofer with a great reputation as the go-to roofers in the neighborhood, you're definitely in safe hands. Be sure to ask around or ask the roofer for any references to tell you about their work and how they communicate with their customers.
Typically, a roof project requires only half the cost before it can begin. Roofers do need the materials and equipment to start replacing your roof or installing it. Be wary if a roofer asks you to pay full price at the start – this is unprofessional and most likely criminal behavior as they can run away with your money and never do the job at all.
In some cases, they might do the job, but it's most likely parties that engage roofing projects in this manner cannot install your roof properly. Sure, the initial ask price is possibly 30-40% lower than a reputable roofer's entire pay for the job, but you'll be sacrificing your home's quality and protection.
A good roofing company respects time. They will start and end all their projects on the proposed dates. They're much more likely to do so if they're being paid after they achieve milestones. For instance, after having your roof structure updated, they will get paid, and then get paid again after accomplishing the top half replacement.
Excellent roofers also perform in-depth post-project checks. They don't leave their work hanging and make sure they cover all their bases. It's also a testament to their dedication towards excellence and reliability when it comes to customer satisfaction.
Lastly, an excellent roofer is always ready to help you out next time. Some contractors have a preferred customer list, especially if a transaction with the customer went smoothly. They keep this list because they would reach out to you after extreme weather events to help you and your home get back up on your feet.
Now that you know what to look for, you can choose to work with SJ Winn Construction or look for roofers with similar principles and traits as above. Call us today or visit our social media page to get started.
It's a great day to go out and have fun on the parks and streets. As the sun's out, your home's facing the brunt of the heat. Your roof and attic absorb more heat and can cause significant problems to your home if you're not careful. Here are several ways your attic suffers during summer.
During the summer, attics can reach sweltering temperatures, often exceeding 150°F. This intense heat can warp wood structures and even dry or melt insulation.
High temperatures also make it harder for your air conditioning system to keep the house cool and can mean higher energy consumption and possible need for comprehensive repairs.
Proper attic ventilation can reduce possible damage and higher energy bills on your property. You can install vents or an attic fan to improve your roof and attic temperatures.
Summer brings not only heat but also humidity. A moist and humid attic creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth and causes irritation and health risks to occupants. Mold spores can spread through the air and exacerbate respiratory problems and allergic reactions.
To combat humidity, consider using a dehumidifier in your attic and ensure proper ventilation. Letting old air out and fresh air in a proper circulation system can prolong the lifespan of your roof and your attic.
Sealing any gaps and cracks can also prevent moist air from entering the attic. It may require a specialist to do properly, so ask your local roofing contractor for help.
Related: Attic Ventilation: Benefits and Construction Guidelines
The underlayment of your roof is a critical component that provides an extra layer of protection against water damage.
However, high temperatures and humidity can deteriorate the underlayment over time, compromising its effectiveness. Weak underlayment lets water seep through and cause water damage.
Fortunately, regular roof inspections can help identify underlayment issues early and have you replace worn-out underlayment before it fails completely and you save from costly repairs.
Summer is also a peak time for small animals, such as squirrels, raccoons, and birds, to seek shelter in attics.
These animals can cause significant damage by chewing through insulation, wiring, and wooden beams. They can also eat through your asphalt shingles – even their droppings are highly acidic to cause damage to your roof material.
In your attic, these pests may also create nests, leave behind droppings, and contribute to mold and mildew growth.
To prevent animal infiltration, ensure all entry points, such as vents, chimneys, and gaps, are securely sealed. You can use circular deterrents to discourage squirrels and other small, climbing animals from accessing your attic through the downspouts.
Installing mesh screens over openings can also deter animals from entering your attic. You will need an expert contractor to design your mesh barrier for optimal performance.
Related: Preventing Animal Infiltration During Spring
While summer is generally associated with dry weather, many regions experience sudden and heavy rainstorms. If your roof and attic are not adequately prepared, these rainstorms can lead to leaks.
Again, regular roof maintenance lets you inspect and replace missing shingles and clear gutters just in time before the rainstorms arrive. Additionally, ensure that your attic has a proper drainage system to handle any water that may enter.
If you need a dependable roofer for your roof maintenance, repair, and installation needs, you can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction, a GAF-certified roofing company. Call us today or visit our social media page to know more.
In just a few weeks, summer will replace spring. With the hot season incoming, a well-prepared roof will avoid many possible roofing damage that extreme heat brings. However, homeowners must also have ample protection between extreme heat and flashes of heavy rain common during the season.
In today's post, you'll learn all there is about what your roof must endure during summer and reliable methods you can use to keep it in good shape.
Temperatures that rise up to 26 degrees Celsius can be a drastic change from the typical cool of most Torrington, CT, homes. A jump of 10 degrees can cause structural changes not just to your cooling bills, but also your attic, asphalt shingles, or your entire property. To combat high heat, consider using roof coatings to reflect excess heat and provide consistent temperatures. Better yet, you can also replace your entire roof with cool asphalt shingle materials.
But it's not just shingles you should think of to lower your roof's heat index.
Your asphalt shingles make up the top roof layer – the underlayment and your attic makes up the lower layer. An extremely hot attic has heat pushing against your underlayment and the top roof layer. Because of their high humidity, they can cause moisture to seep through and evaporate immediately as they touch your roof material.
Hot, evaporated water can cause bruising on your asphalt shingles, a sure sign you'll find plenty of your asphalt shingles bruising and cracking over time. Have a professional roofer check your soffit, fascia, and entire attic ventilation system to give hot air a way to escape and prevent damage to your roof.
Related: Why Pay Attention to Roof Ventilation?
Bruising and cracking occurs when trapped water – either from attic humidity or moisture – pushes against the asphalt shingles. It can also happen to any roofing material. The escaping water will loosen the asphalt shingles' protective granules – life-prolonging parts that keep it in good shape for decades.
Over time, you'll see unattended asphalt shingle bruises start cracking and falling apart. This situation becomes more apparent when strong storms and heavy rains arrive – damaged or missing shingles can cause roof leaks by going straight to your underlayment and existing away from your gutters and downspouts.
Summer is all about heat, but when there's heat, there's also cool air. Heavy rains occur when extremely hot and cold air clash against each other and create condensation. An unprepared roof is most likely to endure massive damage from heavy rains, so have professionals inspect your roof and address all small and preventable issues before the heavy rains worsen the situation.
Extremely hot weather in moist areas near lakes, ponds, or even fountains can create humid environments. While winds can blow away humidity and give your roof some 'breathing room,' chances are your roofs have bruises that lead to cracks. If possible, have your roof replaced with humidity resistant materials like metal or tile roofs rather than asphalt shingles – they can handle the humidity better with many anti-rust and humidity coating options.
If you're ready to have your roof repaired or replaced, you can always count on a GAF Master Elite roofing company. SJ Winn Construction is always here to give you peace of mind that your roof is ready for summer. Call us today or visit our social media page to know more.
Metal roofs are known for their durability and longevity, but they can also absorb a lot of heat, making your home uncomfortable and increasing your cooling costs. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce heat from your metal roof and keep your home cool and energy-efficient.
One of the most effective ways to reduce heat absorption in your metal roof is to apply a reflective roof coating. These coatings are designed to reflect the sun's rays, keeping your roof cooler and reducing the amount of heat that is transferred to your home. Reflective coatings can also help extend the life of your roof by protecting it from UV damage.
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home. Insulating your attic can help prevent heat from transferring from your roof to the interior of your home. Spray foam insulation is a popular choice for metal roofs because it provides a tight seal and excellent thermal performance.
Related: Energy-Efficient Roof Materials for Replacement
Good ventilation is essential for keeping your attic and home cool. Installing ridge vents and soffit vents can help create a continuous flow of air through your attic, preventing heat buildup and reducing the strain on your air conditioning system. It's important to ensure that your attic is properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Planting shade trees near your home can help reduce the amount of heat that reaches your roof. Trees can provide natural shade, keeping your roof cooler and reducing your cooling costs. Additionally, trees can improve air quality, provide habitat for wildlife, and enhance the beauty of your property.
Related: Dealing With Attic Infiltration During Spring
If you're considering replacing your roof, choosing cool roofing materials can help reduce heat absorption and keep your home cooler. Cool roofing materials are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing materials. Options include metal roofing with reflective coatings, clay or concrete tiles with light colors, and asphalt shingles with reflective granules.
Regular maintenance of your metal roof can help ensure its longevity and performance. Keep your roof clean and free of debris to prevent heat buildup and reduce the risk of damage. Inspect your roof regularly for signs of wear and tear, and repair any damaged areas promptly to prevent heat from entering your home.
Proper installation of your metal roof is crucial to its performance and energy efficiency. Hire a professional roofing contractor with experience installing metal roofs to ensure that your roof is installed correctly and that all ventilation and insulation requirements are met.
If you need excellent roofing solutions, you can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction, your GAF-certified roofers in Torrington, CT. Call us today or visit our social media page to learn more about what we can do for you.
Aside from protecting your home, did you know that your roof plays a major role in its energy efficiency? By choosing high-quality, energy-efficient roofs, you can significantly lower your energy expenditure and save up on energy bills. With summer coming around the corner in the next few months, you'll be glad you had energy-efficiency focused roof replacements.
Let's learn more about them in today's post.
When selecting an energy-efficient roofing material, consider the following options:
Cool Roofs: These are made of reflective materials that deflect sunlight and absorb less heat than traditional roofing materials. Most metal, tile, and asphalt shingle manufacturers have roofing systems that have the traits of a cool roof.
Metal Roofing: Despite being made from highly conductive material, metal roofs are highly reflective and effectively reduce heat transfer into the building. Using special coatings, they can reflect heat and absorb less of it during summer. Furthermore, they're widely popular because of their durability and lifespan.
Green Roofs: Green or living roofs are specially constructed roofs with plants and greenery to reduce your roof's heat absorption. With a layer of soil and trees keeping your home in good shape, you can conveniently insulate your home. Moreover, well-constructed ones will also improve air quality and provide additional environmental benefits.
Solar Panels: While not a roofing material, solar panels can be installed on the roof to harness solar energy and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. They also reduce heat absorption by acting as a secondary protective layer above your existing roof.
Related: A Roofing Maintenance Checklist for Spring
Aside from roofing quality, other components also reduce energy consumption by improving insulation or indoor temperatures.
Excellent insulation systems material reduces heat transfer from the roof to your attic and vice versa. Insulation materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, or foam board can be installed under the roof deck or between the rafters to improve energy efficiency.
Next, consider having adequate roof ventilation to prevent heat buildup in the attic and improve the lifespan of both your heating and cooling system and your roof. By letting hot air plenty of avenues to escape from your roof, you extend your roof's lifespan and reduce your cooling bills at the same time.
Related: Prevent Small Animal Attic Infiltration During Spring
Lastly, be vigilant about sealing gaps and cracks can prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This can be a tricky problem as many of them are typically hidden from sight – but not to a professional roofing company such as SJ Winn Construction.
If you need quality roofing services in Torrington, CT, you can always count on us at SJ Winn Construction, a reliable GAF-certified roofing company in the neighborhood. Call us today or visit our social media page to know more about what we can do for you.
As spring arrives, your attic becomes the perfect hideaway for many tiny animals that love to fly and climb. While it might sound cute, their presence can lead to damage and health hazards for you and your family. Here are several proactive steps you can take to prevent attic animal infiltration and keep your home secure.
Before diving into prevention methods, it's essential to know which animals commonly infiltrate attics during the spring months. Among the most frequent culprits are:
Now that you're aware of the potential intruders, here are some steps you can take to fortify your attic and prevent unwanted guests:
Preventing attic animal infiltration isn't a one-time task; it requires ongoing vigilance and maintenance. Schedule regular inspections of your home's exterior, especially after storms or severe weather that could create new entry points. Additionally, keep an eye out for signs of animal activity such as scratching noises, droppings, or chewed wires, and address any issues promptly.
If you ask any professional roofer, they would mention that spring is the optimal season for roof replacements. And rightfully so – spring has that perfect balance of favorable weather conditions and clear skies optimal for roof replacements. In this post, let's talk about why you should consider having that long put-off roof replacement this season.
Spring brings mild temperatures and fewer weather disruptions – which means the weather is truly in our favor as it's the optimal weather for what we do. Unlike the scorching heat of summer or the unpredictable storms of fall, spring offers a comfortable environment without any disruptions of strong winds, rains, and snowfall to tarnish our work or affect our ability to perform our best.
Spring reveals your roof's issues quicker than other seasons. By scheduling your roof replacement in spring, you can expect your roofers to find every small clear and hidden damage, leaks, and other problems your roof might have. You can have peace of mind knowing that your home has a roof that can protect you from the more severe weather conditions beyond springtime.
Related: A Roof Maintenance List for Springtime
Spring roof replacements allow for the installation of high-quality materials that can withstand the elements. Most renowned roof manufacturers like GAF prefer spring or summer when installing their products – most especially spring due to its warm but not scorching heat that could affect the expansion or contraction of asphalt shingles.
Spring is a popular time for home renovations, including roof replacements. Many roofers endorse their services during spring. While the traffic might be high as many homeowners also have the same idea of having their roof replacements during spring and summer, you can be sure your roof is well installed. Besides, a GAF-certified roofer knows how to queue and balance their schedule properly.
Related: Why Always Go for a Tear-Off Roof Replacement?
Need quality roof replacement services for your home? Turn to the best – SJ Winn Construction. We're a GAF-certified roofer renowned for our quality workmanship and a service that goes above and beyond your expectations. Call us today or visit our social media page to know more or schedule an appointment with us.
156 Torrington Rd., Winsted,
Connecticut 06098
Phone: 860-379-8863
Email: [email protected]
