When it comes to replacing your roof, choosing the right material is crucial for many reasons. The material you choose will not only affect the look of your home but also its durability, energy efficiency, and overall value. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most popular roofing materials and help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Asphalt ShinglesAsphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in North America. They are affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors and styles. Asphalt shingles are made of fiberglass or organic materials that are coated with asphalt and granules. They are durable and can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. However, they are not the most energy-efficient option and can be prone to algae growth in humid climates. Wood Shingles and ShakesWood shingles and shakes are a popular roofing material in areas with a rustic or natural look. They are made of cedar, redwood, or pine and can last up to 30 years or more. Wood shingles and shakes are available in a variety of colors and styles, including hand-split and resawn. They are energy-efficient and can add value to your home. However, they are not fire-resistant and can be prone to rot and insect damage. Metal RoofingMetal roofing is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability, energy efficiency, and modern look. Metal roofs are made of steel, aluminum, or copper and can last up to 50 years or more. They are resistant to fire, wind, and hail and can help reduce your energy bills by reflecting the sun’s rays. Metal roofs are available in a variety of colors and styles, including shingles, tiles, and panels. However, they can be more expensive than other roofing materials and can be noisy during heavy rain or hail. Slate RoofingSlate roofing is a high-end roofing material that is known for its beauty and durability. Slate roofs are made of natural stone and can last up to 100 years or more. They are resistant to fire, wind, and hail and can add value to your home. Slate roofs are available in a variety of colors and styles, including gray, green, purple, and red. However, they are heavy and require a strong support structure. They can also be expensive to install and repair. Clay and Concrete TilesClay and concrete tiles are popular in warm climates due to their ability to reflect the sun’s rays and keep homes cool. They are durable and can last up to 50 years or more. Clay and concrete tiles are available in a variety of colors and styles, including Spanish, Mediterranean, and Mission. They are resistant to fire, wind, and hail and can add value to your home. However, they can be heavy and require a strong support structure. They can also be expensive to install and repair. ConclusionChoosing the right roofing material for your home is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Consider your budget, climate, and style preferences when making your choice. If you’re still unsure, consult with a professional roofing contractor who can help you make an informed decision. At Class EH Roofing of Niagara, we offer a wide range of roofing materials and services to meet your needs. Contact us today to schedule a Free Home Estimate today~
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Our team has serviced Niagara Region with quality roofs since 2008 and so we know a great deal about not only installations but the importance of winter roof maintenance. Winter is a challenging season for homeowners in Niagara. The harsh weather conditions can take a toll on your roof, leading to leaks, cracks, and other issues. That's why it's essential to watch for signs that your roofing system is compromised. What Is Winter Roof Maintenance?Winter roof maintenance is the process of inspecting and maintaining your roof during the winter season to ensure it remains in good condition. Regular maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run. It can also help extend the life of your roof, ensuring it lasts for years to come. Some common winter roof maintenance tasks include:
Why Choose Class EH! Roofing?Class EH! Roofing has been serving the Niagara region since 2008, providing high-quality roofing services with honest estimates and lower prices. Our team of experts are Certainteed Shinglemaster Certified, and we put customers at the centre of our business. We understand the importance of a well-maintained roof and its impact on your life. That's why we offer top-notch roof replacements, repairs, and other services that cater to your specific needs. We use only the highest quality materials and workmanship, coupled with dependable warranties, to ensure every project exceeds expectations at an outstanding value. Trust and LongevityAt Class EH! Roofing, we take pride in our work and are committed to providing exceptional service to our clients. We believe in building long-term relationships with our customers, based on trust and reliability. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional service and free inspections to help you identify any issues with your roof and provide you with expert advice and solutions. We are your local pros, and we take pride in serving our community with the best roofing solutions. ConclusionDon't wait until it's too late. Protect your home or business with a reliable roof. Contact Class EH! Roofing today for your free consultation and estimate. We offer easy financing and 24/7 emergency services to ensure your peace of mind. With Class EH! Roofing, you can trust that your roof is in good hands.
Are you looking for a reliable and affordable roofing solution for your home in Niagara? Look no further than Class EH! Roofing. Our team of experts has been serving the Niagara region for over 10 years, providing high-quality roofing services with honest estimates and lower prices. The Best Roofing Solutions in NiagaraAt Class EH! Roofing, we understand the importance of a well-maintained roof and its impact on your home or business. That’s why we offer top-notch roof replacements, repairs, and other services that cater to your specific needs. We use only the highest quality materials and workmanship, coupled with dependable warranties, to ensure every project exceeds expectations at an outstanding value. Free Inspections by Local ProsOur team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional service and free inspections to help you identify any issues with your roof and provide you with expert advice and solutions. We are your local pros, and we take pride in serving our community with the best roofing solutions. Whether you need a full roof replacement or repairs our expertise will save you time and money. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home or business with a reliable roof. Contact Class EH! Roofing today for your free consultation and estimate. We offer easy financing and 24/7 emergency services to ensure your peace of mind. ABOUT US
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. Class EH! Roofing Four Mile Creek Rd. Niagara-Othe-Lake, ON L0S 1J0Phone: 289-687-6924 At Class EH! Roofing we get asked a lot of questions about roof replacements, so here are the answers to the most asked and we hope it may assist you in easily getting the information you need! When Do I Need a Roof Replacement? Typically, roofs should be replaced every 20 to 25 years. If the roof has damage or has been compromised, then you may need to replace it sooner. What Are Some Signs My Roof Has Been Damaged? If you are missing shingles or notice that a few have buckled, especially given the harsh nature of Canadian winters, then you may need a roof replacement to maintain its overall integrity. Holes in your roof shingles may also compromise the energy efficiency of your home, which is yet another reason to invest in a new roof if you notice any issues with the shingles. Animal damage may also necessitate a replacement, especially since small animals tend to create holes in your roof to seek shelter from the element. The most obvious sign that you need a new roof is a leak. If you have an attic, look around with a flashlight routinely to determine if there are any water spots, streaks, or even stains on the ceiling. Do I Need a Full Roof Replacement? The answer? Maybe. Most professional roofing contractors will come out and inspect your roof and let you know what you are dealing with. HOWEVER if a roof is older and having issues often it is a good idea to do a total replacement. The expense involved with replacing even a portion of the roof is considerable, so it makes sense from a financial perspective to do the entire roof at once versus piece-meal. This is only likely to make the project more expensive in the end. Why Do You Often Recommend Asphalt Shingles? Asphalt roof shingles are among the most common roofing materials, and can come in a variety of colors, although most are shades of black and grey. They’re easy to install, easy to replace, and simple to maintain. Asphalt shingles are wind resistant and prohibit algae growth on your roof, a benefit in areas that tend to get more rain. They are also the most affordable of roof covering options and have sound mitigation that makes for a quieter interior space in your home. How Long Will My New Roof Last? Asphalt shingled-roofs last about 20-25 years, especially with proper installation and care. How Much Do Roofing Replacements Cost? The cost of roof replacements varies according to the size and scope of the project. Roofs that have multiple peaks, or those with a steeper pitch, will cost more than a flat roof on a single-story house. The variance in cost is one of the reasons why it is important to get a full and professional estimate. A contractor that gives you a price over the phone is not providing a comprehensive enough quote since they do not know the condition of your roof (even if you have described it) and they have not taken the time to inspect the integrity and design of your home’s structure, which means the cost could fluctuate. Which Roof Estimate Should I Choose? When you’re planning a large-scale or expensive home modification or an upgrade to your home, it’s important to get several estimates (quotes) for your project. This allows you to interview different contractors and to gather the right information for the right choice. If you notice that one out of the estimates is an extreme outlier, then it might be one you reject. Warranty and Guarantee? Every good roofing company will offer a warranty on the completed roof, and most will guarantee their work for a certain period. Ask for your company’s guarantee in writing, and make sure to ask about exceptions. Can I replace my roof myself? While you may be considering taking on the task of replacing your roof yourself, we advise against it. Allowing an expert to handle this massive undertaking can help ensure accuracy, efficiency and safety. Unfortunately, carrying out improper installation can lead to higher costs down the line. Is a roof replacement covered by insurance? The cause of the damage plays a pivotal role in this scenario. Most homeowners’ insurance policies usually cover damage that has been brought about by “acts of God” or unexpected accidents like storms, hurricanes, fire, or vandalism. These policies do not generally cater to damage as a result of lack of maintenance or normal wear and tear. If your roof has been damaged by extreme weather conditions or unexpected incidents, you will need to immediately report the damage to your insurance company. It’s crucial to provide comprehensive documentation, which includes photographs, a detailed description of damage, and citations from professional roofers. The age of your roof might also influence your coverage. If your roof is relatively new, your insurance might cover the total cost of replacing the damage — but the older your roof, the less valuable it is in the eyes of your insurance provider. Understanding your insurance policy can significantly alleviate the financial stress associated with roof replacements. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider for clarification. Will a roof replacement disrupt my daily routine? While every roofing project is unique, traditional roof replacements typically last from a few days up to a week, depending on the size and complexity of the roof. During this period, there will be noise from the roofers working overhead and using various tools. You might also experience some vibrations in the house, which could disrupt tasks that require concentration or quiet. READY TO GET A FREE ROOF INSPECTION? Putting off roofing repairs and replacements can lead to significant damage both to the to itself and your home’s structure. Most roofing contractors suggest regular inspections of your entire roof, especially after a severe storm or hail. The team at Class EH! Roofing are experts at identifying damage to all types of roofs and completing a thorough repair or full roofing replacement. ABOUT US
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. As roofing contractors we see the good, the bad and the ugly and today we are going to talk about the mistakes folks sometimes make when getting a new roof on their home. 1. Hiring the company with the lowest price Like most homeowners, you may think that every roofing company quotes the same price for their products and services. By assuming this, you may consider the lowest bid contractor, thinking they too will offer the same quality work as the contractor charging a high price. In reality, such contractors may only provide you a cheap deal because they cut certain corners, use lower quality materials or offer less than ideal service. It is of utmost importance to check references, Google reviews and get a detailed quote from contractors. If you do not take these steps you may simply save now and pay later. 2. Skipping on venting when replacing the roof A good venting system helps in heating and cooling your home. It increases the longevity of your roof or roof deck and prevents mold and moisture build-up. Make sure to educate yourself about what your roof does for your home and the various elements meant to preserve it for longer. Once you gather all the information, hire a contractor to help you with the type of roof system you’re looking for. 3. Lack of research about roofing contractors A roof is a long-term investment that you don’t want to have done by an inexperienced contractor. It would be best to do your due diligence and research about companies through references and looking into their past work. Don’t expect that every contractor will offer the same products and services or quality of work. We always recommend that you get more than one quote for your roof. Yes it takes time, however it likely will be time saved later if you get the job done right the first time! 4. Working with an unverified company When installing a new roof for your home, it’s essential to hire a roofing contractor with the right accreditation. Ask for proof of their credentials and check if they are covered under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). In case of a situation where an accident or damages like fire or leak occurs due to the contractor’s work, you will be held responsible and liable for it. If they have the appropriate insurance coverage, you can save yourself from unnecessary expenses. 5. Being unaware of the roof installation process Installing a roof on your home can be expensive. That said, you need to know who will be installing the roof, mostly when a subcontractor does the roof. You need to ask the company’s sales representative if they use sub-contractors or use in-house employees. Most subcontractors don’t do a quality job as they have a set budget that they need to finish the job within, so sometimes the jobs may be rushed or of poor quality, resulting in a poor installation. If you need a roof repair or replacement, we welcome you to reach out to our team at CLASS EH! ROOFING for an honest estimate and lower prices. Please give us a call or fill out the form HERE. ABOUT US
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. Here are some roof tips with summer ending to think about in order to ensure your roof is good to go for the fall season ahead!
First off, being proactive and regularly checking your roof will always keep you ahead of the game. The roof of a property should be regularly maintained to prolong its life and ensure water doesn’t leak through. Here are key roof maintenance tasks to do this fall:
ABOUT US Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. The ultraviolet rays that are given off by the sun can affect your roof's integrity in several ways which we will discuss in today's news blog. Depending on the positioning of your home, exposure to the elements as well as the age of your shingles, UV rays can have a significant impact on your roof's lifespan and break down the protection system they offer. Part of the reason for this is the chemical reaction a roof has to interaction with the sunlight. Deterioration A typical asphalt shingle roof can last for decades if it is properly cared for. Keeping the roof clean and free of dirt and debris is always a good idea, as this will help maintain the protective coating that blocks the sun. In cases where the roof protection is no longer present, the sun will cause shingles to deteriorate in the following noticeable ways. Fading UV rays actually have a bleaching effect on solid objects. Roof shingles are no exception to this, and those which contain pigments such as slate shingles can be susceptible to premature fading. Loose Granules A standard asphalt shingle consists of three separate layers. The top layer consists of those coloured granules that give the roof its appearance and protection. When the roof protection fades off, granules will begin to loosen and run off the roof. Eventually the shingles will be bear in some spots, leaving the roof open to all kinds of additional damage. Rapid Aging Without adequate roof protection, you can’t expect to get the most in terms of durability and life span out of any type of shingle. Asphalt shingles will curl and crack, as will cedar shake. Chemical Changes UV rays can cause damage to tiles on a chemical level. The radiation from the sun actually breaks down protective roof membranes on a chemical level, which leads to shrinking and cracking after the shingle is exposed to oxygen. To avoid this issue, additional solar protection can be added to a roof for extra protection. Many of these sealants are available for an additional cost upon installation, but they can also be added down the road. Once these chemical changes occur, your shingles will be more susceptible to damage caused by temperature changes as well. As the sun heats the unprotected shingles, they will expand in size. Once the sun sets, the shingles will shrink and crack. This means they will eventually lose any water-resistant properties, and you may have to deal with more leaks in your roof. Prevention Since there is no way to really escape the sun’s rays down here on earth, there are some measures we will have to take to keep our roofs intact. Having regular roof inspections performed on an annual basis will help you stay on top of any potential problems before they occur. You can also opt for a different, more durable roofing material when the time comes for a replacement. Our team at Class EH! Roofing would be pleased to offer you a free inspection and expert advice should you need a helping hand! Proudly serving Niagara Region, please contact us below or call us directly at: 289-687-6924 . About Class EH! RoofingClass EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago.
With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. Summer is almost here in the Niagara Region and it always is a good time to consider how it will affect your roof to stay ahead of any issues.
Ontario has been experiencing increased summer temperatures for more extended periods year after year, with some extreme storms that follow them. Your residential home or commercial building’s roof is one of the most important factors in protecting your property. When planning to build a new roof or to repair a current issue knowing how high temperatures affect your roof is critical in making the right choice in design, materials, and application methods. How High Summer Temperatures Affect Your Roof The most significant factor in the longevity of your roof is thermal shock. During the day, your roof can reach very high temperatures. For example, a standard asphalt shingle can be as hot as 60 – 75 °C. Couple that with the extreme cold we can get, and you will have roofs that need to survive temperatures spanning 100°C or even more. How does thermal shock affect your roof? The damage happens because of this changing temperature. Most materials used in roofing, from flashing to shingles to any roof component, experience expansion in the hot heat and contraction when it gets cooler. As this process happens repeatedly, the materials used will break down and form cracks or other properties that negate their effectiveness. All roofing materials will fail over time, but increase the occurrence of these extreme contractions and expansion events can cause the roof to fail sooner. UV Exposure Rocks and pebbles applied directly on top of roofs or part of the roofing material like shingles are designed for UV exposure. However, when these wear away or roofing material underneath has more direct contact, the chemical compound of the material alters through oxygen mixing with other hydrocarbons, releasing the oily substance to be able to evaporate and leave your roof unprotected eventually. Summer Storms and Weather When high heats last for days on end, this is often due to a heat dome effect. After this effect passes, you will usually have extreme weather from downpouring rain, hail and thunderstorms. These storms can be a side product of the high heat of summer and contribute to how warm weather can affect your roof. How to Keep Your Roof & Home Cool As with all parts of your home, proper insulation helps keep the appropriate temperature so that you don’t lose warmth in the winter or cool air in the summer (compounded with homes with AC). Having proper insulation in your roof as well as the rest of your home will help you regulate temperatures more effectively and reduce energy usage, thus saving you money and helping the environment. Ventilation Having a home that “breaths is crucial for your home in summer and winter”. Proper ventilation is critical for reducing outside temperatures’ effect on your home and moisture buildup. Having cool air come from underneath (soffits) and exhausting at the top of your roof through vents creates a natural flow to keep the air circulating. Roofing Material’s Colour Having a roof colour that is not too dark helps deter heat. The key is to find the sweet spot in colour in the grey zone that helps not to absorb all sunlight in summer, but can also absorb some in the winter for warmth. Maintenance and Protection After the summer, makes sure to take a look at your roof. Are there spots where roofing material has melted? Is there cracking on some shingles? The best protection you can have is regular inspections yearly to stay ahead of problems. Wrap Up Extreme heat is a good test for the overall roof’s health and often highlights roofing problems and incorrect applications. If you need assistance with your current roof our team at Class EH! Roofing would be pleased to offer a free inspection and offer solid professional advice to make sure you get the most out of your roofing system no matter what the season. If you are thinking about replacing your roof, you will want to know the different asphalt shingles available for residential roofing which are the most common material used in homes today in Canada. There are 3 types to choose from for residential roofing: 3-tab (also called Standard or Strip shingles) , Dimensional (also called Laminate or Architectural shingles) and Premium shingles. Let’s take a look at these three different shingle types: Strip Shingles are the original and the most basic of roofing shingles available in the industry. Strip shingles are single layered roofing shingles that are generally designed to look like slate. Strip shingles have a very flat appearance on the roof line and are typically the lightest weight roofing shingles available in the market. Strip shingles used to be the predominant roofing shingle available and used in the market. Today, however, with significant advances in technology and consumer sophistication, strip shingles are used primarily by home builders manufacturing economy priced homes. Below, Certainteed Strip Shingle Sample Dimensional Shingles are manufactured as dual layered products (or multi-layered in some instances) and provide a thicker and richer appearance on the roof (a multi-dimensional look). Dimensional shingles are also (typically) heavier in weight than strip shingles and usually have improved warranty protections, which can range from 30-years to Lifetime. Below, CertainTeed’s Landmark™ PRO roofing shingles: Premium Shingles are usually described as laminated shingles that have a differentiated appearance from traditional dimensional shingles. These products may have designs that mimic “old-world” roofing shingles, like natural slate or natural shake shingles, to provide an enhanced appearance. Some premium shingles are also manufactured as impact resistant which can protect the shingle from hail-storms and possibly extend the life of the roofing system. Below, a sample of CertainTeed’s Grand Manor™ premium shingles: Bottom line, there are many options for homeowners and an asphalt shingle for every budget, as well as specialty shingles for enhanced performance and good looks. If you need to fix or replace your home roofing system, our team would be glad to assist. We have a wide variety of asphalt options that will suit every taste and budget with expert installations. Class EH! Roofing have proudly served the Niagara Region for over 15 years . If you would like a no obligation quote and inspection, please contact us for a quick response and excellent service today! ABOUT US
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. Moss is a common occurrence on a roof, so if you see it should you be concerned and what should you do? Why is Moss Bad for Shingles? You may feel that a bit of moss gives your roof some charm. While moss may be beautiful, it is a detriment to your roof. Here’s why: -Most plants gather water from their roots, but mosses gather water from their leaves. Therefore, they do not mind that shingles, unlike soil, are a dry and relatively nutrient-free environment. They will grow roots directly into the shingles, which can destroy the shingles and create the opportunity for leaks. -When it rains, moss will soak up water and retain it, creating consistently wet conditions on your roof. Moss growth will also interfere with proper drainage of water off the roof as water needs to trickle through or around the moss instead of running straight down to the gutters. The resulting constant exposure to water can degrade shingles. -Over time, moss can also work its way under shingles, lifting them up. This uplift creates opportunities for water to penetrate lower layers of the roof and, potentially, your home. While minor moss infections may not cause many issues, it is likely to become severe over time. Once you spot moss growth on your roof, you should take steps to resolve it. If you have a severe infection, you may have no choice but to remove the shingles that have been damaged by it. A professional roofer can help you assess what kind of intervention your roof needs. What if the Moss Appears Dead? If the weather has been consistently dry, moss may appear to be dead. However, some species of moss can stay alive when dried out for months. All it will take is one rain for it to recover and continue growing. If your moss has dried out, take the opportunity to have a roofer remove the moss from the roof. How To Remove Moss From a Roof If your roof has sprouted a moss infection, you can remove it before it becomes serious enough to impact the performance of your roof. Moss is tough and typically you will not be able to remove it by hand. However, you can use a chemical solution to loosen the moss without damaging the shingles. We don’t recommend that you step on the roof for moss removal. Materials You’ll Need A garbage bag. A garden hose. A ladder (familiarize yourself with ladder safety before you start). A moss-specific cleaner that does not use bleach and is rated by the EPA. Or your own cleaner mix of mild bleach or mild detergent mixed with water in a spray bottle. You may mix 2 cups of chlorine bleach with 2 gallons of water. Or you can use 8 ounces of dish soap with 2 gallons of water. How To Remove Moss From a Roof Step One: Safely set up your ladder near the moss. With either your homemade cleaner or a store-bought option, spray the moss. Step Two: Follow the store-bought cleaner’s instructions for how long you should leave the cleaner on the moss. If using a homemade spray, leave it on for 15-20 minutes. Step Three: Using your garden hose on low pressure, rinse the moss thoroughly. You should find that most of the moss will come off from the spray of the water. Be sure not to direct a pressurized spray beneath the shingles or directly against the shingles such that they might lift up. Otherwise, you could create a leak. Even if the moss is not coming off, rinse thoroughly. It is very important to remove all of the cleaner that you sprayed on, or you could damage your shingles. Step Four: Any remaining moss should now be loosened enough that you can manually remove it from the shingles. While standing on the ladder, gently lift the moss off the shingles and place it in your garbage bag for disposal. You can secure the garbage bag to your ladder so that you can always have one hand on the ladder. Step Five: If some moss is still too ingrained on the roof to be removed by hand, you should not resort to other methods, such as using a brush or a pressure washer, as they may damage the roof. Instead, consult with a professional roofer as to what your next steps should be. Methods You Shouldn’t Use To Remove Moss From a Roof Unfortunately, there is a lot of bad advice out there about how to remove moss. While these methods may be effective at removing moss, they may also damage shingles in the process. We don’t recommend you try to remove your moss by: -Scrubbing: You may be tempted to scrub the moss off the shingles because moss grips shingles quite strongly. However, scrubbing is likely to damage the asphalt shingles and remove their granules. -Pressure washing: Pressure washers can be very strong and certainly strong enough to break a shingle’s adhesive and lift it up. They also can strip asphalt shingles of their granule surface, which can ruin their performance and destroy their color. Any amount of pressure washing can cause serious problems with the roof, including major leaks. Never use a pressure washer or a pressurized stream of water on your roof. -Using harsh chemicals: High concentrations of bleach and other chemicals may do permanent damage to the shingles, increasing your risk for leaks. Using any of these methods may also void your limited warranty on the roof. If you’re in doubt about the safety or effectiveness of a moss removal method you want to try, consult with a professional roofer. Why Shouldn’t I Add a New Roof Over Moss? When you need a new roof, it may be tempting to add a second layer of shingles over your existing shingles. Doubling up your shingles can save time and expense on your roof replacement as your roofer doesn’t need to remove and dispose of the old shingles. This strategy is convenient for homeowners because the replacement won’t take as long or make as much of a mess. However, there are some circumstances where merely adding a new layer of shingles isn’t a good idea. For example, when you have significant moss growth on your roof, simply covering it up with new shingles isn’t wise. Several potential problems may occur if your roofer simply adds a new roof over your existing, moss-covered roof. These potential problems include: -Unknown roof condition: If moss growth is severe, it may have compromised the quality of your existing decking and underlayment. The only way to know for sure is to remove the shingles and look at these other layers. If your roofer doesn’t do this, they may be compromising the quality of your new roof. Damaged underlayment and decking can interfere with the proper function of your new shingles. Moss won’t die immediately and may continue to erode the decking, which increases the risk of a roof collapse. -Bumps in the roof: The combination of damaged and swollen decking along with moss growth can make for a new roof installation that is anything but smooth. Bumps and dips in the roof surface can interfere with the proper drainage of water off the roof and prevent the shingles from sealing properly. This uneven surface may also reduce your curb appeal. -Unsafe conditions for roofers: Your roofers will need to walk on your old roof to install a new one above it, and moss makes for very unstable ground. It is liable to slip beneath their feet and could cause a fall. While roofers will wear a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) for safety, increasing their likelihood of a fall is not wise. -Secondary infections: When moss is cut off from sunlight, it will eventually die. However, the dead moss will still be on your roof, where it may serve as a valuable source of water and nutrients for mold and fungi, which can grow in darkness. If you leave mold in place beneath your new roof, you risk secondary infections that can spread into your attic and harm your home. Rot and mold can harm your structural wood, damage your drywall and make your air quality worse. -Voidance of your limited warranty: As it can cause all of the damage listed above, adding shingles over a moss-covered roof may also void your limited warranty on the new roof. The Benefits of Removing Moss-Covered Shingles Before a New Roof Installation While you may not necessarily have to remove the moss-covered shingles before a new roof installation, you should consider it. There are many benefits of removing the moss-covered shingles, including: -Reduce long-term costs: By removing the old roof, you keep the opportunity to double-up roof layers during your next roof replacement. The maximum layers of shingles allowed to be on the roof, according to most building codes, are two. So, once you use this strategy, you must tear off both roof surfaces during your next roof replacement. -Maintain home value: Are you planning on selling your home soon? A properly replaced roof is more likely to appeal to potential buyers, while a poorly replaced roof may negatively affect your home value. -Avoid the risk of damage: You can avoid all of the risks listed earlier in this article by simply removing all of the moss-covered shingles. How To Prevent Moss on Your New Roof Now that you have a brand-new roof, you’ll want to take steps to protect it from getting a moss infection as the last one did. Here are a few ways to prevent moss growth on your roof: -Remove sources of shade: Moss prefers to grow in the shade, so exposing more of your roof to sunlight will help deter it. You should consider trimming trees that shade out the roof or moving garden features, like pergolas or trellises, so that they do not cast shade on the roof. -Choose algae-resistant shingles: Where there’s moss, there is also algae (Gloeocapsa magma), as they thrive on the same wet and shady conditions. You can avoid an algae infestation by installing algae-resistant shingles, such as IKO’s Nordic™ shingles. Though algae-resistant shingles will not prevent moss, they will help you avoid pesky algae. -Install a metal strip: A copper, zinc or a galvanized metal strip installed on the ridge of the roof can prevent the growth of moss, algae and lichen. The strip will oxidize over time and wash down the roof plane when it rains, making the roof plane much less habitable for moss, algae and lichen. This is also why you might see a gap in the algae or moss growth directly beneath your existing flashing or next to an aluminum-sided dormer. However, it is important to note that adding a copper strip will take time to start inhibiting moss. You shouldn’t expect it to handle a current moss infestation by itself, only to prevent a new one. -Get regular inspections: Roofers can often prevent moss growth by ensuring that your roof is draining water properly. They should inspect and clean your gutters at least yearly to avoid the backup water that could attract moss. Do You Need Help Dealing With Moss? Whether you need to remove a few moss-infected shingles or replace the whole roof, a professional roofer is your best resource. Our team at Class EH! Roofing have proudly served the Niagara Region for over 15 years with all types of exterior products and services. If you would like a no obligation quote and inspection, please contact us for a quick response and excellent service today! ABOUT US
Class EH! Roofing is a leading roofing and home exterior renovation company located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON founded by Niagara resident Wayne Jeffreys over 15 years ago. With thousands of installations to our credit in the Niagara Region, an exceptional level of service and products as well as unbeatable warranties, the team at Class EH! Roofing are dedicated to excellence in everything they do. We specialize in the repair, maintenance, and installation of all residential and commercial roofing systems for the benefit of homeowners, property managers, condominium corporations, corporate clients, institutional customers, and individual building owners. Our courteous, experienced representatives, are trained to evaluate and provide our clients, with cost effective solutions for correcting existing roof leaks, roof replacement, and maintenance solutions. All of these solutions and services are designed to extend the life of your roof and building investment. |
AuthorWayne Jeffreys is a native of Niagara-On-The-Lake and owner of Niagara based roofing company Class Eh Roofing! Archives
January 2024
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