Home Improvement Contractor License #0644307
Longevity is one of the most important qualities that you should look for in a roofing system. In fact, many Manchester CT homeowners ask us the same question over and over again. They want to know, “how long should my roof last?” There’s no denying that each homeowner has the right to find out the lifespan of their own roofing. It doesn’t just give them time to prepare, it also helps set their expectations as the years come.
Related: Manchester CT Residential Roofing Tips: 4 Hacks to Save Money
It’s a smart move to determine your roof’s life expectancy. However, there are other areas that you can focus on (which are also equally valuable). First on the list would be the measures you need to implement in order to prolong its life service.
All roofing systems will eventually reach the finish line but as a proactive homeowner, there are hacks to keep it safe and effective for many years.
If you’re curious what these are, keep on reading...
How long should my roof last? Because roofing is such a huge investment, you have to do everything to protect it. And when the right time comes, you’ll be satisfied with your roof’s performance because you helped bring out its fullest potential.
Since this is what we want every Manchester CT homeowner to feel about their roofs, we’ve come up with a list of simple hacks that you can implement. These may seem as unimpactful at the onset but their long-term effects are beneficial to your roofing’s health.
Without further ado, here we go…
While your roofing can exist on its own, it still needs constant attention. What does it mean?
Inspections are done to determine the current condition of your roofing. Moreover, they become a basis for appropriate recommendations in order to solve or mitigate alarming concerns that roofers may discover.
There are negative consequences that you may experience if you don’t stick to a scheduled roofing inspection. These would include the following:
Read Also: Residential Roof Inspection Checklist Every Proactive Homeowner Should Have
Let’s get it straight, your roofing needs a licensed professional to take care of it. If you want it to last long, you have to find a roofing company that will treat it like their own. What are the qualities of a reliable roofing company? Here are some of the non-negotiables when it comes to hiring a roofing contractor:
Admittedly, it’s difficult to follow your roofing’s preventive maintenance programs. For one, you are caught up with many things already including your job, family, bills, other responsibilities, and the list goes on. But take note that this should also be part of your top priorities as faulty and neglected roofing can bring more problems (that you can prevent at the onset).
If you need to keep track of the schedule, you can easily sync your roofing activities to your calendar so you wouldn’t have to forget about the routinary procedures.
The best way to understand the needs of your roofing is by being observant. Do you hear unusual sounds? Can you spot unpleasant sights? Is there something wrong with the way it looks? Does it appear broken or damaged?
By exerting an effort to look and listen, you’ll find clues if there are areas that you need to address. Of course, it’s a professional’s job to inspect and fix the roof. But the vigilance and diligence that starts from you can go a long way in terms of making sure that the roof is always safe and effective.
To answer your question, “how long should my roof last?”, we’ve shortlisted the most long-lasting roofing systems. This can also take you to the next level if you haven’t decided on which one to get for your Manchester CT property, whether it’s a new roof or a replacement.
Let’s begin with the best options when it comes to longevity…
This roofing material has been around for ages now. If you’ll notice, some ancient structures do have clay tiles. It’s because they can last for more than a century. It may be hard to believe but yes, they have superior durability that can reach for up to 100 years. It’s also very classic, hence, it never goes out of style even during modern times.
Slates are natural stones. They are heavy, as expected, which could complicate the installation process. However, they also have a distinctly beautiful appearance that can withstand the test of time. Slates last for more than a century. Like clay tiles, they also have excellent strength and resistance. Because of these promising qualities, they can also be one of the most expensive roofing systems available in the market.
Metal has a modern approach to roofing because of its composition and appearance. It looks very straightforward but could also be flexible design-wise (depending on your own preference). How long does a metal roof last? In terms of longevity, they can last for about 50 to 70 years which are really good numbers when it comes to the return your investments.
It is fire and rot resistant adding a safety layer for your family. Metal roofing can come in different forms such as steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, etc. Prices may vary depending on the quality and type of metal that you would choose.
If you want to know how long does roof last on house, here’s what you need to know…
Regardless of the material, size, and design, the quality of its life and the performance would still be dependent depend on you as the owner. It’s normal to ask, “how long should my roof last?” But the succeeding questions should more likely be, “what can I do and not do to extend its service?” and “what can I implement to maximize its use?”
These kinds of thinking and questions will give your roofing better chances to thrive despite external threats and challenges.
If you are serious about your roofing’s health and welfare, let’s talk.
We will answer all your questions including how much does a roof cost.
Reach out to Slavin Home Improvement to experience professional roofing services that guarantee results and satisfaction. Call us at 860.272.6904.
Many Manchester CT homes are following the modernist architecture trend. True enough, low-slope roofs give off a futuristic and artistic feel for any property. Unfortunately, it also comes with a unique set of flat roof house problems.
This doesn't mean flat roofs are essentially more problematic than traditional high-sloped roof designs. However, the challenge of fixing flat roof problems with drainage or fixing flat roof problems in general is different in itself.
In this guide, you'll know:
There's something daring and exciting whenever you see a flat-roofed Manchester CT home. In fact, its unique set of flat roof house problems is a particular charm in itself.
Despite its shortcomings, many homeowners choose flat roofs because of the following reasons:
Most reliable roofing contractors will take extra caution when servicing high-slope roofs. The steep angle makes footing difficult. Furthermore, contractors can potentially damage roofing materials with a heavy step.
One of the well-known flat roof houses pros and cons is its easy maintenance. Contractors need no special harnesses to prevent heavy insteps and falling from the roof. In addition, the ease reduces their labor time significantly.
Therefore, you can assume handling flat roof house problems with a reliable contractor is far more affordable than high-slope roofed properties. For this reason, many contractors offer a huge selection of flat roof repair options.
True enough, high slope-roofed properties have attics. It often acts as a storage area for most properties. However, the triangular shape of the attic consumes some space. A flat-roofed house adds more space by turning the top floor into four corners rather than three.
While the top floor encounters the brunt of flat roof house problems, it adds enough space for more storage. Better yet, some Manchester CT homeowners assign it as a room for their children or guest.
In this light, it's safe to say extra real estate space is always useful for any property. True enough, flat roofs utilize every corner of a property.
Both colonial and traditional saltbox-style architecture are eye-catching. In fact, they give a homely appeal even from a distance. However, standing out with high-slope roofs can be expensive.
Low-slope roofs are an affordable aesthetic enhancement for any property. It immediately adds a modernist look to any property. True enough, corporate and industrial facilities utilize flat roofs for space maximization.
In turn, flat-roofed properties look like corporate or commercial structures. Passers-by will associate innovation and ideas to any flat-roofed property. For this reason, many homeowners choose low-slope roofs despite dealing with unique flat roof house problems in the process.
Regardless of roof, any property will suffer similar problems of leaks and post-hailstorm dents. However, how to stop water pooling on flat roof is a problem happening only to low-slope properties. Furthermore, these properties have their respective flat roof insurance problems with different compensation clauses too.
Let's take a look at the possible flat roof problems you might encounter.
It's important for homeowners to frequently inspect their low-slope roofs for any trouble signs. Leaves, debris, and other elements can clog flat roof drainages quickly.
True enough, it is easy to clear this problem with regular spring-cleaning. You can prevent pooled water roof damage during winter by doing a complete inspection of your roof before the season arrives.
If you fail to do so, you will encounter ice water damming. This event can damage your flat roof membrane and drainage severely. In fact, you might even need a complete roof restoration or replacement when this happens.
Many flat-roofed properties use asphalt felt roofing and single-ply membranes. Each material brings its respective set of problems.
For example, asphalt felt roofing will expand and contract similar to metal roofs. In doing so, it causes buckles in the asphalt membrane effectively shortening the life of your felt roof. True enough, the same issues can happen to every seam of single-ply membranes.
Therefore, make regular roof membrane inspections to prevent or remedy the excessive material movements of your roof quickly.
Related: Different Types of Flat Roof Membranes
A common problem with high-slope roofs, flat roof leaking at edge or general leaking and internal moisture are common problems. However, homeowners can do similar high-slope roof fixes until they can call help from professional contractors.
High-slope roofs can guide water pressure towards its edges. Unfortunately, flat-roofed properties cannot mobilize water and moisture. In turn, flat roofs have a higher chance of roofing material water permeation than high-sloped properties.
True enough, flat roofs spread footing pressure on all sides. Stepping on a high-slope roof can dent or crack the material. However, flat roofs encounter higher resistance pressure on all sides if you compare it to high-slope roofs.
Typically, internal room air pressure, strong winds, and extreme weather contribute to these pressures. Over time, they can cause huge gashes on your roofing material. In some cases, the gash penetrates deep into the roofing structure itself.
At this point, it is best to call a professional roofing contractor for immediate roof replacement.
Pulled flashing is another symptom your roof membranes are moving excessively. While your membrane buckles, it can pull the flashing along with it. In doing so, your roof becomes prone to leaking and trapping moisture.
Homeowners can fix this quickly by doing flashing realignment with the right tools. Alternatively, contractors can remedy the problem in less than an hour.
Alligatoring is a roof material phenomenon wherein the membrane or material has aged and lost its elasticity. Due to this, the material bubbles and creates small cracks resembling the skin of an alligator.
Unfortunately, this is a sign that your roofing material requires replacement immediately. Over time, the small leaks will grow to big sizes due to changes in seasons and rainfall.
There is no DIY remedy for any flat roof house problems. True enough, you'll need a great set of roofing equipment and expertise to provide DIY solutions for these flat roof issues.
However, a trusty contractor can save you more time and money. With precision repairs or replacements, you can restore your flat roof to its functional condition fully.
If you have yet to find a reliable roofing company, you can trust Slavin Home Improvements with your roof replacement. We do a variety of roofing, siding, and gutter services. We are confident we can deliver the top quality roofing service you need with our years of experience and our knowledgeable roofing team.
As the year-end approaches, you've definitely seen and enjoyed the beauty of your Manchester CT home and its roof. However, roofs require regular maintenance and performance reviews. True enough, sturdy types of roofs for houses should remain untouched.
On the other hand, if your curb appeal is suffering, it's possibly time to select new types of roof materials or shape completely.
Many Manchester CT homeowners can choose usual roof shapes such as gable roof or hip roof systems. However, most houses in the area are already using these roof shapes. Therefore, you'll want to select something other than simple roof designs.
After reading this post you'll know:
It should definitely be one of the common types of roofs for houses. However, frame gable roofs are part of the unlikely choices for different types of roofing systems.
A frame gable roof is a house that any child can draw. It has higher slopes than the typical gable and cross-gabled roof. In fact, it pronounces its triangular structure strongly from the curb.
Its symmetrical shape gives it a simplistic character. However, the extremely high slope makes it look more sophisticated and unique. Most Manchester CT homes choose this shape because it sheds rain and snow quickly although it will require a more efficient gutter system.
One of the most unique types of roofs for houses, inverted curve roofs look like a full-blown boat sail is protecting your home from hail, rain, and snow. True enough, if you ever saw this roof from a catalog of different types of roofs with pictures, it will definitely stand out.
True enough, you can feel an oriental cultural appeal to inverted curve roofs. It gives your roofs the gutter side of ancient Chinese or Japanese temples. In addition, you have an excellent roof that provides excellent rainwater and snow management. However, you'll need an effective and specially-designed gutter system too.
In both rural and urban areas across France, mansard roofs are quite common. However, in Connecticut, you'll rarely see a home sporting a beautiful mansard, which means you can be the first!
At first glance, mansard roofs look like they have oversized multi-windowed dormer sections. True enough, the roof shape allows properties to use top-down windows rather than the smaller traditional dormer variant.
In addition, mansards allow homeowners to have extra living space. Furthermore, if you have a high-rise residential property, the huge windows it has offers a great view!
You might consider shed roof shapes as part of the typical types of roofs for houses. However, homeowners often use this shape just for its namesake structure.
However, many homes across Connecticut and the United States had shed roofs as their primary roof shape. Their asymmetrical angle gave them a unique appeal. In addition, they're excellent against rainwater and snowfall.
True enough, daring homeowners would use shed shapes as part of combination roof systems. Furthermore, they'll make a home stand out by having one unique centerpiece shape.
Related: Typical Roof Shapes for Residential Properties
You've seen a salt box. It doesn't look like it's a shape that's part of a list for types of roofs for houses. However, salt box roofs take on a different shape.
Salt box roofs look like a normal gable roof on one side. However, you'll see a slope that runs up to the first floor of the property. Most contractors end the roof slope on the deck of the property if present.
True enough, salt box homes are reminiscent of early Cape Cod and US colonial homes. Furthermore, it showcases the beauty of your roofing materials.
Another roof shape with a distinct oriental appeal, tiled flair roofs are slim and flat. However, its slope ends upon wooden or concrete beams that stretch to the front porch.
Most contractors build it with slate or clay tiles. The extended roof look gives it its Eastern Asian appeal. However, it can make your house look like a holy worship temple. On the other hand, it gives it a charming and inviting appeal for anyone who sees it from the curb.
This is probably one of the most ambitious yet rewarding types of roofs for houses.
Imagine a property with a green roof. However, unlike typical green roofs, it leaves a sidewalk-sized space before the roof slope ends. This gives it a glamorous and unique curb appeal because the style makes it look like a part of nature itself.
Most hillside and forest residential properties use this roof shape. True enough, it looks like the architect had some science fiction influences upon creating designs such as these.
If there's an ambitious type of roof design, there's also a strange yet artistic variant. One question you'll have upon seeing this design is "how can something so simple look so sophisticated and unique?"
If you'd love an eye-grabbing roof, then use a frame-gable roof shape. Then, let the extremely high slope run to the ground. The idea is wonderful because you won't have to install gutter systems. On the other hand, you'll need an excellent sewage system.
Then, you can have a rectangular flat-roofed concrete slab residential portion bisect the elongated 3D triangle, and voila, you have a 3D triangle home that has a unique feature and ultimately showcases the artistic side of residential property roofing.
All roof shapes have their respective advantages and disadvantages. However, some will give your property an advantage.
For example, choosing to use a unique roof design gives you excellent and unparalleled curb appeal. However, it can mean additional expenses. Installing a 3D top-down triangular property will mean using more roofing material than the average residential property.
Related: Top Factors to Consider During Roof Construction
In addition to excellent curb appeal, the roof slope helps improve rainwater and snowfall management. True enough, you can achieve excellent roof durability with any normal-shaped property. However, if you want added curb appeal and instant visibility in the neighborhood, then you'll want to use a unique roof shape.
Installing a uniquely-shaped roof is a challenging task. Therefore, make sure you're choosing the best roofers for your project. If you haven't found a trusty contractor, then we at Slavin Home Improvement would like to extend our hands.
We're a decades-experienced roofer who would love to install challenging roof shapes. In addition, we can handle all gable, hip, shed, and any roof replacement projects with ease! Call us today to know more!
2019 is fast approaching. What this means to some homeowners in Manchester CT is a brand new roof. The new year gives people opportunities to update their houses or build a new one. That said, Slavin Home Improvement wants to introduce some modern roof design ideas.
In case you missed our post about the various roofing styles (modern and traditional), check it out.
Today, we’ll discuss the following topics about modern roof design:
We encourage you to take time in making a decision before investing in a modern roof. Hopefully, our guide helps. Keep reading.
It doesn’t matter if you’re building a new roof or about to replace the one you already have. Roof design matters. Here’s why go should go modern.
Well if you go ahead and type into Google “latest roofing designs,” you will note that modern roofing systems look clean and minimalistic. A clutter-free looking house catches the eye.
But not just that. A simple roof allows you to get a bit more creative with your landscape. For example, you can display contemporary and low upkeep plants like Aeoniums and Yuccas in front of your house. These plants go perfectly well with a modern roof!
Another benefit of choosing a modern rooftop design plan is that it doesn’t get out of style. Surely as a homeowner, you want a design that stays relevant for years. Nobody wants a roof that’ll make his home look odd in the future.
In the past, roofing systems were heavy. Modern materials weigh much less now, and with that, contractors can install them with ease. The job gets completed in less time too. In the next section, you’ll further understand why modern roofs are lightweight. We’ll discuss the specific materials used.
The butterfly roof is one of the unique modern American roofing designs. As the name goes, this roofing style appears to be like the wings of the butterfly. It has two slopes that meet together in the middle, creating a V-shape.
Why would you choose to build a butterfly roof? For one, a butterfly roof makes your Manchester CT home look taller. Another advantage is that homeowners may utilize the midsection of the roof for collecting rainwater. You can set up a water collection container and utilize water for gardening or laundry.
Nowadays, more residential properties use a modern flat roof home design for many practical reasons. People who have a smaller lot but want a garden can grow that garden on a flat roof. Flat roofs cost cheaper to build. The installation process is also shorter since contractors use minimal materials.
(Related: Is a flat roof right for your home?)
The last modern roof design on this list is a combination roof. What about it? Well, such roof shape is tailor-made. A combination roof is made up of other designs like gable, skillion, and flat. For example, the gable section makes up the entrance while the flat section makes up the house extension.
To build or not to build a combination roof all depends on a homeowner’s preference. Sometimes, a homeowner wants his roof to look a certain way and have certain features like a garden, skylights, and dormer windows.
While traditional materials like asphalt shingles can be used on curved roofs, curved roofs are considered modern designs. Curved roofs are beneficial in that they promote drainage of rainwater and snow.
Besides the unique design, a curved roof keeps your home cool. Other materials that can be used for curved roofs include metal roofing sheets.
In the past, saw-tooth roofs were commonly used on warehouses and factory buildings. Now, more houses use them. Saw-tooth roofs achieve a modern appearance for residential properties.
The vertical areas of a sawtooth roof can accommodate windows or glass panels. If you want to receive natural light during the day and reduce utility bills, choose a saw-tooth roof. Such modern design for roof looks sharp and stylish.
Easy-to-build, practical, and environmentally-friendly. These three adjectives best describe a skillion roof. Constructing a skillion roof takes less time to complete since only a few materials are used. Skillion roofs also allow homeowners to install skylights.
Sometimes you’ll hear people mention the names “lean-to” or “shed.” These are alternative names for a skillion roof. If you’re wondering about a downside, skillion roofs don’t make an ideal choice for high wind areas. But in terms of rainwater and snow runoff, skillion roofs have this capability, especially with a higher pitch.
Before you build your roof style of choice, you want to know what materials you can use. Not all roofing materials accommodate all roofing shapes. Know your best options. Here are some of them:
Suggested roof designs: Butterfly, Saw-tooth, Skillion, Curved, Combination
As you can see, metal roofs offer more choices in terms of roof shapes. These roofing materials are tough and resilient. However, they can be quite noisy during stormy weather. Ask your roofing contractor about minimizing noise from your metal roof if you choose this material.
Suggested roof designs: Curved roof, Combination roof
This roofing material achieves a balance between durability and aesthetic appeal. Usually lasting from 20-30 years, asphalt shingles come in three types: 3-tab, architectural, and luxury shingles.
The 3-tab option is the simplest and cheapest option. Architectural shingles are thicker and create more dimension to your roof. Luxury shingles are the best for they copy the beauty of other roofs like slate and wood.
Here at Slavin Home Improvement, we install roofing shingles from manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning.
Suggested roof design: Flat roof
EPDM, PVC, and TPO roofing membranes are best for a flat roof shape. While single-ply membranes are typical among commercial properties, now, homeowners use them for flat roofing. Single-ply membranes nowadays can come in more colors aside from black and white.
Regardless of the roofing shape that you go for, be sure to consult with a local roofing company. That way, you get a roof that withstands the weather and accommodates the features you want.
Slavin Home Improvement is here to help you. We’re a Manchester CT based company that installs and replaces roofing systems. Get in touch today at 860.264.5153! We’re happy to answer your questions and make your dream modern roof come true.
Your gutters endure a lot on a daily basis. You may not notice it but they work non-stop to keep water away from your Manchester CT house. This is also the reason why you need to equip yourself with some expert gutter cleaning tips. Failure to implement proper maintenance could create permanent damages that are difficult and expensive to resolve.
Gutter cleaning is a task that you shouldn’t miss. If you don’t know where to start, it’s perfectly okay. Besides, gutter procedures are best handled by professionals. However, as a responsible homeowner, it’s your duty to stay on top of your gutter’s health.
By the end of this blog, you’ll learn about the following:
Related: 5 Undeniable Reasons Why Gutter Cleaning is Important for Manchester CT Homes
Read on to learn about our gutter cleaning tips...
Part of our gutter cleaning tips is to identify the right equipment that you need. Be careful in choosing the gutter cleaning tools for it can cause more problems than to help solve them.
Start off with the correct pair of gloves. It will safeguard your hands from getting exposed to dirt and debris. In some cases, there are animal droppings left behind by birds and other animals which could contain bacteria. Hence, make sure you are protected.
Wearing gloves will also help shield your skin from potentially harmful elements lying around. It can keep you safe from the dangers of sharp edges and torn gutter parts. Even if you have gutter cleaning tricks, if you fail to put on a pair of gloves, you might hurt yourself in the process.
Your eyes are at risk for injuries when you work on any roofing or gutter project. You’ll never know what elements could fly out of nowhere like insects, small animals, dust, etc. These could go straight into your eyes causing accidents and injuries. Hence, eye protection is a must. To keep your eyes safe from threats, always wear protective goggles.
Wearing the right foot gear is also important. For instance, a pair of rubber shoes can help prevent slipping because it can adhere to the surface better. As compared to slippers or sandals that could increase the risk of accidents.
When using a ladder to access the gutter area, you need to ask for help from someone who understands home repairs. He can watch from the ground to make sure that you wouldn’t slip or fall.
Ladders are one of the basic tools needed in gutter cleaning. However, you have to make sure that you know how and where to position them. Part of our gutter cleaning tips is to secure it in a place away from obstructions. Rest it against a sturdy wall and on a steady surface.
How to clean gutters fast? Here’s one of our gutter cleaning tips for our Manchester CT readers:
Choose a garden hose with a pistol-grip spray. This will make the job a lot easier for you.
Before climbing up the ladder, you need to make sure that the length of the hose is enough. Otherwise, it will defeat the purpose.
One technique to clean up the gutters is by using a gutter scoop. This is available at local hardware stores near you.
Carefully scoop out debris such as twigs, leaves, and dirt out from the gutters. When done correctly, it can help clear the drainage system to make it functional again and to avoid overflowing.
Gutters are an extension of your roofing. Hence, you also have to check if there is debris lying on the roofing surface. Otherwise, the rainwater will just wash them off on to the gutter system. This can result in common problems like clogging and backflowing.
Using a roof rake, remove all the debris and throw them at proper trash bins. Handle the rake with care so that you wouldn’t create damage on your roofing.
Aside from the right tools, you also need to equip yourself with the basic gutter cleaning tips. Here are some of the things that you can follow:
For a successful gutter cleaning, you also need to check on your downspouts. To unclog them, run water down the gutters on to the downspouts. Put the water hose at full pressure to find out if there is clogging (should the water backflow).
Installing gutter guards can help lessen the need for frequent gutter cleaning. Essentially, they help prevent debris penetration keeping the gutters free from obstruction and external elements. In the long run, it can contribute to prolonging the life of your gutter system.
The most effective way to clean your gutters is by reaching out to the professionals. While there are basic steps that you can follow, you still need their expertise. To identify the real problems, they need to conduct regular inspections. Furthermore, you need long-term solutions, not just temporary ones. Only licensed gutter companies can provide accurate recommendations on what you need.
Read Also: How to Clean Gutters and Why It Matters
We’ve shared tips on how you can effectively clean your gutters. If you’ll notice, there are basic skills involved along with the need to climb up the ladder. While these things may seem doable, they expose inexperienced individuals to health hazards and accidents.
Here are the things that you should do before you even attempt to go up and access your gutters and roofing:
Gutters are vital in keeping your house safe and dry. However, they aren’t exempted from deterioration. To keep them in good condition, make sure you perform gutter cleaning regularly. If you don’t have the training to conduct these procedures, it’s always best to ask for help from the experts. Remember that your safety is the number one priority.
Need more gutter cleaning tips?
We’re here to help! Get in touch with Slavin Home Improvement’s gutter specialists and receive a free estimate: 860.272.6904. We’ll be waiting for your call.
Manchester CT homeowners often ask this question "can you install solar panels on a flat roof?" The answer is a resounding yes! However, it takes comprehensive planning to install solar panels on flat roofs efficiently.
Residential property owners have plenty of solar panel flat roof mounting system packages available from local hardware retailers. In fact, the numerous solar panel flat roof mounting kits makes it confusing to select the one that will work best for your home.
Therefore, here is everything you need to know about installing solar panels on a flat roof in Manchester CT. After reading this post, you'll know more about:
Can you install solar panels on a flat roof? You definitely can. However, the picture in your mind might be something like this: there's a tall tower holding up a solar panel on top of your flat roof. True enough, this type of solar panel exists, and contractors call them a ground-mounted solar panel system.
Homeowners in Manchester CT have rooftop solar panel systems available for laying solar panels flat or tilted. Get to know more about both systems below.
If you have a huge yard, you can have a single ground-mounted solar panel system installed in your property. If you compare them with rooftop solar panel systems, they're humungous! In addition, they're more expensive and definitely requires local planning and building permissions.
However, ground-mounted solar panel racking systems allow you to change the angle of solar panels for maximum energy-generating efficiency. Additionally, you can move it out of the way of an obstruction to generate better electricity.
On the other hand, you need good ground space bigger than three yards to accommodate a property-powering ground-mounted solar panel system.
Can you install solar panels on a flat roof? You definitely can with rooftop solar panel racking systems. In fact, special rooftop solar panel systems allow you to install them on sloped roofs.
True enough, rooftop solar panel systems are more affordable than ground-mounted kits. Additionally, they're as easy to install as their giant counterparts. However, as with ground-mounted systems, you will need solar panel installation contractors to help you install them on your roof.
While many homeowners can install their rooftop solar panels DIY, a minor error in installation can affect the efficiency of the solar panel system. Therefore, having professionals install it on your behalf is a better option in any case.
In this section, we'll discuss some differences between installing solar panels with flat and high-sloped roofs. While both will use rooftop solar panel systems, the high slope of a roof imposes some huge challenges that can increase your expenses during their installation.
Homeowners reduce their material costs if they have flat roofs. While most rooftop solar panel mounting kits include penetrative installation equipment, you will not have to spend more for roofing joist improvement to support the added solar panel weight with flat roofs.
Inevitably, high-sloped roofs require penetrative installation to make sure the solar panels attaches effectively on the roof. In addition, penetrative installation can be a primary cause of poor roof material performance especially if you roof suffered extreme damage or is close to its estimated lifespan end.
With flat roofs, you only need gravity to have your panels sit on your roof without any trouble. In addition, you can just take them back in your garage if there's a strong storm that can damage them.
As we mentioned earlier, high-sloped roofs require penetrative measures to keep them in place. In addition, your contractors have to use special equipment to keep themselves balanced and safe while installing your solar panels on steep footing.
With flat roofs, you reduce labor costs because they can walk freely on the roof without special equipment. Additionally, your strong flat roofing material can carry heavy roof-mount panels effectively reducing your installation costs
As a homeowner, you will want your new solar panels to work efficiently. Here are a few things you can do to achieve optimum performance from your rooftop-mounted solar panels.
You might think that having your solar panels flat on your roof is the right way to go about solar panel installation. The truth is, flat vs tilted solar panels show the latter giving you more advantage if it points at the direction of sunlight.
Can you install solar panels on a flat roof? Absolutely. In addition, you can change its tilt direction freely. True enough, one major high-sloped roof disadvantage is your inability to shift the solar panel's tilt towards the direction of sunlight.
Therefore, make sure to have your solar panels pointed at the right direction especially after a windy day or a strong storm.
In addition to checking the tilt and direction of your solar panels, always clean your solar panels once or twice a week. Dust can accumulate on the collecting panels, which can result to decreased energy production.
A dry, soft cloth is enough to remove dust from your solar panels and help it improve its energy collection. However, tilts help reduce dust accumulation too.
In most states and counties, solar panel planning and installation permissions aren't necessary. However, the need arises when you encounter the following:
Can you install solar panels on a flat roof? You sure can.
In fact, you get numerous advantages when you have a flat roof for solar panel installation. You can tilt your solar panels to the direction of the sun and clean your panels effectively. Additionally, you reduce labor costs because there's no danger installing solar panels on flat roofs.
However, if you have high-sloped roofs, you'll need experienced solar panel installation contractors to install the system. In addition, you need powerful and strong joists to support these new panels.
If you haven't a trusty roofing contractor to help you with your roofing joist construction or roof replacement, you can trust Slavin Home Improvements to get you started before the solar panel contractors arrive. With our years of experience servicing roofs across Connecticut, we are confident we can deliver for all your roofing needs!
“How do you fix guttering that’s been damaged?”
If you want to know how to deal with worn out gutters, we offer you this guide. As roofing experts in Manchester CT, we understand how daunting it is to spot leaks inside your home or a stained siding due to poorly maintained gutters.
The two consequences we mentioned above make us realize how essential early repairs are. In fact, many more things can happen within your property with faulty gutters around. Imagine a cracked foundation and flooded basement!
In today’s post, Slavin Home Improvement shares quick and simple ways to perform a DIY gutter repair. Let’s answer the question, “How do you fix guttering?” But first, we’ll nail the basics - the signs and causes of guttering problems.
Bad gutters manifest in different ways. Most of the time, you’ll be able to spot the problem on the gutters themselves. Sometimes, you’ll find associated issues. Here are five scenarios:
Some gutter sections have cracks - Cracks or gaps in your gutters are not normal. No matter how small they seem, they get bigger over time. Rainwater leaks through these weak areas and erodes your soil.
Sagging gutters - When your gutters sag, it means that they are clogged with debris. Try to recall when you last cleaned the gutters. Gutter cleaning is essential for it prevents roof damage, helps repel pests, and protects your Manchester CT property foundation.
Exterior house paint has peeled off - If you’re wondering why your new paint started to peel off, you can blame it on damaged gutters. Peeling paint implies that moisture is present and has penetrated the walls of your home.
Damaged roofing material - Yes, gutter problems affect your roof! Clogged gutters can create excessive moisture that weakens your roof. Notice that the roof area near the damaged gutter section sags.
Leaking gutter joints - The areas in between gutter sections are called joints. It is possible that these areas lack sealant. Learning how to fix a leaking gutter joint is an easy task for most homeowners since joints can be spotted right away.
Before we finally give you answers to how do you fix guttering, we’ll explore why gutters acquire problems in the first place. Knowing these culprits will motivate you to take a more proactive approach to maintenance in the future.
Debris that accumulated over time - Earlier, we mentioned how crucial it is to clean the gutters. Leaves, dead animals, or anything that remains in your gutters will obstruct the flow of water. Eventually, filled gutter sections will sag. It is for this reason that we recommend installing gutter guards that filter out debris.
Pest infestation - Birds and other insects make gutters their breeding ground. As they reproduce, your gutters accumulate more debris. Not only that, these pests can make their way into your house and spread diseases.
Poor installation - A roofing contractor may fail at installing your gutters properly. It’s possible that a contractor miscalculates the pitch, used the wrong spacing for the hangers, or installed the wrong gutter type.
Now we move on to the ways on how to repair damaged gutters. Below, we tackle different gutter problems and their corresponding fixes.
Before you start fixing those issues, clean your gutters first. Scoop and flush out debris. Remove gutter stains using bleach and water or liquid detergent, and brush them off. Doing this makes it easier to spot issues.
Here’s how to repair sagging gutters: First, try to observe the gutter material itself. If you notice that it’s bent or damaged, you need to replace it with a new one. You can choose your gutter material of choice. There’s vinyl, aluminum, copper, and more.
Sometimes, the problem is with the gutter support and not the gutter material. Check the gutter hangers. If they’re broken, replace them. If they’re loose, you can reposition them so that they hold the gutters firmly this time.
Is a gutter joint leaking? To fix the leaking joint, you need to disassemble the joint piece and remove rust from the material. Make sure that you clean it. Next, apply a gutter sealant to the joint and reattach to the gutter section.
Small holes are easy to deal with. All you need to do is seal these holes with roofing cement. But before you do, scrape off the area around the holes to smoothen it. Use a putty knife.
What about bigger holes? Deal with larger holes by sealing them with metal patches. If you have unused flashing, cut a small piece so that it fits inside the gutter section where the holes are located. Apply roofing cement. Experts recommend that you use a metal patch that’s of the same material with your gutters. That way, you prevent corrosion.
If you see that your gutters are severely dented or crushed, there is no reason to fix them. Have them replaced right away. Smaller dents are remedied by using a rubber mallet to tap the dent. This should be enough to bring back the dented area to its original state.
Even if we provided remedies to common gutter issues, this doesn’t mean that you get to fix everything. There are times when homeowners approach us to express their concern about “difficult” gutter situations.
Usually, they find several damaged areas or portions of their roof that already deteriorated. Maybe some shingles have gone missing or the fascia board started to rot. If you are in this scenario, know that you need to call a roofing contractor right away.
Don’t try to deal with the problem yourself if you are unsure. Licensed and trained professionals like us have a comprehensive understanding of gutters and the best repair techniques.
Slavin Home Improvement thanks you for reading this guide. Did we provide good answers to your question, “how do you fix guttering?” As you can see, gutters sustain problems in many ways and that each problem requires a unique approach.
At the end of the day, homeowners in Manchester CT realize that they benefit most from professional gutter repair services. A homeowner can only do so much.
Professionals like us will take care of everything, from inspecting your gutters to securing all the materials, to cleaning the work area after the job has been completed. Choose Slavin Home Improvement for your gutter needs! Call us at (860) 264-5153.
Most homeowners ask if all types of Manchester CT residential insurance policies cover roof repairs. If you're one of those asking "does home insurance cover roof repairs," then the answer is yes, most of them provide coverage for roof repairs.
However, the policy coverage varies from each provider. For example, one insurer can only cover a percentage of the repair costs. However, another can provide complete coverage and even a replacement where necessary. Additionally, high insurance premiums do not guarantee better roof coverage.
After reading this post, you'll know:
Before we reveal the average homeowner insurance coverage to answer the question "does home insurance cover roof repairs?" it pays to know about the two roof insurance types usually available. Additionally, this helps answer the question "does homeowners insurance cover ceiling leaks?"
General residential property coverage provides protection for all the walls, foundations, windows, and roof of your property.
Alternatively, purpose-made policies will insure only a few or single parts of your property.
For general property insurance, you will often get 30-50% coverage of repair costs from your insurer.
However, if you're paying higher premiums than the average policy, you can get as much as 70-75% or even full repair coverage for select parts of your property such as your roof.
On the other hand, purpose-made insurance policies will cover a single part of your property and is likely to address 75-90% of the costs.
Single-premium roof policies often address roof repair completely and even include a roof replacement optional rider for additional regular repayments.
However, even if you can expect these figures with most roof insurance policies, the most accurate way to answer "does home insurance cover roof repairs" is to read and review your terms and conditions.
Many homeowners just agree with their financial adviser's decision, which is the frequent reason for a poor understanding of their property insurance policies.
As we mentioned earlier, always read your policy terms and conditions. You can expect purpose-made insurance policies to address a huge chunk of your roof repair costs. However, knowing the actual figure or coverage percentage allows you to prepare your finances in the best way possible and avoid any mishaps.
In fact, this helps answer the question "does homeowners insurance cover water damage from leaking roof?"
This is the most crucial step to answer "does home insurance cover roof repairs" in the best way possible. Terms and conditions just take time to read. However, the time you invest is worth all the trouble and additional expense from switching to another insurance policy.
Here is one case that you cannot avoid: misunderstanding certain insurance terms and figure calculations. In fact, most financial advisers will present you a huge diagram with tables labeled "optimistic" or "pessimistic" calculations of your premiums.
Additionally, you may find difficult terms that even dictionaries alone cannot answer. Therefore, you can ask your insurer to explain these terms to help you know the actual coverage of your policy.
True enough, it pays to do this before something happens to your roof or property because you will not have enough time to digest what you read from it when you're in the middle of an incident.
If you're asking "how to get a new roof from insurance?", it's possible if your insurer clarifies whethery ou have roof replacement benefits.
Experienced roofing contractors are often familiar with typical property insurance terms. In fact, contractors handling post-storm inspections to reveal all roof-related damages and repairs can give you a better and practical understanding of your policy.
However, even with their experience, the contractors' statements are only educated guesses. The accurate answer still lies in your insurance terms and conditions.
If you're not asking "does home insurance cover roof repairs?", then you're likely just about to get a new policy for your property. If you have already answered this question and decided to switch, then here are the steps to help you find the right roofing policy for your home.
We mentioned two types of insurance policies earlier. Each one will affect the premium amount and insured value of your property.
General property insurance will provide repair coverage for only a percentage of your property.
Alternatively, purpose-made policies will cover majority of the house part it insures.
Therefore, select a policy that will benefit your property greatly. For example, if your area is hailstorm-prone, then a purpose-made roof insurance will cover the majority of your roof repair expenses.
Additionally, you'll go through a process to get insurance approval. Here's a helpful guide to get you through it quickly and avoid common insurance roof replacement questions.
Insurance premiums of both general and purpose-made policies change due to many different factors including:
A good rule of thumb is to consider the age of your roof all the time. Those beyond the age of 15 will have higher premiums than new roofs. You can expect high figures for roofs beyond the age of 30.
Lastly, you will pay huge sums to ensure your insurance policy has enough premiums to cover your roof or property. The answer to "does home insurance cover roof repairs?" is clear when you forget or fail to pay regularly: it will not cover for anything.
Therefore, include your regular payments as part of your budget. In doing so, your regular repayments guarantee the safety and longevity of your roof.
The best way to answer this is to review your terms and conditions. Some insurers allow third-party contractors to investigate and provide service for your roof. However, some disallow this and only have you work with their accredited contractors
As the famous saying states, you only know you need insurance when you really need it.
If your property faces harsh weather on a monthly or bi-monthly basis, then it may need general or purpose-made insurance policies.
Additionally, if your roof faces hailstorms frequently, then you might want a roof purpose-made policy.
With insurance, you won't have to shell out so much for a property or roof repair. In some cases, you won't even spend anything at all.
Does home insurance cover roof repairs? Yes, it does. However numerous factors affect the amount of coverage insurers will provide.
In addition, some adjusters omit certain details as they partner with their chosen contractors. Therefore, having a trusted third-party contractor on your side helps you illuminate all the damages that require replacement under your policy coverage.
If you have yet to find a trusted roofing contractor, you can depend on Slavin Home Improvements for all insurance-related investigations and roofing services to help you claim the accurate insurance benefits you deserve. With decades of experience under our belt when it comes to both roofing services and insurance claim aid, we can definitely help you!
Siding is a great addition to any Manchester CT home. And if you want to achieve a timeless aesthetic, there’s a siding material that would suit your preference. For this, we can recommend wood siding. Without a doubt, wood in itself exudes a classic appeal that can never go out of style. And besides, no one would question the beauty of natural wood. However, some may want to know how long does wood siding last?
In today’s blog post, we’ll talk about wood siding including its life expectancy and the pros and cons.
If you’re still unsure whether to get wood siding or not, this article will help you come up with a more informed decision. We want to help as many Manchester CT homeowners as possible by giving them useful information. Every home improvement project is a huge investment, thus, you have to make sure that your choices will contribute to your long-term goals.
To get the ball rolling, let’s focus on what you need to know about wood siding installation…
Nothing else comes close to a natural wood’s distinct appeal. This is the look that most people want to take advantage of for their properties. What’s good with wood is that it can adjust to your design requirements may it be classic or modern.
When used as a siding, it wraps your house with an elegance that you couldn’t find elsewhere. It instantly boosts the curb appeal and gives you the satisfaction that you’re longing for.
If you’re curious about the estimated pricing of wood siding installation, actually it varies depending on the wood classification. (We’ll discuss more on the different types of wood siding later.) In an average, prices can range from $5 to $10 per square foot. This is just an estimate that could still go up based on the requirements and complexities of your property’s architectural specifications.
Longevity is a major factor to consider. This is true especially if you intend to live in your Manchester CT property for a long period of time. The good thing about wood siding is that it can last for up to 20 years in an average. Some reports say that it can even reach 30 to 40 years depending on the maintenance and other external factors.
There are other types of exterior siding additions that can last longer like vinyl siding, for example. This can be used for more than 50 years which makes it an ideal choice as well.
Related: Types of Vinyl Siding for Manchester Homes: What to Get This 2018’s Latest Style?
We all know that wood siding is one of the top choices for residential siding because of its appeal. But did you know that wood siding has different variations? Yes, you can narrow down your decisions and pick a type of wood siding that would watch your property’s overall theme.
Ready to find out what your siding options are? Scroll down below…
Naturally, cedar cannot resist moisture or insects. However, since we’re already in modern times, there are treatments that can help boost its protection against these elements. Like other types of wood, there’s a need to make sure that it has been sealed, stained, and painted well with necessary chemicals to make it less prone to damage and decay. If you are curious about how long does cedar siding last, you can talk to a siding specialist to get accurate information. (In an average, wood siding can reach up to 30 years.)
Cedar isn’t only for siding as it can also commonly used for roofing systems like shakes and shingles. This is a proof that cedar is durable. What’s good about it is that it can resist swelling, unlike any ordinary kind of wood. However, as expected, cedar costs a lot more expensive due to its sophistication and quality.
If you’re looking for a less expensive option, you might want to consider pine. It’s a softer kind of wood but could hold finishes like paint or stain really well. The only thing with pine is that it’s difficult to find pieces that are long enough for siding constructions. Hence, the labor costs may go up along with the installation expenses as there’s a need to source out for the right material. Also, not all pine can be used for siding as there are specific kinds that are prone to splitting. Pine couldn’t resist rotting as well, thus, you need a customized maintenance plan to keep it in a good condition.
Spruce is considered as an alternative of pine because of their similarities. This one is also a softwood but unlike pine, it’s available in longer lengths. In terms of cost, the two come at almost the same prices.
If you want to increase its protection against rot and insect infestation, you need to consult a professional siding contractor to learn about the effective treatment options.
Fir isn’t as expensive as cedar. You can compare its cost with pine and spruce since it’s also a softwood. Its main difference among the previous ones is that it fir comes in longer lengths making it easier to cut and install. Fir is the type of wood that requires fewer complications when it comes to creating patterns.
Redwood has a rich texture and vibrant tones. It’s also ideal for siding because it can resist shrinking. With its little pitches and resins, it can absorb and retain finishes well.
Surprisingly, redwood can resist insect infestation but only on the surface (not throughout the wood). The downside of it is that it can be expensive in general due to its unique characteristics.
Let’s learn about wood siding further by getting to know what it can offer. We can focus first on the promising qualities to expect.
Wood siding allows you to get creative on the choice of material and the type of installation. The siding panels can be constructed in different ways depending on how you envisioned your property.
Here are the common types of siding panel applications that you can choose from:
People go for wood siding because of its outer appearance. Natural wood can instantly add elegance and sophistication to any house -- no doubt about this.
Wood siding doesn’t only uplift the curb appeal. It can also increase your Manchester CT home’s resale value if you intend to sell it at some point.
While wood siding is such a promising material, there are things that you should be aware of. These are the known downsides of having it in your homes:
Because this is not waterproof, you need to keep an eye on it regularly to detect possible signs of water retention. Failure to keep up with its maintenance may lead to mold growth, insect infestation, rotting, and other water damages. Yes, there are treatments that you can depend on but these should also be monitored and reapplied as needed. If you want to know how long does wood siding last, well, it actually relies on a homeowner’s ability to take care of it the right way.
To help prolong the life of your wood siding, keep in close contact with siding specialists that have a proven track record in the local home construction industry.
This type of siding is known to be one of the high-end choices. It’s not cheap to purchase wood in general. Wood siding also requires expertise and skillfulness when it comes to installation. Otherwise, it may affect the overall appearance. It is also expensive because its beauty that is extremely difficult to match.
In this blog post, we’ve exposed different insights and information about wood siding including the answer to the question, “how long does wood siding last?”
Generally speaking, any home exterior element (wood siding included) that receives proper and regular maintenance procedures can outlive its expected life cycle. On the other hand, no matter how expensive or durable the material is, if you don’t follow recommended services like professional inspections, you wouldn’t be able to maximize its potential.
As a homeowner, the goal is to always get the best out of your investments. Wood siding is one of the most valuable home improvement investments that you can choose to install. To make it a success, partner with a contractor that you can trust.
Looking for a wood siding expert in Manchester CT? Need more detailed information on how long should wood siding last?
Slavin Home Improvements combines the use of premium siding materials along with the industry experience needed to install siding for your homes. As a result, we're able to build a residential siding captures the natural wood's appeal. We only use the highest quality products from top manufacturers like CertainTeed and Mastic Home.
If you're curious how is this possible, reach out to the Slavin Home Improvements to know more about wood siding and other exterior home improvement elements that you can add to your homes. Call us at 860.272.6904 and receive a free quote.