How to tell when your roof needs repair tree limbs and people walking it. Here are a few common signs of aging shingles: Curling is a common phenomenon in some shingles and is not considered a defect. It is natural for asphalt to age and shrink with time, which may result in a slight curling of the shingle edge. Minor cracks may also appear on the shingles as they age, but industry experts say it is a normal weathering characteristic and not cause for alarm, as long as the cracks do not penetrate through the shingle and the roof is still performing the intended purpose of shedding water. “Minor cracks may not be noticeable from the ground, but people often spot them while hanging their Christmas lights,” said roofing industry expert Rick “the Roofer” Taylor, a longWhat is normal? time roofing contractor It’s natural for a roof now working as a travto age, and the proeling trainer for shingle cess begins as soon as manufacturer TAMKO shingles are exposed to Building Products. “The nature. The sun can raise intense heat from the rooftop temperatures as sun can deplete some high as 50-70 degrees of the protective asphalt above the ambient air oils, and that can cause temperature. Ultraviolet minor cracks.” radiation from the sun Dark brown or black and heat have been streaks down the roof shown to accelerate roof are common in particaging, as have pollution, ularly moist or humid hail, snow, ice, falling areas of the country, and (BPT) – Four out of five homes in the U.S. have asphalt shingles. And it’s easy to see why. The wide variety of available colors and styles, combined with durability and affordability, have made asphalt shingles the leading choice for residential roofing in the country. Like all exterior building products, asphalt shingles start to age as soon as they are exposed to nature. Buildings experience aging factors differently, so it’s difficult to predict how long shingles will last. With storm chasers and insurance adjusters claiming roof damage or defective shingles after major weather events, it’s important for homeowners to arm themselves with information about what type of roof aging is normal, and most importantly, what type is not.
are the result of algae growth on the shingles. While not particularly attractive, these stains should not affect the shingles’ ability to shed water. Some granule loss on the shingles is to be expected, especially if a roof has been recently repaired or replaced, since extra granules are a part of the shingle manufacturing process. Loose granules are usually noticed collecting in roof gutters after the shingles are installed. This type of granule shedding is common and not a cause for concern.
What is cause for concern?
If the blisters are closed and are not affecting the shingles’ performance, While minor curling, surface cracking, closed they are not a cause blisters, algae stains and for concern. But if the some granule loss can all blisters are open, exposing the asphalt, the roof be signs of normal roof is vulnerable to water aging, some more serious roof wear and aging penetration and requires immediate attention. could be indicative of a Buckling, a distortion potential problem, and of the shingles, can be a should be examined and possible sign of inademonitored. quate roof ventilation, These roof issues may issues with the roof deck need attention: or other installation Blisters, or small circular raised areas, are errors and may require often the direct result of attention. Deep cracks that under-ventilated attics or penetrate through the excessive use of plastic fiberglass mat should be cement - both of which investigated, as they may are installation errors.
compromise the roof’s ability to shed water and make it susceptible to leaks. Excessive granule loss that exposes the shingles’ asphalt layer is a reason for concern and requires immediate attention. Armed with this basic information, homeowners should be able to distinguish between natural processes that are no cause for alarm and issues that do require attention and repair. Visit www.tamko.com for more information about roofing repair and replacement.
Prevent growth of mold/mildew in colder months Mold and mildew are not only unsightly, but unhealthy. These fungi grow readily in damp areas and are found in the air breathed both indoors and outside. If left unaddressed, mold and mildew can threaten the health of a home’s inhabitants. Mildew is a type of mold that remains relatively flush with the surface it grows on. Other molds can grow puffy in appearance. Molds serve the purpose of destroying organic materials,
but in high amounts, these microorganisms can cause respiratory problems, sinus congestion, throat irritation, headaches, and other issues, particularly when mold grows unchecked indoors, says Better Homes and Gardens. As a result, it is essential to address mold before it becomes problematic. According to Polygon, a drying technology and temporary climate solutions company, the wet season in winter is when molds often grow and
expand. Mold can break down the integrity and strength of the surfaces where it grows. Homeowners can employ the following strategies to prevent mold growth. • Keep all surfaces clean, using proper cleaning products. Diluted bleach solutions are highly effective at killing microscopic fungi, viruses and bacteria. • Reduce moisture and humidity by ensuring sufficient air circulation in rooms, particularly bathrooms and kitchens. An exhaust fan will help remove moisture quickly.
• Fabrics covered in mildew that can be laundered should be carefully removed and washed in chlorine bleach and hot water. An oxygen bleach product also can be effective. • Invest in a dehumidifier that can reduce moisture in the home in problem areas, such as damp basements or garages. • Fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible. • Remove damp leaves and snow from areas around the foundation of the home. Ensure that gutters and downspouts are
clear of debris and can shuttle water away from the house effectively. • Replace cracked or defective mortar in basements. • Make sure all seals on windows and doors are not compromised and are in good working condition. • Be sure an HVAC in-line humidifier is adjusted to the right setting and isn’t
pumping too much moisture into the heated air; otherwise, the added humidity can contribute to mold. • If there is a flood or water infiltrates a home in other ways, hire a professional service to help clean and dry the home effectively. Mold and mildew are problematic, but with diligence they can be kept at bay.
FINK LAW OFFICE Dawn A. Fink Esquire
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