If you’ve been a Hoosier for long, you know about our comically (or should we say “painfully”) humid summers. Even if the temperature is mild, the humidity alone can be enough to make you break a sweat just walking to the mailbox.

Indiana humidity can also provide the perfect environment for algae growth on asphalt shingles, resulting in dark streaks and stains. Although these stains are commonly attributed to an accumulation of dirt, mold, or mildew, the most common culprit is actually a blue-green algae known as Gloeocapsa Magma, that is spread by airborne spores.

While algae growth doesn’t harm the shingles or roofing, it is typically considered unsightly and doesn’t help the overall appearance and resale value of a home. If you already have algae stains on your roof, check out this blog we wrote last year for information on how to remove them. If you’re looking for ways to prevent them, you’re in the right place.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Trimming back overhanging branches from your roof can help “sun bleach” your roof and reduce algae growth. Algae grows best in warm, moist, dark places like a shady, humid roof. Reducing the amount of shade on your roof can help prevent algae growth.

As a side note, this method of preventing algae growth on your roof is something that you should be doing even if an algae problem isn’t your main concern. Check out this blog on how trees can affect the lifespan of your roof.

Install Metal Flashing

Another common and effective method of preventing algae growth on your roof is to install metal flashing. Metal flashing is typically used to seal areas around chimneys and roof vents, but it is also useful in reducing algae growth. This is because the copper and zinc coating on galvanized sheet metal are toxic to algae. When it rains, trace amounts of metals are washed down the roof, inhibiting algae growth.

To use metal flashing for algae growth prevention, install a strip of copper or zinc-coated sheet metal along each side of the roof, just below the ridge. Ideally, two to four inches of metal should be visible on the roof. Narrow strips of sheet metal can be attached directly to the roof using roofing nails or screws with a rubber washer. For wider pieces of sheet metal, loosen the self-sealing tabs on the top row of shingles with a putty knife. Slide part of the sheet metal under the shingles, and nail everything in place with roofing nails. (Obviously, working on the roof can be dangerous. If you feel at all unsafe installing your own flashing, please give us a call. Play it safe!)

While copper is more effective in preventing algae growth, galvanized sheet metal is less expensive. Both copper and galvanized metal are available in rolls of various widths and thicknesses. You can also purchase zinc strips specifically made to eliminate roof algae.

Install Algae-Resistant Shingles

In recent years, many roofing manufacturers (including our favorite manufacturer, Tamko) have begun making algae-resistant shingles. Algae-resistant shingles look like regular asphalt shingles, but they have copper granules embedded into the asphalt along with the normal granules. These copper granules are strategically embedded within each shingle to ensure that the entire roof is protected from algae growth.

Although this option really only makes sense if you are already considering having a new roof installed, it is definitely the easiest and most efficient way of preventing algae growth on your roof. So, when you do need your roof replaced, be sure to ask your roofer about algae-resistant shingles.

Have Questions?

Whether you just want advice on removing or preventing algae stains on your roof, or are ready to replace the roof altogether, E3 Roofing & Restoration can help. We are proud to offer a free roof inspection where we will be able to make suggestions or point out areas of concern on your roof. We can then help you decide which things you can do yourself and which areas you might need our help on.

We’re all about educating our customers and helping them make informed decisions that they are happy with. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment. We’re eager to hear from you!

The post Preventing Algae Growth on Your Roof appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

No one wants to deal with a leaky roof. It’s messy, frustrating, and can be a headache to repair. On top of that, if your roof is leaking and you don’t repair it quickly, the damage can lead to mold and mildew growth. It can cause damage to both the interior and exterior of your home and can even eventually lead to structural damage. Here are a few of the most common reasons your roof is leaking.

1. You Have Damaged Flashing

Flashing are thin pieces of metal that are installed under shingles on the joints of the roof to create a water-tight barrier. Although flashing is sometimes left exposed, it is often concealed under a rubberized coating. Over time, the tar that is used to seal the flashing together can corrode and crack. Once the flashing is exposed, wind and rain could cause it to crack, leading to a leak.

2. You Have Damaged Shingles

Inclement weather such as high winds and heavy rains can cause shingles to blow around, bend, and even come completely off of the roof. Identifying a missing or damaged shingle isn’t difficult for someone with a trained eye, and replacing them can often be done by the homeowner.

3. Your Gutters are Clogged

The job of your gutters is to take water away from your roof and foundation and reduce leaks. However, if your gutters are clogged, the water will have an opportunity to pool in one area of the roof and encourage leaks.

You can spot signs of clogged gutters easily. If there are obvious leaves and debris in the gutters, they probably aren’t able to do their job. You might also notice the lack of water trickling out of a downspout during a rainstorm.

Luckily, this leak is one that can easily be prevented by cleaning your gutters regularly. Get some good work gloves, a ladder, and a bucket or tarp on the ground. Clean all debris from the gutters regularly to prevent leaks.

4. You Have had Damage from an Ice Dam

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms on the edge of the gutters and prevents melting snow from draining off of the roof. The weight of the ice itself can cause the gutters to pull away from the roof and cause damage. In addition, the water that pools as a result of the ice dam can cause further damage.

Because most ice dams form as a result of clogged gutters, being sure to remove all debris from the gutters in late fall is key to preventing a leak caused by an ice dam.

5. There is Condensation in Your Attic

Depending on the location of the leak in your roof, you can sometimes pinpoint what is causing the leak. For example, a leak near a joint indicates damaged flashing. If the location of the leak isn’t obvious or you notice discoloration in the middle of the ceiling, it is likely that the leak is caused by condensation in the attic.

Condensation in the attic is often caused by an issue with the roof ventilation. As the uppermost part of your home, the attic is trapped between the inside and outside temperatures. When those temperatures clash and there is not an adequate amount of ventilation, condensation will form, and moisture will follow. A strong, musty odor from the attic or signs of mold or mildew growth are indications of condensation.

6. You Have an Issue with Your Skylights

A leak at a skylight should be easy to spot. Drips, wet spots, or discoloration around the skylights are clear indications of a leak at the skylight. There are two common causes of a leak of this type. First, skylights that were improperly measured and fitted during installation are likely to leak. Secondly, decayed insulation along the skylights’ edges can cause a leak as well.

Roof Leak Repair in Greenwood, IN

Of course, there are other reasons your roof might be leaking. The best way to diagnose and fix the problem is to have your roof inspected by a trusted local roofer. During your free roof inspection from E3 Roofing & Remodeling, we’ll identify any existing issues and any areas that may pose problems in the future. Then, we’ll recommend a plan to correct these problems according to priority. No matter why your roof is leaking, when you work with E3, you can rest assured that your roof will be repaired quickly, efficiently, and safely. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Making the decision to repair or replace your roof is typically not something homeowners take lightly. Let’s face it – it’s a big expense. While it may be cheaper to repair roof damage, it doesn’t always make sense in the long run. Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your roof.

How old is your roof?

The expected lifespan of your roof depends on the materials it was built from. For example, many types of asphalt shingles generally have a lifespan of 15-25 years. If your roof is newer or even in the middle of its lifespan, it might be worth it to make the repairs. However, if your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, replacing the entire roof might be the way to go.

What type of damage is there?

It’s often hard to tell the condition of the roof just by looking at it from the outside. Of course, there are some telltale signs of damage such as missing or damaged shingles, but there may also be damage hiding under the shingles as well. Once it seeps beneath the shingles, water can quickly find its way inside where it can cause serious damage. If the underside and supports of your roof show significant moisture damage, shingling over them won’t solve the problem. If you notice water discoloration on your ceiling or find signs of wood rot or mold growth, you will likely need to replace the entire roof.

Are you going to be selling your home soon?

An old or damaged roof is sure to scare away plenty of potential homebuyers. Most buyers don’t want to take a chance on a home that appears not to have been well maintained or needs an expensive repair. If the roof has damage, it is possible the damage has caused other issues as well, and that typically doesn’t fare well with homebuyers. However, a home that boasts upgrades of value such as a new roof often sell quicker and for more money. If you’re planning to sell your home soon, replacing the roof may be of more value to you than making the repairs.

Are there other repairs that need to be made?

If your gutters need to be replaced as well, it may be more convenient for a contractor to just complete both projects at once. Not only will new gutters help keep the roof in good shape, but you’ll have two projects checked off your list at once.

How much will it cost to properly repair the damage compared to the price of a full replacement?

Budget certainly plays into big decisions like these. Get an estimate from a trusted local roofer for what it might cost to both repair and replace the roof. If the estimates are fairly close, replacing the roof may give you the better value.

What is covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy?

Finally, review your homeowner’s insurance policy. If the damage was caused by a storm or other factors covered in your policy, your decision may hinge on that. Find a roofer with experience in processing insurance claims who can help you review your policy and file a claim if needed.

Need help deciding whether to repair or replace Your roof?

That’s what we’re here for! We will inspect your roof, provide an estimate for any repairs and replacements as needed, and help you decide the best course of action. We also have years of experience in insurance roofing, so if the damage is something your insurance policy covers, we’ll walk you through the entire process. Schedule a free inspection with E3 Roofing & Remodeling today to get started.

The post Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof? appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Any kind of roof problem can be alarming for a homeowner, and a wavy roof is no exception.

So, why are there waves in your roof? We wish there was a simple answer to this question, but unfortunately there is not. There are actually quite a few potential causes. Luckily, not all of them are permanent, so there is some good news.

Is Your Roof New?

The first thing to consider when trying to determine the cause of waves in your roof is the age of the roof. The most common causes of a wavy roof actually tend to come when the roof is new. Thankfully, these are also the easiest set of issues to remedy. If you have recently had a roof installed, and it has started to look wavy, there are the possibilities:

• A layer of felt paper acts as a base, and goes down before the shingles for every installation. If the material was damp, if the day was humid, or the paper bubbled a bit, if could produce a wavy appearance on your new roof. Thankfully, this is the most common cause, and also the easiest to fix. Typically, in this case, the problem will resolve itself with just a little time and heat. Often, after a few warm summer weeks, the shingles will lay flat and you will no longer notice the wavy look. While it may look concerning now, it’s not permanent and will flatten out soon.

• If your new roof was laid over an old layer of roofing, this could cause the wavy appearance. This is a very unfortunate issue for everyone involved, and a really bad move on the roofing company’s part. Unfortunately in this case, the roof will need to be stripped and reinstalled, and you have every right to feel scammed and be grumpy about the whole mess.

• New shingles that are not precisely aligned can also cause a roof to look wavy. Although roofing isn’t necessarily complex, it is extremely precise. One wrong measurement, improperly cut shingle, or low quality materials can simply result in an uneven appearance. This is why working with a trusted professional is so important! And a good reminder that the lowest quote doesn’t always mean the best work.

Is Your Roof Older?

If your roof is starting to get some age on it, there are really only a few reasons it might start to look wavy. And most of them are bad news, unfortunately. The most likely reason an older roof would start to look wavy is that the decking has been damaged. To get an idea of the extent of the damage, you’ll need a professional to come for an inspection. There is a bit of good news here, though. Any amount of decking damage can result in a wavy appearance, so the problem could be tiny and a simple fix for the roofer. However, in some severe cases, rotted decking is going to mean more extensive roof repair and potentially a full roof replacement.

Choose to Work With E3 Roofing & Remodeling

Roof issues like these are a good (albeit sometimes unfortunate) reminder that working with a highly-rated professional will save you a great deal of time and money down the line. We have a commitment to provide our customers with the highest quality service and craftsmanship in our area, and we take that commitment seriously. So, whether you’ve been burned by a contractor in the past, or just want to be assured you’re getting started with the right team, E3 Roofing & Remodeling is here for you. Send us a message or give us a call today to get started.

The post What Causes a Wavy Roof? appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Finding water stains on the ceiling is not an uncommon issue that homeowners face, but that doesn’t make it any easier to deal with. It’s your roof’s job to literally “have you covered,” and your roof the first line of defense against the elements. When the ceiling starts showing signs of water damage, that is a clear indication that the roof is feeling the impact of weather as well.

What can cause water stains on the ceiling?

When water stains are on the uppermost level of the home, that usually indicates a roof leak. (On lower levels, it is possible that the cause is plumbing-related, but this article focuses on stains caused by roof leaks.) The location of the stain can often give insight into the underlying cause of the leak.

For example, when stains appear at the ceiling along outside walls, that is typically the result of ice dam leakage. This is most often the case if the insulation in the attic is insufficient and there are attic air leaks.

If stains are showing up at random places along the ceiling, that is likely due to condensation. When an excess of frost builds up in the attic, it can leave enough water to create stains in random places in the ceiling when it melts.

Stains near the edges, valleys, and junctions between roofing and chimneys or other obstructions indicate improper or damaged flashing.

Repairing Damage from Water Stains

As you know, a water stain on the ceiling doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. There is always an underlying cause. Sometimes, this underlying cause is more urgent than others, but it is always worth investigating to make the repairs as soon as possible.

Left untreated, a leak in the roof can lead to further water damage to the attic, ceiling, or drywall. It can leave the home vulnerable to mold and mildew growth. In severe cases, it can even cause structural damage. Choosing to ignore water stains on the ceiling is definitely not recommended.

While it might be tempting to just paint over a stain on the ceiling and call it a day, this is just covering up the symptom of a larger issue. To properly diagnose and repair a leak, we recommend calling a licensed roofing professional to find and correct the problem before it leads to further damage. A small repair today may save you from major construction tomorrow.

Preventing Roof Leaks and Water Stains

The best way to deal with water stains on the ceiling is to take measures to prevent them. The best way to do this is to have your roof inspected annually by a trusted local roofer. Find a roofer in your area with a good reputation of being fair, trustworthy, and skilled. Your roofer will be able to identify any potential problem areas in the roof to avoid those costly repairs in the future.

Being diligent about maintaining your roof is also a good way to prevent leaks. Routinely cleaning gutters can prevent ice dams and excessive runoff. Keeping the roof clear of debris can help prolong the lifespan of shingles and prevent leaks. And, just being familiar with your roof and its health can give you an idea of how things should look, so you’ll be able to better identify a problem on your own if needed.

As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Being proactive about the routine care and maintenance of your roof will definitely pay off. Not only will you extend the life of your roof, but you’ll prevent damage to the rest of your home as a result.

For a free roof inspection, contact E3 Roofing & Remodeling. We’ll be able to identify the causes of any existing issues or pinpoint problem areas that may arise in the future. You roof is what protects you from the elements. Let us help.out

The post Water Stains on the Ceiling: Causes, Repairs, and Prevention appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Unless there is obvious visible damage, most people just assume their roof is well-made and properly installed. The roof usually isn’t something we think much about until we spot a leak or there has been storm damage. While it is true that a roof is made to take a beating from the elements, it is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. A roof that has any extent of damage has the potential to result in costly repairs and further damage to the home. The solution? Have your roof inspected regularly and catch the damage before it becomes a nightmare.

You’ll Avoid Costly Problems.

As the saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This is certainly true with roofing. Having your roof inspected regularly by a professional will help you identify and repair small problems before they grow into major issues. It only takes one broken shingle left in disrepair to allow moisture under the roof. This moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth and can even eventually cause structural damage as the problem progresses. A professional will be able to point out any problem areas before they get out of control.

Insurance Claims are Easier.

May homeowners aren’t entirely sure what sorts of repairs and roof replacement services are covered by their insurance policy. However, an expert roofer will not only provide a thorough inspection and identify problem areas, but they will be able to help you process an insurance claim as well. Should an insurance claim be necessary, choosing a roofer that has experience filing claims will take a major burden off your shoulders.

You’ll Have Peace of Mind.

Your roof has an important job! Of course, you don’t want to just hope it’s able to withstand mother nature – you want to be sure it is! Having your roof inspected regularly by a true professional will give you peace of mind. You’ll know if there is anything wrong with your roof, and if there is, you will know how and when it needs to be repaired.

A Professional Roofer Knows What to Look For.

Unless the damage is obvious, many homeowners aren’t able to tell whether their roof has sustained damage. In fact, sometimes roof damage isn’t visible at all. For example, hail damage to a roof sometimes only shows as “pock marks,” or indentations in the shingles that can’t be seen, but they can be felt (see photo). A professional roofer will know what to look (or feel) for during a roof inspection.

A Regular Roof Inspection Will Pay Off.

If properly cared for, your roof will last years. A well-maintained shingle roof can last 20 years and beyond. Having your roof inspected regularly by a qualified roofing professional will certainly pay off. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your roof inspected, give us a call or contact us online today.

The post Why You Should Have Your Roof Inspected Regularly appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Trapped moisture is usually not desirable, and your home is no exception. Without proper roof ventilation, the attic and roof become vulnerable to mold and mildew, warped materials, and premature deterioration.

A roof vent is designed to allow hot air and moisture to escape the attic. There several choices in roof ventilation that accomplish this task in different ways. Each type has its pros and cons.

Static Vent

A static vent has no moving parts. It simply creates an opening for hot air and moisture to escape, but only allows ventilation in the immediate area where it is installed. There are several types of static vents, such as box vents, off-ridge vents, and cupola vents. Using natural convection, they create an opening for the rising hot air and moisture to escape. Static vents are most effective when installed as close to the roof ridge as possible. However, due to their limited effectiveness, numerous static vents are often required. If not enough vents are installed, this can cause an uneven distribution of hot and cold zones, meaning that sections of the roof could age faster than others.

Power Vent

Power vents, also known as PAVs (Power Attic Vents) use electricity to pull air out of the attic. Though they are effective, they also add an ongoing expense to a homeowner’s utility bill. Most are hardwired into the home’s electrical system, but there are models with built-in solar panels to power the unit. Some power vents are controlled by an adjustable thermostat which triggers the fan to kick on when the attic reaches a certain temperature. They are also available with a humidistat that will turn on when a certain level of humidity is reached. One downside to this type of roof ventilation is that many homeowners don’t notice when their power vent is no longer functioning or needs maintenance. For this reason, a regular inspection is recommended.

Turbine Vent

Turbine vents (seen in the photo at the top of this page), also called whirlybirds, are not static vents, as they have moving parts. However, they also do not have motors and instead rely on wind to power their movement. This spinning action, triggered by wind, draws hot air and moisture out of the attic. When the wind is not blowing, or if they are used in an area that does not get a lot of wind, they lack effectiveness. Like anything, turbine vents are available in differing degrees of quality. Cheaper versions are often noisy or make a squeaking sound as they spin in the wind.

Ridge Vent

A ridge vent is another type of static vent, but it typically offers the most roof ventilation for the money and is ideal for most homes. It is positioned along the entire peak of the roof and allows excellent exhaust of heat and moisture year-round. In fact, used in conjunction with undereave venting, ridge vents are often considered the most effective and efficient attic ventilation system. While other types of vents, particularly other static vents, only allow ventilation of the area directly adjacent to them, ridge vents provide even temperature distribution.

Which Roof Ventilation System is Best?

There is no “one” best type of roof ventilation system. The best ventilation system for your home will take into account the size of the structure, airflow, and roof design. Not all homes are designed the same way and are not all exposed to the same climate. Therefore, not every home is best served by the same roof ventilation options. To answer the questions about which roof ventilation system is best for your home, find an unbiased roofing contractor who will design a custom ventilation system for your home.

To schedule a consultation or free roof inspection, click here. We look forward to hearing from you!

The post Types of Roof Ventilation appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Maybe it’s the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Maybe it’s the harsh weather conditions. Or, perhaps it’s that the rest of the world is frozen in time, deep in hibernation. Whatever the reason, it seems like the exterior of our homes is often overlooked and forgotten during the winter months.

Even though it’s not the top of our “winter bucket list,” winter roof care should at least be on your radar this winter. Because it’s so often neglected, there are a lot of folks who don’t really know the first thing about winter roof care. Just like the other three seasons, there are a few important things to remember. Here is our list of do’s and don’ts of winter roof care.

Do Remove Leaves and Debris Before Snow Falls

Before those winter storms roll in, make sure your roof is clear of leaves, pine needles, and other debris. By doing so, you’ll help ensure that when a storm hits, the moisture won’t have an extra grip on your roof. If debris is allowed to accumulate on the roof, all of those little pieces can become water-logged and will eventually rot. This leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks and other damage like mold.

Don’t Ignore Your Gutters

If your gutters are clogged with leaves and other debris, water will accumulate. When temperatures dip again at night, the trapped water will freeze. First, this is problematic because if they’re filled with ice, your gutters can become weakened, unable to hold all of the weight of the ice. This often results in the gutters tearing away from the home, creating structural damage and a major repair bill come spring. Keeping gutters clear in winter is also important because clogged gutters lead to ice damming in your downspouts and gutters. Ice dams keep constant moisture around your home, which can damage your home’s siding and foundation. One rule of thumb is that if you see icicles hanging off the gutters, you likely already have debris build-up that needs to be corrected ASAP.

Do Repair Flashing and Shingles

Even if the flashing on your roof was fine last winter, take a look at your existing flashing. Over time, flashing can become warped or loosened. Improper flashing can allow snow and other precipitation to more freely enter your roof. If too much excess moisture builds up, you might discover an interior leak in the coming months.

These repairs also apply to shingles. If you find any shingles that are beginning to crack or have become loosened, repair this as soon as possible. Left in disrepair, broken shingles will allow moisture to build up and seep into your ceiling.

Don’t Let Snow Accumulate on Your Roof for Too Long

A sparkling snowy rooftop makes for a beautiful wintery photo-op. Unfortunately, snow left on the roof for too long can cause a major headache later on. Too much snow accumulation on the roof can create a heavy weight that can compromise the integrity of the roof. In addition, snow left on the roof can create an ice dam. When the snow finally melts and begins to roll off of the roof, it finds its way to the gutters. As temps drop below freezing at night, the water refreezes, backing up any runoff precipitation. This can loosen shingles and create a greater potential for leaks. You can remove snow from your roof with a roof rake. Be sure to use extreme caution while you’re working – snow can make your roof very slippery! Call a pro to tackle roof snow removal if there is too much snow for a rake.

Do Call a Professional for Help

Above all, play it safe! Any kind of roof work can be dangerous, but winter roof care in particular poses its own hazards. Whether you want a full roof inspection to get a baseline idea of the health of your roof, or you want some help repairing existing damage before it becomes a major problem, calling a local roofing company for help is a great idea. The roofing professionals at E3 Roofing & Remodeling have the experience, knowledge, and tools to get the job done quickly, efficiently, and most of all safely.

The post Do’s and Don’ts of Winter Roof Care appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

It’s that time of year! By now, you likely have begun decorating for Christmas in one way or another. Maybe your tree is up. Maybe your stockings are hung by the chimney with care. And maybe you’re planning an outdoor Christmas light display.

One of the most common places to decorate for Christmas is the roof. Of course, those twinkling lights and decorations look great, and they give you a shot at winning the title of the Jolliest House on the Block. However, if you aren’t willing to trade the integrity of your roof for this claim to fame, here are a few things to keep in mind so you can decorate for Christmas without damaging your roof.

Skip the Staples.

Staples are quickly becoming a thing of the past when it comes to decorating for Christmas. However, plenty of people still use them. The damage staples can do to your roof is far more than just a cosmetic concern.

Staples Damage Your Shingles.

You may think that the puncture from a staple is too small to do any damage, but unfortunately that’s just not true. Even the tiniest holes in your shingles are big enough for water to gradually seep in. If that water is allowed to freeze, it expands and creates larger holes, leading to even more damage. Even above freezing, the water will eventually make its way into the vulnerable parts of your roofing. That means that your roof will weaken over time, which means a lower lifespan of one of the most important parts of your home.

Usually, if you’re stapling lights or other decorations to your roof, you’re not just using a couple of staples here and there, you’re using hundreds. And that’s just for one year! Tiny holes from repeated stapling will limit the lifespan of your roof considerably. Asphalt shingles will lose granules much more quickly than normal, and the wood underneath can warp or rot.

Even if water itself doesn’t damage the wood under the shingles, it can create continuously moist conditions and lead to mold and mildew growth. In addition, all of these little holes can eventually lead to air transfer, which means lower efficiency and higher energy bills.

Metal Staples Don’t Play Nicely with Electricity.

Many Christmas lights are cheaply produced, so it’s not rare for a string of lights to have exposed wiring and a casing that’s vulnerable to the elements. This exposed wiring, in combination with metal staples, is a dangerous combination when it’s on your roof (or anywhere, for that matter).

As you probably remember from high school science class, metal is a great conductor of electricity. That’s why it’s inside of all of these wires. Electricity doesn’t just move along the wires, though. If an electric current isn’t completely encapsulated, it could be allowed to transfer to the staples, and inevitably into your roof or along your gutters. That’s just not worth the risk.

Use Anchors and Clips Instead of Staples.

Luckily, staples aren’t the only method of securing your festive display. A safer alternative to staples are plastic roof clips that can be attached to gutters or shingles. Unlike metal staples, plastic will not conduct electricity, and the clips do not need to puncture your shingles to be effective. Some types of clips can even be left on the decorations, so they’ll be ready to go for next year. With a little ingenuity and planning, you can likely anchor almost any decoration to your roof in a safe way with anchors, clips, or ties.

Don’t Put Too Much Weight on the Roof.

Pay attention to the weight of the decorations you’re using. A couple inflatable reindeer is probably ok, but if you’re still using those heavy displays from the ‘90s, make sure you’re taking their weight into account. It’s easy to justify “just one more thing,” but the weight (even if it’s only a few pounds) can really add up. Putting too much weight on your roof can begin to stress the shingles, supports, and other structures on your roof. Add this to the weight of a heavy snowfall, and you might be doing some serious damage under all of those twinkling lights.

Decorate Your Lawn Instead of Your Roof.

If you’re stressing out about how you’ll be able to decorate for Christmas without damaging your roof, consider putting most of your display on your lawn instead. Not only is it safer to navigate and likely easier to decorate, it poses minimal risk to your home’s physical structure. (And don’t worry – Santa will still be able to see it from the sleigh.)

Worried the Damage Is Already Done?

So can you decorate for Christmas without damaging your roof? You bet! But what if you think the damage is already done? Don’t worry. We can help with that, too. If you’ve been putting up a heavy display and using metal staples for years, it’s probably time for a roof inspection. We’re proud to be able to offer a free roof inspection – just click here to schedule. We’ll be happy to take a look at your roof and offer our expert advice. Happy decorating!

The post Decorate for Christmas Without Damaging Your Roof appeared first on E3 Restoration & Remodeling.

Classic cars, valuable antiques, and heirloom jewelry. Sure, we love “old” things, but not everything ages like a fine wine. One thing you absolutely do not need is an outdated set of windows. Here are the top five reasons you should invest in energy efficient windows for your home.

Reduced Energy Bill

One of the biggest reasons homeowners opt for energy efficient replacement windows is the appeal of a lower heating bill. Some homeowners have seen savings of hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually by installing energy efficient windows. In fact, the US Department of Energy considers replacing windows to be one of the most effective ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home.

Protect Your Furniture from UV Rays

Have you ever noticed that your furniture, floor, books, and other décor have started to look sun-faded even though they’re inside? It’s likely because your old windows are allowing UV rays to penetrate into your home. Modern energy efficient windows are made to block UV rays from entering your home, which means your furniture will be protected from fading.

Reduced Maintenance and Repair Costs

Old windows can be hard to open, break easier, prone to moisture and mold, and even dangerous. Installing replacement windows reduces the amount of time and money you’ll have to spend repairing and maintaining your windows. While replacing windows is a bigger investment upfront, the time and money saved by not having to deal with so many repairs may be well worth it.

Boost Your Resale Value

According to this report from Remodeling Magazine, replaced windows can increase home value up to 75% of the original project cost. So not only can you enjoy the benefits of energy efficient windows while you’re living in your home, but you’ll be able to sell your home for more money should you decide to list it in the future. To a home buyer, new windows mean fewer maintenance and repair costs, lower energy bills due to increased energy efficiency, and curb appeal. Ask any realtor and they’ll tell you that homes with energy efficient windows sell faster, easier, and for more money.

Reduced Noise Pollution

If you live in a city, you know how exhausting constant noise from outside your home can be. Even if you live in a suburban neighborhood or rural town, you’re not exempt from unwanted noise of neighbor’s lawnmowers or construction across the street. While no windows can block 100% of outside sounds from making their way indoors, there are “soundproof” windows that can reduce noise pollution by up to 95%.

Still Have Questions?

Replacing your home’s windows comes with a lot of great benefits, and these are just a few! You’ll save money, add value to your home, and be able to enjoy your new windows for years. If you need help picking out the right windows for your home, have questions about installation, or are ready to schedule your home’s window replacement, give us a call! We are eager to hear from you.

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