Category Archives: Roofing

A freak winter storm that blew through much of the northeast United States has left many residents with a tricky early November problem: fallen trees on their property. If a tree has fallen on your roof or any part of your home calling a professional tree removal service is critical. The tree needs to be removed without doing additional damage to the home. Check with your home owners insurance company and file a claim. Many policies will cover the tree removal in this circumstance and may cover any roofing repairs that need to be made. While tree removal work can be done by a homeowner, it is not advised by governmental agencies or insurance companies. The bottom line is, tree removal can be a tough job requiring heavy machinery, equipment you should be experienced in using and the possibility of working around electrical wires. Below are several tips for homeowners who are looking into removing a tree.

Algae growth causes a dark discoloration on roofs. The algae is usually brown to black in color which results in a streaked, dirty looking rooftop. It can be mistaken for soot, dirt or tree droppings, which typically produce only localized discoloration. It’s caused by the growth of air-borne algae which deposits on your roof. The good news is that algae growth does not affect the service life of your roofing material. It occurs most often in warm, humid climates such as the Southeast (where algae-resistant shingles are available).

Recommendations
Discoloration of roofs caused by fungus or algae is difficult to remove, but may be lightened by spraying a diluted solution of chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate, and water onto the roof. Solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and four gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water. This solution can then be rinsed from the roof in 10 to 15 minutes. Do not scrub. Scrubbing will loosen and remove granules. After spraying be sure to thoroughly flush the roof and the greenery around the home (grass, bushes and shrubs) with water. The effectiveness of this type of cleaning may only be temporary, and the discoloration may recur. High pressure washing is not recommended due to the possibility of removing granules, thereby shortening the life of the Roofing System.

For a more permanent solution, re-roof with Owens Corning Algae-Resistant Shingles. They are specifically designed to inhibit most algae growth for extended periods of time and are backed by our strongest product and algae resistance warranties* available to homeowners.

*See actual Algae-Resistant shingle warranty for details. Algae-Resistant products are not available in all areas. Contact your local Owens Corning supplier for more information.

Causes

• Improper installation on a new roof
• Drying and cracking on an old roof
• Dented by improper nailing
• Settling of the structure

Recommendations
In most cases it is only necessary to remove and replace the flashing and shingles around the damaged area.

Causes

• Improperly applied felt
• Wrinkled underlayment
• Roof deck movement
• Spacers not used in between roof deck boards
• Poor roof ventilation
• New shingles applied over old, rough shingles

Recommendations

• Allow moisture to escape the Roofing System. This can be a slow process and could take until the following spring. Once the Roofing System reaches the proper moisture content, the roof should lay flat and the buckling problem should not return.
• Remove the shingles that are affected. Cut the wrinkle in the felt and replace the shingles.
• Add ventilation to the attic space. The minimum requirement is one square foot of net free vent area per 150 square feet of attic floor space if a vapor retarder is not present. If a vapor retarder is present, the amount of required ventilation can be reduced to one square foot of net free vent area per 300 square feet of attic floor space.
• Consult the services of a professional. Make sure to apply shingles in accordance with the shingle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Causes

• High nails
• Lack of back coating
• Under-saturation of asphalt felt in organic shingles
• Lack of ventilation
• Improper number of fasteners

Recommendations

• Check location and number of fasteners
• Added roof ventilation can often correct

Causes

• Moisture in the shingle

Recommendations

• If the blisters break open revealing the asphalt, the affected shingles should be replaced.
• Consult with the manufacturer of the shingles.

Causes

• Improper fastening
• Exposure to high winds

Recommendations
Replace shingles which have completely blown off. For shingles with tabs blowing up and down, hand seal the shingles with an asphalt plastic cement, commonly referred to as flashing cement. This roofing cement must comply with ASTM D4586 — Type I or Type II which is the standard specifically for asbestos-free asphalt plastic roof cement. (Some products meeting this standard may involve hazardous materials. This bulletin does not purport to address all of the safety and health problems associated with the use of materials meeting this specification. It is the responsibility of the user to observe the safety and health practices as determined by the manufacturer of the product and stated on the label, instructions and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

To hand seal, lift each tab of a 3-tab shingle and apply two spots of the cement under each tab. Each spot should be approximately the size of a quarter and placed 1″ to 2″ from each end of the tab and near the bottom. Laminated shingles require 4 spots of cement per shingle. After application, press the tab down firmly to start the bond. Be careful not to apply the cement too close to the bottom of the tab. This causes the cement to squeeze out when the tab is pressed down.

Causes
Spots are caused by leaks in the roof.

Recommendations

• Check attic for leaks in deck.
• Check chimney and vents for cracks in flashing.
• Check rafters for leaks that “travel” away from original source.
• Check eaves for water backing up from ice dams.
• Check roof for damaged shingles.

Causes
Rotting is caused by absorption of moisture by the mat at the core of the shingle. This is a common problem with organic-based shingles.

Recommendations
Replace with Owens Corning Fiberglas® mat shingles.

Causes
Normally a certain number of granules will be loose, especially after application. These granules are called “riders” and are a normal result of the manufacturing process. Granule loss does not affect the service life of the shingles unless granules can be seen missing on the surface of the shingles, thus exposing the asphalt or Fiberglas® mat.

Recommendations
On aging shingles, missing granules indicate a need for replacement.

Even the most beautiful and high-performance roof shingles can fail without the proper accessories. Owens Corning Roofing offers an array of ventilation, waterproofing and other accessories that complement the high quality of our shingles – while helping to ensure a long, healthy life for your new roof.

Rapid Flow Gutter Drainage Protection

New RapidFlow® Gutter Drainage Protection keeps leaves, twigs and other debris from clogging your gutters, while allowing water to flow freely.

• Clog-free – unique profile and open-celled design promote water flow with no stagnation; product is backed by a five-year “clog-free” warranty.*
• Stays in place – fits snugly inside the gutter even during extreme weather conditions and withstands winds up to 110 MPH.
• Protects the roof – allows for improved water runoff as part of a healthy roofing system. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice damming, which can damage shingles and the roof deck.
• Reduces maintenance. Increases Safety. Once installed, it’s virtually maintenance-free, and cleaning trips up and down the ladder are few and far between.

Proper ventilation ensures a healthier, more durable roof

Typical household activities can wreak havoc on a roof and attic if proper roof ventilation is not provided:

• In the summer, heat build-up encourages the premature aging and cracking of wood and other roofing materials. Unwanted heat also can transfer back down into living areas – which reduces energy efficiency.
• In cold weather, warm air generated by laundry, showers, dish washing and cooking can linger in the house and cause moisture build-up.

The only way to combat these problems is with a balanced Top of the House® roofing system. That means it’s important to have proper ventilation, plus the appropriate amount of attic insulation to maximize performance.

In a balanced system, wind blowing over the ridge creates negative pressure that draws the warmer air out of the attic. Replacement air then enters through the undereave or soffit vents, bathes the underside of the roof, and exits at the ridge cap through ridge, roof or gable vents. Even without wind, the natural convection action of rising warm air maintains a continuous air flow along the underside of the roof.

Ultimately, proper ventilation — along with attic insulation — helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside a home, increase energy efficiency, prevent moisture damage and contribute to the longevity of a roof.

Roof Ventilation Benefits

Allows outside air to flow naturally upward and out of attic.

• Promotes a cooler, drier attic.
• Helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped in insulation, structural wood, shingles and roof deck.
• Helps prevent rotting, mildew, drywall damage, peeling paint and warped siding.
• Provides year-round performance for consistent ventilation without energy consumption.

Ventilation is an important component of Owens Corning’s Complete Roofing System. These Owens Corning ventilation products will help prevent damage and premature aging caused by moisture in the winter and excess heat in the summer.

WeatherLock Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products

Your roofing system must include protection from wind-driven rain. This is accomplished by installing Ice & Water Barrier directly beneath the shingles. Owens Corning offers WeatherLock® Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products and our new Fiberglas™ Reinforced Felt Underlayment product. All are designed for both new construction and reroofing projects.

Also use WeatherLock® Self-Sealing Ice & Water Barrier Products on areas of the roof where water has a tendency to collect or flow. These areas include valleys, vents, chimneys and skylights. It’s important to prevent water collection on a roof because that can cause an ice dam to form. This ridge of ice causes water to back up and sit on a roof, instead of properly draining off. This water can work its way under the roof covering and flow into the attic—and cause water damage to a home’s interior. To find out more about Ice & Water Barrier Products, click here.

Since 1977, Owens Corning has been a leading manufacturer of shingles and accessories for the residential roofing market. Though best known for ourPINK® Fiberglas insulation, Owens Corning is also a leader in the roofing market. In fact, according to a Hanley-Wood Publishing survey of 3,400 builders, Owens Corning Roofing products were voted “the most recognizable brand in the market.” Since Owens Corning invented glass fiber during the 1970s, it has become the material standard for shingles, and is used by most shingle manufacturers. The fiberglass composition of roof shingles plays an important role in protecting homes from moisture and other weather-related elements. We take great pride in our roofing shingles and accessories and we believe that we have a great deal of responsibility to homeowners. That’s why we make sure every Owens Corning shingle meets your high expectations. Every shingle we make combines consistent quality with long-lasting beauty and maximum protection. Performance is at the heart of every Owens Corning roofing product.

• Every Owens Corning shingle line features:
• Fiberglas® mat that adds weather protection, greater fire resistance and longer life.
• Weathering-grade asphalt that holds the granules on the shingle and protects the roof from water.
• Colorful mineral granules that help reflect the sun’s rays while adding beauty and style to the roof.
• Heat-activated adhesive strip that bonds shingles into a single, watertight unit.
• Class A Fire Rating, the highest available for residential applications.
• Wind Resistance Rating for winds and gusts up to 110 mph depending on the shingle style selected.
• Limited product warranties ranging from 20 to 50 years, depending on shingle style.

Proper ventilation ensures a healthier, more durable roof

Typical household activities can wreak havoc on a roof and attic if proper roof ventilation is not provided:

• In the summer, heat build-up encourages the premature aging and cracking of wood and other roofing materials. Unwanted heat also can transfer back down into living areas – which reduces energy efficiency.
• In cold weather, warm air generated by laundry, showers, dish washing and cooking can linger in the house and cause moisture build-up.

The only way to combat these problems is with a balanced Top of the House® roofing system. That means it’s important to have proper ventilation, plus the appropriate amount of attic insulation to maximize performance.

In a balanced system, wind blowing over the ridge creates negative pressure that draws the warmer air out of the attic. Replacement air then enters through the undereave or soffit vents, bathes the underside of the roof, and exits at the ridge cap through ridge, roof or gable vents. Even without wind, the natural convection action of rising warm air maintains a continuous air flow along the underside of the roof.

Ultimately, proper ventilation — along with attic insulation — helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside a home, increase energy efficiency, prevent moisture damage and contribute to the longevity of a roof.

Roof Ventilation Benefits

• Allows outside air to flow naturally upward and out of attic.
• Promotes a cooler, drier attic.
• Helps prevent moisture from becoming trapped in insulation, structural wood, shingles and roof deck.
• Helps prevent rotting, mildew, drywall damage, peeling paint and warped siding.
• Provides year-round performance for consistent ventilation without energy consumption.

Ventilation is an important component of Owens Corning’s Complete Roofing System. These Owens Corning ventilation products will help prevent damage and premature aging caused by moisture in the winter and excess heat in the summer.

Cape

Colonial

Contemporary

Traditional

Installation & Project Management – Even the most beautiful energy efficient roof is only as good as the process used to install it. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, it must be installed correctly. Alure has a dedicated production supervisor assigned to every project for its entire duration, and our dedicated installation teams are familiar with all the latest, up to date products, installation techniques and town codes. We handle everything from design, permits, to installation, to service and everything in between. Our roofing mechanics are specialists in installing all types of roofing. That’s all they do, all year round. For your convenience, you’ll have the ability to reach out anytime during your project, 7 days a week, including access to our 24 hour emergency hotline should a situation arise on your project.

One responsible party – We handle everything from design, permits, installation, to service and everything in between.

Safety – Make sure the contractor is fully insured, licensed, certified, and follows proper safety procedures before, during and after project to ensure the safety of you and your family. Make sure they are up to date on today’s important EPA and OSHEA safety codes.

Service & Warranty – Alure has a dedicated Service dept available 24/7 in case of an emergency, offers a 10 year workmanship warranty, and we stand behind everything we do. And the backing and support of the highest quality manufacturers, means peace of mind for you. We stand behind and service all manufacturer warranties, which range from 30-50 years!! Access to our 24 hours emergency hotline should a situation arise on you project. The backing and support of the highest quality manufacturers, means peace of mind for you.

White Glove Customer Service – We ensure your property is kept clean and neat throughout your project. Once your project is completed it will be almost as if we weren’t even there, except for the beautiful new look!

Curb Appeal – Selecting the right colors and styles for your home – With our state-of-the-art Design Imaging Software, you’ll get to explore and visualize many options on our 50 inch plasma screen and see how they will look on your home BEFORE making a decision. You’ll get to view several different options of color, styles and products to make sure you are comfortable BEFORE we begin any work.

Do I need to replace my gutters and leaders? If you gutters are in good condition, they may not need to be replaced. We’ll inspect them during your free design consultation and advise you accordingly.

An experienced Alure Exteriors Specialist can help you with all of the above questions and information and help you design your homes new curb appeal. Alure’s designer will show you prior projects we’ve done, and help you explore all your options to suit your family’s needs and preferences. We handle everything from design, permits, to installation, to service and everything in between.

Start visualizing your project with our design imaging visualizer. Get started today with a free, no obligation design consultation or call 877-44-ALURE – (877-442-5873).

ROOFING FAQ

Q: What should I look for when selecting a roofing contractor?
A: Since the roof you install is only as good as the contractor who installs it, choosing a qualified roofing contractor is essential to having a healthy roof that lasts a long time. Skilled workers will determine the outcome of a roof replacement project. The best contractors have many years of experience in installing multiple kinds of roofing systems.

Q: How much roof maintenance is needed after installation?
A: Since all roofing types and materials need different amounts of maintenance, there is no simple answer. Routine maintenance can be anything from keeping your drains and gutters clean to extensive work. Maintaining your roof is your responsibility, so whichever material you choose; make sure that you will be able to fulfill its maintenance needs. For instance, asphalt shingles and wood shakes and shingles need to be maintained by routinely cleaning out gutters and trimming back tree branches. Replacing damaged shingles and keeping moss or algae off of the roof are ways to ensure longevity.

Q: How much does a new roof cost?
A: This question also has no simple answer since replacing a roof varies on the materials, type of home, what’s being removed, and much more.

Q: How should I prepare for the installation of my new roof?
A: There are a few things you should do before the installation process begins. Since hammering can cause vibrations inside your home, take loose items off of your walls and shelves. You should also make sure your driveway and surrounding area is clear so the workers have space to move materials directly to your roof. It is a good idea to park on the side of the road instead of your driveway. Make sure you can provide electrical power outside. In any case, contact the installers if you have any questions.

Q: How long will my roof last?
A: Roofing, like any other material, is likely to deteriorate with time. A new roof can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years, although 20 years is the average. You can lengthen the life of your roof by choosing the right contractor for the original installation and keeping up with any maintenance requirements. Even if you follow these recommendations, there are factors you can’t control such as weather elements.

Q: When is the best time of year to install a roof?
A: The best condition for installing a roof is when the temperature is above freezing and there is minimal chance of snow and rain. Since you cannot predict bad weather, always know that installation delays may occur.

Q: How do I know when my current roof needs to be replaced?
A: Different roofs deteriorate at different rates. If you see any of the following signs, it is time to consider replacing your roof:

• Leaks in numerous places
• Continuous leaks, even with repairs
• Problems return soon after repairs
• Repairs do not fix the problem

Q: Do I need to replace my gutters and leaders?
A: If you gutters are in good condition, they may not need to be replaced. We’ll inspect them during your free design consultation and advise you accordingly.