Author: Janice Hart

How to Pay for Roofing Replacement

Janice Hart Roofing , , , ,
roofing

roofingIf the damage was caused by an unexpected event, you can pay for a roof replacement with your homeowner’s insurance. You can also take out a personal loan to cover the cost of the work.

It’s not a good idea to put new shingles over existing ones. This will create bumps, waves and other irregularities that can look bad. Visit the Roofing Replacement Collegeville PA to know more.

Aesthetics

Roofing is not always the most glamorous home improvement project, but it plays an important role in the overall aesthetics of a house. A roof’s style, color, and texture contribute to its curb appeal, complementing or enhancing the architectural style of the structure. It also provides protection from weather conditions and other environmental factors that can damage a building.

During the course of a re-roofing project, homeowners may decide to install new sections of shingles for aesthetic reasons. This can lead to a lumpy or uneven appearance. It can also be difficult for the second layer of shingles to lay flat over the more contoured look of the first. It is best to run the new shingles to a ridge or valley to hide the comparison of old and new.

Aesthetics tend to be a secondary concern for many homeowners when replacing their roof, but it should not be neglected. A beautiful roof not only protects a building from the elements, but it can also boost its curb appeal and add to the value of a property.

Durability

Roofing replacement offers a long lifespan for your home. If you are looking for a durable option, consider premium asphalt shingles. They typically last 30 years and come with a warranty. Clay tiles are another durable choice, as they can last for 50 years or more. Other roofing options include built-up, which is rolled on in layers, and modified bitumen, which is similar to built-up but lighter and offers a lifetime warranty. When choosing a new roof, be sure to prune trees back from the house and move outdoor objects that could get hit by debris during re-roofing.

Energy efficiency

Re-roofing is a common way to improve the functionality and aesthetics of a home’s roof without having to replace it entirely. Re-roofing adds a layer of protection over the existing shingles and can extend the lifespan of the roofing materials. Additionally, re-roofing can help reduce energy costs by increasing the insulation value of the roof. However, re-roofing can also add to the cost of a home remodel. This is because most building codes only allow two layers of roofing, and removing the existing roof can cost more than replacing it with new materials.

Before beginning a re-roofing project, homeowners should cut back any trees that are encroaching on the roof and move any outdoor objects. This will prevent the items from falling onto the roof during construction and potentially breaking. It is also a good idea to clear the attic of any objects that could fall through gaps in the ceiling. This will prevent expensive pictures from being damaged by vibrations and debris during re-roofing.

During a re-roofing job, the experts will usually inspect and bring the attic’s insulation up to code. This is one of the most important factors that translates into energy savings. Poor insulation allows heat to escape the house during the summer and can lead to astronomical air conditioning bills. In addition, some states offer tax rebates to homeowners who increase the insulation value of their homes. In addition to adding new insulation, the professionals will also install intake vents and exhaust vents. These will promote a natural process in which cool air enters the attic and rises to the ridge, where it exits through the exhaust vents. This helps to keep the house cooler in the summer and prevents mold and rot.

Cost

When the roof on a home is damaged, it may be time to consider re-roofing. A new roof will protect the house from moisture damage and improve its energy efficiency, and it can also add value to the property. However, there are many factors that can affect the cost of a roofing replacement. Some are outside the homeowner’s control, while others can be controlled by their choice of roofing materials. These factors include the type of roofing material chosen, the roof’s pitch (the steepness of the slope), and the roofing contractor.

The first factor that impacts the cost of a new roof is the type of shingles used. Basic, three-tab asphalt shingles are the least expensive and last for about 20 years. However, they can be subject to wind damage and are not designed to withstand winds above 90 MPH. For this reason, some local municipalities require homeowners to re-roof their homes with a stronger roof material.

Another factor that impacts the cost of a new roofing system is the size of the building. A larger roof requires more shingles and more labor to install them. In addition, a larger roof may require more ventilation and may be subject to more leaks. In this case, a roofing contractor will need to install extra vents and ridge caps, which increase the overall cost of the roof.

A third factor that can impact the cost of a new roof is the location of the home. Some areas experience harsh weather conditions that require roofing materials that can withstand high temperatures and extreme rains. For this reason, homeowners in these regions will typically pay more for a roof than those in less-extreme locations.

Homeowners can reduce the costs of a roof by choosing cheaper materials, such as slate, tile, or wood shakes. These materials can add value to the home, and they often have a more distinctive appearance than traditional asphalt shingles. However, they can be more expensive to install, and they may need modification to the building frame to support the weight of these materials.

In addition to their durability, asphalt shingles are also known for their low maintenance and long lifespan. However, the longevity of your asphalt shingle roof will be dependent on your region’s weather and its ability to resist extreme temperatures, winds, fire and ice.

Metal roofing panels are available in a wide variety of styles and colors that complement many architectural aesthetics. They are a popular choice for homes in coastal environments and are durable enough to withstand the heavy winds associated with hurricanes and typhoons. Additionally, they are often more affordable than other roofing materials and can increase the resale value of your home.

The lightweight design of metal roofs makes them easier to handle during installation. This reduces labor costs and overall project completion time. Unlike other roofing types, metal roofs are non-combustible, which is an important safety feature for properties located in fire-prone areas.

Although metal roofs offer a number of benefits, they have some drawbacks that homeowners should be aware of. Some of these include expansion and contraction, exposed fasteners and varying lifespans of the neoprene washers and screws used in their construction. These fasteners are designed to withstand the elements, but they may degrade over time. They can also be difficult to replace if they become dislodged.

Another issue with metal is the potential for thermal expansion and contraction. When hot weather hits, the metal expands and this can put stress on seams, panels, and other components of a roof system. Conversely, when the weather cools down and the metal shrinks, gaps can develop and create stress on the roof structure.

When exposed to the elements, aluminum has a shorter life expectancy than other metal roofing materials. While it is durable and easy to install, aluminum does not have as many color options and tends to be less attractive in appearance than other metal roofs.

A metal roof can reflect up to 50 percent of the sun’s heat, which lowers your energy bills during peak summer temperatures. However, it is important to keep in mind that dark-colored metal roofs tend to absorb more heat than lighter-colored varieties. As a result, darker metal roofs are typically more expensive than their lighter-colored counterparts. A new heat-reflective coating can improve the durability of your roof and help to offset these additional costs.

 

 

Why Drain Cleaning Is Best Not to Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Janice Hart Plumbing , , , ,
Drain Cleaning

If you want to prevent clogged drains and keep your home plumbing system healthy, it’s best not to use chemical cleaners. Instead, opt for drain snaking or more natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar.Drain Cleaning

Most drain clogs occur when organic debris such as hair, skin cells, soap scum, and other particles accumulate inside your pipes. A good plunger may break up some loose clogs, but bigger ones need professional help.

Drains become blocked with debris over time, which can reduce the flow of water. Taking steps to avoid this issue can save you the cost and hassle of dealing with difficult plumbing problems. A combination of regular maintenance, the use of mesh drain covers, and simple preventive habits can keep your drains free of clogs.

Food waste is one of the main contributors to drain clogs. Grease, coffee grounds, and starchy foods can build up in pipes and restrict their movement over time. Hair is another common culprit. It can also clump together and form hard-to-remove clogs. A clogged sink or toilet is a big inconvenience for everyone in the home and can even be hazardous to your health. Recognizing the early signs of a slow-draining pipe (gurgling sounds, water backup) can help you call for professional drain cleaning before the problem worsens.

Some homeowners opt for environmentally friendly chemical drain cleaners to clear clogs. These solutions usually work well, but some can be messy to apply. Additionally, many of these products aren’t safe to be around children or pets and can be dangerous if ingested.

A better option is to use a power auger. This tool uses a motor with small, sharp metal blades to cut through and clean the drain line. It is attached to a long cable that plumbers feed down the drain pipe. The plumber can control the blades’ motion and direction while cutting or clearing out the clog.

A professional plumber can also perform this procedure with a snake, which is similar to the power auger but more powerful. It features a larger-diameter cable with aggressive tips for breaking up or hooking the clog for removal.

Prevents sewer smells

Sewer smells can signal a lot of different issues, from a minor problem like biofilm accumulation to something serious like a clogged drain or a sewer gas leak. If you notice a foul sewage smell, use some sleuthing skills to find the source and fix it before it gets worse.

The simplest way to prevent stinky drains is to flush them monthly with hot water and baking soda. This removes the lingering food particles that create obnoxious odors and keeps them from building up in your pipes.

Baking soda can also deodorize sinks and tubs by neutralizing the obnoxious smells of organic matter buildup and soap scum. When combined with boiling water, it also loosens up stuck-on grime to keep your pipes clean and fresh-smelling for longer.

If the smell is coming from a sink that doesn’t get used much, it may be due to an empty P-trap. This curved part of the plumbing system holds water to form an airtight seal that prevents obnoxious sewer and septic smells from wafting into the house. If you have an empty trap, run water for a few seconds to fill it.

A rotting waste pipe can also cause a strong, pungent smell that lingers throughout the home. This problem is typically caused by a combination of factors, including a dirty garbage disposal and infrequent drain cleanings. If the smell is overwhelming, replace the rotting pipe section and hire a professional plumber to help.

While it might be tempting to use a store-bought chemical drain cleaner, this can be harmful to your pipes. The majority of these chemicals are corrosive and can chew through plastic pipes. A better choice is to call a professional, such as Frank Gay Services. We’ll use the best tools and methods to ensure your drains are cleaned thoroughly and free of clogs and obnoxious smells.

Prevents Corrosion

Some chemical drain cleaners may be more efficient than others at clearing clogs, but all of them come with the potential for damage to pipes and other parts of your plumbing system. These cleaners work by creating a chemical reaction with grease and other organic material that can break it down or melt it away. This process can cause pipe corrosion, especially if the chemicals come into contact with metal pipes.

Corrosion in your piping can lead to many problems, including leaking and broken pipes. In some cases, it can even result in severe drainage issues that can decrease your property value. Drain cleaning helps prevent corrosive buildup by removing the blockage before it has a chance to affect your piping.

Blocked drains also create the ideal environment for pest infestations, such as cockroaches and flies. They provide a food source and breeding ground for these unwanted guests, which can be difficult to remove without professional help. Regular drain cleaning can help keep your home pest-free by removing the organic matter that attracts these insects.

While most modern homes use plastic piping, older properties are still reliant on metal drainpipes. Corrosion is a common issue for older pipes, and it can have a big impact on the overall health of your drainage system. Regular drain cleaning helps reduce the risk of corrosion and extend the life of your piping.

Whether you’re interested in selling your house in the future or simply want to ensure that it’s well-maintained, scheduling regular drain cleaning can make a big difference. Not only does a clean, functional plumbing system increase your home’s value, but it can also save you money by preventing costly repairs and issues.

Prevents health issues

Depending on the drain cleaner you choose, some contain corrosive and caustic chemicals that can damage your pipes and cause serious health issues. Many of these chemicals are also hazardous to touch or inhale. Having your drains regularly cleaned by a professional prevents these issues.

Enzymatic drain cleaners, for example, use bacteria and enzymes to break down food clogs. These cleaners are safer for the environment and your plumbing system. Non-enzymatic chemical drain cleaners are often acidic or alkaline, and they contain sulfuric or hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide (sometimes called caustic soda), and other chemicals. These cleaners generate heat when mixed with water, which melts grease and other drain-blocking substances.

If these chemicals are spilled on the skin or inhaled, they can burn the lungs and other parts of the body. They can also be very dangerous if children get them in their eyes. There are a number of safety precautions that must be taken when using these products, including wearing gloves and eye protection, keeping them away from children and pets, and disposing of used cleaners properly.

Some people prefer environmentally friendly, biodegradable drain cleaners. These are less effective than their chemical counterparts, but they are safer for the environment and your septic system. However, they can still cause damage to your pipes if they are not fully degreased.

Prevents Damage

There’s a reason the old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” applies to your home’s plumbing. Taking the time to perform preventive drain cleaning can help you save money and prevent major problems.

Many homeowners reach for a bottle of chemical drain cleaner when they suspect a blockage, but these harsh products aren’t good for your pipes. They can actually damage your pipe walls, causing them to crack or corrode over time. A professional drain cleaner uses more natural, environmentally friendly products that are better for your pipes and the environment.

Regular drain cleaning removes built-up hair, soap scum, food particles, and grease, helping to keep your drains and pipes flowing smoothly. You’ll also get rid of bad smells caused by trapped waste that can seep through and into the house.

Clogged sinks and toilets lead to overflowing water that can damage floors, splash onto walls, and pool around cabinets. Water can even eat through plaster and wallpaper. Professional drain cleaning eliminates clogged drains and prevents overflowing, so you can avoid expensive repairs.

Vinegar and baking soda are popular DIY drain cleaners, but these household items don’t really clean your pipes. They’re not strong enough to dissolve most types of clogs, and they don’t break down all types of gunk. They can, however, help clear minor clogs and unblock slow-draining sinks and tubs.

Acidic drain cleaners are another type of harsh product that can do a lot of damage to your pipes and plumbing system. These cleaners are often sold to plumbing wholesalers and professional plumbers who understand the hazards they pose and know how to use them safely.