Homeowners

Does Your Roof Have Wind Damage?

Posted on by kangaroofing

Water/wind Damaged Roof

Hearing a bad windstorm can be a scary experience. The windows shake and the whole house feels like it might take off from the ground. After the storm, it is essential to inspect the roof for possible damage. There are different ways that wind can damage a roof, and here are some of the warning signs.

Warning Signs of Damage

Fallen Trees and Branches

After a windstorm, you may see a lot of tree branches on the ground around your home. These branches could have struck your roof before falling off, puncturing the shingles, and roofing membrane.

[…]

Is Vinyl Siding Energy-Efficient?

Posted on by kangaroofing

Energy efficient vinyl siding

The exterior of your home is the first line of protection against harsh outdoor elements. It wards off rain, intense winds, hail, ice, and snow. Many exterior materials are also designed to enhance your home’s energy efficiency by keeping conditioned air indoors and extreme hot and cold temperatures outdoors.

When examining the several types of exterior materials on the market, such as vinyl, wood, brick, and stucco, many homeowners are unsure about just how energy-efficient vinyl siding is for their homes.

[…]

Expected Lifespan of a Variety of Siding Materials

Posted on by kangaroofing

Vinyl siding on a home

If you’re thinking of replacing the siding on your home, you might wonder how long you can expect it to last. Learn the typical lifespan of siding materials, plus ways to maintain them in this post.

Vinyl

On average, vinyl siding lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 years. This siding may fade or crack over time, so expect to put in maintenance if this is what you choose.

Fiber Cement

Fiber cement siding generally comes with a 30-year warranty. However, if you keep up with maintenance, that siding might last for 50 years or more.
[…]

Three Chimney Basics Every Homeowner Should Know

Posted on by kangaroofing

Chimney with fall leaves covering it

Fall is almost here! As the days turn cooler, you may be thinking of starting up your fireplace. Take a minute to review these three chimney basics to avoid a safety issue this fall or winter.

1. Check the flue liner and chimney cap

The chimney flue liner and chimney cap should be checked annually and repaired if necessary.

If the flue liner is damaged, the chimney can actually become damaged from the heat created by fire. This could weaken the structure and lead to more problems down the road, so it’s best to quickly repair and flue liner issues.

[…]

What to Consider Before Installing New Skylights

Posted on by kangaroofing

Skylight on white ceiling

Skylights are a good tool to brighten up a dark home, but they are not right for everyone. As you consider installing a new skylight, there are some important considerations to think through before taking the plunge.

Heat Gain: Skylight Slope and Material

Slope refers to the angle of your roof. Slope can affect heat gain, making your house hot in the summer months and driving up your energy bills. To avoid unwanted heat gain, place skylights on a slope that is 5 to 15 degrees above your current latitude.

[…]

Ways to Stay Safe on Your Roof Top

Posted on by kangaroofing

Roof Repair Worker

A fall off the roof can be very dangerous. Learn the best ways to stay safe when it comes to roof work.

Know the Dangers

Weather

Professional roofers are aware of the dangers they could encounter. They may delay or avoid roof work in certain conditions. A roof that is slippery from rain or ice should not be worked on, as there is significant falls danger.

Likewise, intense heat can pose a danger. While roof work is possible in the summer months, it is important to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade.

Ladder

If you access the roof by a ladder, make sure it is secured. An unsecured ladder could shift or topple, causing a fall from the roof. […]

How to Maintain Your Skylights

Posted on by kangaroofing

Skylight in a home

Skylights increase the amount of natural light that floods into your home, which can boost your mood. The right maintenance can keep your skylights looking as good as new to capture every ray of light.

Skylight Frame

Most skylights have a wooden frame that is either natural wood or pre-painted. Either finish may be safely cleaned using a regular household cleaner. Dust and clean the frame whenever you complete other household chores. Every four to five years, treat the wood by removing the existing paint or varnish and applying a fresh coat.

[…]

Five Home Maintenance Tasks to Leave to the Professionals

Posted on by kangaroofing

Abstract home with tools surrounding it

Do-it-yourself or DIY home maintenance tasks can save you money, but not every chore is appropriate for homeowners. Here are five tasks that should be left to the professionals if possible.

1. Duct Cleaning

Professionals usually recommend tackling this home task every three to five years. While you can theoretically clean ducts, you’ll need to rent a duct cleaner. However, a better bet is to call a technician who can bring the right equipment for the job.

[…]

Top Roof Inspection Practices After a Storm

Posted on by kangaroofing

Storm approaching a home

Summer storms can be intense. Read on for tips on what to look for when checking your roof after a storm.

Look for debris that’s fallen on your roof.

Did the storm bring down trees or branches? Look at the roof from ground level to see whether there are any branches or limbs on the roof. If these puncture holes in your shingles, water can penetrate your roofing system.

[…]