The 3 Most Common Problem Areas of a Roof

Your roofing system is the ultimate protection for your home. Unfortunately, you will experience issues with the various components from time to time. Rollins & Associates, Inc. is here to help you with all of your roofing needs! From remodeling and gutters to chimney repair in Baltimore, our team is fully equipped to handle any job you call us for.

Below are three of the most common problem areas of any roofing system.

  1. The Gutters
    Gutters are designed to help keep water away from the interior and your foundation to protect the structure. It is essential to keep your gutters cleaned often to avoid a buildup of debris. Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog your gutters, preventing water from properly draining out and away from your home.
  2. The Shingles
    Shingled roofs are great for protection, but they can become discolored, curl, or dislodge over time. To preserve the integrity of your roof, and the interior of your home, you want to ensure your shingles are maintained as needed.
  3. The Chimney
    If you have a fireplace in your home, the chimney is an essential component of your roofing system. You want to make sure it is regularly repaired and cleaned to avoid fires and other hazards from developing on your property.

Why Your Chimney Needs To be Cleaned Regularly

Nothing makes a home feel cozy and inviting like a wood-burning fireplace. However, a poorly maintained chimney can lead to a variety of issues, from a sooty home to chimney fires. Regularly cleaning your chimney can drastically reduce your chances of such an occurrence, and it is essential to hire the professionals to get the job done right.

Wood fires do not burn clean, as the material releases a variety of contaminants that stick inside of the chimney. Creosote will begin to form on the interior and will continue to remain and build up until physically removed. Organic flammable debris can also fall into the chimney due to weather conditions or small animals up on your roof.

How Do Chimney Fires Start?

The first sign of a chimney fire will be loud snaps and pops, like gunshots, which progress into a deep rumbling. Flaming creosote particles will then fall into the firebox. Flames will burst out of the chimney and back down into the firebox, often causing the flue to crack. The homeowner can not control these fires, and the house will suffer flood damage due to firefighters shooting water down into the chimney from the top.

To avoid this scary scenario, contact the professionals at Rollins & Associates, Inc. We offer a variety of chimney-related services, such as cleaning and chimney repair in Baltimore and the surrounding communities.

4 Most Common Problem Areas of your Roof

Your roof can suffer from a variety of different issues. By understanding the four most common problems your roof will experience, you will be able to assess your roof when you think something is wrong quickly. When in doubt, you can always contact our roofing contractors in Baltimore, MD.

Below are the four most common problem areas of your roofing system.

  1. The Fascia
    Fascia is the architectural term for the trim around your roof line. Its primary function is to protect your roof by creating a layer between the edge of the roof and the elements. It also protects the interior of your home from weather damage. Moisture is the number one cause of fascia-related issues so check for signs of rotting or damage.
  2. The Soffit
    The surface below the fascia and rafters is called the soffit. The soffit is commonly vented to help draw heat and moisture away from the home. Cracks, holes, and rot around your attic are signs that there may be an issue with the soffit.
  3. The Flashing
    Flashing is used to seal the edges, perimeters, walls, valleys, and drains of your roofing system. Flashing helps to seal any voids due to obstructions in the roof to help prevent water and small animals from entering. Weather and oxidization are common causes of deteriorating flashing on a roof.
  4. The Gutters
    Your gutters are designed to keep water away from the foundation. Keeping your gutters clear of debris can help ensure they remain functional all season long. Many common gutter issues can be easily repaired, however, if you are unable to determine a cause, contact the experts at Rollins & Associates, Inc.

How to Replace a Broken Slate Tile

Very few roofing materials can match the beauty and durability of a slate roof. As one of the most durable types of roofs you can install onto your home, it can last up to 100 years if maintained correctly. One thing you want to ensure you do on a regular basis is to inspect the roof and have it repaired when necessary.

Replacing a broken slate tile can be relatively simple if you have the correct tools. You want to ensure you have a hammer, flat pry bar, slate ripper, slate cutter, caulk gun, chicken ladder, and tin snips on hand to complete the repair. You will also need replacement slates, copper roofing nails, sheet copper, and polyurethane caulk or asphalt mastic.

You will then begin to remove the damaged tile with the slate ripping tool. Once the area is cleared and prepped for the new tile, you want to ensure it is matched to the exact size you will need. When you are installing the plate, you want to make sure the nails are not too tight, as that can cause damage to the new tile.

If you notice a broken slate tile, you will want to contact Rollins & Associates, Inc. for the best slate roof repair in Baltimore. Our team will be able to assess your roof and effectively repair any damage that may have been done to your roof.

Welcome to Our Blog

For over fifteen years, Rollins & Associates, Inc. has been delivering the leading standard of service to homes throughout the Baltimore area. Our team is fully equipped for anything, from roof repairs and gutters to home remodeling and chimneys.

Our contractors provide a full range of repair, renovation, and home improvement services for homeowners. Though our primary focus is copper flashing, copper gutters, and slate roof repair in Baltimore, we also provide roof replacements, chimney services, and more. If you have a historic home in need of repairs or renovation, Rollins & Associates, Inc. is the company to call!

Many customers have put their trust in our experience, and we have provided beautiful results in return. When you look to our company, you can rest assured that the job is in experienced hands. We will treat you and your property with the utmost respect and will not quit until you are 100% satisfied with the results.

Reach out to our company today for a free estimate on your desired service. You can reach us at (443) 807-3093, or use the email form on our contact page. We look forward to working with you on your next home repair or renovation project!