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Best Practices for Shingle Roof Cleaning: Safe and Effective Methods

November 21, 2024/in Info Article, Roofing/by Audrey Heaberlin

Need to clean your shingle roof? Proper shingle roof cleaning helps prevent damage from algae and moss, keeping your roof in good shape for longer. This guide will show you how to prepare safely, choose the right cleaners, follow the right steps, and prevent future growth.

Key Takeaways

Prepare thoroughly by assessing methods, cleaning gutters, and protecting vegetation before starting the roof cleaning process.
Use appropriate cleaning solutions, such as chemical cleaners or eco-friendly alternatives, ensuring to follow safety precautions to protect yourself and the environment.
Regular maintenance, including inspections and trimming overhanging branches, is key to preventing future algae and moss growth and prolonging the life of asphalt shingles.

Preparing for Shingle Roof Cleaning

Preparation is the cornerstone of any successful roof cleaning project. Before starting the cleaning process, assess the cleaning method, gather necessary tools, ensure safety, and protect your surroundings. These steps help clean your asphalt shingle roof efficiently while minimizing damage.

One of the first steps in preparation is to clean out the gutters. This helps prevent water overflow during the cleaning process, which can lead to additional issues. Removing standing water and larger debris from the roof is also crucial. Perform these tasks on a cloudy day to minimize risks from sunlight and heat. Avoid windy days and precipitation, as these can make the cleaning process hazardous.

Protecting your landscape is equally important. Chemicals used in roof cleaning can cause extensive damage to surrounding plants and harm the environment through runoff. Protecting landscaping and ensuring safety before roof cleaning can prevent these issues.

Safety Precautions

Safety should always come first when cleaning your roof. Wearing a safety harness and other precautions can prevent falls while working on the roof. Safety goggles and durable clothing help protect against debris and minimize injury risks.

Appropriate safety gear minimizes risks during roof cleaning.

Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies

Gathering the necessary tools and supplies is the next step. For cleaning asphalt shingles, you’ll need a ladder, garden hose, cleaning bucket, and protective gear like safety goggles. Common chemicals like sodium hypochlorite found in roof cleaning products are effective for removing tough stains from clean asphalt shingles and roof shingles on an asphalt roof to clean roof shingles.

The right tools and roof cleaning solution ensure a safe and effective roof cleaning process.

Protect Surrounding Vegetation

Cover plants with plastic sheeting or wet them down with water to protect surrounding vegetation. This prevents damage from the cleaning chemicals, which can harm the environment through runoff.

Clearing the roof of leaves and branches before applying cleaning solutions prevents further damage.

Effective Cleaning Solutions for Asphalt Shingles

Selecting the right cleaning solution is crucial for effectively cleaning asphalt shingles. Chemical cleaners, mild detergents, and water can be used depending on the extent of dirt and stains. Each method has advantages and risks, so choose the one that best suits your roof’s needs.

Chemical cleaners are commonly used due to their effectiveness in removing persistent algae and stains. However, they come with potential risks, such as damaging the shingles or harming surrounding vegetation if not used properly. On the other hand, eco-friendly alternatives like vinegar offer a safer and environmentally friendly option.

Commercial roof cleaners are another popular choice. These products are specifically formulated to tackle the challenges posed by algae and stubborn stains on roofs. They enhance the cleaning process and prolong the lifespan of the roof compared to standard cleaning solutions.

Using Bleach Solution

Bleach solutions, particularly those containing Sodium Hypochlorite, are highly effective in cleaning roofs. The recommended dilution ratio for pool shock when cleaning roofs is 1 cup of pool shock per gallon of water. Apply this solution with a garden sprayer and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes to significantly reduce algae and moss.

However, bleach should be used with caution. While it is effective, it can also damage plants and the shingles if not used properly. Rinse surrounding vegetation thoroughly after using bleach solutions.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Eco-friendly alternatives, such as vinegar, provide a non-toxic option for cleaning asphalt shingles. Mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water creates an effective solution for removing algae and moss. This method reduces environmental impact and ensures a safer cleaning process for surrounding vegetation.

Commercial Roof Cleaners

Commercial roof cleaners often contain a blend of Sodium Hypochlorite, effectively eliminating persistent algae and stains. These professional-grade products are formulated to tackle tough stains and prolong the roof’s lifespan.

These products enhance the cleaning process and provide long-lasting results.

Cleaning Process for Asphalt Shingles

The cleaning process includes several crucial steps to thoroughly clean the roof without causing damage. Begin by ensuring the ladder is stable and following proper safety precautions. Use the soft washing method for asphalt shingles, applying the cleaning solution at low pressure similar to a garden hose.

After applying the cleaning solution, rinse nearby plants with water to protect them from chemical exposure and inspect the roof for residual stains. This step ensures no cleaning solution remains on the shingles, preventing potential damage.

Regular cleaning maintains the appearance of your roof and extends its lifespan. Following these steps helps you effectively clean your roof and keep it in top condition.

Remove Loose Debris

Removing loose debris from the roof is a crucial first step in the cleaning process. Use a leaf blower or broom to efficiently clear away leaves, dirt, and other debris from the roof’s surface. This step prevents blockage during cleaning and maintains the roof’s condition.

Applying the Cleaning Solution

Start high and apply an even coat of the cleaning solution from top to bottom. Wet the entire roof before application to ensure even distribution and effectiveness.

Let the cleaning solution sit for at least 15 minutes to break down dirt and stains.

Gently Scrub Stubborn Areas

Use a soft-bristle brush to gently scrub stubborn areas. Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion to dislodge algae and moss without scratching the shingles.

This technique maintains the shingles’ integrity while removing tough stains.

Rinse and Inspect

Rinse the roof thoroughly with a garden hose to eliminate any cleaning solution residue. After rinsing, inspect the roof to ensure all stains are removed and no cleaning solution remains.

This step helps confirm that the cleaning process was successful and the roof is in good condition.

Preventing Future Algae and Moss Growth

Preventing future algae and moss growth is essential for maintaining a clean roof. Regular roof cleaning helps prevent premature wear, extending the lifespan of asphalt shingles. Good roof maintenance and proper ventilation significantly reduce the chances of algae and moss growth.

Trimming tree branches that overhang the roof is another effective method. These branches can block sunlight and increase moisture buildup, which fosters algae growth. Keeping the roof clear of shade and moisture prevents algae and moss growth.

An annual professional inspection and cleaning can catch potential problems early and maintain the roof’s condition. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and extends the roof’s lifespan.

Install Zinc or Copper Strips

Installing zinc or copper strips on the roof effectively prevents algae and moss growth. These metal strips oxidize over time, releasing ions into the rainwater that wash down the roof and inhibit the growth of moss, algae, and lichen.

You can purchase these strips at local hardware stores.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial for prolonging the roof’s lifespan. Clean your roof at least once a year, or once every two years for roofs in good condition.

Neglecting regular cleaning can lead to damage from algae, moss, and debris, causing significant deterioration.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Trimming overhanging branches maintains a healthy roof environment. Excessive shade from tree branches increases moisture retention, fostering algae growth.

Regularly inspect and trim branches to prevent them from overhanging your roof and creating excessive shade.

When to Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

In some situations, hiring a professional roofing contractor is the best option. Professionals can evaluate roof growths and determine the correct treatment, providing peace of mind and effective solutions. They have the proper equipment, protect the landscape, and reduce liability, making the cleaning process safer and more efficient.

Before deciding to clean your roof yourself, consider factors like ease of access, roof type, building height, and your comfort on ladders. If you encounter unknown growths on your roof, calling a professional for identification and a proper cleaning plan is advisable.

Understanding the type of growth or issues on your roof is crucial before proceeding with a cleaning treatment. Consulting a professional roofing company can ensure effective removal and prevent further damage.

Unreachable Areas

Cleaning high or steep roofs poses challenges, including safety risks, specialized equipment requirements, and potential damage to the roof structure. Attempting to clean steep roofs without proper experience can lead to accidents due to a significantly higher risk of falling.

Significant Algae or Moss Infestation

For significant roof algae or moss infestation, hiring a professional roofing contractor is recommended.

Professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to handle severe infestations and ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the roof.

Safety Concerns

Safety concerns like falls and injuries from unstable surfaces are significant risks during DIY roof cleaning. Safety harnesses, goggles, and other protective gear are essential to prevent accidents.

Homeowners should hire professionals when dealing with steep roofs that are difficult to clean safely.

Summary

Maintaining a clean shingle roof is essential for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Regular cleaning and proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your roof, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home looking its best. By following the best practices outlined in this guide, you can ensure your roof remains in top condition year-round.

Remember, when in doubt, hiring a professional roofing contractor can provide peace of mind and effective solutions. Investing in regular maintenance and professional cleaning services will ultimately save you time, money, and stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my shingle roof?

You should clean your shingle roof at least once a year, or once every two years if the roof is in good condition. Regular maintenance helps prolong its lifespan and prevents damage.

What are the risks of using a pressure washer on asphalt shingles?

Using a pressure washer on asphalt shingles poses a significant risk of damaging the shingles and increasing moisture retention, potentially leading to further problems. It’s best to avoid this practice to maintain the integrity of your roof.

Can I use household bleach to clean my roof?

Yes, you can use household bleach to clean your roof, but exercise caution to prevent harm to plants and shingles. Always dilute it properly and consider alternative cleaning methods if possible.

What are some eco-friendly alternatives for cleaning my roof?

Using natural options like vinegar provides an effective and non-toxic way to clean your roof while being eco-friendly. This approach not only removes algae and moss but also supports a healthier environment.

When should I hire a professional roofing contractor?

You should hire a professional roofing contractor for issues involving hard-to-reach areas, serious algae or moss infestations, or when safety is a concern. This ensures your roof is maintained properly and safely.

A Few Benefits of Installing Top-Quality Gutters in Des Moines, IA

January 24, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

An article posted on eHow by Vance Holloman discusses the benefits of installing a gutter system for your home. One of the main functions of a gutter system is to keep water out of and away from your home. Experienced contractors that install gutters in Des Moines, IA and the surrounding areas can install a system that will do just that for your home.

Why is it so important though? Imagine a rainy day and you’re rushing to your house only to be welcomed by water flowing off your roof. You get to your porch and inside where it’s warm only to create mud tracks on your clean tiled floor. That’s only one of the benefits of installing these gutter systems – they keep people dry and houses a lot cleaner.

One of the more important functions of a gutter system is to prevent rot and damage in your garden or backyard. If you don’t have a gutter system, or it’s not properly installed, it can cause water to flow into you house and cause structural damage. It can even flow all the way down to your basement causing flooding and cracking. Additionally, if you don’t have a system to redirect water away from your front or backyard, it could cause a buildup and ruin your landscape.

In order to keep any property structurally sound, you need to make sure that its foundation is stable. Properties that don’t properly maintain their gutter systems may face problems with the foundation. According to the eHow article: “Water sitting near a foundation wall eventually works its way under the foundation causing it to settle. The walls on the settled part of the foundation can then separate from the rest of the house”.

Many people don’t want to install gutters because they have to clean them once a year. However, contractors recommend installing guards to help prevent leaves and debris from building up in the gutters, making maintenance a lot more convenient.

If you’re looking for installation services for a gutter topper in Omaha or the nearby areas, you can trust a company like Waddle Exteriors. Such home improvement companies provide a variety of services to keep properties in optimum condition.

(Article Information and Image from What Are the Benefits of Installing Gutters on a House, eHow)

Leave Tile Roof Installations to Skilled Nebraska Roofing Contractors

January 20, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

Tile roofing can be difficult to handle, so it’s best to hire Nebraska roofing contractors to attend to it. Installations, repairs, and replacements are professional jobs, and certified roofers are best to manage these.

However, prior to calling contractors, homeowners can ensure the integrity of their roofing by doing simple maintenance procedures. Given the proper techniques, homeowners can adequately maintain their roofing system and prevent costly repairs and replacements. Scott Kessman writes:

“Knowing how to clean a tile roof is important and, as a form of maintenance, could prevent leaks from occurring. The first course of action to take is to gather together the tools needed to be used. Tools such as a sturdy ladder that reaches the roof comfortably, a garden hose with an attached brush, a bucket of hot water, a power washer and a cup of detergent, bleach and trisodium phosphate are all necessary. Plastic garbage bags should be tied around the bottom of the rainwater down pipes to prevent any chemicals spilling onto the garden.”

Washing dirt and debris from your roof will help you eliminate areas where moss and mildew can form. You can also use a pressure washer to clean your tile roof in order to eradicate the existing organisms growing on its surface.

Clearing the roof from accumulated debris is a simple task, and the tools for this are readily available in any domestic environment. By doing so, property owners can make sure that their roof is up to the job or protecting their home against the elements.

It does make a lot of sense to clean a roof twice a year rather than going through the trouble of intermittent repairs or a new installation. However, when you notice signs of damage and deterioration, it is time to call the professionals.

Hiring a Nebraska roofing team from trusted companies like Waddle Exteriors can help you with your tile roof. Such companies employ certified contractors to ensure superior quality installations, repairs, and replacements. With an in-depth knowledge on tile roofing systems, they can provide homeowners with several options based on their design and budget requirements.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Safety and cleaning Tips for a Tile Roof, Yahoo Voices, 21 October 2011)

Call Iowa Roofing Contractors to Give Your Home Superior Protection

January 19, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

Everyone considers their home as a place to seek refuge and a sanctuary of peace and quiet. It goes without saying that finding the best roofing contractors in Omaha is essential to protect your home. When your wood shake roofing is in need of a repair or replacement, you want to see to it that you’re entrusting it to someone who knows what they’re doing.

Iowa-Roofing-Contractors

Wood shake roofing gives a classic appeal. It is also eco-friendly and effortlessly adds a touch of timelessness to the home. Since this type of roofing requires maintenance more frequently than other systems, annual inspections are a must if you want your wood shake roofing to last.

Conducting regular maintenance is key to keep your wood shake roofing in good condition. Mary M. Alward writes:

“Always keep gutters and valleys clear of debris and leaves. These should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent moisture from being trapped in or under the shakes or shingles. Keep tree branches and vines that hang over the roof trimmed. If a wood roof is kept constantly shaded, shakes and shingles will remain wet for longer periods of time, which will promote moss and mildew growth as well as decay.

Check your roof several times a year. If you find lichen or moss growth apply a solution of three quarts of warm water, one ounce of detergent and one quart of chlorine bleach.”

Additionally, homeowners must also check their flashings and gutters for signs of deterioration or holes.

Over time, the weather will also take a toll of your wood roof. Performing a little routine maintenance can keep your roof in tiptop shape for years. However, if you notice damage of any sort, it’s best to call Iowa roofing contractors from well-known companies like Waddle Exteriors.

Home improvement companies like Waddle Exteriors can perform professional roofing installations, repairs, and replacements to protect your home. They utilize top-quality materials and the latest construction techniques to ensure the best possible results. Property owners can also choose from an extensive line-up of wood roofing options to increase the aesthetic appeal, comfort, and value of their home.

(Article Excerpt and Image from How to Properly Maintain a Wood Roof, Do It Yourself)

Save On Energy Bills with Metal Roofing in Iowa and in Other States

January 18, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

In a world besieged by constant news of the dire effects of profligate energy consumption, it is not surprising to find that the call for efficiency and sustainability has been answered by many. We know that a conscious effort toward minimizing our carbon footprint is critical to preserve the shaky balance of our ecosystem.

The Metal Roofing Alliance educates consumers by publishing the benefits of cool metal roofing in Iowa and all over the country. When heeded, this recommendation will help in not only lowering energy emission rates, but also gaining greater cost savings. On their website, the Alliance said:

“As reported by the Cool Metal Roofing Coalition and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, installation of reflective metal roofing can save your home up to 40% in summer cooling energy costs while highly emissive metal roofs can reduce urban air temperatures by as much as 12 ° F. Combined, these benefits mean less money out of your wallet, less dependence on energy resources and less general air pollution in your neighborhood and across the nation.”

Cool metal roofs typically feature colored coatings that are designed to deflect heat, which reduces the amount trapped inside residences. In addition, they can re-emit the heat they have absorbed. This helps in lowering the air temperature in urban areas, which results in slower formation of smog.

Supplementary steps may also be taken to boost the rewards that come from a metal roofing system. Adding insulation, for instance, will fortify roofs into conducting transfer of heat and air more economically. Utility bills will decrease, and homeowners can expect optimal comfort and indoor air quality for the long term.

Homeowners interested in installing metal roofs can turn to trusted Iowa roofing contractors such as Waddle Exteriors. These solution providers offer a wide range of materials and coatings for property owners to choose from, no matter what their architectural design, financial limitations, or aesthetic goals are.

Waddle Exteriors and other home improvement companies also specialize in other elements of the home, including windows, gutters, doors, and attics. They can, thus, help families in turning their homes into more sustainable living spaces.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Energy Savings with Cool Metal Roofing, www.metalroofing.com)

The Importance of Cleaning and Maintaining Gutters in Des Moines, IA

January 9, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

An article written by J. Motes in Yahoo.com said:

Rain gutters play an important role in keeping a home or other building structurally sound as well as keeping the environment healthy. However, the importance of gutters on a home is not easily evident and many homeowners neglect to properly maintain the rain gutters on their homes. While gutter repair can be frustrating, rain gutters that are not properly working can lead to significant problems for a building and those that live in it.

A gutter system in your home is important as a tool for good maintenance. The very purpose of your gutter is to help in controlling the flow of rainwater in order to prevent any damage to your home’s exterior. For this reason, it is only essential to keep the gutters maintained and cleaned in order for them to work properly and more efficiently.

Homeowners tend to forget about the importance of their gutters in Des Moines, IA and only think about it once a problem occurs. However, some are not aware that a gutter problem can result in more severe damages and can even devalue your most important investment: your home.

Without proper gutter maintenance, some signs of a clogged gutter such as a flooded basement and cracking foundations may soon be noticeable. These can happen when water isn’t drained from your house, which will then pool on your foundation, expand, and cause some cracks that will result in a flood in your basement. This is why gutter maintenance is important to make your gutters work as efficient as possible.

Some of the many benefits of cleaning your gutter include: avoiding insects and termites from living on your roof, preventing any water damage, and reducing the chances that your landscaping will be destroyed. Aside from this, molds that form inside and outside of your home (which can cause some parts of your home to rot) can be prevented if your gutters are properly functioning.

Never overlook the importance of having clean gutters; the costs of repairing water damage in your home can be very expensive. Hire a contractor like Waddle Exteriors for the installation of gutters and a gutter topper in Iowa in your home. This home improvement project will surely help in improving the quality and look of your home and your life.

(Article Excerpt and Image from: What is the Importance of Gutters?, Yahoo.com, October 23, 2010)

Some Common Myths Regarding Gutters and the Des Moines Gutter Topper

January 8, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

In an article for Weather.com, John Riha discusses some ways to keep your gutters and the downspout flowing. It is important to keep these two in their best condition by cleaning them at least twice a year to avoid any damages in your home. Your gutters are an essential part of your home, and the article said:

Gutters and downspouts work hard to protect your house from moisture damage. If gutters leak or downspouts are clogged, water can spill out and accumulate near foundations, soaking the soil and causing foundation walls to settle. In worst-case scenarios, moisture-laden soil presses in on basement walls, causing bulging and cracking. Water can even be forced inside by means of hydrostatic pressure.

Here are some of the most common myths about gutters in Des Moines:

Gutters Don’t Need Maintenance

Of course, your gutters are an important tool in protecting your home from damages caused by rainwater; however, unlike what most people believe, your gutters will still need maintenance in order for them to work efficiently. Without proper maintenance, leaves and other debris may settle in your gutters, and believing in the above myth increases the risk of damaging them. Your gutters should be cleaned regularly so that it will effectively protect your home from water damage.

Gutter Toppers aren’t Needed

Just imagine going up and down your ladder from time to time and scooping all those leaves and debris. Tiring, right? That’s why having a Des Moines gutter topper installed by professionals is a good idea. It will not only save you from costly fees for hiring services, it will also the easier and more efficient choice for cleaning your gutters.

Gutter Toppers are Ineffective

Some homeowners believe that gutter toppers aren’t effective in keeping the drain system from any debris. However, this is obviously not true because gutter toppers are equipped with mesh covers that prevent even small debris from entering the gutter.

The Company Won’t Matter When Installing Gutters

Some homeowners think they can just hire anyone to install their gutters for them, but this is entirely false. Hire a roofing contractor like Waddle Exteriors who are the experts in the field and would surely make your satisfaction their first priority. Finding the right contractor to do this project can be done by referrals or through the Internet.

(Article Excerpt and Image from: How to Keep Your Gutters and Downspouts Flowing, weather.com)

Hiring Nebraska Roofing Companies for Long-lasting Quality Flat Roofs

January 7, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

Flat roofs have always been an ideal choice for homes. They are considered modern in terms of design and they are known to make structures look beautiful. They’re also cost-effective and allow rooms below them to be utilized fully.

If there’s one drawback to having flat roofs, however, it’s maintenance. Compared to a sloped roof, a flat roof needs to be inspected regularly by professional Nebraska roofing companies because it is known to collect debris and trap water, ultimately leading to the deterioration of the structure.

A Home Protect article entitled “Flat Roof Maintenance” identifies other problems that can afflict this type of roof:

Gravel and pea shingle have two primary purposes on a flat roof; they provide a “loading coat” and they afford UV protection. Both of these key functions can be impaired if the gravel has not been sufficiently fixed to the surface material. If it is not secure, then both functions can be negated completely, allowing under secured patches to catch the breeze and over-exposed areas to suffer from the Sun.

Too much sun exposure can lead to flat roof cracks, which is why roofing tar or reflective aluminum paint must be applied to prevent sunlight from totally damaging the roofing system. Various solutions can still be considered, but this will depend on the extent of the damage. With the assistance of a reliableroofing contractor from Nebraska, however, it is likely for the roof’s problems to be resolved quickly.

The article adds that moss and silt may also lead to the roof’s degradation:

If you find that moss or silt is building up on your flat roof, then it might be an indicator that the roof has not been built at the proper incline (yes, even flat roofs should have a slight incline) to facilitate sufficient drainage. The incline should be somewhere between 1 in 40 and 1 in 80, to prevent rainwater pooling.

Water doesn’t just lead to the buildup of moss and silt, it also triggers problems like blisters and leaks. These punctures usually need professional attention from a company like Waddle Exteriors that provides free flat roof inspection. Furthermore, it is also necessary to sweep off dirt or remove nearby tree branches to prevent this type of problem from escalating.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Flat Roof Maintenance, Home Protect, 07 August 2012)

What Roofing Contractors from Omaha Have to Say About Asphalt Roofing

January 6, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

Are you thinking about revamping your roof? If you’re still choosing the right material for your roof renovation project, you might want to consider asphalt roofing installed by professional roofing contractors from Omaha like Waddle Exteriors.

The asphalt advantage is mainly its price. Compared to other roofing materials, asphalt shingles are relatively low in cost. This doesn’t mean, however, that the price is reflective of its quality. The fact is, this roofing material has been around for more than a hundred years and they’ve proven their worth in American homes.

An article from Facilities.net published last Mar 27, 2013 explains why asphalt is a good choice for roofing systems:

When shopping for a new roof, homeowners should consider the following: durability, versatility, sustainability, affordability as well as aesthetics. Asphalt roofing demonstrates all of these attributes while offering additional benefits that are often overlooked in the selection process.

One of the biggest advantages of asphalt roofing is that it is aesthetically versatile. Coming in a wide variety of colors and styles, designer shingle roofing can provide a more natural appearance or match the specific look of much more expensive materials such as metal, cedar and slate.

If you want your roof to last long and look good, the properties of an asphalt shingle can definitely match your goal. These shingles are easy to install and can be manufactured to look like wood, cedar shakes, and tile without compromising performance. Unlike other materials, however, asphalt can produce better watertight roofing systems.

Moreover, asphalt shingles can be maintained easily without the need for special tools. They are less susceptible to mold or moss and they can withstand different weather conditions, keeping repair costs low in the process.

The article adds that asphalt shingles are eco-friendly:

The recycling of asphalt shingles is also becoming much more common making them a more sustainable choice. Additionally, many asphalt styles and colors meet reflectivity standards for “cool” roof systems, which can reduce cooling costs throughout the life of the roof. Careful selection of a roofing material can reduce long-term costs for you and the environment.

With plenty of advantages, asphalt is unquestionably a good choice if you want to improve your roofing system. Combine it with professional roofing contractors from Des Moines, IA and you’ll get a roof that will last for many years to come.

(Article Excerpt and Image from Asphalt Shingles Provide Unparalleled Beauty, Affordability and Reliability When Compared with Alternative Roofing Systems, Facilities.Net, Mar 27, 2013)

Iowa Roofing Choices: Deciding Between Flat or Sloped Roofing Systems

January 3, 2014/in Info Article/by Audrey Heaberlin

People looking to build a new home or simply renovate their roof should ask themselves whether they would benefit best from a flat or sloped roof. Sloped or pitched roofs are commonly used in residential homes whereas flat roofs are often found in commercial establishments. Here are some ideas that can help you decide which would be the most efficient Iowa roofing style for you:

Iowa Roofing Choices

Main Advantages

Flat roofs are mainly designed for smaller establishments in occasionally cramped areas, which is why this is the roof of choice in most urban locations. Flat roofs are also typically more affordable than sloped ones. The boon of pitched roofs, however, is also the main disadvantage of the former: it allows for a more efficient water runoff system.

Maintenance

Generally, both these types of roof orientations need regular maintenance (this is due to the fact that the roofing materials being used often determine maintenance needs more than the orientation). Flat roofs, though, often have to be sealed after construction so that stagnant water won’t rot the surface or seep into the building’s interiors.

Structure

SFGate.com has it that:

A pitched roof provides more structure and stability than a flat roof, as well as excellent drainage in areas that receive large amounts of rain. […] Flat roofs are also characteristic of modern design, so if you want to design a contemporary home, use a flat roof or a pitched roof with a very low slope.

Customization

Another main advantage of having a flat roof is the fact that you have a lot of room for your imagination and creativity to take physical form. You can turn your roof into a deck, a lounge, or even a kitchen extension. Flat roofs can also be converted into mini-gardens, which can be a great source of leisure and relaxation for plant enthusiasts living in the big city.

Basically, the final call on which of these options will work best for you depends on your environment and how you plan to make use of your roof. Ask reliableIowa roofing contractors like Waddle Exteriors about making sure that you get the right type of roof for you.

(Article Excerpt and Image from The Pros & Cons of Flat vs. Pitched Roofing, SF Gate)