SB Roofing Blog

Remember the home energy tax credit? That was extended through the end of 2011. If you need to fix a roof, or need a new roof, now is the time. If you have not had a roof inspection for a while, have it done now. If you need any roof repairs, or if you need a new roof as a result of your roof inspection, get it done while you can take advantage of the home energy tax credit.

You may claim a credit for 10% percent of the total cost of the metal roofing or asphalt shingles, or new energy efficient skylights for your existing primary residence.

There are a few rules and restrictions, however:

• The maximum combined credit is $500 (10% of $5,000 in total cost) for all allowable products purchased between 2006 and 2011.
• The credit is for the price of the product only, not labor.
• Energy tax credits are nonrefundable, which means you can only claim a credit to offset taxes you owe for the year.
• Tax credits may only be claimed once and are limited to the year in which you purchased the item.

If you are in need of a new roof or need a roof inspection, or if you are installing energy efficient skylights, contact SB Roofing.

Upkeep and repair and maintenance of your home can get expensive, homeowners need to prioritize. Obviously, maintenance involving water intrusion or safety issues should take top priority.

Roof inspection: Water intrusion is issue No. 1. Periodic roof inspection is a must as undetected leaks cause so many costly home repairs: ceilings, insulation, flooring and the roof itself.

Frequency of roof inspections depends on the roof's age and type and local weather conditions. In Virginia Beach, hail damage, wind and rain is a major problem.

Older roofs exposed to severe weather should be inspected more often than newer roofs, and in Virginia we have tough winters with snow and ice and summer-long, extreme-heat periods that dry out asphalt shingles. But don't wait until you see water stains on ceilings to have your roof inspected. Contact SB Roofing for a free, no obligation estimate.

The recent bout of destructive weather has left homeowners scrambling to make roof repairs to torn  shingles, eaves, gutters and chimneys.

Roof Inspection and Repair
The typical life span of a roof is between 18 and 20 years, but problems certainly arise along the way. Too often, people wait until there’s a leak or some damage. Be warned, even a few ripped shingles or loose flashing can result in rotted wood in the frames, electrical wiring mishaps or soggy sheetrock.

Still, procrastination can result in a bigger, more expensive project.

Routine roof maintenance and minor roof repairs entail nominal fees for materials and labor whereas total replacement — especially when the damage involves indoor wall structures — can run thousands.

Flat roofs need to be inspected for worn spots, depressions and proper drainage, and touched up or replaced as necessary.

There are dozens of styles and roofing materials available for installing new roofs or for repairing existing roofs.

There are designer styles, but most people opt for the standard asphalt shingles.

Original Article HPBA Newscast

We don’t often look up at the roof. But inspecting your roof regularly and repairing it as needed can prevent some costly repairs down the road. Keeping your roof in good condition will also benefit you if you decide to sell your home.

What do you look for and how often do you inspect the roof?

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends you do a roof inspection at least two times a year -- spring and fall. The best place to begin is inside your house, head to the attic with a flashlight.

Here are four things to look for on the inside:

1.   Places where the roof deck is sagging
2.   Signs of water damage or leaking
3.   Dark spots and trails
4.   Outside light showing through the roof

What to look for on the exterior:  

When you take a look at the exterior of the roof, pay attention to such things as damaged flashing, missing shingles, curling, blistering, buckling, rotting and algae growth (which occurs most often in humid climates and appears as dark or greenish stains).

1. Visually inspect your roof for cracked, torn, bald or missing shingles.
2. Scan the roof for loose material or wear around chimneys, vents, pipes or other penetrations.
3. Watch out for an excessive amount of shingle granules in the gutters, this is a sign of advanced wear.
4. Check for signs of moisture, rot or mold. Note that wet spots may not be directly under your faulty shingle; water can travel down to its lowest spot before it drips. Mold, fungi and bacteria can grow quickly, within 24 to 48 hours of a water-related problem.
5. Examine the drainage, and make sure gutters and downspouts are securely attached. Also ensure all drains are open and allow water to exit, and all gutters and downspouts are free of debris.
6. Check that all bath, kitchen and dryer vents go entirely outside of your home, not just into the attic space.

Original article – Home and Garden