Author: Erick Wahl

Roof Installation
Roofing

Important Steps in Roof Installation

Erick Wahl

A new roof is a significant investment. But it’s also one of the best ways to protect your home from damage, deterioration, and costly repairs.Roof Installation

The roof installation process involves many different steps. Following your roofing contractor’s preparation instructions (such as removing wall decor and covering fragile items) is important. This will ensure that your roof gets installed correctly and is protected. Visit https://redstickroofing.com/baton-rouge to learn more.

The first step in a proper roof installation is to remove the old one. Some homeowners try to save time and money by skipping this step, but it is essential to ensuring that your new roof will last for years to come. It also allows your roofing contractor to check for any underlying damage that may need to be addressed, such as leaks or the need for replacement roof decking.

If you’re doing the tear off yourself, prepare for a mess by covering any landscaping around the house with tarps, and renting a trash container for disposing of the debris as it is generated. If you have a lot of bushes or shrubbery around your home, protect them with 2×4 frames and cloth drop cloths, and lean plywood over any windows that might be exposed to falling shingle shards.

Once you’re ready to start, put on your safety gear, including a hard hat, work glasses, and gloves, and begin the process of removing shingles. It’s best to start at the top of the roof, using a shingle fork (or “shingle shovel”) to remove the ridge cap and then working down the rest of the roof, row by row. This is when you’ll want to be especially careful not to tear through the roof decking, as it can be expensive to replace. You should also be sure to keep pets indoors, as hammers and strangers tend to disturb dogs, cats, and even hamsters!

Selecting the Right Materials

Roofing materials can account for up to 40% of your total project cost, so it’s essential to decide which option is best for you. Some things to consider include:

What are the climate conditions where you live? Certain roof materials react differently to extreme weather conditions. For instance, if you live in a hot environment, you’ll want to choose a material that can reflect heat to save on energy bills, while homeowners in snowy areas will need to explore the durability of different options.

Also, pay attention to the maintenance requirements of each material you’re considering. Some require more work to keep them looking their best, while others are relatively low-maintenance.

Asphalt shingles are the most common choice because they’re inexpensive and easy to install. But don’t let this fool you—they’re not the most durable and will likely need replacement sooner than other materials.

Installing the Underlayment

Underlayment is a very important step in any roof installation. It catches and sheds water so that sheathing and framing underneath don’t get damp and rot. It also helps keep the shingles and metal roofing in place. There are many different types of underlayment, including foam, cork, and high-performance acoustic rubber. Most underlayment has a built-in moisture barrier. Foam underlayment is usually the cheapest, while cork and rubber underlayment are more expensive.

Contractors start by laying the underlayment, starting at the bottom of the roof and running it all the way up to the ridge. They may lay an ice and water barrier first, if it isn’t there already, to give the underlayment some added protection.

The underlayment should be rolled out evenly, but not stretched or tight. It should overlap the previous row by about 6 inches, and the seams must be properly sealed. A good sealant for this is roofing cement, but a good tape such as butyl rubber roofing tape will work just fine too.

When laying the underlayment, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. For example, some manufacturers recommend leaving a gap, about the width of a nickel, between each panel. This allows for expansion and contraction of the underlayment due to weather conditions. Some underlayments also have a printed anti-slip surface for workers to ensure that they aren’t slipping while working on the roof.

Flashing the Valleys

When rainwater pools in the roof valleys, it can seep into the underlying materials and lead to leaks. This can cause serious damage and costly repairs. Metal valley flashing prevents this from happening by directing the rainwater down the roof and away from the shingles.

There are two types of roof valley flashing: open and closed. Open valley flashing consists of V or W-shaped pieces of metal that run down the center of the valley. The sloping roof planes stop a few inches short of this centerline, leaving the valley open to channel water off the roof.

These metal flashing pieces are designed to be durable and long-lasting, protecting the roof from water damage for a very long time. They also offer less friction than shingles, so they won’t wear down as quickly. They can also be painted to match the shingles for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

If you’re considering installing open valley flashing, it’s important to get a high-quality product. Look for a minimum 28-gauge galvanized steel flashing that’s corrosion resistant and non-staining. Before you install the flashing, ensure that ice and water protector has been installed along the roof valley and that it has been tacked in place temporarily with asphalt plastic cement. Then, center the first piece of flashing in the roof valley and nail it down carefully, ensuring that the edges are overlapping by at least 6 inches (150 mm). Be sure not to use too many nails as this could increase the risk of leaks.

Capping the Ridge

Your roof’s peak is susceptible to damage, and the ridge cap is vital for safeguarding this area. Without it, moisture would work its way under the shingles or tiles at the peak and into your home. Over time, this could lead to unhealthy mold and mildew, rot, and other issues. Proper ridge capping protects against leaks and extends the life of your roof.

The ridge cap, also known as the roof cap, creates a waterproof barrier over the seam where two sides of your roof meet at the peak. A faulty ridge cap can allow water into your home, causing significant structural and financial damage. Poor installation or improper maintenance are common causes of ridge cap problems.

There are several types of ridge caps, but the most effective ones are made from asphalt shingles. They are durable, weather resistant, and affordable. They’re also highly regarded for their beauty and energy efficiency.

During the roof installation process, professionals use a special mortar mix to secure the ridge cap. However, this traditional method can be messy and expensive. Instead, Rescue My Roof professionals use mechanical clips to fasten the ridge cap. These clips are UV-stabilized and affixed to the ridge tiles or shingle with butyl strips, eliminating the need for mortar. They’re driven with care to ensure that they seat flat on the ridge – crooked screws won’t seal properly.

Installing the Shingles

Once the underlayment is in place and the valley flashing is complete, it’s time to install the shingles. This is a step that requires a high level of precision and attention to detail. If the shingles are installed incorrectly, they can allow water and other weather elements to penetrate the roof and cause damage. It is also important to nail the shingles properly in order to ensure they are secure and wind-resistant.

Start by carefully cleaning the work area. Remove any plant debris or other obstacles that could become tripping hazards. You should also cover any fragile plants with tarps to protect them from dropped tools and nails. Next, check the manufacturer’s recommendations on shingle installation. They’ll have specific instructions for how to line them up with each other and what nails are best to use.

Begin at the eaves and work your way to the ridge, taking care to overlap each row. Be sure to properly stagger the tabs, and always cover any exposed nails with a piece of shingle that is adjacent and over them. Finally, cap the ridge with specialized shingles designed to do so.

Once the shingles are installed, it’s time to perform one final inspection and clean up the work area. This is an excellent opportunity to ensure that there are no shingles that are crooked or missing, that the areas that require flashing are sealed and covered, and that your ridge cap looks seamless.

Roofing
Roofing

Roofing Companies – Why You Should Choose Local Roofing Companies

Erick Wahl

A well-maintained roof improves a home’s curb appeal. It also protects the home’s interior and increases its value.Roofing

Roofing Companies have the experience and expertise to handle all types of roofs. They also offer many other services for homes and businesses. They are insured to cover any damage caused by hail or wind.

Local roofers understand your area, its roofing codes, and how to install a roof properly. They also know what to look for and how to deal with any issues that might arise during a roofing project. A good roofer will have years of experience in the community, and this is a clear sign that they’re a trustworthy company you can trust with your home.

If you’re searching for a roofer, start by asking your friends and family for recommendations. You can also search online for reviews of different roofing companies in your area. However, you should remember that online reviews are not always accurate and may be biased. When evaluating a roofing company, make sure you read multiple reviews and check their website to see if they have a physical office or showroom in your city.

It’s important to choose a roofing company that is licensed, insured, and bonded. If a roofing company is bonded, it means that they have been vetted by a bonding company to ensure that they’re reputable and trustworthy. A bonding company will usually require a roofing contractor to maintain high ethical standards and complete their jobs properly.

A trustworthy roofing company will produce a well-written, thorough estimate while at your property. If a roofing company says that they can only send you the estimate by email or that they want to talk to you about it first, this is a red flag. This type of roofing company is often a commission sales person or middleman who will not be the actual hands on roof installer.

Another red flag to watch for is if a roofing company asks for your insurance claim information before you hire them. This is a common practice of storm chasers, who are out of state contractors that come in after major storms, undercut local prices, and then disappear with the insurance money. The best way to avoid this is to choose a local roofing company that is not only bonded but has an established office in your city and a strong regional presence.

They’re Insured

Most roofing companies carry general liability insurance to protect themselves in the event of an accident that causes damage to a home or business. This type of policy typically covers repair costs and legal expenses. In the event of a serious incident, it may also pay for medical bills and funeral costs.

In addition to general liability, roofing contractors usually have workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage pays for employee medical treatment, long-term care and missed wages. It’s a requirement in most states for companies with three or more employees.

Roofing contractors also have to carry commercial auto insurance for their company vehicles and any equipment they transport from one job site to another. This is a separate policy from your personal auto insurance, and it typically includes broader protections for work-related vehicle damage or theft. Many roofers will add a tools and equipment floater to their commercial auto insurance to protect any expensive specialized equipment they use in the course of doing their job.

If a roofing contractor works on a project that requires a building to be shut down or partially destroyed, they may have to obtain builders risk insurance. This policy protects the buildings and structures in construction from weather or fire damage that could occur while work is being done. Most property owners will require this insurance to be in place before they allow a roofing contractor onto the jobsite.

It’s important for roofing businesses to have a business owners policy (BOP) or a commercial package, which bundles together general liability, commercial property and workers’ compensation insurance into one comprehensive policy. This can help smaller roofing businesses save money by avoiding gaps in coverage that might occur when they buy these policies separately.

Roofing is a dangerous occupation, so it’s essential that any business that employs roofers has workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ comp covers medical expenses, lost wages and funeral costs in the event of a workplace injury or illness. It’s a required policy in most states, and it’s worth discussing with your insurance professional about how to fulfill this requirement.

They’re Experienced

A roofing company that’s been around for a while has the experience to do quality work and stand by their work. A large part of their business is insurance repair and replacement, so they know how to navigate the claims process for homeowners. They also have the resources to help them make repairs quickly and efficiently. You’ll be able to find plenty of reviews online from their previous customers, which is what most people look at now when they are considering hiring a contractor.

Another thing to look for is their website and other online presence. A well-designed website will have a knowledge base and blog that demonstrate their understanding of the roofing industry. They may even have a video on their site that shows their work in action. This is a great way to get a feel for the type of contractor you’re working with.

There are several different types of roofers, including sales-focused companies and repair-oriented companies. Sales-focused roofers often have a salesperson who goes out on the road and meets with customers to present their options for the job. These presentations can be up to four hours long and are designed to be comprehensive and give the customer a lot of value for their money. They typically start with the highest priced option and will negotiate with customers until they reach an agreement.

Repair-oriented roofers typically focus on repairing leaky roofs. They have a 24/7 call-in service and offer emergency services, such as leak detection and roof repair. They also have a team of experts who can handle complex commercial roofing projects, such as metal and single-ply roofing systems. One of the largest repair-oriented roofing contractors is Tecta America, which has over 53,000 roof leak repairs under its belt and adheres to Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines.

Many new roofing business owners are concerned about the legal process and bookkeeping for their business. However, both of these are easier than they seem with modern software and helpful resources both online and elsewhere. A good small business consultant will be able to help you get started with the legal process and set up an accounting system that works for your needs.

They’re Affordable

If your roof is damaged, it’s important to find a company that can provide quality work for an affordable price. This is especially true if you’ve just gone through a storm or have an older home. It can be difficult to find a good roofing company, but the search is worth it for the comfort you’ll feel knowing that your roof is protected from inclement weather.

There are several types of roofing companies that can offer you affordable options. These companies can include service roofers, insurance roofers, and storm chasers. These companies will often have a large service area and multiple crews to meet your needs quickly. They can also be competitive and flexible with their pricing. They may even offer long-term warranties on their work.

Service roofers focus on the entire process, including inspections and repairs. They can typically schedule appointments online, and they will have a support person onsite throughout the day to answer your questions or interface with the crew. They can handle both residential and commercial jobs, insurance and non-insurance work, and they are usually able to provide financing options.

Insurance roofers specialize in working with homeowners to handle their insurance claims. They can help with the entire process, from initial inspection to final paperwork. They may have different packages available, depending on the type of damage and your budget. They can even offer in-house financing, which can save you time and money.

Storm chasers are a particular type of roofer that follows the weather. They can be a good choice for those who have recently experienced major weather events, as they can take care of the entire insurance process. However, they are not as reliable as a service or insurance roofer.

When choosing a roofing contractor, make sure you choose someone with experience. A less-experienced contractor will likely charge you more for their services and might not do as good a job. This can cost you more in repairs or damages in the long run. You should also ask for references from friends and neighbors who have had roofing issues in the past. These references can help you find a trustworthy, honest, and affordable roofing contractor.

Air Duct Cleaning
HVAC Services

The Benefits of Hiring Air Duct Cleaning Professionals

Erick Wahl

Whether you’re looking to reduce dust mites and bacteria in your home, prevent excessive moisture, or just feel more comfortable in your home, air duct cleaning is a great option. Professionals use high-powered machines to remove contaminants from your ducts. A professional technician can access the air ducts without damaging your home and formulate a high-powered customized treatment plan.Air Duct Cleaning

Air Duct Cleaning can help reduce the dust and mites in your home and improve the air quality of your home. Dust mites live in your home’s air ducts and travel throughout the home. While vacuuming your home regularly removes some dust and dander, it will not remove everything.

Although dust mites are not dangerous to humans, they are not good for your health. Unlike other types of pests, dust mites do not crawl on your body, bite, or burrow into your skin. They also don’t carry diseases and do not fly in the air.

It can reduce bacteria

A professional air duct cleaning service uses a disinfectant solution that will kill bacteria and other contaminants that can grow on your air ducts. This solution is EPA approved and is fragrance-free. In addition, it leaves no residue or PPE behind. This process ensures that your air ducts will be the cleanest they have ever been.

In addition to eliminating harmful bacteria, air duct cleaning can also increase the efficiency of your air conditioner. Dirt and other particles in the air can make your system less efficient and increase energy bills. Hiring a professional air duct cleaning service can improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergies and asthma symptoms.

It can reduce odors

Hiring an air duct cleaning service is a great way to reduce odors and increase air quality in your home. They are experts at regulating the performance of your heating and cooling system and eliminating dust and dirt that may be contributing to the odor. Aside from reducing odors, cleaning air ducts also helps protect your home from mold and other respiratory issues. A good air duct cleaning service will clean every part of your ventilation system, including vent covers and surfaces that collect dust and debris.

Odors can be caused by many different factors, ranging from bacteria and mold to cleaning agents and paint fumes. If you notice a particularly strong odor coming from your air ducts, there’s a chance that the source of the problem is a dead animal. It’s important to address this issue quickly, not only for the sake of eliminating the smell but also for the sake of your health. Professional air duct cleaning companies specialize in finding and removing dead animals, making sure your home is odor-free and safe for everyone who lives in it. Don’t let unpleasant odors linger in your space – call in the professionals and breathe easy knowing that your air is clean and fresh.

The scent of a cigarette can linger in the air long after the smoker has finished their last puff. Unfortunately, this means that your home may be plagued with the smell of smoke for hours, even days, after you light up. This is not only unpleasant for non-smokers, but it can also be particularly worrisome for parents with young children. The foul smell can be difficult to mask with air fresheners or candles, and can make your little ones feel anxious or wary about the air quality in their own home. If you’re a smoker, it’s important to be mindful of the impact your habit has on those around you, and take steps to minimize the odors it produces.

It can prevent excess moisture in your home

Finding ways to improve the air quality in your home can be a game-changer when it comes to the health and comfort of you and your family. One way you can do this is by having air duct cleaning services help you avoid excess moisture problems. These experienced experts use their specialized tools to thoroughly clean the air ducts in your home, removing any debris that may have accumulated over time. By doing so, they not only improve air quality but also prevent any excess moisture from settling in your home. With their help, you can breathe easy knowing that the air in your home is fresh and healthy. So why not give air duct cleaning professionals a try? Your family will thank you.

Mold is a pesky issue that can quickly become a major problem in your home if left unchecked. Not only does it look unsightly, but it can also pose health risks to you and your family. One of the main reasons mold grows is due to excess moisture in your home. To combat this, a whole-home dehumidifier is an effective solution that can remove excess moisture from the air and prevent mold growth. In addition, a programmable thermostat is a great tool to regulate the humidity level in your home ​​to further reduce the risk of mold growth. And if you have air conditioning, installing a UV germicidal light can also prevent mold buildup in your unit and improve the air quality in your home. By taking these preventative measures, you can ensure a mold-free and healthy home for you and your loved ones.

It can reduce mold issues

Air Duct Cleaning professionals can help you reduce mold issues in your home. It’s important to get your air ducts cleaned as soon as possible, as mold spores can spread throughout the air. The ducts can also be a perfect breeding ground for mold. Mold spores and stains can affect the health of people living in your home, so you need to take action as soon as possible.

The growth of mold in your ducts is especially common in warm locations where water vapor is present. When cold air passes through your ducts, the water vapor accumulated is too high to evaporate. The resulting water vapor provides a perfect growing environment for mold. Mold spores also feed off other air materials, including dead skin cells, pollen, and animal dander.

Mold removal is not an easy task. Before hiring a professional to remove the mold, you must consider the causes of mold infestation. The mold spores are invisible to the naked eye, so they can get stuck in crevices and nooks. If you don’t have the proper equipment to handle mold removal, you may be unable to resolve the problem.

Mold spores can be harmful to your health. Before venturing outside, you must take allergy medication and wear a dust mask to keep mold spores out of your mouth. It would be best if you also took a shower to remove any spores you may have. Finally, mold can become persistent and need a professional to remove them. Professional air duct cleaners can help you eliminate mold from your home and protect you and your family’s health.

When professional air duct cleaning services are employed, they will inspect the system to determine what should be cleaned or replaced. They will then use specialized equipment to remove debris, dust, and other contaminants that may have accumulated in the air ducts. This helps prevent mold from growing and spreading through your home. Professional air duct cleaners will also inspect the entire system for signs of damage, such as clogged vents, leaking ducts, and worn-out insulation. They can repair these issues to ensure optimal performance of your air conditioner or heating system.

Duct cleaning is an important part of maintaining a comfortable environment in your home. It ensures that your family is breathing clean air and can reduce the risk of potential health problems caused by mold infestation. With professional services, you can rest assured that you’re doing everything possible to protect your home from the dangers of mold.

It’s also important to keep up with regular maintenance on your air ducts and HVAC system. This includes changing the filter regularly and getting professional inspections from time to time. Doing so can help reduce the accumulation of dust and other debris that can contribute to mold growth. You should also consider investing in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to trap airborne contaminants, including mold spores, before they enter your home’s air supply. 

HVAC Services
HVAC Services

Air Conditioning Installation – Things to Consider

Erick Wahl

When installing air conditioning, there are a few things to consider before starting the process. There are also a few different types of units, including central, portable, and ductless mini-split systems. Regardless of your preference, you first want to determine how much it will cost to install the system.Air Conditioning can provide a written analysis of your HVAC system’s health and recommend repairs. 

HVAC ServicesDuctless mini-split systems are a great alternative to a traditional central air conditioning system. They are especially useful in homes that have little or no ductwork. A ductless system provides independent climate control in one or more rooms without wasting energy in areas that are not in use. These systems can be installed in just about any space. Mini-splits can be wall-hung or rest along the floor of a room. Most can be connected to a heat pump to provide additional heating and cooling.

Mini splits are perfect for older homes that don’t have ductwork. They can also be used in homes with problems with their existing system. Unlike a conventional central air system, a ductless mini-split is highly customizable. It can be installed in any space, including small homes and light commercial settings. Many systems can be connected to a smart home hub to make it easier to control the climate of your home’s zones.

A central air system can help keep your home comfortable, while also reducing energy costs. For example, a programmable thermostat can control the cooling and heating in your home. You can save up to 10 percent on your monthly cooling costs by upgrading to one. It’s important to consider all your options before choosing a central air unit for your home.

Also, you should make sure your AC unit is appropriately sized. Buying a unit that is too large may cause it to run constantly. The best way to find the right size is to calculate your heat gain or how much heat you can remove from your home. Aside from deciding on a unit, you’ll have to find a qualified contractor. Luckily, there are lots of resources online that can help you locate an HVAC technician near you. If you live in a rural area, you may need help finding an AC installation specialist. However, you can try to get a local home improvement store to order a unit for you.

A portable air conditioning unit, or PAC, is a great option for people who don’t want to deal with window units or have a high-ceiling apartment. They’re also a handy solution if you have a physical disability, a tight window or a room with a lot of windows. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems, portable units are small and easy to move. They also are less expensive than central systems. However, they’re not as efficient as window units. In addition, they can cause a watery mess if not kept clean.

Portable AC units come in two basic varieties, gravity drain and fully self-evaporative. The former is cheaper and easier to install, but it’s not necessarily the most efficient. The other is the dual-hose model. This works by bringing in fresh air from outdoors and expelling the warm air in your room. While this may seem like a complicated process, it’s actually not. Regardless of the type, a portable AC unit is a great way to keep your home cool, especially during the summer months. It can also boost the cooling power of a system that’s getting older.

If you’re considering an air conditioning installation, the first step is deciding how much it will cost. A good HVAC cost estimator can give you an accurate estimate. You also need to know what type of system you want and how efficient it is. This will help you get a good deal on a new unit.

The size of your home will determine how much cooling power you need. You should try to install a unit with at least 18 BTUs per square foot. Too small of a system will work too hard and not cool your home very effectively.

Before hiring an AC contractor, you should get estimates from three to five professionals. Requesting a written contract with a payment schedule and other details is a good idea. Also, make sure that the pros have a warranty. Make sure to choose a contractor that has experience in the field. In addition to getting an estimate, consider a home energy audit. This will give you a better understanding of how energy-efficient your air conditioner is, and it can cost as little as $250.