Residential Roofing Archives - Page 2 of 3

How Roofing Systems Drain Water

Avoid costly water damage from your roofing system’s inability to shed rainwater. Understanding how a roof sheds rainwater will help you determine what to install or repair to prevent leaks and costly water damages.

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information on how low-slope (flat) and steep-sloped roofing systems are engineered to shed rainwater.

Low-Slope Roofing System Water Drainage

Low-slope roofing systems, common in commercial and industrial buildings, present unique challenges when addressing water drainage. Unlike steep-slope roofs that allow water to naturally flow down and off the roof, low-slope roofs require a more intentional approach to prevent ponding while ensuring drainage.

Note: Low-slope roofing can be EPDM, TPO, PVC, or BUR systems.

Gravitational Flow and Slope Design

Successful water drainage on low-slope roofing systems relies in gravitational flow. While these roofs have a slight incline, it is not as steep as in residential roofing systems.

Low-slope roofs are designed to combat water accumulation challenges, with a subtle slope to guide water toward drainage points.

A roof’s slope is carefully calculated during the design phase, ensuring water flows efficiently toward designated areas where drains, scuppers, and gutters are placed strategically. This intentional slope is critical in preventing pooling water (ponding), as ponding leads to structural damage, leaks, and accelerated wear on the roofing material.

Roof Drains, Scuppers, and Gutters

Roof drains, scuppers, and gutters are the most common and cost-effective drainage solution for flat roofs. These components catch and direct rainwater as it rolls off the roof’s edge and divert the water into downspouts that dispense it at a safe distance from the foundation of the building. Consider the following:

Roof drains are essential components of low-slope roofing systems. These drains are typically installed at the lowest points of the roof to collect and funnel water away. They connect to a network of pipes that direct the water down and away from the building’s foundation.
Scuppers are openings along the edges of the roof’s parapet walls that allow water to drain into a downspout or directly off the roof. They act as overflow channels during heavy rainfall or when debris blocks primary drainage points.
Gutters are crucial in low-slope roofing systems as they channel water from the roof’s surface to downspouts. Regular maintenance (like keeping gutters clear of debris) is fundamental in preventing water blockages.

Note: Drains running through a building or structure (internal drains) are serviced by a plumber when they experience blockages.

Residential Shingle Roofing Systems

Residential shingle roofing systems with steeper slopes leverage gravity and the roofing materials’ natural properties to channel water efficiently. From asphalt to metal shingles, these systems shed water swiftly, preventing leaks and protecting the underlying structure.

Roof Slope and Gravity

The steep slope of residential shingle roofing systems is fundamental in their ability to shed water effectively. Gravity plays a significant role, pulling water downward and away from the roof’s surface. The slope’s angle, often significantly steeper than low-slope roofs, facilitates quick and efficient drainage.

The roof pitch is carefully calculated during the design phase to ensure optimal water shedding. While the primary purpose of this slope is to encourage water runoff, it naturally contributes to the structure’s aesthetic appeal, influencing its architectural style.

Visit this YouTube channel for informative roofing videos.

Overlapping Shingles and Surface Tension

The materials used in residential shingle roofing systems are selected for their durability and ability to shed water. These shingles overlap, creating a seamless barrier that prevents water from infiltrating the roof.

Surface tension, the cohesive property of water molecules, aids in shedding water. As rainwater flows down the roof, it adheres to the shingle surface. The overlapping design encourages the water to travel downward, preventing it from seeping between the shingles and compromising the roof’s integrity.

Note: Exposed nails may sometimes provide additional reinforcement. When said nails are not sealed properly, they may begin to back out, allowing water infiltration and costly damages.

Tip: Read more about residential sloped roofing systems at newimageroofingatlanta.com/residential-roofing-what-you-need-to-know/

Eaves, Flashing, Drip Edges, Gutters, and Downspouts

Collecting rain water and carrying it away from your home’s walls and foundation is the roof’s drainage system (eaves, flashing, drip edges, gutters, and downspouts). This system prevents soil erosion and foundation damage. Consider the following sloped roof drainage components:

Eaves – Eaves (the roof’s edges that overhang the exterior walls), play a crucial role in water drainage. They provide additional protection by preventing water from running down the walls and causing severe damage. Eaves also contribute to the roof’s aesthetic appeal, defining its silhouette.

Flashing – Flashing (typically metal) is strategically installed in vulnerable areas like roof valleys, chimneys, vents, and other penetrations. Flashing acts as a water-resistant barrier, directing water away from these critical points and preventing leaks.

Drip Edges – Drip edges, installed along the outer edges of the roof, guide water into the gutters and away from the fascia. They protect the underlying structure from water damage and help prevent issues like wood rot.

Gutter Systems – Gutters and downspouts play a vital role in roofing systems by channeling water from the roof and away from the foundation. Regular maintenance (including keeping gutters clear of debris) is fundamental to prevent blockages that interrupt water flow.

Note: Gutters and downspouts must be properly sized to accommodate water runoff volume. If a structure’s gutters are too small, they overflow when heavy rain falls.

Tip: A maintenance plan can help detect and correct drainage issues in their infancy before developing into costly damages.

Roof Drainage Systems

In this article, you discovered how roofing systems drain rainwater and the components that efficiently divert the runoff from the structure, preventing water damage.

Knowing how a roofing system sheds rainwater will enable you to make informed decisions when installing, maintaining, or repairing your residential or commercial roofing system.

Ignoring your roof’s drainage system can lead to leaks, costly water damages, and challenging structural repairs.

Sources:
nps.gov/crps/tps/roofdown/connections.htm
ctahr.hawaii.edu/wq/publications/Final_FactSheets/RoofRunoff558.pdf
nachi.org/roof-drainage-systems-part1-23.htm
nachi.org/roof-drainage-systems-part2-24.htm

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

December 10, 2023/by Hayley Mace

Residential Roof Replacement Safety – Equipment and Requirements

Residential Roofing

Prevent severe damage to your home and landscape and devastating injuries to your roofers and loved ones. When safety equipment is utilized properly, and safety procedures are adhered to, costly damages and severe injuries can be prevented.

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered essential information on equipment and requirements that ensure roofing crew and occupant safety, including any necessary permits, emergency preparedness plans, and severe weather forecasts.

Safety Equipment and Requirements

Roofing work can be hazardous, and the consequences of neglecting safety measures can be severe (ranging from minor injuries to fatal accidents). Ensuring safety is not only a legal and ethical obligation but a practical one that minimizes delays, additional costs, and potential damage to the property. Consider the following roofing crew safety equipment:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Roofers should wear the appropriate PPE, including:

Hard Hats
Safety Glasses or Face Shields
Hearing Protection
Gloves
Non-Slip Footwear.

PPE provides protection against falling debris, sharp objects, and noise-related issues.

Fall-Arrest Systems: Fall-arrest systems are critical for all roofing projects. Roofers must have access to fall arrest systems, which typically consist of:

Harnesses
Lifelines
Anchor points

Note: Roofing companies must provide training on the proper use of these systems to prevent falls from heights.

Roof Brackets and Toe Boards: These devices help create a safer working platform on the roof, reducing slip or fall risks. Roof brackets secure to the roof’s surface and provide a stable platform for workers to stand on.

Ladders and Access Equipment: High-quality ladders and access equipment, like scaffolding, should be used to provide safe entry and exit points to the roof. Proper ladder setup and secure anchoring are essential to prevent accidents.

Roofing Tools and Equipment: Roofing crews should have access to specialized tools and equipment like:

Roofing Nail Guns
Roofing Knives
Safety Knives

Note: These tools are designed to enhance efficiency while minimizing risks associated with manual labor.

Tip: All cutting or trimming equipment must be kept sharpened to prevent incidents from over-used or dull blades.

Safety Requirements for Occupants

While much of the safety responsibility falls on the roofing crew, homeowners and occupants also have a crucial role to play in ensuring safety during a roof replacement project.

Clear the Work Area: Before the roofing crew arrives, homeowners should remove any obstacles around the house that could hinder their work. This includes:

Outdoor Furniture
Landscape Accessories
Vehicles
Equipment

Tip: If you have limited space to store these items, rent a storage unit for their safe-keeping.

Communication with Roofing Crew: Establishing clear communication with the roofing company and installation crew is essential. Discuss any concerns or special requirements you may have, like protecting delicate landscaping or pet safety.

Children and Pet Safety: Ensure that children and pets are kept safely away from the work area. The noise and presence of workers on the roof can be unsettling or disorienting for them. Consider temporary accommodations or playdates away from the home.

Secure Loose Items: Secure any loose items in your attic or upper floor to prevent them from falling during the roof replacement. Vibrations from the work can dislodge objects.

Tip: When roof installation is complete, verify that any wall fasteners haven’t come loose from vibrations caused by the nailing or pounding.

Follow Instructions from Roofing Crew: It’s crucial to follow any safety instructions provided by the roofing crew. This may include remaining inside the house or keeping windows closed during certain phases of the roofing project.

Read more about residential roofing systems at newimageroofingatlanta.com/residential-roofing-what-you-need-to-know/

Regulatory Compliance and Permits

Roofing projects are subject to local building codes and regulations. Compliance with these codes – when applicable – is mandatory to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the roof.

It’s essential for roofing companies to obtain any necessary permits and inspections before and after the project. Homeowners should verify that their roofing contractor is licensed, insured, bonded, and that they adhere to all local and/or regional regulations.

Emergency Preparedness

Both the roofing crew and occupants should be prepared for emergencies. Roofing companies should have an emergency plan in place, including:

First Aid Kits
Fire Extinguishers
Protocols for handling accidents or injuries

Homeowners should know how to contact emergency services and be familiar with evacuation routes in case of fire or other emergencies.

Weather Considerations

Weather can significantly impact the safety of a roofing project. Roofing work should not proceed in adverse weather conditions, like:

Rain
High Winds
Icy Conditions

It’s essential to monitor weather forecasts and reschedule work if necessary to prevent accidents related to slippery surfaces or unstable conditions.

Crew and Resident Communication

Clear communication between the roofing crew and homeowners is vital for ensuring safety. Homeowners should be informed of the project’s timeline, potential disruptions, and safety measures. Likewise, the roofing crew should be aware of any unique circumstances or concerns within or around the home.

Note: Following safety requirements, complying with regulations, and maintaining open communication will keep the crew and occupants safe throughout a successful and secure roofing project. Safety should always be the top priority when embarking on any roofing endeavor, as it protects lives, property, and peace of mind.

Subscribe to this YouTube Channel to see informative videos about roofing topics.

Roof Replacement Safety

In this article, you discovered essential information about the safety equipment and requirements needed to keep your roofing crew and loved ones safe during a residential roof replacement.

Meticulous attention to safety procedures and equipment usage will keep your roofers and home’s occupants from suffering life threatening injuries when mishaps occur.

Disregard for safety protocols can lead to devastating injuries when a roofer loses their balance or material slides off the roof falling to the ground.

Sources:
osha.gov/sites/default/files/2018-11/fy12_sh-23536-12_StudentReferenceMaterials.pdf
cdc.gov/niosh/construction/pdfs/cf2022-wtw-508.pdf
nachi.org/fall-arrest-systems.htm

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

October 14, 2023/by Hayley Mace

Home Maintenance Tips Homeowners Must Know

Residential Roofing

Keep catastrophic damages from significantly reducing your home’s value. Knowing how to maintain your home and what warning signs to watch for will protect your home’s value and potentially save your life.

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered the following home maintenance tips to help homeowners maintain their homes in the best possible condition while preserving their value.

Essential Home Maintenance Tips

Some repairs are inevitable as a homeowner, keeping caught up on monthly and seasonal tasks around your home can prevent major damages and save you significant money over time. Consider the following home maintenance tips:

HVAC System Maintenance – Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential in maintaining indoor comfort. Consider the following HVAC requirements:

Change air filters every 1-3 months to ensure proper air quality and system efficiency.
Schedule annual professional HVAC inspections to clean, service, and optimize the system’s performance.

Note: A malfunctioning HVAC unit can emit foul odors, cause severe water damages, and cause a life-threatening house fire.

Roof and Gutters – Your roof shields your home from the elements. It is essential to keep it in good condition. Be observant of the following tips:

Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles.
Address any issues promptly to prevent leaks.
Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water buildup (causes water damage and mold growth).

Read this article to understand why roof ventilation is crucial to your roofing system’s performance and longevity.

Tip: Contact this professional residential roofer to help keep your roofing system in its best condition.

Plumbing Maintenance – Prevent plumbing mishaps and disasters by promptly addressing corrosion, pipe bursts, leaks and clogs. The following tips will help you prevent significant plumbing malfunctions:

Check faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks regularly.
Learn the location of the main water shut-off valve to halt water flow in emergency situations.
Flush your water heater annually to prevent sediment buildup, maintaining its efficiency.
Protect external (outside) water lines from freezing weather.

Tip: Hire a professional plumber to thoroughly inspect your home’s plumbing system annually before freezing winter weather arrives.

Exterior Home Maintenance – Caring for your home’s exterior increases its curb appeal and protects it from the elements. Consider the following tips:

Refinish, repaint, or touch up siding and trim as needed to prevent weathering, rot, and decay.
Regularly inspect and clean decks, patios, and walkways to prevent decay, mold, mildew, and staining.
Maintain your trees pruned, mulched, and fertilized to keep them healthy and thriving.
Seasonally plant and refresh your garden with flowering plants and small shrubs.

Tip: Hire a local professional landscaper and tree service to keep your trees, garden, and lawn neat, trimmed, and healthy.

Window and Door Maintenance – Well-maintained windows and doors enhance energy efficiency and provide increased home security. Observe the following:

Inspect doors and windows for drafts, cracks, or broken seals.
Lubricate hinges and locks to ensure they function smoothly.
Install door, window, and motion detectors.

Read more about window care and treatments at energy.gov/energysaver/articles/spring-home-maintenance-windows-windows-windows

Tip: Select a smart security system that automatically sends alerts to your smartphone and law enforcement when an intruder is detected.

Electrical Safety – Maintaining your home’s electrical system is crucial for safety. Routinely inspect the following:

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms monthly (annually replace batteries).
Check electrical outlets for loose panels, worn or frayed wiring, or signs of overheating.
Hire a professional electrician for periodic electrical system inspections.

Note: Signs of overheating include burn marks, sparks, warping, cracking, bubbling, and fixture malfunctions.

Pest Prevention – Regular pest inspections and prevention measures can save you from costly infestations and the illnesses they may bring into your home. Consider the following preventive measures:

Seal cracks and gaps around your home’s exterior to keep unwanted pests out.
Keep your living spaces clean and clutter-free, as pests are attracted to food residue, moisture, and clutter.

Tip: Hire a professional pest control service to inspect and treat your home after each winter season.

Appliance Maintenance – Home appliances provide daily conveniences (often overlooked), so it’s essential to keep them in working efficiently. Regularly clean refrigerator coils and clean lint filters in your dryer to prevent fire hazards.

Tip: Follow manufacturer guidelines and timelines for maintaining appliances, like your dishwasher, oven, and washing machine.

Seasonal Maintenance – Different seasons bring unique maintenance challenges. Observe the following seasonal maintenance tasks:

Fall – Clean gutters and remove fallen leaves to prevent clogs. Winterize your home by insulating pipes and sealing gaps to conserve energy.
Spring – Check for winter damage and prepare your home for the warmer months.

Tip: Schedule maintenance visits after severe weather, tree falls, and other disruptive or unexpected events.

Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

In this article, you discovered several essential home maintenance tips to help keep your home functioning at peak performance.

Keeping your home properly maintained will enhance your comfort and foster a healthier environment for you and your loved ones.

Allowing your home’s maintenance to lapse can result in catastrophic damages and costly repairs.

Sources:
fcs.uga.edu/docs/HomeMaintChecklist_update_6.21.pdf
nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/fcs/2020/11/02/8-fall-home-maintenance-tips/
extension.usu.edu/finance/faq/home-maintenance-checklist

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

August 15, 2023/by Hayley Mace

Residential Roof Ventilation

Residential Roofing

Keep poor residential roof ventilation from causing premature roofing problems, leaks, and catastrophic failure. Understanding why and how residential sloped roofing systems are ventilated will help you get your roof installed with the best possible performance and longevity.

newimageroofingatlanta.com gathered the following residential roof ventilation information and tips to help you ensure your home’s roofing system properly mitigates extreme temperatures and significantly extends its lifespan.

Sloped Roof Ventilation

Adequate roof ventilation is a crucial component of any residential structure, and with sloped roofs, ventilation becomes even more of a necessity. Residential sloped roof ventilation plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable living environment, preventing moisture buildup, and improving energy efficiency. The following will help you understand why residential sloped roof ventilation is necessary:

Temperature Regulation – Sloped roof ventilation helps regulate temperatures inside the attic and living spaces. During hot summer months, unventilated attics can become exceedingly hot, leading to heat transfer to living areas, making them uncomfortable. Proper attic ventilation allows hot air to escape, reducing heat buildup and keeping the entire structure cooler.

Moisture Control – Without adequate ventilation, moisture may accumulate in the attic, leading to mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and without intervention, structural damage. Moisture can seep into the structure’s insulation, compromising its effectiveness and causing potentially severe health issues for occupants. By allowing sufficient airflow, sloped roof ventilation helps mitigate moisture, preventing these issues and maintaining a healthier indoor environment.

Energy Efficiency – Efficient ventilation significantly impacts a residential building’s energy efficiency. In the summer, a properly ventilated roof reduces the need for excessive air conditioning by preventing hot air accumulation in the attic. In the winter, adequate ventilation prevents condensation, causing damage to insulation, reducing its effectiveness. By improving energy efficiency, sloped roof ventilation can lead to significant cost savings on utility bills.

Ventilation for Sloped Roofs

Commonly, residential sloped roof exhaust vents consist of continuous ridge vents or static vents no more than 3 feet from the ridge (measured vertically). Intake vents within soffits or eaves are also common, and in-plane intake vents are used when eaves and soffits are not built to include intake vents. Consider the following sloped roof ventilation options:

Ridge Vents – Ridge vents are installed along the ridgeline (peak) of a sloped roof, allowing hot air to escape naturally. Such vents are effective in providing consistent and continuous airflow, as they typically span the entire length of the roof’s peak. Ridge vents are often combined with soffit vents to create a balanced ventilation system, where cool air enters through soffit vents and warm air naturally escapes through ridge vents.

Soffit Vents – Soffit vents are installed under the roof’s eaves, allowing fresh air to enter the attic. They function in conjunction with the roof’s ridge vents to create seamless airflow, facilitating the continuous exchange of hot and cool air. Soffit vents are typically protected by grilles or screens to prevent the entry of pests and debris.

Gable Vents – Gable vents are installed on the gable ends of the roof and provide an alternative to ridge vents. They allow hot air to escape from the attic and can be particularly useful in houses where a ridge vent cannot be installed. Gable vents are available in various shapes and sizes and can be aesthetically pleasing while providing effective ventilation.

Roof Vents – Roof vents come in many different styles, like turbine vents or box vents, and are installed on the roof’s surface. These vents use natural wind power to create negative airflow removing hot air from the attic. Roof vents can be an excellent option for homes with limited roof space or when other ventilation systems are not suitable.

Read more about residential sloped roofing options, components, and structures here.

Note: Current building codes typically require attic ventilation to minimize condensation on the underside of roof sheathing. Summer cooling of attic air, minimizing ice dams, and extending the roof’s lifespan are commonly cited as additional benefits of proper attic ventilation. In fact, most asphalt shingle manufacturers warrant their products only for adequately ventilated roofing systems.

Roof Ventilation Systems

In this article, you discovered why sloped roofing systems require ventilation, how adequate ventilation is achieved, and the consequences of installing a poorly ventilated roofing system.

Properly installed residential roofing ventilation helps prevent mold and mildew growth in your attic while efficiently regulating its temperature, making your home’s air quality healthier and significantly more energy efficient.

Allowing the installation of a roofing system with inadequate ventilation will result in significantly increased utility bills, harmful mold and mildew growth, and a roof with a lower lifespan requiring continuous costly maintenance and repairs.

Sources:
energystar.gov/saveathome/seal_insulate/do_it_yourself_guide/about_attic_ventilation
fpl.fs.usda.gov/documnts/pdf2002/rose02a.pdf
iibec.org/attic-ventilation-101/

New Image Roofing Atlanta

2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 680-0041

July 16, 2023/by Hayley Mace

How Roofing Systems Drain Water

Low-Slope Roofing System Water Drainage

Gravitational Flow and Slope Design

Roof Drains, Scuppers, and Gutters

Residential Shingle Roofing Systems

Roof Slope and Gravity

Overlapping Shingles and Surface Tension

Eaves, Flashing, Drip Edges, Gutters, and Downspouts

Roof Drainage Systems

Residential Roof Replacement Safety – Equipment and Requirements

Safety Equipment and Requirements

Safety Requirements for Occupants

Regulatory Compliance and Permits

Emergency Preparedness

Weather Considerations

Crew and Resident Communication

Roof Replacement Safety

Home Maintenance Tips Homeowners Must Know

Essential Home Maintenance Tips

Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Residential Roof Ventilation

Sloped Roof Ventilation

Ventilation for Sloped Roofs

Roof Ventilation Systems

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