All posts by RIslate15

2023 Spring Roofing Checklist For 2023

March 2, 2023newsRIslate15

With spring just around the corner, just about everyone is itching to get outside and enjoy the moderate temperatures. And with warmer weather comes the opportunity to check in on your home’s roof. After months of snow and ice repeating the freeze-melt cycle, it’s crucial to complete a short, but necessary roofing checklist. Hopefully, there won’t be any damage to your roof, but if there is, you’ll be able to prevent it by being proactive. Here is a roofing checklist with Spring around the corner.

Start with the Attic

Your home’s attic can tell you a lot about the condition of its roof. Since it doesn’t require you to go outdoors, this is a task that can be done early on in the spring once your attic is at a comfortable enough temperature to do so. You want to look for any signs of water damage, sources of moisture, mold, and any damage to the attic or roof’s infrastructure.

Clear Out the Gutters

This task on the to-do list will require moderate weather, so when the forecast is looking clear, dedicate an hour or two to getting up on a ladder and clearing out your gutters. If you cleaned them in the fall, there shouldn’t be too much debris to clear out. But if it’s been a while, you’ll want to rid your gutters of leaves, sticks, and any other organic materials that may have fallen from nearby trees.

Maintain your Roof

If you notice large debris on your roof, such as branches or sticks, you’ll want to get those cleared off. Not only that, but you’ll want to make sure that the impact from this debris didn’t cause any damage to your roof. If you aren’t comfortable getting up on your roof yourself, call a roofing company to handle this task for you. They have the skill and equipment to do the job quickly and safely. Not only that, but they can take a look at your roof as a whole to ensure there isn’t any other damage that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion

Spring is the ideal time of year to complete your roofing checklist for a number of reasons. The weather isn’t too hot or cold, trees aren’t dropping leaves, and you can catch any winter damage quickly. While it’s not everyone’s favorite task, it’s worth tackling your roof’s to-do list in order to prevent costly damage and other issues down the road.

Roofing Services in Rhode Island: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Rhode Island Slate Roofing has your Rhode Island Roof covered when it comes to new roofing services. Contact us for your roof upgrade today!

What Are The Roofing Trends of 2023?

March 2, 2023roofingRIslate15

Many people underestimate the impact their home’s roof can have on its overall curb appeal. While roofs serve primarily to protect us from the elements, that doesn’t mean they can’t add to the home’s aesthetic. If you’re in the market for a new roof, you may want to become acquainted with the latest trends before deciding on the best product for you and your home. Here are common roofing trends for 2023!

Asphalt shingles

You’ve surely heard the old adage, “if it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” and that applies to opting for asphalt as your shingle material of choice. Asphalt is durable and can stand up to the most extreme weather, whether it’s sweltering heat or sleet and snow. Asphalt is a tried and true material that you’ll continue to see on roofs in 2023 and beyond.

Add metal for a Mixed Design

While metal is similarly durable to asphalt, metal roofing has been less popular. Fortunately, metal roofing has come a long way and is far quieter than it used to be. All this to say that mixing these two materials is a great option for homeowners looking for a more unique and trendy look with their new roof.

A Cool Color Palette

Your color choice should be just as much about curb appeal as it should be about energy efficiency. Cooler colors such as blue and gray, or earth tones in varying shades of brown, are more popular than ever; and it’s no wonder.

Solar Panels

While you’re updating your roof, consider having solar panels installed at the same time. If energy efficiency is a top priority for you, solar panels can do far more for your energy bills than just choosing a cool-colored roof alone. As technology has advanced, solar panels have become more commonplace. Thankfully, this means they won’t stick out from your roof like a sore thumb.

Keeping up with the Latest Roofing Trends

Believe it or not, roofing trends do change from year to year. If the last time you had your roof replaced was a decade ago or more, there’s a good chance a lot has changed since then. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to give your home a modern touch with a new roof. By becoming familiar with what’s new in the roofing industry, you can ensure you make the right decision for yourself and your home!

Professional Roofing Services in Rhode Island, Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Rhode Island Slate Roofing is an experienced roofing company that can provide a variety of roofing services throughout Rhode Island. Contact us today to get started!

How Do I Prevent Moss On My Roof?

December 2, 2022Best PracticesRIslate15

Moss on any roof should not be ignored and it can pose a handful of problems. Not only is it an unpleasant sight, but it is also only a negative presence for a roof. For those not familiar with moss, moss is essentially the fuzzy green, plant-based material that looks like algae. Moss can spread quickly across a roof and do more damage than it appears. Fortunately, there are a handful of ways moss growth on a roof can be prevented. Here are five strategies homeowners should keep in mind for moss prevention.

1. Clean Your Gutters At Least Once A Season

One of the ways moss can grow on a roof is through a gutter system. When a gutter is clogged and backed up, water will not exit your roof the way it should. This can serve as a springboard for moss to grow via the gutter and spread to the roof. If you do not want to or lack the motivation to clean your gutter, a professional company can tackle the task for you.

2. Do Not Let Debris Linger on Your Roof

Debris can commonly be found on a roof. Debris is another component that helps moss grow on a roof. After a windy day hits your area, check your roof to see if any debris ended up on there. Windy days often cause branches to end up falling on roofs. If you notice branches or other debris on your roof, have it removed as soon as possible.

3. Trim Your Surrounding Trees Branches

Going off the previous point, trimming surrounding tree branches is a win-win. Not only does trimming tree branches decrease the chances debris ends up on your roof, trimming tree branches also knocks out another pivotal moss component: Shade. Moss thrives in a shady environment. If tree branches are providing your roof with too much shade, that plays into moss’s hand.

Professional Roofing Services in Smithfield, MA

When your Rhode Island roof needs roofing services at any point of the year, you can count on Rhode Island Slate Roofing. For over a decade now, we have provided consistent roofing services across the state of Rhode Island. The next time you need a particular roofing service, you can count on our team to get the job done! Contact us today to get started!

What You Should Know About Historic Roof Restoration

December 1, 2022historic roofingrestoration, rhode island, roofingRIslate15

A historic roof is more than just an old roof. A historic roof carries plenty of meaning and plays an essential part to the structure of a building. Historic roofs are commonly found on landmark buildings, churches, and mansions. Like all types of roofs, historic roofs will require restoration at some point. Continue reading to learn more about historic roof restoration projects!

Indicators A Historic Roof Needs Restoration

A historic roof cannot be restored if no damage is detected. If a historic roof has never been restored before, there is a decent chance it has some damage. Before restoration is scheduled have the roof inspected.

Common signs a historic roof needs restoration are:

Rotten spots on the roof
Excessive Moss
The ceiling is discolored

What Are The Benefits of Historic Roof Restoration?

When any structural element is “restored”, benefits can be countless. Here are five common benefits of historic roof restoration:

Additional damages can be prevented or mitigated
More High-Quality products exist now than decades ago
Restoration will extend the longevity of the roof
Restoration will enhance the aesthetics of the roof
Restoration can uncover roofing issues not previously spotted

Restoring A Historic Roof is Worth It

Historic roof restoration preserves an old roof with historical significance. With a historic roof part of a building with a notable presence, keeping the structure in its original form is invaluable.

How Long Does Historic Restoration Take?

Historic roof restoration can be a challenging process, but if you hire the right professionals, the project can be successful. Historic roof restoration requires a meticulous evaluation. Once the evaluation is completed, professional roofers set out the logistics and get started. Every historic roofing restoration project will vary from another but historic roof restorations usually take a few weeks to complete

Professional Roofing Services in Smithfield, RI

Rhode Island Slate Roofing offers a variety of professional roofing services throughout the state of Rhode Island. When you need a roof installation, repair, or restoration, you can count on our professional team to get the job done! With our experience, expertise and resources, we can get the project done right the first time! Contact us today to get started!

Benefits of Slate Roofing In Rhode Island

November 8, 2022slate roofingRIslate15

Slate roofing is considered a premier roofing material and is a great option for Rhode Island homes. Here are five benefits that can come from having slate roofing in the state of Rhode Island.

Long Lifespan

Slate roof tiles are derived from a super-hard rock known as metamorphic rocks. Due to slate roofing being comprised of super strong rock material, slate roofing has one of the longest life expectancies when it comes to roofing material. This is great news for homes in Rhode Island that use slate roofing. With the inclement weather, Rhode Island can see year-round, slate roofing can give homeowners a peace of mind.

Holds Up Against Numerous Types of Weather

Rhode Island is a state that sees different weather in every season. From snow to rain to hail, slates strength can resist absorbing a lot of water. Rhode island is also a state that can experience strong wind storms. Homeowners can expect slate to hold their own in heavy wind.

The Weather Is Unpredictable

Going off the previous point, the weather in Rhode Island is not always so cut and dry. Like the rest of the New England states, the weather likes to march to the beat of its own drum. Fickle weather comes and goes in Rhode Island. Slate roofing can ensure you are well set up no matter what game the weather wants to play.

Requires Less Maintenance Than Other Roofs

Some roof types need to be replaced multiple times during its lifetime. Not slate roofing. Slate roofing is pretty much set in stone once it is installed. Maintenance is still suggested with slate roofs, but not to the levels of other roofing materials.

Multiple Style and Color Options

Slate roofing style and color options can help a home in Rhode Island stand out! Slate roofing comes in a variety of colors and any color choice can make any Rhode Island home look elegant.

Professional Slate Roofing In Smithfield, RI

Rhode Island Slate Roofing can offer the slate roofing services you are seeking throughout the state of Rhode Island. With our certifications, experience and expertise, you will not regret choosing our slate roofing services! Contact us to get started on your slate roof today!

Benefits of Professional Ice Dam Removal

November 8, 2022winter tipsRIslate15

If you have lived in a New England state for at least a few years, you have definitely seen Ice Dam buildups by now. Ice Dams and icicles are intertwined but separate. Ice Dams are a part of the frozen sharp ice chunks that form on the edge of roofs every winter. The difference is “ice dam” refers to the buildup behind the frozen icicles. Ice Dams look dangerous and can do more damage than one may imagine. Continue reading to learn how professional ice dam removal has many benefits.

Ice Dams Are Bad For Everyone

It is common knowledge that frozen icicles are sharp and can hurt anyone if they were to fall down. Unfortunately, the danger with Ice dams does not stop there. When Ice Dams are intact, they can wreak havoc on your roof. Since ice dams are large blocks of ice, serious damage can be done once the ice melts. Ice dams can easily leak and do damage to a roof. Once an ice dam leaks, water can make its way into your home in an unwanted way.

Ice Dam Removal Is Dangerous For Homeowners

For the average homeowner, Ice Dam removal is a dangerous task. This should come as no surprise as climbing up a ladder in a cold environment to deal with an icy roof is something most homeowners do not do regularly. If a homeowner has little to no experience with ice dam removal, it is best to leave it to the pros. Safety is paramount when it comes to ice dam removal.

Improper Ice Dam Removal Can Do Damage

Ice Dam Removal when done incorrectly or uncarefully can do damage to a home’s exterior. Even if you are confident at getting snow and ice off your roof, if you feel like you are not doing it the right way, it is best to consult with a professional company. The last thing any homeowner wants to do is significantly damage their roofs during winter season.

Professional Ice Dam Removal In Smithfield, Rhode Island

When you need professional ice dam removals services in Rhode Island, turn to Rhode Island Slate Roofing! Our ice dam removal team is experienced, insured, and fully-capable of getting ice dam removed from your roof. When Ice Dams strike, contact our team!

Main Reasons To Replace Roof Before Winter

October 4, 2022roofingRIslate15

The temperature is quickly dropping by the day in New England states and Winter will be here before any of us knows it. If your home needs a new roof, here are five reasons it is better to replace your roof now than in the winter.

The Weather Is Still Better Now

Despite the temperature dropping these days, it will be significantly colder in the coming winter months. Experiencing an open roof on a cold winter day will not be fun. Fall temperatures are still mostly manageable, especially for a roofing service. So all in all, the timing is still more ideal now than the frigid winter days to come.

More Efficient To Install

Going off the previous paragraph, fall temperatures are often the perfect time to use roofing materials. The coldness winter brings can make it difficult to install certain roofing materials. On the flip side, a hot summer day can also be inconvenient for a roof installation or repair. Many fall days are not too hot or too cold.

Water Damage Can Be Avoided

Roof leaks occur when the surface of a roof is wet and not properly protected. When snow melts on your roof in the winter, water can make its way into your home if your roof is outdated. By addressing roof issues now, potential water damage from what winter will bring can be avoided.

It Can Lower Your Heating Bill

Winter heating bills can be quite expensive, especially if you currently have a subpar roof. A roof that is beyond its expiration date can be one of the biggest factors of a high heating bill because it allows heat to escape your home too quickly. A new roof can keep your home warmer and trap heat when you use your heating system.

Decreases Chances Roof Gets Blown Away

The fall and winter in New England states can see strong winds. If your current roof is wearing down, it can be susceptible to getting blown away the next time your area sees strong wind gusts. A new roof is far more likely to stay intact when strong winds blow.

Professional Roofing Services In Smithfield, RI: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Rhode Island Slate Roofing is the Rhode Island roofing team you can trust when your roof needs repair. Our experience, expertise, and passion will help you have a new, secure roof in no time! Contact us today to get started!

How Can I Make My Roof Last Longer?

October 3, 2022roofingRIslate15

Roofs are often expensive projects so it is no surprise every homeowner wants their roofs to last as long as possible. Easier said than done. Here are five manageable strategies homeowners can use to increase the chances that their roofs outlive their shelf life.

Be Motivated To Clean The Gutter

Cleaning the gutter may not be a fun chore but it can be a rewarding one. Keeping a gutter clean creates an easy path for water around your roof to leave the vicinity. Having a clogged gutter can lead to massive water leaks. Water leaks on your roof can affect a roofs shelf life considerably, not to mention it is an inconvenience.

Strengthen Your Roof

There are a handful of ways to strengthen a roof already in place. First, you can add an extra layer underneath your roof. Secondly, you can replace old nails with newer, stronger ones. Both methods are commonly used to fortify a roof.

Clean Your Roof Once A Season

Some homeowners have never cleaned their respective roofs. That’s okay as long as you have a professional do it instead. Every season, roofs accumulate branches, debris, leaves, etc. While what is currently on your roof may seem harmless, it can be doing harm quietly. For example, wet leaves can lead to water damage.

Have Your Roof Insulated

A well-insulated roof is priceless. If your roof is currently not insulated, consider doing so. An insulated roof can make your home and roof more energy efficient year round.

Be Proactive With Tree Branches Over Roof

You have probably seen homes with tree branches hanging over a roof. This is not ideal for a roof for multiple reasons. For starters, if the branch comes down on the roof for any reason, it can do significant damage to the roof. Even when the overhanging tree branch is in place, it can still cause problems. For example, it can provide an avenue for animals to get on top of the roof. Who knows what the animal will do once it is on top of your roof. It is better to not take any chances.

Professional Roofing Services in Smithfield, Rhode Island: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Rhode Island Slate Roofing is the professional roofing company you should trust when it comes to your roofing needs in the state of Rhode Island. Whether it is roofing repairs or installations, count on us to get it done! Contact us today to get started!

How Can I Tell If Roofers Did A Good Job?

September 2, 2022roofingRIslate15

Roof repairs and installations are typically one of the most expensive home improvement projects no matter how you slice it. This means that once a roofing project is complete, it should not just become an afterthought. It is imperative that homeowners inspect a roof after a roofing project is completed to ensure it was done well. The last thing any homeowner wants is to spend thousands of dollars on a new roof, only for it to be inadequate at protecting the home. If you are a new homeowner who has not inspected a completed roof before, here are three things you can look for after the roofers you hired finish up.

Alignment Passes The Eye Test

While most homeowners do not know much about roofs, your eyes can tell you a lot. After a roofing project is completed, take a closer look at the materials used for your new roof. Nails should not be missing and there should not be any dents. The shingles or tiles on a roof should be even and consistent.

The Project Takes At Least A Few Days

With the exception of smaller roofing projects, a roof repair or roof installation should take at least a few days. In most cases, a roofing project completed in less than one day was most likely rushed and leaving more to be desired.

Your Roof Does Not Leak Shortly After

Most likely the easiest tell-tale sign of the job the roofers did is whether or not your roof leaks in the interim. If your roof holds up the next time it rains or snows, your roofers did a good job. If you notice water leaking from the roof shortly after a roofing project, your roofers did not properly fix the roof.

Professional Roofing Services in Smithfield, RI: Rhode Island Slate Roofing

Rhode Island Slate Roofing is a team full of experienced, passionate, and reliable roofing professionals. Excellent customer service is always something our team strives for and will not stop short of providing. For roofing repairs and installations in Rhode Island and parts of Massachusetts, contact us!

How Should I Prepare My Roof For Fall?

September 2, 2022roofingRIslate15

Now that Summer is nearing its end and the days are starting to get a little chillier, homeowners should be mindful of their roofs. Before long, snowfall will arrive and now is an ideal time to prepare your roof for the upcoming inclement weather. With only a few weeks left of Summer, here are five things you should do for your roof as soon as possible.

Inspect for Damages

Do not let the beautiful weather from this Summer fool you. There is a possibility, albeit a small one, that your roof was damaged in some way this Summer. High heat temperatures can wear down your roof and many parts of New England received record heat temperatures this Summer.

Schedule Repairs

If you notice missing shingles, cracked tiles, etc., now is the time to schedule a repair a roof repair. The longer a damaged roof is not addressed, the worst it can become. Dealing with a roof repair on a cold fall or winter day will not be fun. At least the weather is still relatively warm these days.

Keep Gutter Intact

Gutters are vital in the fall. Gutters help direct water on your roof away from your home. If a gutter is clogged or not quite intact, it can lead to significant water damage. Take a look at your gutter system if you have not done so in months. Remove all the debris, leaves, etc. you can visibly spot in your gutter.

Monitor Trees Near Roof

Trees near your home’s roof can have large branches that you do not want to have fall on your roof. Take a close look at how close some branches are hovering over your roof. If they pose a threat to your roof, have them trimmed or cut down.

Contact A Professional Roof Team

A professional roofing company such as Rhode Island Slate Roofing can get your roof ready for the fall and winter. Our team has decades of experience, is flexible, and can finally give you the roof you desire. Contact us today to get started on upgrading your roof!