What Are “Soft Spots” On A Roof?

June 20, 2016UncategorizedRIslate15

Building off our 5 summer home maintenance tips and getting your roof inspected, another aspect of roof maintenance you should be aware of is soft spots.

Soft spots on your roof can form when a layer underneath the shingles gets wet due to a gap between some shingles. Most roofs have a layer of plywood underneath roofing tiles or shingles. From the natural elements that a roof endures all year long, plywood can weaken in these overexposed spots. One way that you can notice a soft spot is if there is a dip in your roof. If you see this, you should reach out to a professional ASAP.

Very often when you find or see a soft spot on your roof, there will be more that have gone unnoticed. The Rhode Island Slate Roofing team has years of experience with soft spots on roofs. We will inspect the quality of your whole roof to come up with the best repair process.

If caught early, it can be fixed quickly. If you ignore the soft spot on your roof, it can eventually turn into a huge leaking issue.

For more information about soft spots or if you roof could be in trouble, please feel free to give the experts at Rhode Island Slate Roofing a call at 401-225-2003 or fill out our online contact form.

Five Summer Home Maintenance Tips

June 3, 2016newsRIslate15

Are you ready for those summer time barbecues? Is your house and outdoor property in tip top shape for summer? If not, be sure to check some of our helpful maintenance to get your exterior in line for the summer fun.

1.) Air Conditioning Tune Up: For those people that need their AC during the summer time, it is imperative that you get a spring tune-up. A tune up with make sure that everything is working properly and it will help prevent you from having an excepted failure.

2.) Roof Check: It is best practice to have your roof checked annually to ensure that everything is working up to par. The spring and winter can put a lot of pressure and wear and tear onto your roof. This is a good time of the year to make sure everything is all good up there.

3.) Gutter Cleaning: Regular gutter cleaning is recommended to prevent against any clogging or leakage. It is best to do this two a year, once in the late fall/ early winter and then again in the late spring/ early summer.

4.) Check Kids Playing Areas: Swingsets and other kids playing areas can get some wear and tear during the winter. Make sure there are no loose bolts, sharp edges or splinters sticking up.

5.) Pool Maintenance: For those people who own a pool in New England, you should start thinking about cleaning it. It has probably been at least 8 months since someone swam in it. Start the cleaning process at least week before swimming season to be sure that everyone is safe from chemical harm.

For more information on roofing maintenance or repair work during the summer, please feel free to give Rhode Island Slate Roofing a call at 401-255-2003 or fill out our online contact form.

Why Should I Invest In Slate Roofing?

May 16, 2016slate roofingRIslate15

slate-roofing-square A slate roof is a smart choice for homeowners for a number of reasons as it is often referred to as a “lifetime roofing system”. Slate is a natural stone that comes from clay and silt that has been deposited on ancient sea beds. Have you been thinking about investing in a slate roof? Call Rhode Island Slate Roofing for a free estimate on your roof and check out these pro’s of slate roofs!

Low-maintenance – slate roofs don’t rot and show great resistance to mold and algae growth. They are also highly resistant to temperature fluctuations and inclement weather such as rain, snow, and wind, which makes them a great option in climates with four distinct seasons.

Eco-friendly – with the longevity of slate roofs, they help reduce the waste from roof replacement, and the carbon footprint that comes from roof tear-offs. Traditional roofing materials get replaced every 10-20 years which ends up being thrown in landfills, with slate roofs lasting around 100 years, your roof won’t be contributing to this problem!

Beautiful – slate roofs are very aesthetically pleasing and come in an array of colors, sizes, and thicknesses in order to suit any home’s style.

Durable – made of natural stone, slate roofs are very durable. They prevent water from entering your home, and can withstand severe weather conditions to give you the best protection for your home. They are also completely non-combustible and will protect your home in the event of a fire. Slate roofs last alot longer than traditional roofing materials, in which many manufacturers offer long warranties on their roofing systems.

Increased energy efficiency – slate roofs are an excellent insulator which can help save you money on your heating and cooling costs.

For more information, read some stats and facts about slate roofing.

Reasons Your Roof Could Be Leaking

May 2, 2016newsRIslate15

Roof Leakage Most of us take the roofs over our heads for granted. It’s not until we notice a leak that we start thinking about what they actually do for us. The fact is that once your roof starts to leak, your home will already be in a more serious problem. The reasons for a roof leaks can include just about everything. The most important thing to note is that once you notice a leak, reach out to a reliable roofing contractor as soon as possible.

6 Reasons Your Roof Could Be Leaking

Flashing: The most common reasons for leaking is flashing. Those metal strips, or sheets that cover seems on your roof is called flashing. When this erodes or get damaged, leaking may begin.

Skylights: Skylights add some beautiful character to your home. They are visually appealing and for some homes bring in much needed natural light. If installed incorrectly, skylights can be a major problem for leaks.

Chimneys: The area of a chimney that is above the roof tends to be a spot that water collects. This can then lead to water trickling down and making its way through tiny open spaces into a home.

Shingles: During extreme weather, shingles can be torn straight off your roof leaving a direct path for water to enter the underside of your roof.

Poor Work: An inexperienced or corner-cutting contractor could be the main reason that you have experienced roofing leak. Poor workmanship leads directly to improper roof installation and repairs. When selecting your roofing contractor be sure they know what they are doing.

Age & Wear: While slate roofs last up to 200 years, most roofs enter their old age at around 15-20 years. If you haven’t kept up with any needed maintenance, your roof may just be in need of replacements or it could have hit it’s maximum lifespan.

If you have experienced a roofing leak, reach out to Rhode Island Slate Roofing as soon as possible. We can be contacted over the phone at 401-225-2003 or through our online contact form.

Common Mistakes Made By Inexperienced Roofers

April 11, 2016UncategorizedRIslate15

Everyone understands the importance of a roof. It’s the first list of defense against all of natures elements. From sun and wind to all that rain, ice and hail, a quality roof is needed. It is because of this that you be sure you are hiring an experienced and skilled contractor to work on your roof. A few mistakes here and there could end up costing you a lot of money and time.

Rhode Island Slate Roofing is a leading roofing company in Rhode Island and we often come across roofs that have been installed and worked on incorrectly. Here are some of the common mistakes we see made by inexperienced roofing contractors.

Improper Nailing: Nail placement may seem more important than you think. Improper nail placement could lead to damaged shingles and leaking.
Starter Singles: Whether someone uses starter shingles incorrectly or not at all, there can be problems caused during the installation process.
Flashing: Flashing is extremely important and when installed incorrectly, water can make its way into your home all over.
Ventilation: An attic and ceiling needs ventilation. Without it, moisture will build up over time causing serious damage to your roof.

The various mistakes a non-professional can make are endless. When it comes to a roof repair, replacement or inspection be sure you are working with a professional. For more information about RI Slate roofing please feel free to give us a call at 401-225-2003 or fill out our online contact form.

Statistics and Facts About Slate Roofing

March 17, 2016slate roofingRIslate15

As a company that specializes in slate roofing, we are obviously big fans of slate. Many homeowners come to the point where they are looking to pick out the right material for their homes roof. While slate isn’t always the perfect choice for everyone, it certainly has its benefits. We will be happy to speak with any homeowner who has question or concerns but to get you educated, check out some of the main benefits of slate roofing.

Slate Roofing’s Lifespan: Slate is essentially a rock, so therefore, the material is over millions of years old. Slate roofs as a whole can last anywhere between 75 to 200 years. We work with a range of slate roofs and it’s important to keep them well maintained so they will last as long as possible.

Slate Roof Advantages Over Shingle Roof:

One difference to look at is comparing the lifespan of the two. A slate roof is often called a “forever roof” because you will only need to install it once in your lifetime and a shingle roof may need to be replaced two or three times. Another difference between the two is resale value. The natural beauty and durability of a slate roof will increase the value of your home. Some other benefits that slate roofs hold over shingles are the natural ability to resist fire and mold.

Preparing for Slate Roofs:

While slate roofs provide an amazing number of positives, they do add a lot of weight to your roof. If your home isn’t properly constructed to handle slate, additional support may be needed.

Pricing: Considering all the benefits that slate provide, as you can imagine, it is more expensive then the usual shingle roof.

Coloring & Styling: One of the biggest pluses and noticeable factors of slate roofing is the numerous styles, textures and colors options that are available. The rustic and natural beauty cannot be matched by another other roof.

Each roofing option has their positives and negatives. For more information about slate roofing and to see if it’s the right fit for you, please feel free to give us a call at 401-225-2003 or fill out our online contact form.

Why You Should Clean Out Your Gutters

March 2, 2016newsRIslate15

Mentioned in our spring roofing tips blog, was the importance to clean your gutters leading into the spring season. We discussed how a clogged drain becomes a huge inconvenience, but we never really dug into the topic very much. So, why? Why should you clean out your gutters, besides the fact that everyone tells you so.

Over-clogged: The longer you leave your gutter clogged and build up with gunk, the better chance there is of them collapsing. Before you experience such a case, be sure that you clean your gutters and ensure they are structurally sound.

Pests: Gutters often become an unwanted home to pests such as rats, ants, mosquitos and other wildlife. While they may seem harmless, a faulty roof or gutter could lead to these pests making there way into your home. A regular cleaning of your gutters will prevent this from happening.

Property Value & Appearance: Broken gutters can directly have a negative impact on your homes value in the case that you try to sell it. Clogged and broken gutters can also generate an unappealing look for neighbors.

Ice Dams: The problem with ice dams during the winter can be prevented by keeping up with your gutters, especially during the fall. Clogged drains causes melting ice to find its way into your house if there is no where else for it to go.

For more information about gutter cleaning, please feel free to reach out to Rhode Island Slate Roofing at 401-225-2003 or fill out our online contact form.

Essential Roofing Safety Tips

February 25, 2016UncategorizedRIslate15

The safest way to work on a roof is by hiring a roofing contractor. They have years and years of experience and can get the job done efficiently, quickly and properly. If you want get work done on your roof done by yourself, it’s crucial that you are as safe as possible. Be sure to read some of our safety tips because taking the needed safety steps can only help you stay secure and under control.

Don’t work on a roof all by yourself. In the case that something bad happens, it’s imperative that someone else is there to help.
Avoid working in any really rainy or windy weather. It’s dangerous enough working on a roof on a blue sunny sky day. Wet leaves and moisture will make it very difficult to navigate around and could cause you to slip.
When using ladder and making your way onto to the roof, be sure that the ladder is solid, secure and level to the ground.
Don’t get distracted. Pay attention to the roof and keep surrounding distractions to a minimum. You can do this by telling the people around you that the work is very important and you want to be as safe as possible.
When getting onto the roof it’s important that you are equipped correctly. Wear sturdy shoes that have good traction; this will prevent you from slipping. Also, use a hardhat and safety glasses.

If you are uncomfortable with the height or your roof and you know your limits, don’t try to be hero. Know your physical limitations and reach out to a professional.

The Rhode Island Slate Roofing contractors have been providing there range of roofing services throughout the state of Rhode Island & Massachusetts for many years. For further questions, please feel free to reach out. We can be contacted over the phone at 401-225-2003 or through our online contact form.

Spring Roofing Tips

February 18, 2016newsRIslate15

With spring starting up in almost one month, Rhode Island Slate Roofing figured we could get everyone thinking of some spring roofing tips. While there’s still a month of winter left, it can only help to plan ahead.

Spring Roofing Tips

Roof inspection: No matter what type of roof you have, your roof is your homes number one defense against water, snow and ice. Each and every winter can offer it’s problems to a roof, so be sure to internally check for any water damage and also check outside for broken or missing shingles. Check out one of our latest blogs to learn if your roof is in serious trouble.

Gutter Cleaning: Gutters are crucial to help direct rain away from your roof. Clogged gutters can be a huge pain for your home. Especially in spring when rain falls are at there highest, be sure you are protected.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to argue that we will soon be hit with that last memorable winter storm. Be sure that you know about Ice Dams, and how to properly handle a large about of snow on your roof.

For more information or questions about the condition of your roof, please feel free to give Rhode Island Slate Roofing a call at 401-225-2003 or through our online contact form.

FAQ’s About Roofing

January 21, 2016newsRIslate15

As a homeowner or businesses owner, there always comes a time where you either have a roof problem or where you are curious about the current condition of your roof. During this situation, there are a couple frequent questions that people ask themselves. Below, we have posted some answers to popular questions that we receive at Rhode Island Slate Roofing.

Do I have Roof Damage?

Roof damage occurs in many different ways. Here are some common signs that your roof could be damaged:

Exposed nails
Noticeable holes, or cracks
Obvious signs of leakage or water damage inside your home
Discoloration in isolated areas of either your ceilings or walls
Dark and saggy patches in the roof
Rusted metal at the corner where the roof meets the vertical area of the house

How much does a new roof cost?

There is no set price for a new roof installation. There are a variety of different factors including:

Roof size
Angle of the roof
Materials used for the current and future roof
Amount of roof damage and level of surface

For more information, please feel free to give RI Slate Roofing at call at 401-225-2003 or fill out our online contact form.