Protect your Roof with these Summertime Roofing Tips

June 15, 2011 - PRLog -- Roofing woes seem to multiply in the summertime, and at MidAtlantic Contracting we have heard them all! It makes sense that summer would be a difficult time for your roof. When you combine scorching sun heating up asphalt shingles, thunderstorms accompanied by torrential rain and wind, and condensation from nonstop air conditioning, your roof is really being put to the test. There are a few tips that you can use to help stave off the summertime roofing blues. And if you have a serious roofing problem, the experts at MidAtlantic Contracting are standing by ready to help with any roofing emergency.


Roofing Tip 1: Keep Your Gutters Clean

In summertime, gutters often become clogged with leaves, seeds, and branches, especially in Northern Virginia. If left alone, the debris will build up until the gutters are clogged and rainwater starts to accumulate underneath your shingles, shortening their lifespan.

It’s important to have your gutters regulars inspected and cleaned, but use caution any time you get up on or near your roof. Cleaning your gutter can be dangerous, and falling from a ladder is one of the most common spring and summertime injuries. For help keeping your gutter clear, MidAtlantic Contracting offers a routine gutter-maintenance program as one of our roofing services.


Roofing Tip 2: Avoid a Roofing Blow-Out

Faulty roof sheathing is one of the biggest reasons for a total or partial roof blow-out, where an entire section of roofing will pull away in a storm. Roof sheathing (the boards or ply-wood nailed to the roof rafters or trusses) can fail during a strong windstorm if not properly installed. Examine the sheathing from the attic. If many of the nails have missed the rafters, you may need to have the sheathing repaired or replaced. MidAtlantic Contracting specializes in roofing replacement and repair, and our professional team will ensure that your sheathing complies with all current Northern Virginia regulations and recommended practices. Contact us today for a free estimate.


Roofing Tip 3: Windstorms

After any intense windstorm with winds of over 40 mph, check to see how your roof has weathered the storm. It is possible for your roof shingles to be damaged seriously in high wind, and small areas of roof can lift due to wind uplift. If you see missing shingles on a section of roof, or if you find shingles that have been blown into your yard, contact MidAtlantic Contracting for a roofing inspection.


Roofing Tip 4: Trim Your Trees

Trees are nice, especially if they provide shade during the hot summers we experience in the Fairfax, Springfield, Annandale, Woodbridge, and Manassas, VA areas. But trees also pose a hazard to roofs. Branches, leaves, and seeds will fall onto your roof and gutters, causing buildup, rot, and new seedlings to take root. Pollen and water will drip from trees onto your roof, leaving stains. If left unchecked, small tree branches growing at an angle to the house can actually burrow straight through the attic space.

Trees also provide a nice pathway to your attic for squirrels, ants, and other pests living in trees. Animal damage is one of the worst kinds of damage that a roof can experience. All of these problems are easily preventable by simply trimming your trees.


Roofing Tip 5: Dripping Air Conditioning Ducts

Heating and air conditioning ducts are often installed in attics, where, if they are not well insulated, their condensation can cause a lot of damage. If your ducts have condensation, leaking and mold build-up can occur inside your home. Leaking ducts can also cause moss or mold to develop under your shingles or other damage to your roofing material. Inspect your attic to ensure that your ducts are well insulated and free of condensation. MidAtlantic Contracting specializes in attic ventilation and other roofing problems. If you see moisture in your attic, call MidAtlantic Contracting for help today.

Mid Atlantic Contracting is a fully licensed contractor providing roofing, remodeling, restoration, windows, decks, and other home improvement services to the Fairfax, Springfield, Annandale, Woodbridge, and Manassas, VA areas. There is no job too big or small. Call us today at 703-912-1428.

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MidAtlantic Contracting Inc. is a full service Northern Virginia home improvement/remodeling, deck/fence, and roofing contractor - private & commercial. Family-owned & Class A licensed with over 30 years experience serving Northern Virginia.