Do you have a cedar shakes roof that you think may need to be replaced? Your best bet is having a local roofing company come out and take a look. If you live in the Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia area, Shanco is the company to call!

Replacing Cedar Shakes

If you’re like most homeowners, you may be able to do little things around the house—fix a leaky faucet, seal up drafty window, etc.—but dealing with the roof is altogether different. Many homeowners, even the handy ones, are inexperienced at repairing or replacing roofing shingles. In fact, many aren’t even sure when it’s time for a repair or replacement!

Again, consulting a roofing professional is the best course of action, but there are some signs you can look out for on your own before bringing in the pros. You most likely need to replace your cedar shakes roof if:

• The shakes are curling
• The shakes are splitting, cracking, or warping
• The shakes are swelling or shrinking
• There are missing shakes
• There is fungus, mildew, or moss growth on the shakes

These signs could indicate any number of problems—a leak, improper attic ventilation, improper installation, lack of preservation and maintenance, etc. The number one thing you can do to prolong the lifespan of your roof is get proper maintenance and professional inspections/service (recommended every three years or so).

Cedar Roof Preservation & Maintenance

While the natural beauty and warmth of cedar is unmatched, it does require some maintenance, unlike standing seam metal and other roofing materials.  Talk to roofing professionals for the best preservation and maintenance practices, but generally, keep these tips in mind:

• Caulk (to seal up leaks) is a temporary solution at best, not a substitute for proper repairs
• Avoid using by-products such as motor oil on the cedar shakes—they need to breathe
• A good fungicide/preservative is okay—just be sure to check with your local roofers before using any product
• Keep debris like pine needles and leaves off the roof

Contact Shanco today to learn more about repairing or replacing cedar shakes or if you want professional roofers to come out and inspect your roof!

What Are the Causes of Roof Damage?

Many different elements affect your roofing, including:

Wind: If winds reach high enough speeds, they can lift the edge of the roofing shingles or shakes and force water under them, which can lead to leaking and other water damage. Some high winds can actually tear the shingles off your roof and cause extensive damage.

Rain: If rain gets under the roofing shingles or shakes, it can cause the structure underneath to rot or form mold and mildew. In some cases, mildew and rotting can even occur inside the house, in the walls, ceilings, insulation, etc.

Heat: Although it may seem tame compared to high winds and rain, the sun is another cause of long-term roof damage. Ultraviolet rays cause roof materials to deteriorate over time. Note: Deterioration tends to happen faster on roofing facing west or south.

Snow and ice: Here in the Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia area, we don’t get too many crazy snowstorms, but unfortunately, snow and ice can damage your roof pretty badly. There are a few different types of damage that can occur due to snow and ice:

• Melting snow often refreezes at a roof’s overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam—which blocks proper drainage into the gutter.
• Water from melting snow and ice can back up under the shingles or shakes and seep into the interior.
• Gutters and downspouts can fill with ice, which can damage them beyond repair or even tear them off a house.

Condensation: Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of roofing. Condensation is often a result of warm, moist air building up. This usually occurs if the attic is improperly ventilated, which can cause wood sheathing and rafter decay or more extensive damage to a roofing structure.

Trees and leaves: Falling branches can scratch the roofing and even puncture shingles. Leaves piling up on the roof can cause moisture buildup and cause rotting and other damage, and leaves that fall into the gutters often cause clogs, which can lead to a host of other problems.

Moss and algae: If your wood shingles or shakes are moist, moss can grow on them, which can cause rotting.  Also, moss roots can work their way into the decking, causing damage. Algae grows in damp, shady areas of the roof and can also retain moisture, causing rotting and deterioration. Algae can also leave an unsightly black-green stain on the roof shingles or shakes.

Signs of Roof Damage

Knowing the different causes of roof damage is good, but it’s even better to recognize signs of a damaged roof. There are several indications that your roof may require repair or even full replacement, including:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Shingles that are missing granule
• Mildew or rotting inside your home—walls, ceilings, insulation, electrical systems, etc.
• Shingles that are loose or slightly lifted or bent at the end
• Curling or blistering shingles
• Black-green stains
• And more

Of course, other signs, such as damage to the decking or structure under the shingles, may not be visible, and this is why professional inspections are so important. A roofing company will be able to tell you where your roof is damaged and tell you the best course of action to take.

Stay tuned for the next post—what you can do to minimize or prevent roof damage!

Think your roof needs an inspection? Contact us today!

Different Roof Materials

Asphalt Shingle

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material for residential homes, townhouses, and small apartment buildings. The shingles typically comprise three layers: a substrate, an adhesive asphalt coating, and ceramic granules. Architectural asphalt shingles, which are growing in popularity, have more layers, giving the roof a textured appearance. Asphalt shingles are low-cost, low-maintenance, and have a 15 – 25 year lifespan when installed correctly—though some asphalt shingle roofing can last longer than that!

Slate

At one time, slate was one of the most popular roof material options, and it is becoming popular once again, partly due to its environmental benefits. Slate is a stone, meaning it’s extremely durable, and it’s also naturally fire-proof. While more expensive than asphalt shingles, slate shingles that are properly installed will last far longer than your home—the average lifespan for a slate roof is 25 – 60 or more years. Simulated slate, while not as durable and environmentally friendly as slate, is a more cost-effective alternative.

Cedar Shakes

A common type of wood used for roofing, cedar shakes are hand-made and have a rougher, more rugged look (as opposed to machine sawn shingles). They are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and insect damage, and provide good insulation for the roof. Once considered a fire hazard, modern shakes are treated to be fire-resistant. Cedar shakes are also environmentally friendly, as they are typically made using sustainable methods and can be recycled after use. The aesthetic value of cedar shakes makes them a favorite, especially for Colonial and rustic style homes.

Standing Seam Metal

Metal roofing is a relative newcomer on the residential market. It is extremely durable (metal roofing can last 50 years or more) and low-maintenance, and can help reduce home energy costs. Standing seam metal roofs can be installed over many existing types of roofing and have proven to be a good alternative for steep-slope roofing. They are fire-retardant and come in a wide variety of styles and colors.

Which Roof Material is Right for You?

It all comes down to your aesthetic preference and what you are willing to spend to get the look and benefits you want. Each of these roof material options have their own unique characteristics that can add to the value of your home.

A qualified roofer like Shanco will be able to help you decide on the best material for your home and your budget—contact us today if you’re ready to start your roofing project!

Removing snow and ice from your roof in a timely manner is crucial to preventing damage, including:

• Leaks
• Gutter damage
• Shingle damage
• Roof collapse

Quick note: If snow seems to take a long time to melt off your roof, or ice dams form along the edge of the roof, it could indicate your attic isn’t sufficiently insulated.

How to Protect Your Roof from Snow Damage

Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to completely prevent snow damage—or any other damage as a result of inclement weather. Sometimes the best solution is timely roof repair. There are, however, a few things you can do to make your roof stronger, including:

• Replacing any damaged sections before it actually snows (ideally, you should have repaired any damage back in October or November)
• Installing new flashing
• Re-fastening the roof deck
• Sealing the roof deck (which helps prevent water damage)
• Installing a drip edge at all the eaves to help divert water safely away

If roof damage does occur—and it often does after heavy snow—all you need to do is call a local roofing company to safely and efficiently repair your roof. Trying to repair the roof yourself, especially when conditions are icy and dangerous, is not recommended.

Even getting professional snow removal service is a good idea. Trying to remove the snow yourself increases the risk of gutter, flashing, and roof covering damage (from a snow rake), and removing snow from the roof while standing on the ground leaves snow on the higher sections of the roof, which can increase the risk of ice dams above where a protection membrane may be installed.

Need Roof Repair in Maryland, DC, or Northern Virginia?

If you take precautions and your roof still experiences extensive damage, you need to call a local roofing company for repair right away. Waiting isn’t an option—to prevent further damage (and higher costs) and even roof collapse, timely repair is absolutely essential. When you do hire a professional company, make sure they are licensed and insured. If an uninsured worker gets injured while on your property, it could end up costing you big bucks.

Whether your roof is leaking, has missing shingles, or has damaged gutters, Shanco can take care of the repair or—if necessary—replacement job safely and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about our roof repair and replacement services!

Well, it’s not all that difficult to pick out the good Maryland roofing companies. They all share common traits. Many times, you can find this out just by looking at a company’s website, but sometimes you need to call and ask (don’t be afraid to “interview” the company).

What do Good Roofing Companies Have in Common?

All good roofing companies in Maryland (and everywhere else)

1. Are licensed and insured – every single roofing company needs to have a license and insurance, hands down. A good roofing company will share their license number and provide you with copies of their insurance—both workers’ compensation and liability. If an uninsured worker gets hurt on your property, you could end up in trouble and paying a lot of money.
2. Treat every job differently – no one job is the same, and a good roofing company will treat every customer and every job as if they are unique. They will provide you with enough detailed information to answer all your questions and address any concerns you may have.
3. Provide references – many companies have testimonials listed on their website, but even if they don’t, this doesn’t mean you should automatically look elsewhere. Ask for references, and the roofing company should be able to provide them. Many good companies will provide them without you having to ask.
4. Have a permanent place of business – many fly-by-night contractors and scammers operate out of trucks with a cell phone and won’t be available when a warranty issue occurs. Companies with a permanently established place of business are likely to be more stable and available when you need them.

Certain things should raise a red flag, and if you’re aware of what makes a good company, it’s easier to hire the best. Aside from no insurance and license, permanent place of business, and references, other signs that you should be wary about include:

• High-pressure sales tactics (deals like “buy today and receive half off…”)
• A high number of complaints filed against the company on websites like the Better Business Bureau
• Claims of insurance but no copies or information provided

Need a Roofing Company?

If you’re looking for Maryland roofers, Shanco Companies can help! We provide copies of and detailed information about our license and insurance, provide references, and have an office located in Gaithersburg.

Contact us today to learn more!

Your roof is one of your most valuable investments, and as such, you want it to last as long as possible. Aside from the material—and sometimes by incorrect installation—the durability of your roof is dependent on maintenance and care.

If you don’t keep up with roof maintenance and take proper measures to protect your roof all year long, it may not last as long as it potentially could. This is why handling even the most basic maintenance—and having professional Maryland roofing companies like Shanco professionally inspect your roof—is so beneficial.

How to Protect Your Roof

As a homeowner, you may not feel very comfortable, or perhaps aren’t physically able to, properly maintain your roof yourself. Whatever you can do—even if it’s as simple as going outside and giving your roof a quick scan, taking note of things like moss or fungus growth, sticks and branches, missing shingles, buckling, blistering, or curling shingles, etc.—you should. However, keep in mind professional roofing companies can handle these tasks for you.

The three best roof maintenance and care measures you can take include:

Ensuring your roof has proper ventilation: Excess moisture is one of the biggest enemies of your roof. If you properly ventilate your roof (and attic), you are making one of the best maintenance decisions a homeowner can make. Heat buildup (caused by summertime heat or warm air generated by laundry, showering, etc.) can wreak havoc on your roofing system—but not if it is ventilated. Curling shingles indicate that you may need better roof ventilation.

Keeping your roof clear of leaves, branches, snow, ice, etc.: Unfortunately, there are many different elements that can damage your roof, but, fortunately, it’s easy enough to keep your roof clear of debris like leaves, branches, and sticks. Helping keep your roof clear of these is essential to preventing damage and prolonging its life.

During the winter, it’s also important to keep ice dams and heavy snow off your roof. Ice dams, which can occur if your roof and attic aren’t properly insulated and ventilated, can cause damage to your roofing and gutters. Heavy snow can also cause leaks and other damage.

Getting professional service regularly: Your roof should be inspected every two or three years. Some homeowners even get it inspected annually, which is never a bad idea. If your flat roof isn’t waterproofed, this is also something you may want to consider—waterproofing can protect your roof and help it last longer.

Looking for Maryland Roofing Companies?

Roofing professionals in your area can assess your situation and, if need be, set you on the right track for roof maintenance. Contact Shanco today to learn more about our roofing services or if you need roof repair for your home in the DC Metropolitan area!

Mini Roofing Buyers’ Guide

Whether you’re deciding on roofing for your new home or need roof replacement, keep these roof buying tips in mind:

Roofing Companies

Choosing a roofing company is arguably the most important part of installing a new roof.

• Make sure your roofer is licensed or bonded. You can call your state’s licensing board for the specific requirements (where applicable). If a roofing company isn’t licensed, it should raise red flags.

• Check the roofing company’s insurance. This is extremely important! If the roofing company doesn’t have proper insurance, you could be in big trouble if a worker gets hurt while working on your property. Ask to see copies of the company’s liability insurance and workers’ compensation certificates. Also ensure the coverage is effective throughout the scope of the roof installation project.

• Ask questions and more questions. Think about it this way—you should “interview” the roofing company you’re thinking about hiring. Don’t be afraid to sound obnoxious with too many questions. Find out everything you can to make sure they are the best for the job. Ask things like:
  • How long have you been in business?
  • Are you licensed and insured? Can I see copies?
  • Do you belong to the NRCA, BBB, or other associations?
  • What warranties are offered?
  • Do you have a permanent place of business?

• Do your homework. Asking questions is great, but it isn’t enough. To really weed out the bad companies, do more research. Check Angie’s List. Check the BBB for any complaints filed against the company. Are they members of the BBB, NRCA, etc.? If they aren’t, it doesn’t mean they aren’t a good company, but membership to national industry associations like that does show a dedication to professionalism and excellent service.

• Does the roofing company provide references? If they don’t, be wary.  A good roofing company will provide references—and you’d be smart to actually call those references. It’s a good way to get an impartial opinion of the company.

Roofing in General

• Don’t make low costs your number one priority. Quality is the most important factor when it comes to roofing. If you get a few different estimates and one seems really low, be cautious and don’t take it at face value.
• Be wary of a deal that seems too good to be true. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t blindly give in to high-pressure sales tactics (like “sign today and get a discount”).
• Be careful about basing your decision on the warranty alone. Many homeowners believe that warranties are all-inclusive and cover every single roofing problem, but this is simply not true.

Looking for Maryland Roofing Companies?

If we had just one piece of advice—the ultimate roof buying tip—it would be this: buy quality, purchase a warranty, and make sure a certified installer installs your roof.

Contact Shanco if you need a roofing company in Maryland—and if you’re still shopping around and doing research, keep these roof buying tips in mind!

Roof Protection

Waterproof the Roof

This is particularly important for homes with flat roofs, but all roofs could use waterproof coating. Waterproofing membranes often consist of a heavy duty acrylic resin that provides invisible, lasting protection. This roof protection method prevents leaks when applied to a structurally sound, properly draining roof. Don’t attempt to fix an existing leak with a waterproofing agent.

Ventilate the Attic

Attic ventilation is important because it introduces fresh air to the attic, drying up any water that has accumulated. This is important for preventing mold growth, wood rot, peeling paint, and damage to insulation. Ventilation also helps keep roof sheathing cooler.

Passive ventilation in the form of a cupola or other ridge vent allows trapped heat to escape through natural upward airflow. Cupolas should be combined with soffit vents along the bottom perimeter of the attic to allow outdoor air to enter.

Active ventilation may also be appropriate for your situation (if you aren’t sure, that’s fine—our experts can help). Active ventilation relies on powered fans that bring air in or pull air out of the space. Attic fans are often installed in a gable end or in the roof itself and come with a thermostat so they only run when the attic becomes overheated.

Practice Proper Snow Removal Techniques

Heavy snow accumulation can damage your roof. Proper roof protection may require you to use a ladder and remove some of the snow yourself. A snow rake is a useful tool to complete the job on pitched roofs. Plan to shave the snowpack down to two or three inches from the shingles—scraping the roof could cause damage. Of course, some people may not be comfortable doing this or are physically unable to, and that’s where the pros come in!

Keep the Gutters Clean

Leaves and other debris can build up in your gutters during the fall. Then, when it rains or snows, water backs up and cannot properly drain off the roof. This can lead to ice dams, roof leaks, and siding damage.

If you choose to clean the gutters yourself, work with a partner to decrease the chance of injury or accidents. To help you balance while cleaning, try to keep both feet and one hand on the ladder at all times. Remove large debris by hand first, and then spray out the gutter with a garden hose, aiming toward the downspout to get the last pine needles and bits of dirt out of the drain. Also, be sure to keep the downspout free of obstructions at ground level.

Again, if you can’t do this yourself, a company like Shanco can clean your gutters for you (learn more about our gutter services).

Clear Debris off the Roof

If branches from nearby trees fall onto your roof after a heavy snowstorm, don’t leave them there to decay and harbor microbial growth. If you feel comfortable, use a ladder to clear the roof of branches and other debris for adequate roof protection. If you can’t complete this task yourself, leave it to a professional roofing contractor.

Feel free to contact us for more details about roof protection based on the type of roof you have!

When to Replace a Roof

Roofs are constantly exposed to the elements—and rain, snow, wind, and sun damage all take their toll. As the years go by, your roof will start to shows signs of being stressed, and you may begin to wonder when you should replace your roof.

Certain signs around your home may signal that the roof needs attention. For example, if there are brown spots or peeling paint on your ceilings or walls, your roof may be leaking. To determine whether the problem is minor or more serious, you need to take a closer look at the roof if you’re comfortable doing so (if you aren’t, it’s fine—that’s what professional roofers are for!).

Interior Inspections

What kind of overall shape is your roof in? A good way to find out is to go up to your attic with a flashlight and look at the underside of the roof sheathing. Does it sag significantly? This could mean that leaks have damaged the wood decking and a replacement roof may be needed. Dark spots on the wood and light showing through gaps in the boards may also indicate moisture problems from leaks. Also check for any signs that mold is growing or the wood is decaying.

Exterior Inspections

You should take a good look at the roof’s exterior as well. You don’t need to actually step onto the roof itself. You can inspect the shingles from the yard or climb a ladder and look from the edge of the roof. Check for missing shingles and torn asphalt shingles or those that are losing their grain. If you have wood shingles or shakes, look for splits in the wood or moss growing on the wood. If just a small amount of the roof has any of these problems, you may only need repairs. If 30 percent or more of your roof is affected, however, you will likely need a new roof.

When Should You Replace Your Roof? Factors to Consider

How old is the roof? This is a key question to ask when trying to determine when you should replace your roof. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, then spending money on large repairs may not be a good investment. Most asphalt shingle roofs last for about 15 to 20 years, while most roofs with wood shakes or shingles last about 20 years. Roofs that are experiencing problems and are at or near the end of their expected lifespan are prime candidates for replacement.

If your home has undergone a recent devastating event (severe storm, tornado, hurricane, etc.), installing a new roof is wiser than trying to muddle through with spot repairs. The damaging event may have caused more harm than meets the eye, and total replacement ensures the roof is safe for many years.

Need Roofing Contractors in MD, DC, or VA?

Once you have decided that getting a new roof is your best choice, it’s time to lets the professionals handle the job! Roof installation is a complex and dangerous task that is best left to the experts, such as the qualified professionals at Shanco Companies.

To learn more about when to replace a roof, or if you’re ready for new roofing for your home in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, contact Shanco and schedule an appointment today!

Not sure where to start? This is where professional roofing contractors in Gaithersburg (like Shanco Companies) come in. Knowing a little bit about the different types of roofing is helpful, so continue reading to learn more!

Types of Roofing: Gable

The most common type of roof for residential projects, a gable roof is the sloped roof you see on the majority of homes. Gable roofs typically have a 20-40 degree angle gradation – the gables angle downward to create a triangular roof. Gable roofing is extremely popular for all types of homes.

A gable roof:

• Helps with water runoff and is beneficial for areas that get a lot of rain and snow
• Creates additional space on the top level of the home (perfect for those who want to convert their attic into livable space!)

Types of Roofing: Hip

A hip roof is also a great residential roofing option and offers a more rounded shape than a gable roof (though on hip roofs, gables are sometimes used at the front entrance points). All sides of a hip roof slope down and usually have the same pitch or slope. Hip roofs are commonly seen on bungalows and cottages and complement a wide variety of architecture and styles, particularly American Foursquare. There are a few variations of a gable roof, such as mansard roofing, tented roofing and gablet (Dutch gable) roofing, which is a combination of a hip roof with a smaller gabled section on top.

A hip roof:

• Protects your home against high winds
• Is ideal in coastal areas that get a lot of hurricanes

Types of Roofing: A-Frame

An A-frame roof, though not as common for residential uses, can often be found on churches and other commercial buildings.

As the name suggests, these types of roofs are found on A-frame style homes, which resemble Swiss chalets. A-frame roofs are characterized by a triangular shape and slope steeply almost to the ground.

An A-frame roof:

• Allows for room at the top of the house for lofts or storage
• Prevents snow from accumulating on top of your home and causing damage

Types of Roofing: Gambrel

Gambrel roofing is often found on homes with distinct era architecture and can add unique beauty to any structure. It is ridged and has two slopes on either side – a steeper one on top and, below that, a shallow one. Gambrel roofing is often found on barns and homes with Georgian and Colonial style architecture.

A gambrel roof:

• Offers protection against high winds
• Maximizes space at the top of your home (for lofts, storage, attic conversions, etc.)

Types of Roofing: Flat

You don’t see flat roofing on a lot of homes, but many apartment buildings, offices spaces, libraries, and other commercial buildings have flat roofs. Most flat roofs are actually pitched 1/8 to 1/2 inches per foot to allow for proper drainage.

A flat roof is:

• A great option in areas that don’t get a lot of snow
• The safest type of roofing to walk on (there are often pools and gardens on flat roofs!)

Learn more about flat roofing.

Roofing Contractors in Gaithersburg

Whether you have questions about the different types of roofing or are ready to install new roofing, Shanco has you covered. Located in Gaithersburg, our experienced roofers have provided roofing services for homeowners throughout Montgomery County, Maryland and the DC Metropolitan area for over 20 years. Contact us today to learn more!