Slate Roofing Vs. Synthetic Slate Roofs & How to Choose the Right One For Your Home

 If you’re in the market for a new roof, you are looking for something beautiful, durable, and worth your investment. Slate roofing can provide superior durability and add a distinctive touch of timeless beauty to your home. Synthetic slate, however, provides many of the same benefits at a more budget-friendly price point.

If you’re considering a slate or synthetic slate roof, you are in the right place. Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal in Louisville, KY is here to teach you all about those options and how to choose the right type of slate roofing for your home.

Understanding the Advantages and Disadvantages of Slate Roofing

Slate roofing is nothing new. It has been a popular choice in the roofing industry for a very long time. Slate has been highly acclaimed in Louisville, KY for its remarkable longevity, unmatched by other materials.

However, only recently has slate roofing been recapturing the attention of homeowners in Louisville, KY with its beauty. With any type of roofing materials, there are pros and cons to aesthetics, longevity, durability, maintenance, etc. Today, we’ll break down both sides and explore both the advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Slate Roofing

Aesthetic Appeal

No question, slate roofs are beautiful. Slate complements any type of architectural style, in a variety of natural slate colors and textures. Slate also gives a beautiful look because it is often shaped by hand and so it has a uniquely custom look.

Longevity

There is no other roofing material in Louisville, KY that will ever last as long as a slate roof. With a lifetime of over 100 years, you never have to worry about replacing your roof…probably ever. Not only does it remain durable, but it maintains its appearance over time so you don’t have to worry about it looking old and worn.

Durability

Natural stone will always be more durable than any man-made material. Slate is naturally waterproof, non-combustible, resistant to any temperature fluctuations and impenetrable by fungus or mold.

Low Maintenance

Once your slate roof is installed, you don’t have to worry about it again. The natural durability of slate makes it essentially maintenance free. Once installed, all you need is peace of mind.

High Resale Home Value

Because slate holds such an incredible lifetime value, it can add significantly to the value of your home. Homes in Louisville, KY with slate roofs tend to sell quickly because homeowners want the reliability of never having to make roofing repairs or replace the roof in a few years.

Environmentally – Friendly

Roofing waste contributes to 5 percent of all construction waste that fills up the landfill. By choosing slate, you eliminate the need for a roof replacement every 10-20 years, which completely eliminates roofing waste.

Disadvantages of Slate Roofing

Cost

High cost is one of the factors that deters many homeowners from slate roofing. Generally, you will pay between $10-$25 per square foot for slate roof materials and installation in Louisville, KY. This depends on the location, materials, and difficulty of the roof angle. Synthetic slate is significantly less expensive, making it a popular choice for those looking for a slate roof but concerned about the price.

Fragility and Replacement Issues

While slate is a very durable and heavy material on the roof, it can be broken if it’s stepped on. This is important when installing slate, because you can’t step on it once it’s installed. If you get a broken tile somehow, it can be a complicated process to replace it because it is nearly impossible to find replacement tiles that are a perfect match.

Complex Installation

Not all roofing companies have the expertise required to install a slate roof. Installing a slate roof is a specialized system and requires proper training. Installation requires precision cutting and nailing of each individual shingle that chip and crack easily. This is part of what contributes to the high cost of slate roofs. If a slate roof is not properly installed, it could easily become the cause of some major roof problems. Only hire an experienced contractor in Louisville, KY who specializes in slate roofing.

Heavy Weight

Because slate is a natural stone, it is naturally very heavy. The average slate roof weighs in between 800 – 1,500 pounds per square (100 square feet). In order to install a slate roof, your home must have the structural support necessary, which sometimes requires additional reinforcement.  However, if the heavy weight of slate roofing is something that raises concern, but you’re still set on this type of roofing material, then synthetic slate roofing may be the best option.

Exploring the Benefits of Synthetic Slate Roofing

Synthetic slate roofing is a great alternative to traditional slate roofing. This material is a modern improvement on a construction classic.

Made from combinations of plastic and rubber, synthetic slate is designed to mirror the beauty and uniqueness of authentic slate without the expense or installation headaches. And synthetic slate shingles last longer.

Synthetic slate also weighs a fraction of what a real slate roof weighs, and for this reason alone, many homeowners choose synthetic slate over the real deal.

Other than the weight of the material, synthetic slate offers many other benefits as well.

The benefits of synthetic slate roofing include:

Eco-Friendly

Synthetic slate is considered a “green” building alternative. This is because all synthetic slate and installation materials can be recycled.

Durability

Sometimes synthetic slate shingles may be even more durable than authentic slate, because they have been treated with advanced ultraviolet inhibitors to reduce wear from the sun.

Safety

Most synthetic slate roofs are certified for the highest level of impact resistance and fire resistance for roofing materials. This means they’re effective against severe exposure to external fires, are not readily flammable and do not spread fire.

Lightweight

While traditional slate is the heaviest roofing material, synthetic slate is one of the lightest. In fact, synthetic slate shingles are lighter than all asphalt shingles and are only a quarter the weight of authentic slate shingles. This means there is no need for additional structural support, which is good news for most residential construction.

Easier Installation

Compared to traditional roofing, synthetic slate is easier and less expensive to install than other roofing materials. During installation, synthetic slate shingles use more traditional tools and don’t require the specialized training necessary for authentic slate installation,

Saves Money

Synthetic slate is a fraction of the cost of traditional slate roofing, creating significant savings on your project budget.

Now, it wouldn’t be fair of us to not give you both sides of the story. There are still drawbacks to synthetic slate, and it’s our job to inform you of these, too.

Disadvantages of Synthetic Slate

It’s New

One of biggest disadvantages of artificial slate products is that they are all fairly new. Anytime you’re using new technology, it’s unsure how it will last over time. Synthetic slate has undergone extensive testing and uses cutting-edge technology in the manufacturing process, but there is no long-term real life data to pull from.

Manufacturer’s Vary

It’s important to consider the manufacturer of the materials. Each manufacturer uses their own formulation of materials so different brand products will have distinct features, longevity, durability, fire ratings, etc. Some of the top brands in synthetic slate include CertainTeed, TAMKO steel, and Davinci Roofscapes.

Durability Questions

Synthetic slate is made from rubber and plastic. Some have concerns about curling, cracking and disintegrating, especially in harsher climates. The flexibility of rubber and plastic means curling and cracking could occur.

How to Choose The Right Material for Your Home

So, synthetic slate or real slate? Both share some similarities yet have differences that define them as unique construction materials. We’ve given you the pros and cons of each, and ultimately the decision is yours, but here are some final takeaways from the experts at Abrams Roofing.

• Consider your needs, and how long you intend to keep your house.
• Think about your style preferences.
• What is your budget?
• What type of care and maintenance are you willing to give your roof?

In short, no material is truly superior, they can both provide a valuable roofing product that fits your project budget.

Working with a Local Roofing Expert

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal has been serving customers in and around the Louisville, KY area since 1959. With over 60 years of experience and expertise in our tool belts, it’s safe to say there’s no roof we can’t install. If you’re still debating on synthetic slate roofing and traditional slate roofing, give us a call today for more information. We’d be happy to provide you with a free estimate as well. Just get in touch with our team to get started.

The post Slate Roofing Vs. Synthetic Slate Roofs & How to Choose the Right One For Your Home first on Abramsroofing.com

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc
1847 Berry Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40215
502-361-7777
https://www.abramsroofing.com/map/
https://www.abramsroofing.com/info/

Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Dealing With Wind Damage

Storm season in Louisville, KY arrives in early spring and hangs around all summer long. It’s no secret that the Bluegrass region is familiar with hail and strong winds from time to time. When skies turn dark and storms roll through, make sure your roof is prepared to stand up against the possibility of wind damage.

Wind damage can occur in big and small ways and bring havoc to your home and roofing system.

According to the National Severe Storm Laboratory, severe thunderstorms in Louisville can generate winds exceeding 100 mph, about twice the 50-60 mph threshold for damaging winds.

In fact, thunderstorms account for half of all severe damage in the lower 48 states.

With Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal on your side, you’re in good hands. We offer free inspections and roofing repair services if you experience storm or wind damage. Just contact us today to schedule service.

How to Spot Damage from Wind

When high winds hit Louisville, they do not hit your roof evenly across the surface. The corners, the edges of the roof, and the ridgeline are especially susceptible to damage from high winds.

Your roof can suffer from wind damage in all kinds of ways. Some may be obvious, and some may be, well, not so obvious. So how exactly do you spot wind damage?

Potential Signs of Wind Damage May Include:

• Missing Shingles: This is one of the most common signs that frequently happens from strong winds, rains, or falling tree branches.
• Curling Shingles: This happens at stress points in your roof. Stress points include the edges, corners, near the chimney, and ridge. If you notice curling shingles as a result of wind damage from a strong storm, there’s a good chance there’s also water getting into your roof.
• Leaks: If there’s water coming into your house, it’s time to look for a leak and call a roofer immediately.
• Missing or Split Chimney Flashings: The flashings around the chimney are a high-stress point and these are easily lifted when they are hit at the right angle during strong winds.
• Gutter Problems: Sometimes the gutter can get overloaded with granules from your shingles and can get clogged, or even broken off as a result of wind damage.
• Clogged Drains and Downspouts: This can happen during strong Louisville storms where debris gets clogged in your drains and downspouts causing serious backup problems.
• Branches/ Other Debris on Roof: If the impact of falling branches and debris doesn’t cause damage, leaving them there will. It’s important to get your roof cleared as soon as possible.
• Tree Damage: Trees that fall, crack, or split during high winds are a major cause of roof damage. If you have nearby tree damage, it’s time to get your roof taken care of as well.
• Wind Lift: This is a common sign of wind damage that is often overlooked. When this happens, parts of your roof are lifted as a result.

Wind damage in Louisville, KY is a serious problem if not taken care of quickly. Are you ready for those summer storms? Protect your home with a free roof inspection from the pros at Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal today.

What is Wind Lift?

As we said, wind damage, in some forms, is more obvious to spot than others. One common way wind damage affects homeowners in Louisville, KY is through wind lift. This is also sometimes referred to as wind uplift.

Simply put, wind lift occurs when a strong wind blows across the top of your roof and lifts up all or part of the roof with it as it blows. As the wind blows, it affects each part of the roof differently.

The wind itself isn’t necessarily a problem until it starts to move materials, which can include things such as the roof membrane itself, or your shingles.

Certain areas of the roof, like the perimeter, will be subject to higher pressures and can create a vacuum to lift up the materials underneath. Other areas might receive negative pressure, like a suction, while others can get more pushing and pulling from the wind.

Anywhere on your roof that has materials that are even just a little bit loose, the suction, pressure, and pulling from the wind raise it up, get below the surface, and lift it up.

Even when the roof looks intact from the ground, those high Louisville winds coming over the roof can lift the shingles up and loosen the nails that are holding them down. Over time, this will cause big problems.

Wind damage is a likely threat to Louisville homeowners. Always be safe, rather than sorry, and call in a professional any time you believe your roof has been damaged as a result of strong storms and high winds.

How Does Wind Lift Create Damage?

Wind damage can occur by wind lift by four different physical conditions. Each of these affects the roof in different ways and sometimes, you may even have two or more conditions at the same time during a storm in Louisville, KY.

1. Laminar Flow: This is when you have more air flowing close to the surface of the roof. That air tries to maintain contact with the roof’s surface, and as the roof bends and curves, the air separates from the roof and creates a vacuum.
2. Increased Air Speed: Wind speed on the roof can be more than twice as fast as the actual air speed. This increases the possibility of wind lift damage.
3. Positive Pressure: This is the force the wind brings when it pushes against the shingles. When you have even a small amount of lift, it increases the pressure build-up.
4. Inflation: If the wind is able to enter the space between your underlayment and roof covering, this space becomes inflated, and can cause damage from the inside out.

So now that you understand exactly how wind damage can occur, with our help, it’s time to learn about what to do and tips to take if your roof is suffering from wind damage.

What to Do If Wind Damages Your Roof

When storms blow through Louisville, KY, it’s critical that you check your home for signs of wind damage as quickly as possible. You can start at home with the following steps:

In any situation, it’s always best to get a professional on the scene when it comes to wind damage and roof repairs. If you’re in need of a trusted expert, contact us at Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal in Louisville, KY today.

Roof Removal and Repair

Damage as a result of wind lift can result in partial or complete roof removal.

Partial, as it sounds, means that only a small section is pulled up by the wind. You will still need to call in a professional for these types of repairs or for a roof replacement, as these problems should not be ignored.

Complete roof removal means that you will need a brand new roof. Generally, complete removal only occurs in the midst of extremely heavy, long-lasting winds, and it can be devastating.

We at Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal can also help with roof replacement in Louisville, KY. Give us a call today if you’re in need.

We can also help you in filing an insurance claim, if that is the next step in the right direction, as a result of wind damage to your roof. Our trusted friends at Owens Corning got it right when it comes to wind damage and insurance. As a rule of thumb, here’s what the experts we trust have to say:

“If the winds that caused the shingle damage were above the manufacturer’s wind coverage, you’ll need to file an insurance claim. If they were not, contact the shingle manufacturer to file a claim.”

Working With Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal

Even the best DIY efforts are no match to Louisville wind damage. In the occurrence of wind damage from strong storms, be safe rather than sorry, and call in a local roofing expert to get you taken care of.

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal is here for all home and business owners in the Louisville Metro, as well as the surrounding areas. If you’re in need of roof repairs or looking to schedule a free inspection, just give us a call today to get started.

The post Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Dealing With Wind Damage appeared first on Abramsroofing.com

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc
1847 Berry Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40215
502-361-7777
https://www.abramsroofing.com/map/
https://www.abramsroofing.com/info/

An Overview of Copper Roofing: Cost, Pros & Cons, & More!

All across the country, and right here in Louisville, KY, home builders, architects, and savvy homeowners are becoming more selective when it comes to the choice of roofing materials. One material making a major comeback is copper. Copper roofing offers timeless beauty for any home, but can also accentuate a more modern look or feel to any contemporary architectural design.

How Much Does a Copper Roof Cost?

Copper roofing is a mainstay in modern construction, sought after because of its durability and structural longevity. The material has existed for centuries and some of the world’s most revered and finest buildings sport an exquisite copper roof.

When adding a copper roof to a building or repairing an existing roof, there are three main types of material that could be used in installation or repair. Copper can be installed as pre-measured panels, cut shingles, or riveted panels.

Copper rooftops are both attractive and strong. Unfortunately, the price of copper roofing has limited its prevalence to industrial buildings as opposed to residential housing in Louisville, KY. Overall, the practicability of copper roofing compensates for the inflated cost.

Copper Roofing Prices

Minimum Cost: $4 per square foot

Maximum Cost: $15 per square foot

Copper roofing is notorious for being expensive, especially compared to more traditional roofing options. The average cost of asphalt shingles is only $1 per square foot. Wood shake roofing is slightly more expensive, but the cost of copper roofing can be as much as $15 per square foot.

It’s important to note that individual prices will vary depending on location and the world price of copper. Additionally, renovating an existing roof with copper finishing may not cost the same as building an entirely new roof as part of a larger building project.

Buying the copper is not the only cost involved. Few contractors and roofers have the expertise needed to install a copper roof properly. Because of this, specialists are needed and charge a premium for their expertise.

The elevated cost of copper rooftops is the primary reason many builders opt for cheaper materials, such as asphalt or wood. Unlike wood, copper roofing is built to last. There is no need for preservatives or replacement. One must consider copper’s inherent durability when calculating the amortized cost.

Despite its longevity, many Louisville homeowners are looking for a quick fix and so ignore the financial advantages of building a copper roof, especially when they plan on selling the house. Because of this, copper roofing has been limited to long-term projects and industrial buildings.

Understanding the Materials

Copper roofing is manufactured from rolled copper sheets that are between 16 and 20 ounces. These sheets have a width of about 2 or 3 feet and can be pre-formed or molded into pans.

Short pans can be up to 10 feet in length, while long pans need to accommodate additional flexibility at the ends. The copper pans are constructed on smooth, 4-pound building paper with an underlayment that is at least 30 pounds. While these specifications are industry standards, other materials can be used for specific purposes.

Preparing a surface for copper roofing involves drying the deck and removing any loose screws or nail heads. The deck needs to be completely smooth and any structural imperfections should be addressed before adding the underlayment.

After preparing the deck, an underlayment approved by the National Roofing Contractors Association should be secured with washers and copper nails. The underlayment is critical because it’s usually saturated with roofing felt that cushions the roof and provides weather protection for the deck. The roofing felt should be protected by a sheet of building paper to prevent the copper from bonding to the roof’s deck.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Copper Roofing

The most obvious advantage of copper roofing is its durability. Wood shake roofing requires extensive upkeep that involves wood preservatives, fire retardant, and insect repellents. Asphalt roofing is the cheapest and most popular roofing option on the market, but the asphalt needs to be redone and retouched every few years due to periodic wear and tear. Replacing tar paper and plywood are the most common maintenance issues involved with asphalt roofing.

By contrast, copper roofing offers the following advantages:

• Durability
• Minimal Maintenance
• Lightweight
• Aesthetically Pleasing
• Recyclable

Copper roofing is usually overlooked because of its cost. Copper can be between 4 and 15 times more expensive than traditional asphalt roofing, depending on the current price of copper. Because of this, cheaper roofing options look more attractive to potential home builders.

However, it’s important to note that the increased durability of copper adds to the rooftop’s value. Industrial buildings utilizing copper roofing are popular because of its longevity and amortized cost. The copper roofing on industrial buildings can be sold to recycling companies after they are demolished to recoup some of the initial investment.

The durability of copper roofing is the primary selling point, as many copper rooftops have lasted centuries with minimal renovation or maintenance. Many contractors point out the advantages of copper roofing to new home builders, but advise their clients that the elevated cost may not be practical if the home is intended for personal purposes.

Homeowners in Louisville that opt for copper roofing usually have more flexible budgets and plan on living in the particular home for a long time. Family homes that are passed on to younger generations usually utilize copper roofing for its durability.

Overall, the benefits of copper roofing should be analyzed on an individual basis to fit the needs of a particular homeowner.

Final Takeaways From Your Local Expert

In conclusion, copper roofing is always a great choice for people who prefer longevity to overall cost. It is not uncommon for historical buildings that have lasted centuries to sport copper roofing finishes.

Most families find that asphalt and wood shake roofing is much more financially feasible and opt for these cheaper options. Specialists are needed for installation, which also adds to its elevated cost. Additionally, the price of copper varies from year to year and may significantly affect the overall price of roofing. People who can’t afford copper roofing opt for cheaper metal finishes.

Either way, the decision to install copper roofing should be based on two primary factors: budget and durability. While durability is always appreciated, the budget of a specific building project is always the limiting factor when making decisions about roofing.

For more information about copper roofing, get in touch with your local, Louisville based roofing contractor, Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have!

The post An Overview of Copper Roofing: Cost, Pros & Cons, & More! appeared first on Abramsroofing.com

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc
1847 Berry Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40215
502-361-7777
https://www.abramsroofing.com/map/
https://www.abramsroofing.com/info/

Louisville KY Roofing Contractor Offers Free Roof Inspections

Abrams Roofing, of Louisville, Kentucky, whose website can be found at https://www.abramsroofing.com/ has just announced that the company is now offering free roofing inspections by its licensed inspectors for both home and commercial property owners. The company has been in business since 1959, and it serves the entire Louisville, KY region as well as the southern Indiana area. According to its website in some circumstances, they will serve outside of those areas.

Kim Abrams, a spokesperson for the company, said, “We offer free roofing inspections by a licensed and trained crew, to homeowners just like you in and around the Louisville Metro area. When it comes to your roof, out of sight out of mind means serious long-term consequences. Prioritizing regular roofing inspections can prevent expensive future costs.”

One of the most common roofing problems encountered is a leaking roof but unless the roof is leaking badly property owners may not be aware of the issue without an inspection. High winds can lift shingles and hail can damage them and effectively create a hole in the roof. The onset of winter can cause shingles to shrink which can cause breakage and when summer comes along, they can expand and split. Weather damage from causes like these are often a common cause of leaking roofs.

Other factors that can play a part in damaged roofs are the loss of granules on asphalt shingles, small animals often try and get into properties through small holes and of course events like trees contacting the property can lead to damage. Additionally, roofs may have been badly constructed in the first place or badly repaired when damaged.

It is only common sense to have a roof periodically inspected but many property owners fail to do so because of the perceived expense of calling a company to come out and do the inspection. Obviously, this is no longer a factor as Abrams Roofing will now do the inspection for free. If the inspection reveals a need for repair then whether the damage is simply a few missing/damaged shingles or a full structural re-vamping, Abrams can offer a professional service to do the job and in some cases, the company can offer financing options.

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal also offers a free roof inspection and a full slate of roofing solutions for the commercial property owner. Abrams can provide any service needed, like the new thermoplastic roofing substances such as TPO or PVC materials.

When considering the possibility of a new roof or even just a roof repair, one of the first questions people ask is how long the work will take. According to the company, a residential roof can usually have the work completed within just a few days, but a commercial roof may take up to a month to install. The latter is because of the size of the buildings, and also because in many cases the steps for a commercial roof may need curing time in between each part of the construction.

The company has an extremely good reputation within its service area, and it makes a point to publish reviews from its clients on its website for prospective clients to peruse. Even a cursory glance over the reviews will show that people consider its work not just acceptable but in fact very good. There currently have 81 Google reviews with an average rating of 4.9 out of five stars.

In addition to more in depth information of the services offered, details of how to contact a roofing contractor Louisville, KY by phone, fax, or email can be found on Abrams Roofing’s website.

The post Louisville KY Roofing Contractor Offers Free Roof Inspections appeared first on Press Advantage here - Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc
1847 Berry Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40215
502-361-7777
https://www.abramsroofing.com/map/
https://www.abramsroofing.com/info/

Your Home’s Foundation: Are Your Roof & Gutters Protected From Damage?

Sometimes roofing problems are more than surface level. The roof over your head is protecting everything inside your home, and more importantly, those who occupy it. It’s clearly worth taking care of, but sometimes the problems are more than surface level. The issues the plague your roof could be running much deeper than you think. Real roof problems in Louisville may actually start underneath the floorboards.

The foundation is an essential component of your home. It supports everything else – floors, windows, doorways, walls, and yes – the roof. When your foundation is damaged, it manifests a myriad of problems throughout the home. The answer, or rather the problem, is quite simple: When your foundation shifts, your roof can also shift and be damaged as a result.

Homeowners all around the Louisville area are unaware of how foundation problems cause roof damage. Foundation problems don’t occur overnight, so they can be difficult to detect with the untrained eye. Today, our team at Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal is here to uncover the truth, protect your roof from damage, and keep you safe.

Your Roof and Your Foundation: How Are They Connected?

All homes start with a foundation at the bottom and finish with a roof on top. These two construction bookends are strongly connected. If the foundation is strong and reliable, oftentimes the roof is as well. However, when there is a shift, crack, or break in the foundation, there’s a good chance you’ll find similar problems on the roof.

Common Foundation Problems That Lead to Roof Damage: The Top 5

The most common problems you will find on your roof come from wind, rain, lightning, or those strong Louisville storms. This is usually in the form of cracked, broken, or chipped tiles. However, when the structure of the roof is compromised, and you can see or feel wavy, saggy, bowed, bulging, dipping, or curvature on the roof line, the likely culprit is the foundation of the home. The compromised roof structure and lack of foundation may also cause leaks. A leaky roof will lead to more concerns, including moisture, mold and mildew.

Being educated and aware of warning signs and understanding how foundation problems cause roof damage may help to prevent small problems from turning into big issues and costly repairs.

Improper Drainage and Undercutting

If your home’s gutters are not draining far enough from your home, this can be one of the most common ways that foundation problems cause roof damage. When the soil around the foundation gets soaked from roof drainage, that moisture will often find its way into the basement, crawl space, or the concrete floor. If this happens, and your foundation begins to shift, and you’ve started the cycle of damage.

One possible remedy is to extend your downspouts at least four (or up to eight) feet away from the foundation of the house. Downspout extenders are very affordable and can be bought at any hardware store in Louisville, KY.

Along with downspout extenders, it’s important to ensure your gutters are clear from debris and cleaned on a regular basis to ensure proper water flow. These inexpensive solutions can save you thousands of dollars down the road.

Tree Roots

Tree roots are a major contributor to foundation problems. To sustain growth, roots of trees have to acquire water and nutrients. Over time, the roots of your tree can extend two to four times the diameter of the foliage.

In the average front yard, there’s a good chance your tree roots will run into your foundation. When this happens, the roots actually absorb moisture from the foundation, causing the soil to shrink and the foundation to drop. That drop in the foundation causes serious damage, ultimately resulting in a saggy or wavy roof. This is a common reason for how foundation problems cause roof damage.

The only remedy for this situation is to eliminate or cut back the tree so it is no longer impacting the foundation. If you have concerns, you can schedule an inspection of your foundation by a Louisville expert. To prevent serious damage, you’ll want to pay attention to tree growth and how that may be impacting your foundation in the future before the tree gets too big.

Cracks

Shifting or movement of soil can trigger complications in your foundation. Some shifting is normal and hairline cracks are generally typical, even in a new home. However, while some cracks shouldn’t be a cause of the alarm, others are serious and require immediate attention.

When the size of the cracks continues to increase, or you notice V-shaped cracks that tend to widen towards the bottom, that’s a sure sign of a problem. These wide cracks cause the roof to bow or sag and lead to cracks in the walls as well.

If your home is experiencing any of these problems,consider taking immediate action to find the root of the problem. Left unattended, the problem will only exacerbate and affect other structures such as the roof as well.

Foundation Levels

A good foundation should be perfectly level. However, problems such as poor construction, soil movement, or soil shifting can interfere with this. Foundation tilting is normal in Louisville, but when the overall level of the foundation changes unevenly, it triggers problems. This is how foundation problems cause roof damage. When the foundation is uneven, so are the floors, walls, doors, and eventually, the roof.

Foundation Heaving and Settling

To better understand how foundation heaving and settling affects your home, it’s important to understand the difference.

Heaving occurs when a foundation or concrete slab is forced upward by the expansion of soils underneath. This movement can cause the floor and wall to crack.

Settling is a term used to describe a home’s gradual sink into the ground over time. While slight settling is normal, over time, this can lead to serious issues if not taken care of. Early signs include tilting chimneys, jamming doors, sticky doors, and wall cracks.

We all know Louisville weather can be a mystery, and can change on a dime. During the dry season, the soil shrinks, which leads to settling. During the wet season, the soil expands, as it retains too much water and the foundation heaves.

If not handled properly, this is how foundation problems cause roof damage. When heaving and settling keep interchanging, the result is a damaged home and a damaged roof.

Tips to Avoid Roof Damage: DIY for Louisville Homeowners

There are a few tips you can follow to help keep your home’s foundation, and roof, in good condition. If you have any major concerns that your home and family are at risk, it’s time to call in a professional.

Clean Your Gutters Regularly: We’ve already covered this, but it’s worth mentioning again because it’s so important. Keep your gutters clear of debris and excess leaves so they drain properly and move water away from your home like they’re supposed to. This is one simple task you can tackle on your own!

Water Your Lawn: Hot, dry wind and intense heat can often cause the soil to shrink beneath the foundation. The lack of support around the foundation can cause shifting and settling. When this happens, settling may cause cracks to appear throughout the structure. During those intense Louisville, KY summer heat waves, watering your lawn regularly can keep the moisture level more consistent and lessen the chance of shrinking soil.

Schedule Routine Maintenance: We can’t stress this enough. In order to keep all aspects of your home in good condition, schedule routine roofing maintenance, professional foundation inspections, and even plumbing inspections.

• Roofing Maintenance: At this point, it should seem obvious. Professional roofing contractors know what to look for, where to look for it, and why it matters. Our team at Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal in Louisville offers free roofing inspections to ensure maintenance is upkept. Schedule yours today.
• Foundation Inspections: As we learn how foundation problems cause roof damage, it’s also essential to know that only foundation experts may see underlying causes or concerns. Be safe, not sorry, and let a professional come walk your home on a routine basis.
• Plumbing Inspections: Water is a common culprit of foundation problems. Sometimes you don’t even know you have a leak until it causes major damage. If leaks are not fixed, the foundation will continue to shift. A plumbing inspection can ensure that your pipes are strong, and your foundation is not at risk.

Start Today: Schedule Your Free Inspection

A home’s foundation is vital to the strength and stability of the entire structure. When it’s compromised, the whole structure is bound to experience problems. Protect your home and family and make time to make inspections (both roofing and foundational) a priority. If you’re experiencing roofing issues, even ones that seem minor, start today with a formal, professional, free roofing inspection from Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal in Louisville, KY. Just contact us today to get started.

The post Your Home’s Foundation: Are Your Roof & Gutters Protected From Damage? appeared first on Abramsroofing.com

Abrams Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc
1847 Berry Blvd.
Louisville, KY 40215
502-361-7777
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