Saturday, April 2, 2011

Its Spring Again - The Exterior of your Home is calling you

For many homeowners in North carolina spring time means more time spent outdoors doing the things we love such as cookouts, fishing, camping and sports.  While we have been yearning to enjoy these activities once again and get out of the house into the fresh air let us not forget to keep up with Exterior Home Maintenance.
Here are a few things to check for on your North carolina home courtesy of Room 2 Roof.

1.) A Roof Inspection should be the first order of business, to make sure your roof is ready for the lovely rainstorms we have here that help us sleep so well at night. A few Nail pops, loose, curled or broken shingles can definitely keep you awake, especially if your roof develops a leak. Ventilation needs to be checked as well to make sure your nc home's attic doesn't become a furnace with sweltering heat that will raise your cooling costs all summer. Attic fans should be checked to see if they're operating, ridge vents should be checked to make sure any Strong winds didn't lift or damage them over the winter and soffit vents should be checked to make sure they're not blocked with insulation. We have had several hail and wind storms over the past few years which caused catastrophic damage to many roofs in the charlotte area which is all the more reason to inspect your roof. If you do not know what to look for or are not able to inspect your roof due to health or safety concerns, Room 2 Roof offers a Free Roof Damage Inspection by one of our qualified professionals.

2.) Gutters should also be cleaned and inspected to make sure they are able to handle the additional flow of water from upcoming storms. Most folks do not realize that clogged and overflowing gutters can cause serious damage to your north carolina home that will cost you big dollars down the road such as Roof decking rot, foundation damage which in turn can cause major interior structural damage from shifting which will stop your windows and doors from shutting correctly, additional crawlspace moisture and mold which can attract termites and fascia & soffit rot, if yours are wood which by the way will also leech water into your home creating drywall damage to ceilings and walls. Room 2 Roof provides a low cost Gutter cleaning service in the charlotte nc area and can replace yours for up to 20% less than our competition. We install extra wide downspouts as standard on every job and have additional products like "leaf relief" to prevent future clogs and debris back up.

3.) Siding should be inspected on your NC home too. If you have vinyl siding make sure there are no pieces that are hanging or came loose because moisture will wreak havoc on your sheathing underneath, also check for holes as these will allow water to enter as well. Wood siding on your home needs to be inspected for any soft, moist or dry rotted areas and should be repaired immediately. Re caulking is usually suffice to seal any exposures along seams and cover nail heads if visible but most homes with failing siding are long over due for repair and Exterior painting.

4.) Exterior painting is necessary at least every 5 - 15 years depending on which methods and products were used and who performed the work. As only Painters know 95% of the job is the prep work before the final Topcoat of paint is applied. There are many products that contractors and homeowners overlook due to cost savings practices or by simply not having the knowledge of the products and methods involved in performing the job correctly. Choose a High Quality Paint or North carolina painting contractor, If you're not sure please call us for Free advice by visiting http://www.room2roof.com

5.) Decks & Fences - So many homeowners in the charlotte nc area have had decks built in the past only to neglect them over the course of a few years leaving them in disrepair. If you own a deck it is vital that you inspect it every season to make sure there are no warped or lifted boards, that all nails or screws are secure as these can really hurt a pet or small child if sticking up. It is also important to have your deck or fence re sealed every few years from the elements. A High quality product with a UV protectant is highly recommended and although water based products have come a long way Oil based is still the way to go in my opinion. This information also applies to Pergolas, Picnic tables, Benches and Gazebos.

6.) Concrete and Brick - Check you sidewalks, driveways, brick or block foundations for cracks. Water freezes in between cracks in the winter such as your driveway making the gap bigger each year. This is extremely vital for brick foundations where mortar has been broken loose compromising the strength of the foundation. These damages usually happen over an extended period of time so when you notice any serious damages it is usually something overlooked years prior. Room 2 Roof has extremely talented mason on board to assist you with these cumbersome repairs which usually require a professional.

7.) Windows & Doors - Check to make sure all windows are opening properly and that all doors are sealed and close properly. You will also want to check your screens for damage or tears as this will allow not only the fresh air in but all the bugs you can handle.

8.) Crawlspace - If you have lived in north carolina for sometime you either have had a home with a crawlspace, have one now or lived in one before. Every one dread the crawlspace which is usually damp and full of bugs but this is only due to neglect such as improper drainage and grading of the property causing excess moisture to enter this all to important space under your charlotte area home. a clean, dry crawlspace means lowered heating and cooling bills, less bugs such as black widows, termites or silverfish and NO MOLD problems under your home. If you neglect the crawlspace your health and finances may suffer because poor upkeep can cost tens of thousands in repairs down the road. If you have problems with your Crawlspace Room 2 Roof has solutions and are here to help and answer your questions.

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