Many roofing experts recommend that you inspect your insulation at least once per year. Below, we’ll elaborate on why that’s important, and how to do it. 

Why Should I Check My Roof Insulation?

It’s important to check your roof insulation because it can help make your home more comfortable and prevent costly damages. Here are just a few things that properly functioning insulation can help with:

Preventing Ice Dams

Ice dams are ridges of ice that form on the edge of your roof. They’re formed by a combination of freezing temperatures, snow on your roof, and heat escaping from inside your home. They can cause a slew of problems because they prevent melting snow and other forms of precipitation from draining off your roof. 

The water that gets built up by these dams can leak into your home and cause extremely expensive damage, including mold, mildew and structural damage. The actual dams are also known to tear off gutters and loosen shingles. Roof insulation can help prevent these issues by trapping more heat within your home to combat the uncontrollable elements outdoors. 

Reducing Heat Loss

From chilly drafts to rooms that are colder than others, if you notice that your home’s temperature fluctuates quickly and dramatically, poor roof insulation is a likely culprit. In fact, roughly 25% of a home’s heat escapes from the attic or roof. 

An inspection can help you determine if your roof is underinsulated, or if it has a few pieces of insulation that are damaged and not functioning properly. Either way, once you figure out the problem, you can take steps toward fixing it and living life more comfortably. 

Increasing Energy Efficiency

Take a look at your home’s latest energy bills. Are they significantly higher than they have been in past years? It’s possible your roof insulation is old or damaged and in desperate need of replacement. 

Fully functioning, properly installed insulation prevents heat from escaping. This leads to a more energy-efficient roof and home, which makes living more comfortable and energy bills more affordable.

How Do I Check My Roof Insulation?

There are a few ways you can check for any malfunctions or damages within your roof insulation, including:

Performing a Touch Test

One basic way to measure your insulation’s performance is to do a simple touch test. When you touch your home’s interior ceilings, they should feel warm and dry. If they feel cold or damp, it’s likely your insulation isn’t working well. In contrast, if you touch your roof’s exterior, it should feel cold because your insulation is keeping the heat from escaping. 

Of course, this is not the most reliable test, so it’s recommended that you follow up with other tests and professional opinions to get a clearer understanding of what’s going on. 

Measuring the Insulation Levels

The quality and performance of roof insulation is determined by a measurement called its R-value, which tells you how well your insulation can keep heat from entering and escaping your home. 

In order to measure the R-value of your current insulation, you first need to identify which type of insulation you have: fiberglass, rock wool, cellulose, vermiculite, or perlite. Then, you should measure the depth of the insulation material in inches. Finally, use the calculations below to determine the correct R-value for your insulation material and depth:

• Loose fiber fiberglass: 2.5 x depth
• Batts fiberglass: 3.2 x depth
• Rock wool: 2.8 x depth
• Cellulose: 3.7 x depth
• Vermiculite or perlite: 2.7 x depth

The total of your calculation is your R-value. Optimal R-values depend on the climate in which you live. In general, cooler climates need higher R-values than warmer ones, but there are many calculation tables and map resources available online to help you find exactly what you need.

Calling a Professional

When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to call a professional to come to your house and check things out for you. They’ll know the type of insulation you have, what your R-value should be, and any reasons for improperly functioning insulation. They’ll also be able to provide the best advice to help fix your problem. 

Why Is Fall the Best Time to Check My Roof Insulation?

Now is the best time to get your roof inspected by a professional because proper roof insulation can help you avoid a lot of common winter roof problems. To get your roof prepared for winter weather, contact Werner Roofing. We’ll help maintain your roof and get it in shape to defend against ice dams, heavy snow, and cold temperatures.

But first, you need to know what you’re dealing with before you can deal with the damage they leave behind.

The Roof Pest Roster

The most common culprits that can invade your home and cause roof damage (as well as safety and health issues) include:

• Insects like ants, wasps, bees, and termites
• Birds
• Bats   
• Critters like chipmunks, squirrels, mice, and (gulp!) roof rats

6 Common Roof Pests And The Damage They Can Cause

1. Roof Rats & Mice – These roof pests don’t just give you the heebie-jeebies knowing they’re crawling around above you. They also chew through pretty much anything, including insulation, pipes, and electrical wires. This can be dangerous as it creates a fire hazard, and can kill rats or mice, leaving behind a dead animal odor — neither of which is exactly pleasant.. 
2. Chipmunks & Squirrels – With the ability to gnaw through shingles and sheathing, these critters can create holes in your roof, leaving it susceptible to further damage from the elements. Plus, once they cozy up inside your attic, be prepared for some pretty smelly stuff! Between the pungent odor of their urine which can penetrate your ceiling and the possibility of a squirrel dying and decaying, you will definitely have to plug your nose to say the least!
3. Birds – Though you may enjoy watching a variety of birds using baths or feeders in your yard when they decide to make your roof a home, things can get a lot less enjoyable. Bird droppings can eat away at roof shingles and sheathing, causing structural damage and leaks. They also like to build nests in gutters and vents which can lead to blockages, leaks, and water damage.
4. Bees & Wasps – No one wants these roof pests around for obvious reasons, but they pose more than just a possibility of being stung. All it takes is a small hole in your roof to invite bees and wasps to come on in and build a nest. Hives ultimately cause larger holes, hollow sections of your roof, and even structural damage due to the nest’s weight. In addition, hives can block vents causing not only water clog issues, but also concerns regarding proper and safe airflow. 
5. Termites – Perhaps the most destructive roof pest there is, termites love to eat wood, including the all-you-can-eat buffet of your roof decking, trusses, and rafters! Their appetite can quickly destroy the structural integrity of your roof, and if left to eat ‘til their hearts’ content, you could end up having to replace your roof all together.  
6. Bats – Besides the fact that bats can carry rabies and transfer the disease to humans by bite, bat droppings can result in an even larger hazard. Bat waste (called guano) carries a microscopic fungus that can become airborne, and when inhaled, resulting in a lung infection which may be mild, but can also be deadly. Needless to say, if you have these particular roof pests, you need to eradicate the problem immediately.   

What are Common Signs Roof Pests Have Arrived?

If you hear scurrying and scampering going on above you, it’s likely that chipmunks or squirrels, mice, or roof rats have invaded your home. You might also hear high-pitched sounds or even flapping wings which would indicate birds or bats have found their way in. 

Other obvious signs you’re dealing with roof pests include nests, droppings, gnawed items, and dead insects or rodents.  

How Can You Deal with these Common Roof Pests?

While in some circumstances an exterminator is necessary, there are a few things you can try without the risks to kids and pets that poison can pose. 

• Strategically placed mothballs around your attic and other areas of your home can repel some roof pests. For instance mothballs are actually toxic to roof rats, as well as bats. 
• Items with certain smells pests can’t stand can be used as repellents too, such as peppermint oil, ammonia, or hot pepper flakes. 
• There are plug-in devices that keep critters away by emitting a high-pitched sound, unnoticeable to humans, but definitely noticeable to the sensitive ears of unwanted animal guests. There are also contraptions out there that can allow pests to exit but not reenter. 
• You can also purchase traps or natural insecticides, or make a concoction of your own, such as a mixture of water, vinegar, peppermint oil, and dish soap which has been known to conquer wasp and bee problems. 
• Installing bright lights can deter bats, and placing faux hives and homes away from yours can make roof pests think twice before deciding on their ultimate location. 

There are a number of ways to get rid of roof pests, depending on the type of pest and the severity of your infestation. If you’re unsure what to do to remove the birds, bats, or rodents in your roof, it’s always a good idea to call a professional who can list all of the options available to you. 

What Attracts Roof Pests to Your Home?

The best way to keep roof pests out is to know what attracts them in the first place, and do your best to make your home inhospitable for them. 

The biggest attraction to any roof pest is an older roof, especially one that’s worn or in need of repair. This is like a beacon for roof pests to come and stay for a while! Insects and animals looking for a safe place to hang out or protect themselves from the elements love to make their way into your home and set up camp in your attic by way of cracks and holes in your roof. 

They can get in by chewing through damaged or rotting shingles and wood, causing even more destruction in their wake, and making your roof even more vulnerable for future damage (not to mention future unwanted guests!).

The best way to avoid roof pests from taking a liking to your roof and home is to ensure you perform regular roof inspections and fix any issues quickly. Staying on top of roof maintenance will allow you to discover possible problem areas and repair them before roof pests discover them too.  

4 Ways to Make Roof Pests Feel Unwelcome 

Besides regular roof care, there are a few things you can do to make your house less inviting to birds, bats, and other rodents: 

• Keep trees and other foliage near your home trimmed. This will help avoid creating shady areas on your roof that promote moss and mold — a roof pest’s idea of a welcome mat. 
• Make sure you clean your roof regularly to wash away bird droppings and nest-worthy debris.
• Reduce your home’s temptations by keeping your yard and garage clean and storing seed and fertilizer in tightly-sealed containers. 
• Enlist in the help of a roofing company for a thorough inspection.

Have Roof Damage from Pests? Werner Roofing Can Help You Deal

Have your unwanted roof guests caused damage to your home’s roof? Give Werner Roofing a call. We’re happy to assess the damage free of charge and make recommendations for how to repair it quickly and efficiently. In the war against roof pests, we always win!

Spring has sprung, but hopefully not any leaks in your roof! 

They say April showers bring May flowers, but unfortunately they can also bring damage to your shingles, adding wear and tear to your roof after it’s already endured winter’s wrath! That’s why now is the perfect time to assess your roof for any winter damage before those spring storms make anything worse. 

Here is a complete guide to spring roof maintenance and repairs so you can nip problems in the bud (Get it? Spring. Bud.😉)

Did Winter Take its Toll on Your Roof?

In Michigan, we’re used to an abundance of ice and snow, but those harsh winter conditions can wreak havoc on your roof. Ice dams and snow accumulation can trap moisture under shingles causing rot and leaks, and gutters can fill with ice and debris, adding to the problems. 

Take advantage of milder weather to check out the condition of your roof and identify any issues that need to be addressed, such as loose shingles or clogged gutters. Also, look for signs of leakage in your attic, like water stains or mold. Oh, and assess the ventilation and insulation while you’re at it.

The Importance of Spring Roof Maintenance

If Old Man Winter was not kind to your roof, it’s best to deal with problems as soon as possible. Even a small leak can result in a large amount of damage, and come summer, you could have more than just a growing water problem on your hands — your bills will likely be growing right along with it. 

Roof issues left unresolved can result in difficulty keeping the elements out and the cool, comfortable air in, and that means higher bills — thanks a lot, Old Man! 

In addition, spring roof maintenance is essential for keeping your roof in its best possible condition which will extend its life, protecting your investment, as well as your home and family.

The Most Common Spring Roof Repairs 

To-do’s this time of year often include plenty of yard work and cleaning, but if you’ve spotted any issues with your roof, be sure to add these spring roof repairs to the list. 

Clogged Gutters

Sticks, leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your gutters and downspouts throughout the winter, which will definitely inhibit their ability to deal with spring showers. Make sure you clear the clogs and clean your gutters so they’re ready for whatever the spring brings next.

Loose or Missing Shingles 

Harsh weather conditions can often result in loose or missing shingles, revealed when the ice and snow melt away. It’s important to remove loose shingles and replace them along with any that are missing ASAP to avoid any leaking or other problems.

If you are handy and know how to get on your roof safely, you can make shingle repairs on your own, or you can call in the pros to take care of it. Either way, move it to the top of that to-do list of yours!

Leaks

Fixing leaks is another necessity that should be at the top of your fix-it list. Water damage can cause all sorts of problems over time, including rot, mold, and mildew, and premature deterioration of your roof. Take note of where you spot water stains and mold so you can locate the source and stop the leaking before it gets worse, not to mention more costly.

Poor Insulation

Attic leaks often go hand-in-hand with poor insulation. If you noticed icicles forming on your roof over the winter, your house felt drafty or temperatures fluctuated between rooms, and the kicker: your energy bills were, well, through the roof, then you likely have some insulation issues. It’s time to add or replace old insulation to keep your house comfy and your wallet happy.

Mark Spring Roof Repair Off Your To-Do List!

With spring right around the corner, it’s time to give your roof a checkup. The quickest way to get this done is to give Werner Roofing a call! Dial 616-844-5382, or contact us online for a free inspection. We can find and fix any problems winter left behind, and are here for all your roofing needs.

When it comes to the upkeep of your home, a roof inspection probably ranks right up there with getting your septic tank cleaned out. Unfortunately, putting this chore off can have just as damaging, albeit not quite as pungent, consequences. 

A regular inspection of your roof is necessary and important to catch problems early, which can save you costly repairs later down the road, as well as lengthen the lifespan of your roof, thus extending the amount of time before you need to replace it. 

Regular roof checks also ensure your house, and everything in it (including your family!) remains protected. Those are some pretty big reasons not to keep pushing that roof inspection to the bottom of your to-do list! 

So, without further ado, here’s a complete homeowner’s roof inspection checklist. Keep it handy and use it annually to keep your roof and home safe and sound. 

Inside Roof Inspection

Before you head outside, take a look around at your ceiling and walls. Do you see any dark stains or circles? These are water spots and a sure sign you have a leak somewhere. Check the attic for mold or additional dark areas which indicate that moisture is coming in through the decking under your roof. 

Another warning sign to look for is sagging between rafters. If you see light coming through anywhere while you’re inspecting your roof from the inside, you definitely have a hole in your roof that needs immediate repair. You should also check to make sure your roof’s ventilation is clean and clear.  

What to look for:

• Water damage — dark spots or circles
• Mold
• Sagging ceiling/decking in attic
• Light coming in through attic rafters
• Obstructions in roof ventilation

Outside Roof Inspection

View From the Ground

Start by checking out your roof from the ground. Walk around your house and look for any noticeable damage to gutters, eaves, and soffits. Is the roofline sagging at all? Do your shingles look a little worse for the wear? What about moss growth or debris?

What to look for:

• Bent or missing gutters
• Damaged eaves and soffits
• Shingles that are loose and flapping, missing, curled, or cracked
• Sagging roofline
• Moss
• A large amount of debris

Up-Top Perspective

From atop the roof, you can get a closer look at shingle damage as well as the condition of gutters. Take note if gutters are clogged, but don’t assume they just need a good cleaning. Be sure to check if there are any pieces of shingle or shingle granules in the gutters, which is a sign your roof may be ready for replacement. 

While you’re up there, pay special attention to the roof flashing. This is what protects the transition areas of your roof such as around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys where the slope of your roof changes. Flashing that is missing or damaged can allow moisture to get underneath shingles and cause rotting and structural issues. Definitely not good! 

You should also check that the rubber and seals around pipes and your roof boot are in good condition; look for signs of animal intrusion, like nests or chewed areas; and inspect your chimney for any damage that may keep it from working properly.

What to look for:

• Damaged or missing shingles
• Clogged gutters
• Compromised flashing and seals
• Signs of rot
• Animal intruders
• Chimney damage

Roof Inspection Complete! Now What?

Hooray, you marked that roof inspection off your to-do list. That’s great! But now what do you do? Well, despite what you might think, you don’t just move on to the next thing on your list — looks like you can put off the septic tank cleaning just a bit more. You’re welcome. 

Unless your inspection passed with flying colors, what you need to do now is fix some things. Remember, the sooner you address issues, the better! First, decide whether you are willing — and more importantly, able — to make any needed repairs on your own. 

If you prefer professional help, and even if you prefer professionals to do the actual inspection, you can count on Werner Roofing. We’ll come out and evaluate your roof’s condition at no cost, make recommendations for maintenance or repair, and provide you with a free estimate to get your roof in top condition. Give us a call to schedule a roof inspection, repairs, or if need be, replacement by dialing 616-844-5382 today. 

How to Get on Your Roof Safely

Hey, we get it. We understand there are some times when you might need to get up on your roof. Maybe it’s to remove some branches or clean your gutters. Perhaps you wish to make some minor repairs, take down your Christmas lights before the Fourth of July, or heck, even retrieve a kite or rescue your cat. We know stuff pops up that doesn’t necessarily seem like it requires a pro, but this isn’t your average “take out the garbage” chore. This can be dangerous. That’s why we created these guidelines to ensure you know how to get on your roof safely, not to mention get back down!

Don’t Go it Alone

It’s always wise to have someone spot and assist you if you’re getting on a roof. Ask (or bribe!) a friend or family member to help out by holding the ladder and hoisting up any tools you happen to forget. That way, you won’t have to go up and down the ladder to retrieve what you need. It’s also smart for the simple reason that someone else is there who can get help in case of an emergency.  

Wait for the Right Weather 

Never just decide to venture up without checking the forecast first. Make sure the weather is appropriate — not windy or wet! You don’t want to take the chance of being knocked off your feet or slipping and falling, so if it’s not a dry and calm day, check something else off your to-do list instead.  

Dress for Success

When you’re getting on your roof, it’s super important to wear the right shoes, with rubber soles and good traction. No bare feet or flip-flops allowed! A good tool belt is key as it will save you from trying to carry tools while navigating the ladder, and leather gloves can help you keep a good grip on things. 

This may seem over the top, but it’s also a good idea to equip yourself with a safety harness, especially if your roof is high or steep. Even if you’re only up there for a short time, it can save you from serious consequences if you happen to slip or trip on something. Temporary toeholds are also a good investment. They can help you keep your steps steady and can be removed when the job is done. You can typically find these things at your neighborhood hardware store.  

Climb Carefully

Perhaps one of the most important tips of all is to make sure you have a good, sturdy ladder and are using it safely and correctly. 

• Place your ladder on level, dry, and firm ground, or set a board beneath it. The ladder should extend several feet above the roof. 
• A good rule of thumb is for every 4 feet of ladder, you should move the base 1 foot from the house. 
• Avoid leaning the ladder against gutters so it doesn’t slide at the top or cause any damage, and pick a place away from powerlines. 

• Next, have your partner hold the ladder for extra stability. 
• Always face the ladder and when you start to climb, be sure to keep three points of contact on the ladder at all times — both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand. 
• When you reach the roof, hold onto the top of the ladder with both hands and step around, not over it. 

Step Safely

Congratulations, you’re on the roof! Now, be sure to move slowly and carefully, check that each step you take is stable before proceeding. Before you move forward, make sure the path before you is clean and hazard-free. Take your time and of course, don’t get too close to the edge.

Repeat in Reverse

Whether it’s right away because you’ve decided this wasn’t the best idea you’ve ever had, or if it’s after you’ve accomplished what you set out to do, when the time comes to head back down, let your partner know to spot you. Next, descend the same way you went up — holding the top of the ladder with both hands, stepping around and then down, facing the ladder, and maintaining three points of contact until you’re safely on the ground. Then, hope you didn’t forget anything up there and go get your partner the cold one you promised! 

Rather Not Get On Your Roof At All?

If you don’t feel that climbing up on your roof safely is something you can physically do, or the thought of being up so high and walking on a sloping surface gives you the heebie-jeebies, not to worry. We’ve got your back! For repairs, inspection, maintenance, and replacement, just give us a call at 616-844-5382 or connect with us online today.