Roof Layers

There is hearsay that you are allowed to have more than 3 layers of roofing materials at your house. I strongly disagree.  Flat roof is recommended to use only 1 built-up roofing layer.  In pitched roofs, if roof rafters size is 2x4, or they spread wide from each other, it is strongly recommended to use only 1 layer of roofing shingles.   Per code, we’re not allowed to use more than 6 lbs. per square foot of roofing material.  On structure that is no less than a 2”x6”, 16”On Center, please don’t be misled by non-professionals and add unnecessary weight to your roof which can create damage such as caving, broken rafters and more.  Have a professional such as US come and inspect the roofing structure before making a decision on the type of roofing work your house needs. 

Sprinklers and Planters

Homeowners hiring gardeners to do landscaping which many times they will install or build planters using the stucco house wall as part of the planter.  The stucco is just about 1” of cement that at the time it gets cracks and moisture goes through this crack into the frame, insulation, interior drywall, this moisture will deteriorate the framing in the worst way which will structurally weaken that area.  By the time the homeowner will discover that, the damage will already be severe.

Danger of growing mildew and deteriorating framing and stucco will lead to a very expensive construction which in most cases that I saw, your home insurance will not cover.  Please be aware of situations such as this and if you’re not sure, CALL US FOR INSPECTION!!!.

Roofing for the Summer

The biggest enemy for our roof is the sun.  The sun produces heat way over 100^o in many areas.  In the attic, it can get to be 130^o and higher.  This combination of heat in the attic and of the sun will damage the roof. 

Every homeowner has to make sure that the roof is clean of leaves. Apply cold tar (which you can purchase at any local building supplier) at any joint such as flushing, pipe, drain pipe, etc..  The heat will make the tar melt and seal all joints.  This treatment is recommended to be done at least once a year or as needed.   Stay tuned.

  Energy Saving Tips

You can drop your electric bill to a half by doing the proper things such as installing dual glass windows, floor insulation, wall insulation  and attic insulation.

Proper ventilation to your attic is important and there are many ways to achieve that. It can also extend the life expectancy of your roof.  Seal all doors and windows properly.  Set your air-conditioning thermostat to 78^o at all times.  Change your light bulbs to fluorescent ones.  Newer appliances are energy-efficient and can save you tons of money.  Ask everyone in the household to turn off the lights when they leave a room. Use the electric fan instead of air-conditioning.  Pull the drapes together to block off the sun. Cut down on TV and computer hours.