Lyons Roofing

Roof Replacement and Repair Contractor Louisville, KY and Indiana

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Louisville: (502) 689-0338
Indiana: (812) 294-3595

Do you have bump’s on your roof?

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Have you ever looked up when pulling into the driveway and seen random bumps on your roof? On the other hand, what about long raised sections systematically lifting up all over your roof? If so, you could have a major problem!

 

What causes bumps on your roof?

 

Lets start with the small random bumps on your roof. Multiple things could cause these small raised sections. Most commonly know as nail pops, these areas are caused by either a roofing nail not being driven all of the way in or one that gets driven in side ways and will hold the shingle up just slightly.

 

buckled plywood

On the other hand what about the long raised up sections that seem to be showing up systematically on your roof? This is a easy problem to diagnose, but not very easy to fix. The fix on this is something that can be very intrusive. However, we will dive into that later. These long raised up sections are from improperly nailed roof decking. If your home has plywood decking below your shingles and the plywood was not nailed properly. In time the decking will start to warp and curl on the ends causing these raised sections.

 

How to fix bumps on your roof

 

            Nail Pops:

 bumps on roof

Small areas otherwise known as nail pops can be easily fixed by a homeowner if they can safely do so. In most cases, a simple hammer on the nail will take care of the problem. However, if your shingles are sealed to the point where you cannot safely pull them apart without tearing them then you may need the help of a professional to take care of the problem.

 

If you are fortunate to still be under your roof warranty this is something that will be covered under labor warranties. If not depending on how many nail pops you have on your home you may have to shell out a few hundred dollars to have a company come in and fix the problem.

 

            Buckled Plywood:

 

What if you are one of the unlucky ones that has the problem of buckling plywood? This is most likely something you will have to consult a professional contractor on. It can be a possible easy fix, but you would have to go to every raised section and drive screws into the decking to try to pull it straight back to the rafters. However, if you put the screws through the shingles then you will have the perfect storm for leaks all over your roof. Even if you put the screws through the lower layer of shingles, you could great the opportunity for a leak.

 

nail pops

 

The only way to properly fix this is during the full replacement of the roof. At that time, a contractor can address the raised decking and if needed replace any decking that has warped beyond repair.

 

Regardless of small bumps or larger raised ridges along your roofline, if you have a steeper pitched roof you should contact a professional contractor. It is much safer and can take care of the problem without having to leave the comfort of flat ground. Yes, it may cost you a few dollars but at least you know the work will be done right and done the first time.

Roof Leak at Pitch change

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Do you have a pitch change on your roof? Do you have a nagging leak you just cannot figure out in that same area?

What is a pitch change?

pitch change

First off, what exactly is a pitch change? Most commonly, found on homes that have an extended front porch tying into their main home. It can be found on normal homes that have been built with dimension in order to break up the look of a straight home.

 

So how exactly can a pitch change create problems? Is it something that can be fixed in a DIY situation or something a professional contractor should address?

Problem areas in pitch change

Pitch changes do create an interesting situation. In areas that receive a fair amount of snow or long cold spells are at high risk of ice damns forming in areas of pitch changes. This can allow water to back up and work its way behind shingles and coming into your home.

 

Additionally, during the installation of your roof if nails are installed right in the middle of the pitch change can create major problems.

What to do?

So how as a homeowner can you try to fix this yourself? Well there is no easy way to as a homeowner. This issue should be address one by a professional contractor and even better if addressed during the original installation.

 

If you are installing the roof as a homeowner or having a contractor install the roof then its best to make sure you request an Owens Corning ice and water shield or similar product, in the pitch change in addition to all valleys. Make sure there are no nails nailed directly in the center of the pitch change.

replacement pitch change

Those seem like simple enough but a major issue that most people miss and even some contractors miss is “short shingling” the lower slope. If the slope is below a 2/12 pitch then an asphalt shingle system is out of the question, you must go with a system designed for low slopes.

 

Extra Protection

Another extra layer of protection that some companies install and we at the Lyons Roofing Company recommend is for any low slope system from 2/12 to a 4/12 pitch we install Owens Corning Ice and Water shield on the entire section.

 

As a homeowner or a do it yourselfer make sure you address these areas during the installation. If not you will have years and years of headaches.

 

Add Another Layer to your Roof?

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Should you Add another layer to your roof?

Tear off or add another layer

Is it time to replace your roof? I know we all dread that day! So why not just add another layer to your roof and avoid the cost of labor and dump fees to remove that old roof? Is it a viable option, or should you just replace the whole roof and call it a day?

 

So what is the big deal anyway, why cant you just throw another layer of shingles on top of the existing?

 

In some cases, you can. However, most building codes limit a home to only having two layers, most homes can handle two layers but adding a third can greatly stress rafters and other structural parts of your home. Additionally, make sure that the product you decide to use warranties this type of application.

 

Why you should not add another layer to your roof

 

We talked about the basics, to much weight, against code, warranties. Why are those important factors? I mean it is the same thing on top of another right?

 

First, roofing material suppliers want their products to last. Layering shingles in the eyes of a manufacturer diminishes the overall performance of their product; if they say it is a lifetime shingle and it only lasts 17 years, you would be pretty upset right?

 

Multiple layers means more wear and tear on the new shingles, the layer below can create an effect that traps heat in and hurts the overall life expectancy of the shingle. The shingles are not able to breath and any cool air that your attic ventilation brings in will be used to cool the bottom layer instead of your newer higher performing layer.

 

Weight from multiple layers

 

Your home is a machine, designed to perform in a certain way for its life. Any change in design that you may cause can have detrimental effects over the life of your home, including adding multiple layers of shingles.

 

Bet you are probably sitting there looking up at your ceiling and wondering, how much weight does it really add?

 

Let us say you have an average size home (35 sq.) you decide to add an additional layer of Owens Corning Duration coming in at lets say 70 lbs. a bundle now with this particular shingle you are looking at three bundles per square. That comes out to a total of an additional 7,350 lbs. on your roof. Yes, if you have one layer on your roof, your home will more than likely hold it and you will never know the difference. However, you could be just setting yourself up for some major settling and structural issues down the road.

 

However, ask yourself this, would you park an Escalade on your home and not worry about it?

 

So there, you have it, just a few reasons why some roofing contractors may try to talk you out of a second layer. Do not think they are just trying to talk you out of it because it only means more on the total bill right now. They more than likely have your interest at heart and I know if Lyons Roofing Company is going to put their name on it, we want it to last. I am sure plenty of other companies feel the same way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to Maintain Your New Roof

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Louisville new roof Your new roof is a major purchase. Therefore, you want it to last as long as possible. Many people scoff at the idea of spending money on roof upkeep, citing it is an unnecessary expense, but the truth is that improper care of a roof can shorten its lifespan dramatically, and end up costing more money in the long run. It goes without saying that giving your roof some TLC every now and then is less expensive than replacing your roof altogether.

Do right by your roof and follow these tips for how to maintain your new roof:

Clear your old or new roof of debris.

This is especially important if you have large trees hanging over your home. A buildup of dead leaves and acorns on your roof is more than just an eyesore; it the perfect opportunity for a natural dam to form. A dam means water, and water means leaking. Do yourself a huge favor before it’s too late by taking a broom or a blower and carefully removing the debris from your roof.

Repair or replace shingles.

It is not unusual for shingles to become warped and curl up. When it is hot out, the shingles are relatively malleable and should be easy to bend back into shape. If the weather is colder, you may need to apply heat with a blow dryer in order to soften the shingles and reshape them. Either way, curled shingles present opportunities for water leakage, so tackle them as soon as you see them. Shingles may become loose or damaged after rough weather, or even due to normal wear and tear. It is important that you replace loose or damaged shingles as soon as you notice them – again, the idea is to avoid leakage. If you are unsure of how to correctly repair your roof, be sure to contact Lyons Roofing and we’ll be happy to provide a free estimate on your repairs.

Clean your roof periodically.

Fortunately for you, this is a job that you can put off for every one to three years. However, it is a necessity if you want to keep your new roof looking new, and free of dirt and mildew. Simply purchase a roof cleaner from any home improvement store, spray the cleaner onto the roof using an insecticide sprayer or pressure washer (set at the lowest pressure setting possible), let the cleaner soak according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and then rinse.

roof-debris
Keep your gutters clear. One way to prevent debris buildup and to ensure proper water drainage from your rooftop is to clean out your gutters regularly. Simply take a blower to the foliage, and then use a water hose to rinse the rest out. You may also want to consider gutter toppers to keep most debris out and avoid the dangers of getting up on your roof to clean those gutters. Learn more about gutter toppers.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to choosing the best roof for your home. Experienced professionals can help you make that important decision, and can also bring your vision to life. To put your roofing project into the hands of a contractor you can trust, contact Lyons Roofing. We can be reached by phone, in Indiana at 812-294-3595 and in Kentucky at 502-689-0338. You can also request a free roofing estimate online.

Reliable Roofing Contractors and Long Lasting Relationships

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For commercial roofing, Louisville area businesses recognize the value of a trusted partner. Forming a long-standing relationship with a reliable roofing contractor can help your companies bottom line, keeping roof maintenance and repair costs predictable.

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Roofing Systems

No roofing contractor expects commercial property owners to have complete knowledge of roofing systems. Commercial roofing systems could include single-ply, built-up, APP/SBS or any number of other roofing types. When you build a long-lasting relationship with a trustworthy and reliable roofing contractor, the contractor comes to know your roof better than anyone else. Familiarity with your building’s roofing system saves crew time and money.

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Lyons Roofing has extensive experience with all types of roofing, including energy-efficient modern methods like reflective single-ply systems. Lyons Roofing also knows how to get the longest possible service from existing roof materials, such as built-up roofing or modified bitumen.

When you hire a roofing contractor for season after season, your roof’s gradual wear becomes easier to monitor. You can work with your roofer to plan for future replacement without feeling a financial or time constraint.

New Roof

The best new commercial roofing products commercial property owners can get are those installed and maintained by the same company. The crew and superintendent installing the new roof will record important details about the roof deck, insulation and flashing. When the same company sends a maintenance crew out, those records will speed up any maintenance and repair work.

A new roof is a major capital investment. You should not consider giving the job to an untrusted, untested roofing contractor. By forging a long-standing relationship with a roofing contractor, you have the reassurance that the new roof will be done properly.

reliable roofingWarranty

Louisville area businesses can enjoy building a long-lasting partnership—ensuring the roofing warranty stays in force. If you cannot document regular maintenance, annual inspections and proper upkeep, the manufacturer may not honor a warranty claim. By using one roofer you can protect your investment for years to come.

From any aspect—maintenance, repair records, warranty preservation, or new roof—you are better off building a long-lasting relationship with your local roofing company than switching from contractor to contractor.

To begin building that long lasting relationship between your business and Lyons Roofing, contact our offices today.