When winter ends or after a heavy snowstorm, it is imperative to inspect your house to make sure no damage has occurred. If you notice damage to your roof, it needs to be fixed as soon as possible before any additional damage and issues arise. A small problem can quickly turn into a big one if left untreated.

Here are some areas to inspect when it comes to your home and potential roof damage.

Damage to Shingles

The exterior of your roof is the first place to evaluate for damage because it is the most recognizable. Shingle damage can be the start of additional roofing issues such as mold, potential leaks, and more. If you suspect damage, you can contact a local roofing contractor to complete a full inspection.

When inspecting your roof, check for any broken, damaged, or missing shingles. In addition, look for any loss of granules on your shingles, because extensive loss many indicate that your roof is damaged.

Moss and Algae Growth

When inspecting your roof, also look for any moss or algae growth on your shingles. Moss or algae growth on the shingles looks like dark discoloration spots.

Moss and algae can cause additional issues, such as growth of mold or bacteria. It can also cause the shingles to curl or separate from the roof. They can impact the visual appearance of your roof and house.

If you discover moss or algae on your roof, it is essential to remove it or have the parts of the roof affected by it replaced if any damage is present.

Damage to Other Roofing Components

A roof has more components to it than just shingles. It is important to inspect and evaluate these additional parts of your roof such, as the following:

• Downspouts
• Chimney
• Plumbing Vent
• Flashing
• Gutters

Inspect these components thoroughly to determine if any damage is present. Snow and ice can sometimes cause damage to these areas, which may lead to water leaks or structural concerns.

Potential Leaks

Now that you have inspected the exterior of your roof for potential damage, it’s time to inspect the interior of your roof. To properly inspect the interior, you will need to go into the attic to look for signs of water leaks or condensation. If you find any, follow it back to its source to determine where the leak started.

Large amounts of snow or ice can cause damage when present or after melting. When melting, if the water is blocked from exiting your roof, such as clogged gutters, the water can puddle. If this occurs, the water could potentially leak through your roof and into your attic.

Need Help Inspecting Your Roof in Lancaster, PA?

Graystone is an experienced roofing company in the Lancaster, PA region committed to providing you with professional, quality services backed by our workmanship warranty!

We offer a free inspection and assessment, as well as roof repair services to help you if your roof has experienced any damage. You can contact us by calling (717) 725-7170 or by filling out our online form to receive a free quote.

Our Home Improvement Specialists are here to help you. The more you know, the better prepared you will be to decide if roof repair or roof replacement is the best option for you!

The post Winter Roof Damage to Look Out for When Winter Is Over appeared first on Graystone Roofing & Siding.

The question is, how do you know if you only need to repair your roof or consider a full roof replacement? Multiple factors come into play when making this decision, including how much damage has occurred, where the damage is located, and your budget for the project. Let’s dive deeper into discovering which option is best for you: repairing, patching, or replacing your roof.

Does Your Roof Need to Be Repaired?

Roof damage can be from normal wear and tear or caused by a severe storm, strong winds, or damaging hail. As a homeowner, if you notice or see any indication that your roof has been damaged, you may need to consider roof repair.

Here are signs that your roof needs repair:

• Leaks in the roof
• Damaged shingles (curled, missing, or broken)
• Increase in energy bills
• Light visible through the roof
• Shingle granules in the gutter

If you have roof damage, repairing your roof is often more cost-effective than a complete roof replacement. Performing regular maintenance and repairs can also be more environmentally friendly.

However, color-matching replacement shingles can be difficult, so the color may be off when repairing or replacing them. This may affect the curb appeal of your roof.

Will Patching Your Roof Work?

If your roof only needs smaller repairs, then patching your roof can be the best way to go. Patching is a great solution if the damage is minor and in a centralized area.

Inspecting the damage first is important to ensure it did not spread to different areas of your roof. If the damage did spread, this could cause more significant issues down the line. Having a roofing professional inspect the entire roof can help determine where and how extensive the damage is.

Patching your roof is the most cost-effective because it is the least labor-intensive. Instead of replacing the entire roofing area, patching your roof can fix a small leak, replace a shingle, or repair any other minor damages. It is best to conduct regular roofing inspections on your room to identify potential issues before additional damage can occur.

Is Replacing Your Roof the Best Option?

Replacing your roof is the most expensive option to consider. However, if your roof is damaged beyond what repairs and patches can fix, then this will be your best choice before more damage happens.

Hiring a roofing contractor can ensure your roof is replaced promptly and efficiently. Prior to replacing your roof, the contractor can also perform a full inspection to determine if any other issues are present and need to be addressed.

Investing in quality roofing materials can save you money in the long term and ensure that your new roof lasts for many years to come. As a homeowner, it is best to conduct regular roof inspections so any damages or issues can be treated immediately.

Contact an Expert for a Roof Inspection

Your roof is an essential part of protecting your home from potential dangers. One of the best ways to protect your home is by having the roof inspected by an expert.

At Graystone, we have over ten years of experience in roofing and are committed to providing excellent roof work with no mess! We offer a free inspection and assessment, roofing installation for shingle roofing, metal roofing, rubber roofing, and more. Graystone also offers roof repair services.

If you are located in the Lancaster, PA region and need your roof repaired or replaced, contact us at (717) 725-7170 or fill out our online form to receive a free quote.

The post Should I Repair, Patch, or Replace My Roof? appeared first on Graystone Roofing & Siding.

Though there are many siding options available, vinyl siding continues to be the most popular choice. Read on to learn the top five reasons why vinyl siding could be the best option for your home to increase curb appeal.

Fresh, Versatile Appearance

Vinyl siding is a versatile option as it comes in a variety of styles, colors, and textures, which helps homeowners create a custom look for their home.

The versatility of vinyl siding also extends to its appearance, as it can look like other types of siding options but at a lower cost. For example, picture a house that looks like it is made of cedar, stone, or other materials but is actually made of vinyl siding.

Vinyl siding can make your home appealing, whether viewing it from close up or far away. It can provide your home with a fresh appearance to enjoy!

Durability

Vinyl siding is a great choice when it comes to durability, as it can resist the formation of mold and mildew. It can withstand inclement weather conditions and will not warp or rust. Vinyl siding is specifically designed to withstand the elements such as heavy wind, rain, and hail.

A great way to back up your home investment is to look for vinyl siding or a siding repair company that offers an extended warranty option. At Graystone, we offer premium quality products as well as a workmanship warranty on all of our installations.

Minimal Maintenance

If you are looking for an option that involves minimal maintenance, vinyl siding is a great choice! Vinyl siding can be cleaned by simply rinsing it off with a garden hose or, if needed, with soap and water.

Vinyl siding is constructed to last, which also helps minimize repair costs. Other siding options may rot, attract insects, or fade. Vinyl siding, however, is resistant to fading and scratches, so you won’t need to repaint it like other siding options.

Energy Efficiency

A primary concern for many homeowners in today’s market is energy efficiency. A great way to help make your home more energy efficient and lower your heating and cooling bills is by selecting the right type of siding material. Vinyl siding is well insulated and can help improve the home’s energy efficiency.

Along with energy-efficient doors, windows, and proper electricity use, vinyl siding is a great option to increase the home’s energy efficiency and reduce energy bills.

Friendly for your Budget

A crucial factor to always consider is your budget. When it comes to your house, this is especially significant when selecting the siding material. Vinyl siding is an excellent option on the market that is one of the most affordable.

Vinyl siding can also have long-term financial benefits after it is installed because it involves minimal maintenance and can last multiple years.

Looking for a residential siding contractor in Lancaster, PA?

At Graystone Roofing & Siding, we specialize in siding installation. We offer various vinyl siding options, including manufacturers like CertainTeed Vinyl Siding, Mitten Vinyl Siding, and Mastic Vinyl Siding.

If you have any questions about siding options, contact us for a free siding estimate. To receive your free quote, you can reach us by phone at (717) 725-7170 or submit a request online. We look forward to being a part of making your home beautiful and stylish!

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When looking into a new roof, you’ll want to consider standard logistics like roof slope, budget, and load capacity. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing your material:

• Energy-efficiency: Roofing materials vary in how they absorb and retain heat.
• Environmental Impact: Environmental-friendly roofing options can avoid toxic materials and be recyclable.
• Length of Use: Choosing a more durable option will lead to peace of mind and help limit waste. Look for options that have a lifespan of 30 or more years so less material is used over time.
• Costs: Roofing materials will come with an upfront cost that can vary. However, also consider the savings over time from replacing the roof less often and saving on everyday energy costs.

Let’s take a look at the leading environmentally-friendly roofing options that are available.

Metal Roof

One of the most popular choices for homeowners today is the metal roof. It provides durability, and its light reflection can help reduce the energy bill by making the home cooler during the summer.

Metal roofing material can also be fully recycled after use. In addition, you can choose to have your roof made with recycled materials. The most common metal roofing materials are steel and aluminum, which are durable metals that will provide a long service life.

Asphalt Shingles

If you’re looking for the most popular roofing material for your home, then look no farther than asphalt shingles!

However, while asphalt shingles are popular, they are not recyclable or reusable. If you choose this option, we suggest selecting an option that comes with a minimum 30-year warranty. Extended warranty options are even better, as it verifies the shingles will be durable for long-term use.

There are additional asphalt shingle options made from recycled content for you to consider. UV-resistant asphalt shingles are also available to homeowners and can be a great way to keep the home cool in the summer.

Slate Roof

Another great eco-friendly option for homeowners is slate because it goes through minimal processing. If taken care of properly, slate can last for several decades.

This option is more expensive than other roofing options, so you may want to consider looking into salvage or antique slate tiles that are reusable and effective for your roof. Something else to consider is that the slate tiles are heavy, so you will need to ensure that your roof is properly reinforced and can handle the added weight.

Cool Roof

When getting a new roof, homeowners should also consider the cool roof concept. Though this is not specifically a roofing material, the concept of a cool roof can be environmentally friendly.

Using light-colored or white roofing materials can keep the roof’s temperature cooler by reflecting the sun’s rays. With the home kept cooler, the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard during the hot summer months. This promotes energy savings and efficiency, making it a more eco-friendly option.

Solar Panels

Installing solar panels is another eco-friendly option you can consider. Solar panels generate electricity from the sunlight, which can lower your electric bill while being environmentally friendly.

Solar panels are a big long-term investment that may take years to pay off, but they are a great eco-friendly option to consider to help the environment.

Your residential roofing company is here to help

If you are looking for environmentally-friendly roofing options that best fit your house’s needs, your residential roofing company can help! They can review all available options for your home and what would be the best fit for you. Residential roofers can also help recycle your old roof.

Our committed team at Graystone Roofing and Siding will provide excellent roof work with no mess. Located in the Lancaster, PA region, we are committed to providing quality products that are installed properly at a fair and competitive price. If you have any roofing questions or need your roof repaired or replaced, contact us today at 717-725-7170 to discuss what option would be best for you!

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Asking great questions will provide you with insight and help you determine who is the best to hire for your project needs. Here are the top five questions you should ask a roofing contractor before hiring them for your roofing project.

1. Is the contractor licensed and insured?

Every state has different laws pertaining to licensure and insurance. When you are looking to hire a contractor, it is vital to find one that is properly licensed according to your state and local laws.

Some states, like the state of Pennsylvania, do not require a license for construction contractors. However, even if a state doesn’t have a licensure requirement, you should still ask questions to make sure they’re experienced and qualified. For example, you could ask the contractor if they hold any certifications specific to the type of project you plan to hire them for.

In addition to licensure and certificates, you should also ask about your roofing contractor’s insurance. It’s essential that the contractor you hire has the necessary insurance to cover any potential liabilities or damages that could occur while on the job.

2. How much experience does the company have?

Experience and qualifications are important areas to inquire about when selecting a roofing contractor. You want to ensure they are an expert and have the ability to complete your project correctly.

One great place to research a company’s experience and professionalism is by reading reviews and testimonials about their work. This can provide great insight into how the company treats their clients and if previous customers were satisfied with the end result.

3. Will a quote be provided?

After speaking with a potential roofing contractor, they should schedule a time with you to come out to your property and assess the project. Inspecting the roof will allow them to provide an accurate cost estimate for your project, including labor and materials.

It is also an excellent idea to ask the contractor if they offer any warranties or guarantees on the quality of their work. Graystone Roofing & Siding offers free detailed estimates with references and testimonials of previous work we have completed. We also offer a Workmanship Warranty on all of our installations.

Obtaining a detailed quote is a great time to inquire about any additional fees that may occur. Once you have received all of this information, you can then prepare for financing.

4. How long will the project take?

As a customer, it’s important for you to know how long your roofing project will take. Ask the contractor to provide you with a project timeline, so you can plan around the project and determine if you can commit to the roofing contractor.

Understand, there are potential factors that could extend the timeline of project completion, such as inclement weather. Be sure to ask your contractor what the process is if this situation occurs so you can be prepared.

5. Will they provide an explanation about the process?

Roofing systems can be complex, and the process of working on them has many different variables. When hiring a roofing contractor, they should explain the process step by step and keep you updated about project progress.

Once you are properly informed, the contractor should include you when making decisions throughout the process, such as deciding the materials that will be used.

Communication is a crucial part of the process. You will want to hire a contractor who will be available to address your questions and project needs.

Selecting the best roofing company in Lancaster, PA

At Graystone Roofing & Siding, we are committed to providing you professional, quality service backed by our workmanship warranty. Our roofing company offers free detailed estimates and provides quality products at a fair and competitive price. We will work with your insurance company to aid you in claiming the damage to be restored. Contact us today and receive a free quote for your roofing questions and needs.

The post Ask These 5 Questions Before You Hire a Roofing Contractor appeared first on Graystone Roofing & Siding.

Spring cleaning is a time to ensure that the outside of your home is in good condition after those cold winter months. One of the most important areas to clean and check is your roof. Regularly evaluating your roof can save you money in damage repairs over the life of your home.

Here are some essential items you should complete to spring clean your roof.

Clean out the gutter

During the winter months, your gutters can become damaged or filled with various types of debris. When spring comes around, definitely take some time to clean your gutters.

When cleaning your gutters, ensure that water has a clear pathway to your downspouts. Remove any leaves or debris that may potentially clog your gutters or stop the water flow to your downspouts.

In addition to cleaning your gutters, you should also inspect them for damage. Ensure that your gutters are hugging the roofline. If you find any detached areas or loose nails, fix the issue as soon as possible. If you notice extensive damage to your gutters, then contact a professional to help with repairs.

Inspect the roof

Inclement weather conditions during the winter months have the potential to damage or leave debris on your roof. During your inspection, be sure to clean off any debris that may be on your roof.

You should also inspect your roofing shingles to make sure they have not been damaged due to weather conditions. Check to make sure that no shingles are missing or damaged and that the roof has not incurred any structural damage overall. If you do find any missing or damaged shingles, they should be replaced immediately to prevent any further potential damage to your roof.

When inspecting your roof for damage, take extra precautionary measures to ensure your safety. If your roof is steep or you do not feel comfortable getting on your roof, contact your local roofing company to help with completing a full roof inspection.

Check for mold or mildew

Did you know that mold or mildew can grow on your roof? As a homeowner, this is something that you should watch out for. If you see any discolored streaks on your roof, this is an indicator that you may have mold. Since mold can spread quickly, have it taken care of as soon as possible.

Contact a professional to inspect your roof if you suspect there could be mold or mildew damage. Professionals can provide you with the proper steps to remove the mold and ways to prevent the mold from coming back.

Inspect additional areas

Roofing shingles and gutters are not the only things you should inspect on your roof as a homeowner. If you have skylights or a chimney, these are essential areas to check as well.

Ensure that the flashing, the material used to direct water away from these roof additions, is in proper working condition. If you notice any damage to the flashing, it will need to be repaired or replaced immediately to ensure you don’t get a leak in your roof.

Trim tree branches 

Though trees are not a part of your roof, they can still affect your roof. Look around your roof area to ensure that no branches are hanging over your roof. These branches could fall onto your roof and potentially cause damage.

Trim any branches that are hanging over your roof at the start of spring. Trimming branches can be difficult, so you could consider contacting a professional to handle this job to avoid the risk of injury.

Inspect inside the home

We have focused a lot on spring cleaning tasks for your roof outside of the home, but it is also important to inspect inside the home. Go into your attic area to inspect the roof from inside. Look for any holes, mold, mildew, or damage. If you see any of these, then your roof may have a problem.

Contact a residential roofer to help find the cause of the problem and develop a plan to fix it.

Need help with your roof? Contact Graystone Roofing & Siding in Lancaster, PA

At Graystone Roofing & Siding, we provide quality products and charge a fair and competitive price. Our team of professionals is committed to helping you with your spring cleaning needs for your roof, siding, or gutters.

For a FREE assessment, contact us at (717) 725-7170 or fill out our form to receive a free quote. We look forward to helping you!

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Beautiful as they are, skylights create a break in your roof that makes the area around it more prone to leaking. If a homeowner isn’t careful, these leaks can lead to damage.

Why are skylights susceptible to leaks?

Skylights add a unique appeal to your home, but are also considered the weakest part of your roof. They are more susceptible to damage from various weather conditions like hail, torrential downpours, and heavy snowfall. These weather events can crack your skylight and allow water to leak through.

Weather conditions are an obvious cause for skylight leaks, but a leak can happen at any time. If you are experiencing hot weather outside but have the air conditioner running inside, the condensation could contribute to a leak.

As a skylight ages, natural wear will also play a role. Skylights are installed with a waterproof seal, but they loosen and wear out over time. You will also need to occasionally replace the metal flashing surrounding the outside edges.

Another possibility could be in the skylight installation itself. Improper installation or damaged materials prior to installation can affect your skylight’s integrity.

Don’t delay if your skylight has a leak and you are unsure of the cause. Find a residential roofing company to review your concerns and determine the cause of the leak. No crack or leak, whether minor or major, should be ignored. Take care of the issue immediately before more damage occurs.

How do you stop a skylight from leaking?

If your skylight is leaking, it is crucial to find the source and have it fixed as soon as possible. If you see a leak, address the issue immediately to prevent further damage.

As your roof absorbs moisture, it can develop mold or mildew. If you continue to ignore the leak, the damage could worsen to a point where you must replace the entire roof.

How you fix the leak will depend on the source of the leak. Some possibilities are:

• Replace the skylight
• Replace or repair the weather seals
• Use an anti-fogging agent
• Replace or repair the flashing

In addition, you should also inspect the shingles and your roof. Checking the shingles helps you identify where the leak originated from, while inspecting your roof helps you spot any additional damage. Contact a professional to complete a full roof inspection if you are unsure. They will be able to determine if your roof has damage that needs to be addressed.

If you are located in Lancaster, PA, and want experienced residential roofers who care, consider Graystone Roofing & Siding. We specialize in roofing and siding offered at a fair price, and our excellent roof work will leave no mess! We have been servicing the Lancaster, PA area for nearly ten years and are committed to providing quality products and service.

Please request a free quote from us, or give us a call at 717.725.7170. Our team will answer any questions you have!

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People are getting mixed information about this concept. I strongly discourage this practice for the main reason (most professionals don’t mention) which is it completely voids the warranty on the product you are installing.

GAF and some other leading brands of architectual shingle manufactures are starting to offer lifetime warranties on their previously 30yr rated shingles. Some codes do allow for a roof over, but in my opinion it is not worth the minimal amount saved to void a warranty on a great product

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1.) Hiring a contractor

Always look to hire a contractor that is fully insured and registered with the PA Attorney General (if you check up on us we are contractor #058681), especially on a roofing job. It is actually illegal to hire someone who is not insured in Pennsylvania. Although uninsured roofers may be cheaper, any mistake on their part could wind up costing you big. Without insurance, there is no guarantee that any of their mistakes will be covered. You might wind up having to take a contractor to court, which would make for an unwanted mess in many ways. Hiring an uninsured family member or a friend is also a great risk no matter how long you may have known the person.

2.) Using discounted materials

Just as it is in most cases, you get what you pay for. Saving a quick buck on discounted materials could come back to haunt you. Purchasing items that do not carry a warranty provides no guarantee that the product will last. Keep in mind that these are the materials that are going to protect you and your family from all types of weather.

3.) Roofing over your existing roof

It may seem like a quick and easy method, but it has plenty of negative effects. Roofing over your existing roof shortens life of your shingles. It can also void any warranty that came with the purchase of your shingles. Most importantly, this method will allow moisture to get in between shingles and deteriorate them from the inside out. The shingles in shingle roofing are meant to be dry.

4.) Not venting the roof

It is important for a roof to be vented so that it can breathe properly. When there is a stark difference in temperatures from the outside to the inside, it could create condensation. This could wind up making the wood soft and brittle. It could also bring about the onset of dry rot. Venting a roof might cost a little extra but it is a safe way to ensure the longevity of a roof. Cutting corners here will almost always present future problems that will call for eventual roof replacement.

5.) Not using an ice and water shield

An ice and water shield is a thick underlayer that adheres to plywood. It seals the nails and protects from moisture. It is very important to use at the base of a roof and also keeps water from coming up from behind shingles. Without an ice and water shield, ice can also build up in gutters. Through the valleys of a roof, ice and water shields are used as roofers will weave shingles throughout. Re-using old metal is not a recommended or sound method. If you choose to forgo the use of an ice and water shield, it might save a few hundred dollars today but cost of roof repair will be much higher in the not-so-distant future.

The post Looking for Low Cost Roof Replacement? 5 Areas You Should Not Try To Cut Costs appeared first on Graystone Roofing & Siding.

1.  Electric Power vent with thermostat:  Having an electric power vent moves the most air of any other option.  Depending on the size of your attic, and how much air you draw from your soffits, a power vent moves enough air to where you may not even need a ridge vent.  Also, you have the peace of mind knowing that the temp. will never go past a certain point.

2.  Ridge Vent in at roof peak:  Here again, for air to want to move out the peak, it needs to be able to draw from somewhere, best case being a well vented over hang at the base of roof (soffits).  It is important to make sure that attic insulation is not inhibiting the flow of air from these vents.  Rafter baffles keep insulation from blocking the airflow.   Remember that air does not fly out of there, and only a minimal amount of space can be cut out of the peak.  A ridge cap is only 12 in wide, and the vent itself is about 10 inches, so only about 3 inches total can be cut out of the peak so that water cannot leak through.

3.  Solar or Wind Turbine Vents:  Both of these options depend on atmospheric conditions to operate (sun, and wind).  However they have the advantages of not needing electric run to them, and are a little less to maintain.

4.  Gable Vents:  Gable vents are located at the gables of the roof, and work well when coupled with one of the other options.  By themselves they do not transfer much air, but do work well with others.

It is a good idea to have one or more of each of these transferring air in the changes of seasons.  I’ve often seen trapped air cause mildew, mold, and dry rot to the underneath of a roof deck.  A well ventilated roof is the best way to ensure a long lasting healthy roof!

Contact Graystone Roofing & Siding for a free Estimate.

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