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8 Roofing Terms Every Homeowner Should Know

If you don’t know much about roofing, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Most homeowners don’t give much thought about the roof over their heads until they need to replace or repair it. It helps to have a basic understanding of your roof and what goes into protecting your home from the elements, however, just in case you ever need to hire someone to fix or replace it. Understanding these terms will help you to better ask informed questions and find the right contractor for you. 

1. Squares

Roofs are measured in “squares.” A square simply means 100 square feet. For example, if you are told that your roof is 15 squares, this means that your roof is 1500 square feet.

2. Deck

This is the surface that your roofing will be applied to. It is usually made of either plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The deck is attached to the rafters in your home.

3. Underlayment

This material is rolled out and laid on top of the deck before the shingles are installed. The underlayment provides extra resistance to water.

4. Slope

This is the incline of your roof. The slope is a ratio that is calculated (in inches per foot) by how high the roof rises to how far across it runs horizontally. For example, if your roof has a slope of “8 in 12,” that means your roof rises 8 inches for every 12 inches it runs across.

5. Low-Slope

A low-slope is a roof with little incline. Low-slopes are usually “4 in 12” or less. They may need special products to protect from ice and water, as they are more prone to buildup from both.

6. Penetration

A penetration is anything that sticks up out of your roof, like a chimney or skylight. Penetrations are the areas most at risk for leaks, because water runoff can get under shingles easier in these areas.

7. Flashing

This is a piece of metal material that is applied around penetrations to keep water from running under your shingles and causing leaks. Making sure your flashing is in good repair is critical to preventing leaks.

8. Dormer

This is a window that comes up out of the slope in a roof. Dormers have their own roofs and are usually built to give homeowners extra storage.

Contact Us

Whether you’re remodeling, replacing your roof, or you are in need of roof repairs, Chappell Roofing can help. We offer services for residential and commercial projects in the Permian Basin. For more information on Chappell Roofing and why you should choose us, contact ustoday!

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Roof Stains 101

Roof Stains 101

Whether it’s a stain on carpet, your favorite shirt, or your couch, stains are unsightly, frustrating, and result in a clean up and prevention plan. Now imagine a stain on the most expensive part of your home, your roof. Roof stains are a headache and frustration totally different than a stain on your shirt or carpet.

What Are The Stains On My Roof?

Over time, shingle roofs tend to develop dark spots and stains, if not taken care of early on. What are these stains? What causes them? Here, we will discuss the explanation behind these roof stains, the causes, and what to do about them!

What Are These Stains?

Dreaded dark spots that cause roof stains are called Gloeocapsa Magma, or GM, which is a form of mold or fungus. This bacterium actually gains strength and thrives through photosynthesis and limestone composites found in asphalt shingles. GM can protect itself from UV rays and prefers cool, shady spots to in which to grow.

What Damage Does This Cause To My Roof?

GM, the main cause of roof stains, is believed to be only an issue for aesthetics leading to poor curb appeal, however it does attract another factor that can cause damage to your roof, moss. Moss has the power to shorten the lifespan of your roof.  Moisture eventually retained by the moss, which damages your roof and shingle granules, especially if it freezes.

What Should I Do About These Stains?

Power washing is not suggested on asphalt shingles to avoid causing further damage. If your roof is severely stained and you fear the damage it may be causing, it is worth consulting a professional that you can trust. Call Chappell Roofing today for a free inspection and consultation. Have a question about your roof stains or wish to get a free quote? Click here or fill out the form below!

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3 Simple Ways To Extend The Life Of Your Roof

What if you could extend the life of one of the most expensive parts of your home? You would do it in a heartbeat, right? Add in the fact that it’s super simple to do makes it even more appealing. Here we will talk about 3 simple ways to extend the life of your roof!

Number 1: Maintain Regularly

What do we mean by maintain? Remove debris that has collected on your roof from recent storms or crazy winds. Leaves, water, dirt, and other debris like sticks can collect and cause damage to your roof if not taken care of. Combine debris with water from recent rain storms and you’ve got a recipe for mold, mildew and other harmful agents to your roof.

Number 2: Venitlate Properly

If your attic ventilation is poor, you can expect a shorter liefspan of your roof. Many homeowners may underestimate the importance of adequate attic ventilation. The common misconception is that roof vents are to keep attic space from getting to hot in the summer. While this is true, their primary function is to let excess moisture and humidity escape from the home. Good ventilation allows for cool air flow underneath the roof deck and cools the shingle.

Number 3: Inspect Thouroughly

Frequent and thorough inspection is one of the best ways to extend the life of your roof. Especially after a major storm, it’s important to take a look to make sure everything is in place. By frequently taking a look at your roof you’ll be able to spot issues as they come up, before they become a bigger problem!

With how much you invest in a roof, it is vitally important to consistently make an effort to extend its life. Need an inspection? Chappell Roofing proves FREE inpections! Contact us today! 

 

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The Hidden & Unexpected Dangers Of A Leaking Roof

The Hidden & Unexpected Dangers Of A Leaking Roof

Painting the front door, replacing the carpet, re-decorating the family room. These are all home projects that can wait. What’s one that can’t? A leaky roof! Why? Putting off repairing or replacing a leaking roof opens the door to hidden and unexpected dangers! What kind of dangers exactly?

Let’s first identify what could have caused your roof to leak. A leaking roof can be caused by various factors such as improper roof installation, wind or storm damage, and lack of maintenance. Whatever the cause, the issue should be taken care of as soon as possible. A professional roofing contractor can help you identify the damage.

Ceiling & Attic Damage

A leaking roof left alone will severely damage items in your attic. Say goodbye to the memories you have worked hard to preserve. If the leaking persists through your attic or you don’t have an attic, expect water to come through your ceiling, making water marks, stains, and affecting your lighting. Sounds like a mess. A mess that could all be avoided just by repairing a leak right away!

Interior Mold & Mildew

Here’s where it can get kind of scary. Mold and mildew are inevitable when it comes to letting water set for a long period of time. The heat here in West Texas and standing water are a recipe for disaster. Mold can travel and grow throughout the home’s structure, and even through the home’s HVAC system. That means you could be breathing harmful and mold-polluted air, which can cause some serious health issues.

Wasted Energy

When water gets a hold of your insulation, it’s bad news and detrimental. Saturated insulation cannot and will not do its job. That means you will be paying a lot more to heat and cool your home due to wasted energy.

Threat Of Fire

A persistent leak and shorted wires can cause a big problem. You guessed it…fire. If you have electrical wiring in your ceiling or attic and you have a leak, the leak must be repaired as quickly as possible.

If you even suspect your roof is leaking, call Chappell Roofing today! Choose your trusted and local roofer, Chappell Roofing, to get the job done!

Painting the front door, replacing the carpet, re-decorating the family room. These are all home projects that can wait. What’s one that can’t? A leaky roof! Why? Putting off repairing or replacing a leaking roof opens the door to hidden and unexpected dangers! What kind of dangers exactly?

Let’s first identify what could have caused your roof to leak. A leaking roof can be caused by various factors such as improper roof installation, wind or storm damage, and lack of maintenance. Whatever the cause, the issue should be taken care of as soon as possible.

Ceiling & Attic Damage

A leaking roof left alone will severely damage items in your attic. Say goodbye to the memories you have worked hard to preserve. If the leaking persists through your attic or you don’t have an attic, expect water to come through your ceiling, making water marks, stains, and affecting your lighting. Sounds like a mess. A mess that could all be avoided just by repairing a leak right away!

Interior Mold & Mildew

Here’s where it can get kind of scary. Mold and mildew are inevitable when it comes to letting water set for a long period of time. The heat here in West Texas and standing water are a recipe for disaster. Mold can travel and grow throughout the home’s structure, and even through the home’s HVAC system. That means you could be breathing harmful and mold-polluted air, which can cause some serious health issues.

Wasted Energy

When water gets a hold of your insulation, it’s bad news and detrimental. Saturated insulation cannot and will not do its job. That means you will be paying a lot more to heat and cool your home due to wasted energy.

Threat Of Fire

A persistent leak and shorted wires can cause a big problem. You guessed it…fire. If you have electrical wiring in your ceiling or attic and you have a leak, the leak must be repaired as quickly as possible.

If you even suspect your roof is leaking, call Chappell Roofing today! Choose your trusted and local roofer, Chappell Roofing, to get the job done!

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Roofing Tips For The Warmer Months

In the West Texas heat, it’s important to make sure you are properly maintaining your roof. Check out these roofing tips for warmer months. Knowing how to care for your roof during the hotter times of the year will increase the lifespan of the most expensive part of your home, your roof.

Check Your Roof And Check It Often

Spring brings showers…or as it goes here in West Texas, dust storms, heavy winds, and hail. As a homeowner, it’s critical to inspect the quality of your roof and to make sure it’s withstanding the weather. Things you should look for include missing shingles, dents, and exposed areas usually covered by flashing or ridge lines. If you’re concerned about getting on your roof, be sure to give us a call…Chappell offers inspections to help you determine any problem areas.

Clean Clean Clean

Make sure your gutters are consistently cleaned out. Leaves, asphalt particles, and (especially in West Texas) dust can clog gutters. Dirty or clogged gutters can create unnecessary pressure on your roof. In additional to allowing water to pool along the edges where your roof touches, fascia, eaves, and shingled edges can also get damaged from heavy storms.

Rid Your Roof Of Debris

Warmer weather means branches, pollen, and little critters. It’s critical to keep all of these things away from your roof in order to maintain it properly. Many local trees, particularly mulberries and oaks, can leave tiny little presents on your roof in the form of pollen and acorns.

Animal mating season usually coincides with rising temperatures, and you don’t want to let them find a way to use your roof as their nursery. This includes squirrels, birds, and sometimes even cats! Protecting your roof by closing off holes and making sure there are no chewed edges can definitely help.

Hire A Pro

No one can help assess and prevent damage like a professional. We know you’re busy, which is why we offer free estimates, timed around your schedule. It’s important to keep your roof well-maintained and your home protected.

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Protect Your Home From Wood-Destroying Insects

Prevention

Keep Areas Dry

The key to preventing wood-rotting insects from infiltrating the structure of your home is to keep things dry. Be sure water is being directed away from your home through properly installed and functioning downspouts and gutters. Maintain a dry environment in your attic as well to prevent attracting pests.

Say Goodbye To Leaks

Leaky faucets, AC units and water pipes on the outside of your home should be repaired as quickly as possible.

Rot Be Gone

Rotted material of any kind is a thriving environment for wood-rotting pests. You want to keep these materials away from your home and get rid of it all together. Any rotted roof shingles need to be replaced immediately. In addition, remove any rotted tree stumps from your property. It’s recommended to store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and at least 5 inches off the ground.

Seal It Up

Pests can get in your home from anywhere. Even in plain sight like your windows. Make sure to replace weather stripping and fix loose mortar around foundation and windows.

Keep An Eye On It

It’s recommended that homeowners get a termite inspection every one to three years. If this seems excessive to you, keep a watchful eye out for rotting elements on your property and follow the preventative tips above.

Choose Chappell

Chappell Roofing can assist you with maintain the outside of your home. We specialize in fascia and soffits, small construction jobs, brick work, ventialtion, stucco, and roofing repairs/replacements.

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Take Care Of Emergency Roof Repairs

Emergency Means Now

Some roof repairs can’t wait. A strong storm, whether heat, hail, rain or snow, can leave your roof in need of emergency roof repairs. While it’s highly recommended that you leave most repairs to the pros, some repairs need to be handled as soon as possible.  Here are some tips and tricks to help you handle emergency roof repairs when they come up.

Wait For It…

If you feel like the storm is causing damage to your roof, don’t brave the weather and check your roof as it’s happening. Wait for the weather to calm for a moment, giving you plenty of time to assess the damage. Minor damage can sometimes be fixed temporarily on your own, but major damage requires a contractor.

Clear The Room

When your roof is damaged and leaking, it’s easy to forget about your household items and furniture that can be damaged by the unwanted drips.  Be sure to move furniture and anything in the way of the leak, and place a bucket or trough of some sort to contain the water in one area. A cover of some sort, or a temporary roof may necessary as well if the damage is significant.

Dry It Up

Any free standing water and puddles should be removed immediately to prevent mildew, rotting, and insects. When your roof collects rain water, it can lead to further damage and costly repairs.

Know When To Call

If your roof damage is extensive, know when to call an expert.

Text us today for emergency roof repairs

By simply texting 432-312-8705 , Chappell Roofing will get you a quote and a free inspection within 24 hours.

Perfect for those ASAP jobs. Chappell offer repairs, replacements, ventilation, as well as stucco work. Call, text or fill out our form below for the quickest, most reliable roofing services in the Permian Basin.

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Roof Ventilation…It’s Pretty Important

Roof Ventilation…It’s Pretty Important

Roof ventilation is imperative to the longevity of your home’s most valuable asset: your roof. Unfortunately, the importance of roof ventilation is often underestimated and thus leads to very costly repairs and damage to your home. Here, let’s go over some roofing ventilation fundamentals.

Why Is Roof Ventilation So Important?

Proper roof ventilation keeps your attic dry and cool while maintaining a healthy home environment. When you perform everyday home activities such as laundry or showering, the heat rises to the attic, condenses, and forms moisture. Without proper ventilation, mold will grow, eventually causing respiratory problems for you and your family, and also structural problems for your home.

Heat buildup can cause numbers issues for your roof, and in West Texas, heat is inevitable. These issues include early-aging of your roof and cracking to occur. Inadequate attic ventilation can also decrease the life of asphalt composition shingles by as much as 50%.

What Does Poor Ventilation Look Like?

Your house could be in danger of poor ventilation and you may not even know it. If your roof looks to be sagging in some spots, or if your shingles are beginning to curl somewhat around the corners, your attic is probably not receiving proper ventilation.

So How Do I Know If My Attic Is Properly Ventilated?

The air within a properly ventilated attic should not ever be more than 15 degrees warmer than outside air. Proper ventilation allows air to flow along the underside of your roof. This prevents mold from growing!

Ask Chappell!

Chappell roofing provides various options for roof ventilation such as wind turbines, stationary exhaust vents, solar attic fans, as well as soffit vents! Do you think your attic is in need of better ventilation? It wouldn’t hurt to check!

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Is A Metal Roof Right For My Home?

Is A Metal Roof Right For My Home?

81% of shoppers do an extensive amount on online research before making a decision to purchase a product or use a particular service.

This statistic applies to various services and products such as a local doctor or dentist, the new iPhone, the latest products for your baby, and home renovations such as which kind of roof is best for your home.

Chappell Roofing offers many different types of roofing jobs but today, we will focus  on metal roofing. You may ask yourself, “Is a metal roof right for my home?” Let’s dive into that question and you will be able to decide whether or not you wish to make the switch to a metal roof.

You Live In An Area Prone To Weather Extremes

The low weight and interlocking panels of a metal roof can offer great protection in areas that experience high winds, blazing heat, hail, and ice.

Environmentally Conscious Products Are A Priority To You

Go green, go metal…Metal roofs offer green benefits not offered by other roofing materials. Having a metal roof allows you to save big on energy costs. The materials that make up a metal roof are sustainable and recyclable in addition to its high efficiency.

You Want To Preserve Your Older Home

Take a load off! The lightweight material of a metal roof provides weight relief off of the house and can prolong the life of your roof.

Choose Chappell

Make sure to address all leaks and existing issues with your roof before installation. Installing a new roof is a large investment and a large responsibility for a roofing contractor. BE sure to choose the right company for the job. Choose Chappell Roofing! Call or text us today for a free roof inspection!

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Identify Roof Damage After A Storm

A storm blows in and from the inside of your home it sounds like a wrestling match is happening on the roof. Your mind stars wandering about what kind of damage has just been done, what your roof looks like, and mostly about how much it’s going to cost you! The next morning your roof looks seemingly fine, but how could that be? Here, we will lay out exactly how to identify roof damage after a storm, and how Chappell can help you with the next step towards repair!

Roof Damage

Damage on asphalt shingles will appear as dark spot or bruise, which is a result of granules on the shingles being torn away by the storm. If the storm was particularly strong or involved high winds or hail, you may notice chipped, torn, or missing shingles. In this case, these shingles should be replaced to prevent future leaking and wood rot.

In addition to shingle damage, on other types of roofs (metal, tile, etc,), be on the look out for dents, collected debris, and uneven or split seams.

Exterior Damage

The exterior of your home takes a serious hit when the weather takes a turn. Look for cracks or holes in stucco or chipped paint. These can be signs that may lead you to discover even more damage that will need to be repaired.

Window Damage

With a wind storm, your windows are at great risk of being smashed or cracked by flying debris. BE sure to check the status of your window panes after a storm also, as there is a possibility they can crack or break in bad weather. Also, be sure to board up windows until they can be repaired.

Now that you know how to identify roof damage after a storm, we hope you’ll call Chappell to take a look, and make the proper repairs and/or replacements.