Categories for Home Improvement

10 Signs Your Roof Needs Urgent Repair

Posted on

Spotting the signs that your roof needs repairing can save you a great deal of money. A damaged roof can cause mold and lead to interior damage in the home. Keeping your roof in good repair will extend its life. A full roof replacement is costly and time-consuming. But if you repair minor damage to your roof as soon as it becomes apparent, it will help to prevent you from needing an early roof replacement.

It is not a good idea to go up and inspect your roof yourself. It would be better to have a professional roofer regularly inspect your roof. However, some telltale signs will warn you when it is time to call a roofer. Here are ten warning signs that indicate it is time to get the roof of your home inspected.

1. Sagging Roof

There are several possible causes of a sagging roof. If an old roof is sagging, then it might be time for a roof replacement. If a new roof sags, then it is likely that the roof has likely not been installed correctly. A sagging roof could also mean that the rafters have become damp, which has weakened the wood. If that is the case, a speedy roof repair or replacement will be in order.

2. Missing or Loose Shingles

High winds and heavy rain can loosen or dislodge shingles. Missing or loose shingles can lead to more severe damage if they are left unrepaired. Fixing loose or missing shingles is a relatively inexpensive element of roof maintenance that could save you a lot of money in the long-term. In some cases, though, missing shingles might be a sign that your roof needs replacing. So as soon as you see any missing or loose shingles, it would be advisable to get a roofing contractor to carry out a roof inspection.

3. Higher Energy Bills

If your roof is damaged, it can cause your heating and air conditioning to need to work harder to maintain the internal temperature in your home. If you have noticed that your energy bills are higher than usual, it could be a sign that there is a problem with your roof. Keeping your roof well-maintained will help to avoid more expensive roofing repairs later, and it could save you money on your energy bills.

4. Shingle Granules in Gutters

If you have asphalt or composite shingles, then it is not unusual to see some shingle granules in the gutters. However, if there are a lot of granules coming from your roof, then this could be a sign the shingles need replacing. The granules that you need to be looking for look like coarse, black sand.

5. Curled or Cracking Shingles

Shingles have a limited lifespan. When shingles are nearing the end of their useful lifespan, they may become deformed, cracked, or curled. If you spot one or two deformed shingles, replacing them may extend the life of your roof. If you can see lots of deformed shingles, though, you may need a full roof replacement.

6. Internal Water Damage

If you see any water damage to internal walls in your home, then it would be a good idea to get a roof inspection. The same will apply if you come across mold or signs of water damage in the attic. Water damage could be a sign that the roof is leaking. Mold and mildew could be being caused by poor roof ventilation or a damaged roof or underlayment.

7. Daylight Shining Through the Roof

If you go up into your attic and you see daylight shining through the roof, then you have a roofing problem. If light can get through the shingles, then so too can rain, wind and damp. Daylight shining through the roof could be a sign that some shingles need replacing, or it could be your roof has reached the end of its useful life.

8. Discoloration of The Roof

Discoloration of shingles might indicate that the shingles are damp or have been damaged. If dark patches have begun to appear on your roof, it could be a sign that you have mold growing on the shingles. If you have noticed any discoloration of your roof, a quick roof inspection will discover the cause of the problem. Appropriate roof repairs can then be made.

9. Damage Around Roof Fixtures

It is advisable to check the areas around your roof as well as looking at the roof itself. Damage to the areas around roof fixtures, like pipes, chimneys, and vents, for example, can usually be repaired before further damage to the roof is done.

10. Storm Damage

If you have recently experienced a storm and you suspect that the roof may have been damaged, it would be best to arrange for a roof inspection. The apparent signs of storm damage are broken or missing shingles and, of course, signs of water leaking into the attic after a storm. With most roofing problems, early repairs of damage will usually save you money in the long-term.

Conclusion
As mentioned above, it is not recommended that you climb up onto the roof of your home to inspect the roof yourself. However, the above signs that your roof needs repairing are visible from the ground or inside the house. The takeaway is that, when it comes to roofs, safe is always better than sorry. So if you suspect that your roof has been damaged, give us a call or send us an email!

Troubling Signs You Need Roof Repair

Posted on

There is a reason people call their homes the roof over their heads. The roof is arguably the most important part of any home, and when it fails it is a real emergency.

 

Unfortunately, roof damage can often go undetected, especially if you do not know what to look for. And by the time you recognize the visible warning signs, like water pouring into your rooms, it is probably too late to work on minor roof repair. By that point, it is probably time for a new roof – and a full roof replacement is an expensive undertaking.

Here are some key warning signs that roof repair might be in your future.

 

Shoddy Construction

A home that was poorly constructed from the start is much more likely to suffer serious roof damage from storms and normal wear and tear. If you have doubts about your home’s construction, it is important to have the property inspected by a professional.

 

If your home’s roof was poorly constructed, it may be best to have it replaced now – before it has a chance to fail. The cost of a roof replacement may be high, but so is the cost of replacing everything inside your four walls.

 

Wet Spots on the Ceiling

Wet spots on the ceiling are often the first signs of a failing roof, and you should inspect the entire ceiling carefully after a heavy rainfall. If you see wet spots or water dripping, it is time to contact a roofing technician for a full inspection.

 

Other things can cause these wet spots, so moisture on the ceiling is not necessarily a sign of a failing roof. Even so, you can never be too careful, especially when your home is at stake.

 

Loose or Missing Shingles

The shingles on your roof are your home’s first line of defense, and a break in those defenses could be extremely dangerous. If you see missing, broken or damaged shingles, it is time to get immediate help. Damaged and missing shingles constitute a roofing emergency, and you cannot afford to wait.

 

If you have waited to replace damaged, missing or broken shingles, you should schedule a thorough roof inspection without delay. Your roof could have sustained hidden damaged in the interim, and fixing that damage now could potentially save the structure.

 

A History of Storm Damage

If your home previously suffered storm damage, your roof may have been compromised. If you did not have a thorough inspection conducted in the wake of the storm damage, it is time to call an experienced roofer.

 

Storm damage alone does not necessarily mean your roof is in need of repair, but it is one of the risk factors. If you live in an area that is prone to storm damage, you need to be especially vigilant for other common signs of roof trouble.

 

Last but not least, if your roof is more than two decades old, you should be on special alert. Even the best roof will not last forever, and the sooner you have your roof inspected the better. If your roof is till in great shape, you will get peace of mind. If not, you will be able to make the necessary roof repairs before a sudden failure turns your life upside down.

 

 

Assessing Storm Damage on Your Roof

Posted on

Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hailstorms and hurricanes can tear shingles from your roof and give your roof a beating with tree branches. Follow these steps to check for storm damage to your roof:

• Inspect your attic for any water leaks. Also check if any water stains appear on your ceiling or walls.

• Look for signs of storm damage by assessing any missing shingles or missing pieces of metal fascia from the ground.

• Evaluate any debris making contact with your home – such as branches or larger items.

• In cases of hail, check your siding and windows for any signs of damage.

• Stay safe & avoid going on the roof to check for damage yourself.

Sela Roofing & Remodeling is here to help you with your storm damage – we provide free inspections of your roof and handle the hassles of dealing with your insurance company!

Save Money with Energy Efficient Windows from Sela

Posted on

Winter is on its way, and right now is the perfect time to schedule window replacement with Sela. Improve energy efficiency exponentially and save money by installing draft-free, environmentally-sound windows. We specialize in a wide variety of window replacement style — from casement, bows, bays, and crank outs, to skylights, patio doors, storm doors, and more.

Forget putting plastic wrap up to keep the chill at bay, new energy efficient windows will not only keep you cozy, but will cut down on your energy use — which in turns helps reduce environmental impact in general. Save the world, save money, and enjoy a crystal clear view with windows from Sela!

We offer:

– Wide selection of windows, including Marvin, Pella, Andersen, Alside & more

– Maintenance-free windows with a lifetime warranty

– Wood replacement windows

– Bays, custom bows, tilt-in windows & skylights

– Vinyl replacement windows

– Certified installer of Velux Skylights

 

Click HERE to contact us for a free estimate and consultation!

Chimney & Fireplace Restoration & Repair by Sela

Posted on

As summer winds to a close, it’s important to think about home improvement and repair projects that can be completed before the snowy season starts. For many homes, the fireplace and chimney are a centerpiece to a living space; a central location where people gather, share, and relax. After all, what’s more cozy than curling up in front of a roaring fire when there’s a chill in the air? Before winter arrives, check your chimney and fireplace for signs of wear and tear. While some damage may be purely aesthetic, other types can create long-term performance issues. A poorly functioning chimney can create health problems, increase utility bills and cause loss of heat.

Why Chose Sela?

Sela’s team of experienced master masons specialize in chimney repair and restoration projects. For more than 25 years, Sela Roofing has been delivering quality chimney repair services to residents throughout the state of Minnesota on homes of any age. During your risk-free initial consultation, a trained, licensed and insured chimney repair professional will determine the exact scope of your project. From there, Sela Roofing will suggest various solutions in a variety of possible combinations. Whether your home requires a straightforward rebuild due to brick and mortar breakdown, tuck pointing, metal flashing and/or a concrete cap, Sela Roofing can provide a customized approach specifically designed for your home’s structure with consideration to your current material layout and color scheme to ensure a hassle-free chimney repair project.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your chimney restoration or repair project by calling (612) 823-8046 for a risk-free evaluation.

4 Great Ways to Raise Your Property Value

Posted on

Now that summer’s here, it’s prime time to put your plans for property upgrades in motion. Whether you’re looking to increase your curb appeal, repair damage or simply update your home’s outdated look, Sela is here to help. Below you’ll find a rundown of major services we provide — backed with the best guarantee in the business.

Roofing

Our company was founded as a roofing business, and to this day, we still take pride in providing top notch service, excellent quality, and hassle-free installation. Choose from many different styles, colors and materials to bring your roof up to date or simply repair what needs fixing. We are experts in both residential and commercial roofing. Learn more HERE and contact us today for a free estimate.

Siding

Sela offers a wide variety of siding options that are both high quality and low maintenance. Choose from maintenance-free vinyl, seamless steel, aluminum, cedar & James Hardie, Soffits & Fascia—aluminum, steel, vinyl and wood. We also provide complete insulation & house wraps for a more energy-efficient home. Siding from Sela is backed by a lifetime guarantee. Read more HERE and contact us for a free quote.

Masonry & Concrete

We are your one-stop-shop for everything home related. Among many other things, Sela offers a full range of masonry and concrete services including chimney and fireplace repair, tuck pointing, driveways, patios, decorative concrete, restoration and construction. Our crews are licensed, bonded and insured under Minnesota law. We pay particular attention to detail and provide the best workmanship possible. Learn about our services HERE.

Gutters

Through our sister company, Sela Gutter Connection, we offer a wide variety of gutters and expert installation, backed by a lifetime guarantee. We solve water issues and offer aesthetically appealing solutions to water diversion using the highest quality seamless gutters and accessories. Regardless of how big or how small your house is, we have the skill, equipment and material needed to provide the absolute best in gutter solutions. Learn more HERE and get a free quote today.

Sela also offers window and door installation/replacement, exterior expansions, storm damage repair and much more. Click HERE to explore all of our services.

5 Reasons To Choose Slate Roofing

Posted on

For homeowners committed to green living, roofing provides an opportunity to use one of the greenest materials available. While both asphalt shingles and metal roofing can be recycled, slate is even more environmentally friendly. Here are five reasons slate is the greenest roofing material on the market today.

Residential Roofing

 

  1. Slate is all natural

 

Slate does not contain any toxic synthetic material, chemicals, sealants or adhesives, nor is it mixed with resins or polymers like those present in asphalt roofing. Since it contains no man-made substances and won’t degrade, it doesn’t release anything harmful back into the earth.

 

  1. It will last almost forever

 

All the slate in the world today was formed more than 400 million years ago during the Paleozoic Era. It existed long before humans, and will be here long after we’re gone. Once slate roofing shingles are installed, they won’t wear out or need to be disposed of.

 

  1. It’s eco-friendly

 

Slate is simply pulled from the earth and shaped. It’s split mostly by hand tools and shaped by small electric cutting machines that use only a minimal amount of energy. Leftover slate is the only by-product; there are no solvents or waste to dump into rivers. Slate is available in many quarries throughout the United States, which reduces the number of miles it needs to be shipped and the amount of fuel needed to transport it.

 

It is also extremely resistant to mold and mildew growth. This means that it rarely needs to be cleaned, so homeowners will use fewer chemical cleaning products.

 

  1. It’s durable and reusable

 

Slate is the longest-lasting roofing material, so a roof will probably never need to be replaced. While individual tiles can be damaged, an entire slate roof will never need to be torn off and replaced because of wear. This means fewer roofing materials will be dumped in landfills. A building will probably collapse before a slate roof wears out; if this happens, the tiles can be simply be collected and reused on another house.

 

  1. It conserves energy

 

The density of a slate roof keeps interior temperatures more constant, so homeowners use less energy making the rooms warmer or colder.

 

Because it is a naturally occurring, low-impact material, slate roofing doesn’t consume much energy to make. Because it is a no-waste product, it won’t take up space in landfills or pollute the environment. It is truly the greenest roofing material on earth.

 

Slate simply offers the greatest value for homeowners out to make their contribution to environmental conservation. Because it is ubiquitous, pure and durable, this is one roofing material that a green home owner cannot go wrong with.

 

Call Sela today to learn more about slate roofing for your home!

Client Testimonials – Just Say Sela

Posted on

We are proud of our team and their commitment to the quality and the pride they take in their work.

[fbvideo link=”https://www.facebook.com/SelaRoofing/videos/10154349401586148/” width=”600″ height=”400″ onlyvideo=”1″]

Remember to Just Say Sela when it comes to your home improvements!

Sela Projects: Minnetonka Roof and Chimney Renovation

Posted on

Last week the team was hard at work creating a custom soldered chimney saddle and installing a new GAF Timberline Ultra  HD roof  in Minnetonka.

The details of custom work are very important to get right.

roofsolder1

roofsolder2

Using the GAF Timberline Ultra HD shingles provides amazing color, increased thickness and the highest rating for fire protection.

timberlinehdultra

 

10 Ways to Prep Your Outdoor Space for Summer

Posted on

It’s time for spring cleaning again. This year, don’t forget to spruce up your outdoor space, too! Learning how to choose the perfect furniture and accessories for your yard, deck, or patio can guarantee that you have a summer to remember. Here are 10 tips to get your space ready for summer 2017.

 

High angle view of a stylish outdoor kitchen, gas barbecue and dining table set for entertaining guests with formal place settings and flowers on a paved patio

.

Be mindful of your climate. Wicker and teak are dependable materials that can weather many seasons of use in any climate and also select things that may be left outdoors in winter if you don’t have space to store the items indoors.

.

If you live in a windy area, consider starting your patio makeover with landscaping. Adding some thick hedges or even carefully placed trees can help create a wind buffer to make your space much more enjoyable.

.

To secure your furniture for windy weather, invest in weighted bases for your tables and chairs. Consider stacking furniture when not in use as well.

.

Fire pits are a popular backyard feature. They’re both attractive and useful. Use yours to grill, toast marshmallows for the kids, or warm up on a chilly night. Stone and metals like copper and iron are best suited for fire pit construction. You can customize yours to match your patio’s aesthetic.

.

Eating outdoors is one of the best parts of summer, but it can get messy. Choosing tables and chairs made of metal is a great way to guarantee easier cleanup after parties or cookouts. No longer will you need to deal with stains!

.

Another way to keep your outdoor space clean is to decorate with cushions with removable covers. Rather than flipping to hide stains, just remove the cover and toss it in the wash to make it look like new.

.

A quality umbrella can make or break an outdoor space. If purchasing an umbrella for your table, make sure it’s big enough to provide shade for the seats, too. Choose a thick material that can handle summer storms, and consider buying a model that you can angle to provide shade throughout the day.

.

Be mindful of space. For patios with a smaller square footage, less is more in terms of decoration. Choosing just a few staple items rather than trying to have it all can make your space more maneuverable and visually appealing.

.

Don’t be afraid to DIY! Shop around at yard sales or even in your own storage space for furniture that could use a fresh coat of paint or a new cushion. Spend a little time and save a lot of money.

.

Decorating your outdoor space doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Including the whole family in planning, purchasing, and construction is a great way to brainstorm fresh ideas. Working together to create the best space possible is a surefire way to get you all excited for the warm weather.

Summer is best enjoyed outside, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than in a space that you’ve designed to your own standards of perfection. Taking the time to individualize your outdoor space will help make summer 2017 the best one yet.