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Roofing
December 9, 2019
Ice Dams

Facts about Ice Dams

Wondering what are Ice Dams? Well, they are the result of the heat from the inside of the house that makes it way to the attic, warming the roof decking in the winter season. This heat along with the sun’s heat can melt the roof snow.

Snow melting on the rooftop and on the upper roof runs down on the eaves as the water. But when the water reaches the gutters and the eaves, it freezes again. The continuous process of refreezing builds ice dams. It would result in backing of water under the shingles of roof or making its way behind the boards of fascia. Just Google “roofing Lowell MA” for a roofer to help remove them.

It will then be soaked on the wall sheathing or the roof decking, causing damage to ceilings, attics, and walls.

Ice Dam Defense

The ice dams can be defended in four ways. They are

Ventilation – Proper ventilation is important, in case an escaped heat have an easy flow out the attic.
Insulation – It will help the chances of heat escape by a minimal level.
Homeowner maintenance – proper care and maintenance should be done on a daily or weekly basis.
Waterproofing shingle underlayment – it acts as the last defender from leaks.

All the above four ways, work together. The insulation helps to keep the heat from escaping to attic from your living area. The heat is removed by the ventilation by keeping the deck of the roof evenly cool by helping to prevent the snow melting.

Before the application of roof shingles, waterproofing shingle underlayment is placed over the roof. The final step is the homeowner maintenance. They should keep the ice and the snow clean from the roof so that it discourages the formation of ice dams.

The waterproofing shingle underlayment is the only given option if the existing shingles are being removed or an additional attachment is built. One can also increase the attic’s R-Value insulation, for the ventilation in the attic can be added easily.

Special Cases

New homes today feature vaulted or cathedral ceiling roofs and skylights. They both are a challenge for the insulation. So the manufacturers of insulation have come up with a design that performs high in insulation and is specially designed for ceilings that are cathedral. The R-Values provided are higher when compared to the fiberglass models.
When the talk is about skylight, the quality of workmanship is very crucial and attention to minute details is very important. It would help in preventing condensation and ice dams which often results in leakage problems. It is a smart step to apply waterproofing shingle underlayment around the opening of the skylight.

Warranty for Ice Dams

The manufacturers of shingle deny the warranty coverage leaks resulted by water backup at the back of the ice dams. It can be prevented easily by ventilating properly. Proper ventilation will help to lower the chances of formation of an ice dam. While the proper installation of waterproof shingles underlayment, it will protect the attic from leaks even after the formation of ice dam. It will be helpful in preventing the leaks caused by the wind derived rain.

Jennifer Couch
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Noteworthy Differences Between Aluminum and Vinyl Sidings

Some of you think that house sidings can improve the appeal of your house. But that is not the truth. Opting for sidings can have multiple benefits while replacing vinyl siding your home. Siding is a popular option for homeowners who want to enhance the exterior look of their home. It not only adds to the beauty but also acts as a shield for a home. It can offer a finished look to your property. Once you have installed the best-quality siding, you will not have to worry about the maintenance of your outer walls, doors, and windows.

Rules that apply universally

The value that you want to spend on the cosmetic appeal of the sidings is your personal choice. However, there are some designs whose maintenance is the same no matter the design and size of the sidings. If you opt for wooden house sidings, you need to spend on its maintenance on periodic intervals to prevent it from insects and damage. To avoid these maintenance expenses, you can go for the other types of coverings.

Know the varieties

There are mainly two prominent types- vinyl sidings and aluminum sidings. If you have not yet installed sidings at your home, you must browse the internet for a variety of products available. To choose the aptest cladding for your house, you need to choose between aluminum and vinyl sidings. Both options have some advantages and some disadvantages. Selecting the best quality siding is crucial to keep a house protected and insulated.

Conditions to consider

You should choose a siding considering the weather condition of your place. You will want a siding that can withstand harsh weather elements. You will need an exterior cladding that not only enhances the beauty of your outer space but also keep your interior space comfortable for a substantial period.

Which is the best one?

Vinyl siding is the most high-flying solution, but it costs slightly more than the aluminum sidings. The difference in the prices is minimal. But, there is no doubt that vinyl sidings will increase the value of your house. As aluminum exterior cladding is more vulnerable to damage, it is better to install the vinyl sidings for a long-lasting experience. These house coverings are manufactured in a variety of designs and sizes to suit the budget and requirements of the consumers. As aluminum is not a good insulator, choosing the vinyl claddings can be an energy-efficient choice. Also, relevant surveys have reported that vinyl sidings are thicker and more durable than the other types of sidings.

Is it worth the value?

Durability is the most crucial aspect that you need to consider when it comes to outer claddings. As a homeowner, you will not want a house that is damaged and cracked. The siding that you opt for should be up to the standards. There is no point in investing in sidings that do not fulfill your requirements and its purposes. When talking about aluminum and vinyl sidings, both have excellent durability. But, when you consider all the factors, vinyl siding is the superior one.