How solar panels are installed
You’ve decided to have solar panels installed. Congratulations! But, what’s the next step? Let us walk you through the process. We’ll also give you some climate information for new solar panel homeowners. What is the installation process?
Engineering visitFirst, you need to arrange an engineering site visit. The engineer will come to your house to make sure that everything is compatible with your new solar panel system. For example, they will make sure the roof is structurally sound. After that, they will check your electrical panel to ensure it can handle the amps from the solar panel. In some cases, you will need to update the electrical panel in your home, so it can optimize all the amps. This is just the engineer visit, not a general site visit. The engineer will check the basic components on the roof, but the main thing they look at is the electrical side of this process. Your installer will come out later to measure the roof for panel sizes and quantity. In addition, they will the type of roof you have along with pitch angle and areas of the roof that receive shade.
State and local paperworkThe second step involves filling out all the paperwork. Every city or town has local permits that need to be filed. Sometimes your installer will do this for you, but make sure to have everything in order before starting the actual installation. One of the most important things you will be doing is applying for state and federal solar incentives like Federal ITC, local solar programs, PACE, which is a clean energy financing initiative, along with government rebates and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates or SRECs. While that sounds like a bunch of jargon, your installer will be more than happy to assist you will all of this, so don’t worry! Permits are the other big thing to make sure to get done in a timely manner. Again, the installer will be able to help you collect all the ones you need, and in some cases, will already have them filled out for you.
Equipment selectionThe third step is to choose your equipment. Your installer will provide a list of options for you to, and probably offer you suggestions. Even so, we recommend that you do some research on the topic yourself. For example, you will definitely want to understand the differences between inverters InstallationThe fourth thing to happen is the day of the installation! First, the workers will prep the roof by making sure all your tiles or shingles are secure. Then they set up the wiring that connects to your electrical panel and general power systems. Next, they install the rack. The rack is the only thing physically connected to the roof. After that, they place the panels on the racking and secure them. Finally, they attach the inverters to your panels. The entire process can take from one to three days, depending on if you need a power meter, for net metering, installed. InspectionsThe last step takes place once all the paperwork is complete and the solar panels are installed. A government official and an electric company official will come out and inspect the work. Once they do that and give it the “thumbs up”, they will connect your house to the grid and you can start using your panels. From the engineer visit to installation day, this whole process can take between one and two months. What is the best climate for Solar Panels?One of the most important factors to consider when looking into solar panels is CLIMATE. Solar panels and sunlightProper and beneficial use of solar panels requires consistent sunlight for the panels to work. However, just because solar panels require sunlight to work, doesn’t mean that they can handle the heat that comes along with it in some areas. Solar panels have efficiency limits regarding sunlight intensity. For example, higher temperatures will impede the function of the solar panels. This results in a less efficient solar panel system. Solar panels and heatHow does heat interfere with the process? As we discussed in our previous post, the normal process of photovoltaic energy production requires sunlight. The sunlight heats up the electrons. As they heat, the electrons begin moving. This movement creates the direct current energy collected by the panels. Direct current energy passes into the inverter and transformed into usable AC energy. Bottom lineToo much persistent heat, however, can reduce the amount of energy produced. This happens because the electrons are already “warm” rather than “cold” when the sunlight strikes them. The result is less energy transfer. So, what is the bottom line with regard to climate? Although, industry consensus tells us that solar panels perform best in climates with at least some cooler temperatures on a consistent basis many installers provide specialized power cells with higher heat tolerance. So–bottom line? Keep your climate in mind as you select what’s best for your solar energy solution. ConclusionDeciding whether or not to get solar panels can be confusing. Whether you’re exploring your options or you have already made a decision to have solar panels installed, we’re happy to help answer any questions you have. Just give us a call!
The post How solar panels are installed appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/how-solar-panels-are-installed/ via IFTTT via Blogger http://beneficialroof.blogspot.com/2019/06/how-solar-panels-are-installed.html June 10, 2019 at 09:05PM
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You’ve decided to have solar panels installed. Congratulations! But, what’s the next step? Let us walk you through the process. We’ll also give you some climate information for new solar panel homeowners. What is the installation process? Engineering visit First, you need to arrange an engineering site visit. The engineer will come to your house to make sure that everything is compatible with your new solar panel system. For example, they will make sure the roof is structurally sound. After that, they will check your electrical panel to ensure it can handle the amps from the solar panel. In some cases, you will need to update the electrical panel in your home, so it can optimize all the amps. This is just the engineer visit, not a general site visit. The engineer will check the basic components on the roof, but the main thing they look at is the electrical side of this process. Your installer will come out later to measure the roof for panel sizes and quantity. In addition, they will the type of roof you have along with pitch angle and areas of the roof that receive shade. State and local paperwork The second step involves filling out all the paperwork. Every city or town has local permits that need to be filed. Sometimes your installer will do this for you, but make sure to have everything in order before starting the actual installation. One of the most important things you will be doing is applying for state and federal solar incentives like Federal ITC, local solar programs, PACE, which is a clean energy financing initiative, along with government rebates and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates or SRECs. While that sounds like a bunch of jargon, your installer will be more than happy to assist you will all of this, so don’t worry! Permits are the other big thing to make sure to get done in a timely manner. Again, the installer will be able to help you collect all the ones you need, and in some cases, will already have them filled out for you. Equipment selection The third step is to choose your equipment. Your installer will provide a list of options for you to, and probably offer you suggestions. Even so, we recommend that you do some research on the topic yourself. For example, you will definitely want to understand the differences between inverters Installation The fourth thing to happen is the day of the installation! First, the workers will prep the roof by making sure all your tiles or shingles are secure. Then they set up the wiring that connects to your electrical panel and general power systems. Next, they install the rack. The rack is the only thing physically connected to the roof. After that, they place the panels on the racking and secure them. Finally, they attach the inverters to your panels. The entire process can take from one to three days, depending on if you need a power meter, for net metering, installed. Inspections The last step takes place once all the paperwork is complete and the solar panels are installed. A government official and an electric company official will come out and inspect the work. Once they do that and give it the “thumbs up”, they will connect your house to the grid and you can start using your panels. From the engineer visit to installation day, this whole process can take between one and two months. What is the best climate for Solar Panels? One of the most important factors to consider when looking into solar panels is CLIMATE. Solar panels and sunlight Proper and beneficial use of solar panels requires consistent sunlight for the panels to work. However, just because solar panels require sunlight to work, doesn’t mean that they can handle the heat that comes along with it in some areas. Solar panels have efficiency limits regarding sunlight intensity. For example, higher temperatures will impede the function of the solar panels. This results in a less efficient solar panel system. Solar panels and heat How does heat interfere with the process? As we discussed in our previous post, the normal process of photovoltaic energy production requires sunlight. The sunlight heats up the electrons. As they heat, the electrons begin moving. This movement creates the direct current energy collected by the panels. Direct current energy passes into the inverter and transformed into usable AC energy. Bottom line Too much persistent heat, however, can reduce the amount of energy produced. This happens because the electrons are already “warm” rather than “cold” when the sunlight strikes them. The result is less energy transfer. So, what is the bottom line with regard to climate? Although, industry consensus tells us that solar panels perform best in climates with at least some cooler temperatures on a consistent basis many installers provide specialized power cells with higher heat tolerance. So–bottom line? Keep your climate in mind as you select what’s best for your solar energy solution. Conclusion Deciding whether or not to get solar panels can be confusing. Whether you’re exploring your options or you have already made a decision to have solar panels installed, we’re happy to help answer any questions you have. Just give us a call! The post How solar panels are installed appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/how-solar-panels-are-installed/ via IFTTT
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Solar panels continue to provide a popular alternative energy option for green-conscious homeowners. Homeowners interested in cost-cutting technologies also choose this option to generate their electrical needs. Even the White House uses solar panel energy. How do solar panels work? Let’s take a look. How are solar panels made? So glad you asked! Solar panels employ a creative design of silicon cells, metal framing, glass casing, and wiring. Solar panel casing and layers The glass casing composes the outer layer of protection against the elements. Another layer of insulation lies beneath the glass exterior. The next layer, a back sheet, protects against dissipation and humidity in higher temperature climates. Without these two protective layers, the panels would not run as efficiently as they should. Another typical asset that the panels have is an anti-reflective coating. This allows the panel to optimize its sunlight absorption. Silicon solar panel cells Silicon, a nonmetal element that is very conductive, provides an essential component for solar panels. The nitty-gritty part of the system, the silicon cells, can have two different structures: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. The monocrystalline structure, made up of one single silicon crystal, allows the electrons more “room” to move about. The polycrystalline structure is manufactured with shards or fragments of silicon crystal. Both structures function well, however, the monocrystalline is more efficient. As a result, it is also more expensive. How do solar panels harness the sunlight? Despite what you might think, using sunlight to generate electricity evolved long before the 21st century. A French scientist named Edmond Becquerel first discovered the photovoltaic effect in 1839. He observed that sunlight absorbed by material created an electric voltage. Other scientists built on this principle and in 1883 Charles Fritts created the first solar cell. Those early efforts spurred more investigation into solar energy use resulting in the systems we enjoy today. Solar panel PV cells The panels absorb sunlight using photovoltaic cells (PV cells). The cells have two distinct layers: negative and positive. Sunlight entering the PV cells generates an electric field between these two layers. The energy produced at this phase is direct energy or DC current. Our homes and energy grid run on alternating current or AC energy. This means the DC energy must be converted to usable AC energy. Solar panel inverters The system utilizes an inverter to perform this transition. The inverter serves as a bridge that transforms the DC energy into AC energy, which can be used for the home. There are three basic types of inverters: String Inverter Microinverter Power Optimizer The string inverter is the most basic model. The microinverter works for more complicated systems that require higher performance levels. The power optimizer does just what its name suggests, meaning it can be used as an add-on to the other inverters if needed. How do solar panels work at night? The solar panels aren’t doing the work at night. So, what happens to the left-over energy when a household has met all its electricity requirements? In this circumstance, the system sends excess electricity is back into the electric grid. There are two ways for this to happen: net metering or solar-plus-storage technology. This is what allows the house to have access to all kinds of energy during cloudy days or at night. What’s Next in our Solar Panels Series We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of how solar panels have the possibility to enhance our lives! Stay tuned for our next post: Solar Panels: Installation. We will focus on the best types of climates for solar panels. After that, we’ll discuss important questions to ask before having them installed. Then, we will explore how to properly maintain your panels for the best performance possible. Conclusion Interested in solar power for your home? Give us a call to discuss options such as solar panels or solar shingles. Remember you can depend on Beneficial Roofing for ALL your roofing questions and needs. Give us a call now and let us know how we can help you today! The post Solar Panels: How they work appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/how-solar-panels-work-residential-roofing/ via IFTTT
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Solar Panels: How they work
Solar panels continue to provide a popular alternative energy option for green-conscious homeowners. Homeowners interested in cost-cutting technologies also choose this option to generate their electrical needs. Even the White House uses solar panel energy. How do solar panels work? Let’s take a look. How are solar panels made?So glad you asked! Solar panels employ a creative design of silicon cells, metal framing, glass casing, and wiring. Solar panel casing and layersThe glass casing composes the outer layer of protection against the elements. Another layer of insulation lies beneath the glass exterior. The next layer, a back sheet, protects against dissipation and humidity in higher temperature climates. Without these two protective layers, the panels would not run as efficiently as they should. Another typical asset that the panels have is an anti-reflective coating. This allows the panel to optimize its sunlight absorption. Silicon solar panel cellsSilicon, a nonmetal element that is very conductive, provides an essential component for solar panels. The nitty-gritty part of the system, the silicon cells, can have two different structures: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. The monocrystalline structure, made up of one single silicon crystal, allows the electrons more “room” to move about. The polycrystalline structure is manufactured with shards or fragments of silicon crystal. Both structures function well, however, the monocrystalline is more efficient. As a result, it is also more expensive. How do solar panels harness the sunlight?Despite what you might think, using sunlight to generate electricity evolved long before the 21st century. A French scientist named Edmond Becquerel first discovered the photovoltaic effect in 1839. He observed that sunlight absorbed by material created an electric voltage. Other scientists built on this principle and in 1883 Charles Fritts created the first solar cell. Those early efforts spurred more investigation into solar energy use resulting in the systems we enjoy today. Solar panel PV cellsThe panels absorb sunlight using photovoltaic cells (PV cells). The cells have two distinct layers: negative and positive. Sunlight entering the PV cells generates an electric field between these two layers. The energy produced at this phase is direct energy or DC current. Our homes and energy grid run on alternating current or AC energy. This means the DC energy must be converted to usable AC energy. Solar panel invertersThe system utilizes an inverter to perform this transition. The inverter serves as a bridge that transforms the DC energy into AC energy, which can be used for the home. There are three basic types of inverters:
The string inverter is the most basic model. The microinverter works for more complicated systems that require higher performance levels. The power optimizer does just what its name suggests, meaning it can be used as an add-on to the other inverters if needed.
How do solar panels work at night?The solar panels aren’t doing the work at night. So, what happens to the left-over energy when a household has met all its electricity requirements? In this circumstance, the system sends excess electricity is back into the electric grid. There are two ways for this to happen: net metering or solar-plus-storage technology. This is what allows the house to have access to all kinds of energy during cloudy days or at night. What’s Next in our Solar Panels SeriesWe’ve only begun to scratch the surface of how solar panels have the possibility to enhance our lives! Stay tuned for our next post: Solar Panels: Installation. We will focus on the best types of climates for solar panels. After that, we’ll discuss important questions to ask before having them installed. Then, we will explore how to properly maintain your panels for the best performance possible. ConclusionInterested in solar power for your home? Give us a call to discuss options such as solar panels or solar shingles. Remember you can depend on Beneficial Roofing for ALL your roofing questions and needs. Give us a call now and let us know how we can help you today! The post Solar Panels: How they work appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/how-solar-panels-work-residential-roofing/ via IFTTT via Blogger http://beneficialroof.blogspot.com/2019/06/solar-panels-how-they-work.html June 03, 2019 at 10:21PM
Roof Problems and Pests
In this series, we’ve covered how roof rot and roof fungus can affect not only your roof but your health as well. In this article, we will go over some other common roof problems and pests and some ways to remedy them. What are some common roof problems?LeaksEvery homeowner knows that the number one problem they might encounter with their roof is leaks. There are a number of reasons why your roof might be leaking. Most leaks occur near the chimney, or under damaged shingles, near flashing points, at skylights and near gutters. Watermarks on the ceiling can indicate a leak somewhere on your roof. We also recommend a biannual professional inspection to make sure the roof is being well taken care of. BlisteringAnother common roof problem that can occur is blistering and cracking. Older roofs especially tend to develop ridges, blisters, and cracks. These problems don’t affect every type of roof. A low pitch to your roof increases the chances of this roof problem. Multiple layers of shingles can also contribute to blistering and cracking. GuttersClogged gutters will often go unattended and are easy to overlook. A vital element of your roofing system, your gutters provide a primary line of defense against water damage. An improperly maintained gutter system allows water to back up into the roof. This can lead to water seeping into the eaves. If not checked, this damage can lead to roof rot. Give your gutters a routine cleaning and checkup to prevent this roof problem. You can also install screens atop your gutters to keep twigs and leaves from backing up your gutters. What are some common roof pests?BirdsBird rank as the number one roofing-nuisance a homeowner can experience. The noise they make can be annoying. When they settle in — roosting and nesting on your roof or under the eaves, your real roof problems start. Notoriously difficult to dislodge, birds create problems on the roof and off. Bird nests and droppings constitute health hazards to you and your family. Keep in mind that birds tend to gravitate towards warmer areas, making your roof look like a vacation destination. They especially favor roofs with solar panels. This roof pest requires professional help to remove. We offer installation of bird deterrents to keep birds off the roof. RaccoonsHomeowners underestimate these furry little mammals when it comes to roofs. Your roof offers raccoons a great vantage point. From here these roof pests can easily spot food sources. They can even create hide-holes where they live and store their food. Like birds, once raccoons move in, they are hard tenants to remove. Raccoons typically gain access to your roof by crossing overhanging branches. Don’t try to remove these critters yourself. They are wild animals and also carry diseases. Call a professional to help with these roof pests. Rats & MiceYou might not think that rats and mice can cause problems in your roof, but you would be mistaken. While they typically reside in trash, sewers and drains, they can also make quite a comfortable place in your attic and roof cavity. They are similar to birds in the respect that they are attracted to warm places, so your attic and roof cavity are great places for them to hide and breed. These pests are known to carry several diseases that are spread through their feces, urine and bite wounds. Suffice it to say, once you notice little droppings, or even see the little tail of an unwanted friend, its time to call in the professionals, for where you see one, there are ten others in the woodworks. WaspsThe annual summer bane of homeowners, wasps love to settle inside roofs. This roof pest typically builds nests in areas easy for them to access. Unfortunately, these nests tend to be difficult for homeowners to find. Despite their small size, wasps pose danger to you and your family and should be dealt with immediately.
CONCLUSIONMany of these roof problems and pests can be handled without professional assistance. But, if you find yourself unable to address any of these issues, give us a call. We’ll get your roof problems and pests squared away in no time. The post Roof Problems and Pests appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/roof-problems-and-pests/ via IFTTT via Blogger http://beneficialroof.blogspot.com/2019/05/roof-problems-and-pests.html May 13, 2019 at 09:20PM
In this series, we’ve covered how roof rot and roof fungus can affect not only your roof but your health as well. In this article, we will go over some other common roof problems and pests and some ways to remedy them. What are some common roof problems? Leaks Every homeowner knows that the number one problem they might encounter with their roof is leaks. There are a number of reasons why your roof might be leaking. Most leaks occur near the chimney, or under damaged shingles, near flashing points, at skylights and near gutters. Watermarks on the ceiling can indicate a leak somewhere on your roof. We also recommend a biannual professional inspection to make sure the roof is being well taken care of. Blistering Another common roof problem that can occur is blistering and cracking. Older roofs especially tend to develop ridges, blisters, and cracks. These problems don’t affect every type of roof. A low pitch to your roof increases the chances of this roof problem. Multiple layers of shingles can also contribute to blistering and cracking. Gutters Clogged gutters will often go unattended and are easy to overlook. A vital element of your roofing system, your gutters provide a primary line of defense against water damage. An improperly maintained gutter system allows water to back up into the roof. This can lead to water seeping into the eaves. If not checked, this damage can lead to roof rot. Give your gutters a routine cleaning and checkup to prevent this roof problem. You can also install screens atop your gutters to keep twigs and leaves from backing up your gutters. What are some common roof pests? Birds Bird rank as the number one roofing-nuisance a homeowner can experience. The noise they make can be annoying. When they settle in — roosting and nesting on your roof or under the eaves, your real roof problems start. Notoriously difficult to dislodge, birds create problems on the roof and off. Bird nests and droppings constitute health hazards to you and your family. Keep in mind that birds tend to gravitate towards warmer areas, making your roof look like a vacation destination. They especially favor roofs with solar panels. This roof pest requires professional help to remove. We offer installation of bird deterrents to keep birds off the roof. Raccoons Homeowners underestimate these furry little mammals when it comes to roofs. Your roof offers raccoons a great vantage point. From here these roof pests can easily spot food sources. They can even create hide-holes where they live and store their food. Like birds, once raccoons move in, they are hard tenants to remove. Raccoons typically gain access to your roof by crossing overhanging branches. Don’t try to remove these critters yourself. They are wild animals and also carry diseases. Call a professional to help with these roof pests. Rats & Mice You might not think that rats and mice can cause problems in your roof, but you would be mistaken. While they typically reside in trash, sewers and drains, they can also make quite a comfortable place in your attic and roof cavity. They are similar to birds in the respect that they are attracted to warm places, so your attic and roof cavity are great places for them to hide and breed. These pests are known to carry several diseases that are spread through their feces, urine and bite wounds. Suffice it to say, once you notice little droppings, or even see the little tail of an unwanted friend, its time to call in the professionals, for where you see one, there are ten others in the woodworks. Wasps The annual summer bane of homeowners, wasps love to settle inside roofs. This roof pest typically builds nests in areas easy for them to access. Unfortunately, these nests tend to be difficult for homeowners to find. Despite their small size, wasps pose danger to you and your family and should be dealt with immediately. CONCLUSION Many of these roof problems and pests can be handled without professional assistance. But, if you find yourself unable to address any of these issues, give us a call. We’ll get your roof problems and pests squared away in no time. The post Roof Problems and Pests appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/roof-problems-and-pests/ via IFTTT
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One huge factor for prospective homeowners when looking for a house, is the age and condition of the roof. There are a lot of things that affect the lifespan and health of your roof if not maintained properly. In this article we will discuss different types of roof fungus, what causes them to grow, and how to treat and prevent it in the future. Types There are four common types of roof fungus that cause the most problems, whether it be damage to your home or your health. The first one we will talk about is Algae. This fungus is particularly damaging to the roof itself when not taken care of as soon as it’s noticed. Algae will devour your shingles, and is also attracted to moisture. So when the spores land on moisture deposits on your roof, they will make a home for themselves there. Spreading across your roof, the ideal place for algae to spawn is somewhere damp and humid. Households in the deep south, northeast, Midwest and Pacific coast should look for the black-green hue on their roof. The next roof fungus is something everyone will know. Moss. If properly maintained, this fuzzy green fungus can be a beautiful aesthetic piece for the outside of your home. However, like most fungus, moss is also attracted to moisture, which can be detrimental to your roof health. The more the moss spreads over your roof, the more it will add to your moisture problem on your roof. This can seep into the wood of shakes and shingles and lead to roof rot. Mold is one of the most problematic fungi there is for a homeowner. Not only is it unsightly, it is extremely hazardous to the health of you and your family. It’s easy to notice because of its distinguished smell and the way it looks. It can be a slimy black, brown or even dark green color. Again, moisture deposits attract mold. The most common place for mold to grow is on wood and drywall, where water might seep in. The last one we will discuss is Mildew, which like mold, is very dangerous if left to fester and grow. Unlike its fungi counterparts, mildew spreads extremely fast in warm and wet places. This includes roofs that don’t have proper drainage systems in place. You can spot this nasty fungus due to its wide color range; light grey, pink or black. Common Factors After discussing these fungi, there is an underlying factor they all have in common: Moisture, dampness, humidity. Excess amounts of moisture on your roof can lead to any one of these fungi infestations. Remember, the two most dangerous fungi are Mold and Mildew. These can cause serious respiratory problems in your family if exposed to it for too long. How do you treat Roof Fungus? If the roof fungi haven’t damaged the structural integrity of the roof, you should be able to clean it yourself. You can do this easily with a 1:1 ratio of bleach and water. Bleach kills fungus on contact. Simply mix the bleach and water, spread the mix over your roof with a mop, and hose the roof off. This will be the perfect time to check on your gutters to make sure they are draining properly. After cleaning off the roof, treat the roof with a moisture resistant solution to help keep moisture off. Next, try trimming branches that may be hanging over your roof. Over hanging branches may causing excess water buildup. Finally, make sure your attic and roof can vent heat and humidity properly with ridge vents. So, if you notice water marks, peeling paint, peeled plaster or discoloration you might have a leak cause by unwanted fungus. Call us today, we would love to come take a look and help you get back to healthy, fungus-free living! The post Roof Fungus: Different Types and How to Deal with Them appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/roof-fungus-different-types-and-how-to-deal-with-them/ via IFTTT
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Roof Fungus: Different Types and How to Deal with Them
One huge factor for prospective homeowners when looking for a house, is the age and condition of the roof. There are a lot of things that affect the lifespan and health of your roof if not maintained properly. In this article we will discuss different types of roof fungus, what causes them to grow, and how to treat and prevent it in the future. TypesThere are four common types of roof fungus that cause the most problems, whether it be damage to your home or your health. The first one we will talk about is Algae. This fungus is particularly damaging to the roof itself when not taken care of as soon as it’s noticed. Algae will devour your shingles, and is also attracted to moisture. So when the spores land on moisture deposits on your roof, they will make a home for themselves there. Spreading across your roof, the ideal place for algae to spawn is somewhere damp and humid. Households in the deep south, northeast, Midwest and Pacific coast should look for the black-green hue on their roof. The next roof fungus is something everyone will know. Moss. If properly maintained, this fuzzy green fungus can be a beautiful aesthetic piece for the outside of your home. However, like most fungus, moss is also attracted to moisture, which can be detrimental to your roof health. The more the moss spreads over your roof, the more it will add to your moisture problem on your roof. This can seep into the wood of shakes and shingles and lead to roof rot. Mold is one of the most problematic fungi there is for a homeowner. Not only is it unsightly, it is extremely hazardous to the health of you and your family. It’s easy to notice because of its distinguished smell and the way it looks. It can be a slimy black, brown or even dark green color. Again, moisture deposits attract mold. The most common place for mold to grow is on wood and drywall, where water might seep in. The last one we will discuss is Mildew, which like mold, is very dangerous if left to fester and grow. Unlike its fungi counterparts, mildew spreads extremely fast in warm and wet places. This includes roofs that don’t have proper drainage systems in place. You can spot this nasty fungus due to its wide color range; light grey, pink or black. Common FactorsAfter discussing these fungi, there is an underlying factor they all have in common: Moisture, dampness, humidity. Excess amounts of moisture on your roof can lead to any one of these fungi infestations. Remember, the two most dangerous fungi are Mold and Mildew. These can cause serious respiratory problems in your family if exposed to it for too long. How do you treat Roof Fungus?If the roof fungi haven’t damaged the structural integrity of the roof, you should be able to clean it yourself. You can do this easily with a 1:1 ratio of bleach and water. Bleach kills fungus on contact. Simply mix the bleach and water, spread the mix over your roof with a mop, and hose the roof off. This will be the perfect time to check on your gutters to make sure they are draining properly. After cleaning off the roof, treat the roof with a moisture resistant solution to help keep moisture off. Next, try trimming branches that may be hanging over your roof. Over hanging branches may causing excess water buildup. Finally, make sure your attic and roof can vent heat and humidity properly with ridge vents. So, if you notice water marks, peeling paint, peeled plaster or discoloration you might have a leak cause by unwanted fungus. Call us today, we would love to come take a look and help you get back to healthy, fungus-free living! The post Roof Fungus: Different Types and How to Deal with Them appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/roof-fungus-different-types-and-how-to-deal-with-them/ via IFTTT via Blogger http://beneficialroof.blogspot.com/2019/05/roof-fungus-different-types-and-how-to.html May 07, 2019 at 06:46AM
What Causes Roof Rot?
One of the least exciting things that can happen to a homeowner is roof rot. It might not sound like much of an issue, because “out of sight, out of mind” right? When this problem becomes evident by water spots on your ceiling or even plaster falling off, you know its past time to check in the attic for the cause. Here at Beneficial Roofing, we are experts at not only dealing with this problem, but also preventing it. What causes Roof Rot?There are a lot of things that can ultimately lead to roof rot, but the three main causes are: humidity due to temperature changes in the attic, moisture from the condensation caused by the temperature, and ventilation problems. You may be asking yourself, “What exactly is roof rot?” Roof rot, or dry rot as it is commonly known, is what happens when there is too much moisture in your attic. Another cause could be a water leak somewhere in your roof, allowing water to seep into your attic. Whatever the cause, our technicians can find it and help you move forward with fixing the problem and helping to ensure that it won’t happen again. How do you deal with Roof Rot?It is possible to “repair” dry rot, if the areas that are affected are not responsible for structural stability. If it is not a beam, joint or flooring, it might be worth looking into repairing instead of replacing. Before dealing with the damaged wood itself, make sure you find the cause of the problem. Whether it’s a leaking roof, poor ventilation, plumbing leaks or a damaged gutter, once it is fixed, you can focus on the wood. Should you Repair or Replace Roof Rot?The repairing process starts with removing as much of the damaged wood as possible. The best tool to use is a wood chisel. Injecting a consolidant into the wood will help reinforce the affected wood that you might not be able to reach with the chisel. This will help the wood fibers bond with the undamaged wood, making them strong again. To finish the repair, apply a wood patching product, a putty like material. Doing this yourself could be dangerous. Not removing all the affected wood could lead the rot to seep deeper into the rest of the wood. This will eventually causing the same problem. The replacing process is a little different. You will need to remove all the rotted wood, including three feet of surrounding wood. Then remove the plaster, skirting paneling, linings and ceilings to make sure you got all the fungus. Next you must clean all the surfaces and steel pipes in a five-foot radius of the rotted parts. Next, you will need to apply a fungicide to all the surface area in that five-foot radius. Then you replace the wood you took out, preferably with one that has a preservative coating already on it. Lastly, you have to re-plaster and paint, typically with a zinc oxychloride product. All of this is a very complicated, tiresome, and sometimes dangerous process that is best left to professionals, so you don’t have to stress and worry. How can Roof Rot be prevented?The best way to make sure that your roof is rot-free is to have regular inspections done. Having a professional come to check your attic will insure that if there are any signs of moisture, leaks or excess humidity, you will be able to take measures to rectify these problems. Another thing to do is to make sure that you have a proper roof ventilation system. Without a ventilation system in place, the moisture from the humidity has nowhere to go, thus sinking into the wood and causing this problem. You should also keep track on how your shingles are holding up. Make sure that there is no debris on your roof preventing water from running off the roof. Don’t let the troubles of a rotted roof weigh down you and your family, give us a call! We are more than happy to help make sure that roof rot won’t bother you again. The post What Causes Roof Rot? appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/what-causes-roof-rot/ via IFTTT via Blogger http://beneficialroof.blogspot.com/2019/04/what-causes-roof-rot.html April 29, 2019 at 09:59PM
One of the least exciting things that can happen to a homeowner is roof rot. It might not sound like much of an issue, because “out of sight, out of mind” right? When this problem becomes evident by water spots on your ceiling or even plaster falling off, you know its past time to check in the attic for the cause. Here at Beneficial Roofing, we are experts at not only dealing with this problem, but also preventing it. What causes Roof Rot? There are a lot of things that can ultimately lead to roof rot, but the three main causes are: humidity due to temperature changes in the attic, moisture from the condensation caused by the temperature, and ventilation problems. You may be asking yourself, “What exactly is roof rot?” Roof rot, or dry rot as it is commonly known, is what happens when there is too much moisture in your attic. Another cause could be a water leak somewhere in your roof, allowing water to seep into your attic. Whatever the cause, our technicians can find it and help you move forward with fixing the problem and helping to ensure that it won’t happen again. How do you deal with Roof Rot? It is possible to “repair” dry rot, if the areas that are affected are not responsible for structural stability. If it is not a beam, joint or flooring, it might be worth looking into repairing instead of replacing. Before dealing with the damaged wood itself, make sure you find the cause of the problem. Whether it’s a leaking roof, poor ventilation, plumbing leaks or a damaged gutter, once it is fixed, you can focus on the wood. Should you Repair or Replace Roof Rot? The repairing process starts with removing as much of the damaged wood as possible. The best tool to use is a wood chisel. Injecting a consolidant into the wood will help reinforce the affected wood that you might not be able to reach with the chisel. This will help the wood fibers bond with the undamaged wood, making them strong again. To finish the repair, apply a wood patching product, a putty like material. Doing this yourself could be dangerous. Not removing all the affected wood could lead the rot to seep deeper into the rest of the wood. This will eventually causing the same problem. The replacing process is a little different. You will need to remove all the rotted wood, including three feet of surrounding wood. Then remove the plaster, skirting paneling, linings and ceilings to make sure you got all the fungus. Next you must clean all the surfaces and steel pipes in a five-foot radius of the rotted parts. Next, you will need to apply a fungicide to all the surface area in that five-foot radius. Then you replace the wood you took out, preferably with one that has a preservative coating already on it. Lastly, you have to re-plaster and paint, typically with a zinc oxychloride product. All of this is a very complicated, tiresome, and sometimes dangerous process that is best left to professionals, so you don’t have to stress and worry. How can Roof Rot be prevented? The best way to make sure that your roof is rot-free is to have regular inspections done. Having a professional come to check your attic will insure that if there are any signs of moisture, leaks or excess humidity, you will be able to take measures to rectify these problems. Another thing to do is to make sure that you have a proper roof ventilation system. Without a ventilation system in place, the moisture from the humidity has nowhere to go, thus sinking into the wood and causing this problem. You should also keep track on how your shingles are holding up. Make sure that there is no debris on your roof preventing water from running off the roof. Don’t let the troubles of a rotted roof weigh down you and your family, give us a call! We are more than happy to help make sure that roof rot won’t bother you again. The post What Causes Roof Rot? appeared first on Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why!. from Beneficial Roofing | VOTED BEST Roofing Company, Call Us Today & See Why! https://beneficialroofing.com/what-causes-roof-rot/ via IFTTT
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