fbpx
Categories
Uncategorized

How the Weather in Corbin, Kentucky Affects Your Roof

If you live in Corbin, Kentucky, then you know firsthand how unpredictable the weather can be. Your home’s roof bears the brunt of all that mother nature has to offer. Because of this, it’s important to know how the weather in Corbin, Kentucky affects your roof.

Like the rest of southeastern Kentucky, Corbin experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. From below-freezing temperatures in the winter to heavy rainfall in the summer, the roofing in Corbin goes through a lot. Below are some of the weather conditions that have the biggest impact on your roof.

Weather conditions that affect your roof in Corbin, Kentucky

The weather conditions that will affect your roof the most are precipitation, wind, and sun.

Precipitation

Precipitation is any form of water that falls from the sky and reaches the ground. This can include rain, snow, sleet, hail, and other forms of moisture. When precipitation falls, it can be measured in terms of the amount of water that it produces, which is typically expressed in inches or millimeters.

Rain

Corbin, Kentucky experiences an average of 49 inches of rain a year. This is significantly higher than the national average of 38 inches per year. Heavy rainfall can weaken your roof’s shingles and cause them to crack over time. Additionally, it can lead to water seeping into your attic or other parts of your home, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

Even the tiniest leaks can cause a lot of damage when there’s consistent heavy rainfall. Plus, pools of water start to accumulate on roofs in these conditions—which could develop into major roof issues if left unchecked.

Snow

Snowfall in Corbin is also above average at about 9 inches per year compared to the national average of 6 inches annually.

Ice and snow buildup can be a major burden on your roof as it adds unnecessary weight. Gutters tend to suffer the most, due to ice build-up inside them. As temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and night—melting during the day and freezing at night—it’s easy for water to start to seep into your roofing system.

Make sure to have a professional inspect your roof before winter and look out for any potential weak spots.

Hail

Hail can also cause considerable damage to your roof, particularly to the asphalt shingles. It hits your roof harder than rain or snow, so it can damage your roof much more quickly than other kinds of precipitation. The falling ice can chip away at shingles until multiple small areas of the roof become exposed. You could potentially discover lots of leaks if these areas aren’t found quickly.

Wind

The summer thunderstorms in Corbin can bring some high winds along with them. High winds can easily blow shingles off the roof, leaving your home exposed to other elements and requiring costly repairs or replacements. Investing in roofing systems that are designed for areas with high wind speeds is recommended if you live in an area prone to storms like this.

Sunlight

The sun and UV radiation are also major factors when it comes to the condition of your roof. Corbin, Kentucky experiences an average of 201 sunny days every year. That means intense sunlight and UV exposure on your roof.

Under the scorching sun and its UV rays, shingles become dry and brittle which makes them prone to cracking. Additionally, drastic temperature changes can cause roof materials to rapidly expand or contract – reducing their life expectancy.

Roofing help in Corbin, Kentucky

Overall, the weather in Corbin, Kentucky can be unpredictable and harsh on your roofing system. It is important to inspect your roof regularly and address any issues early before they become major problems.

If you’re in Corbin and think your roof has an issue that needs to be addressed, contact Kirby Contracting today!

(606) 312-2452

We offer free estimates and we’d be happy to help you figure out a solution.

Categories
Uncategorized

6 Reasons to Have a Professional Roof Inspection

If you’re reading this, you might be wondering what the point of a professional roof inspection is. After all, if you’re like me, you grew up working with your hands and you know a thing or two about fixing up a roof. So why would you need someone else to come take a look at it? Well, here’s the thing: a roof inspection is a lot more than just someone coming to check for a few loose shingles. It’s a thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition, and it can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the long run.

Helps detect problems early

First off, a roof inspection can help you identify any potential problems before they turn into major issues. Let’s say you have a leak in your roof, but you don’t know it yet. If you leave it alone, that leak is only going to get worse and worse, and before you know it, you could be dealing with water damage, mold, and all sorts of other costly repairs. But if you get an inspection, the inspector will be able to spot the leak and recommend a fix before it becomes a big problem.

Allows you to plan for the future

In addition to identifying problems, a roof inspection can also help you plan for the future. Your roof is a big investment, and you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. By getting a roof inspection, you can find out how much life your roof has left and whether it needs any repairs or replacement. This can help you budget for the future and avoid any unexpected expenses down the road.

Gives you peace of mind

Furthermore, a roof inspection can give you peace of mind. Knowing that your roof is in good condition can help you sleep better at night, especially during those heavy Kentucky storms. And if there are any issues, the inspector can provide you with a detailed report and recommendations for repairs, so you know exactly what needs to be done to keep your roof in top shape.

Expedites filing an insurance claim

Having a roof inspection conducted by a professional can greatly expedite the process of filing an insurance claim. When a roof is damaged, and an insurance claim needs to be filed, a roof inspection is often required. This is because the damage caused by weather, age, or other external factors must be documented in order for the insurance company to evaluate the claim. Having a roof inspection done by a professional can make it easier for you to file an insurance claim and get the reimbursement you deserve.

Prepares for roof replacement

A roof inspection is an important step when it comes to roof replacement. Replacing a roof can be a big endeavor, and it’s essential to make sure that you have a good understanding of the state of your roof. A professional roof inspection will provide you with greater insight into the specific details of your roof, allowing you to determine the best course of action.

Furthermore, a roof inspection before a roof replacement will help determine the needed supplies and materials for the project. It can also help roofers accurately estimate the timeline and cost of roof replacement, making sure that you get the highest quality roofing job for an affordable price.

Monitor drainage system

Roof inspections offer the chance to take a look at a roof’s drainage system. During a roof inspection, issues like clogged gutters or broken downspouts can be identified. These things could cause major damage to your roof if they go unnoticed and unaddressed. Excessive water or moisture on the roof can cause a number of roofing problems.

The inspection may reveal the drainage system is totally fine! If not, you may need to clean the gutters, repair them, or have a contractor come and install new gutters. No matter what the state of your gutters is, a professional inspection will give you a much better idea of what’s really going on with them.

Get a professional roof inspection today

Almost all roofing projects begin with a roof inspection. Roofing contractors need to know what they’re working with, and that often means an inspection.

If you’re experiencing a problem with your roof, gutters, or siding, contact us today!

(606) 312-2452

We offer free estimates for roofing projects and we’d love to help make sure that your roof is keeping your family safe and dry.

Categories
Uncategorized

What Is Roof Flashing?

If you’re a homeowner, then you know that there can be a lot of things to worry about when it comes to your house. One of the most important parts of your house is its roof. A good roof will protect your home from the elements and keep you and your family safe and dry. One key part of any roofing system is flashing. In this article, we’ll explain what roof flashing is, where it goes on your roof, and what it’s made out of. Let’s get started!

What is flashing?

Roof flashing is a thin sheet of metal that’s used to waterproof key points in a roofing system. It helps to direct water away from areas of the roof that could be damaged by water exposure. These places are areas where the shingles or other roofing materials do not cover.

Where does flashing go on a roof?

Flashing is typically placed around areas where the roofing material meets up with a different material like a wall, chimney, or vent. This is because these are typically places where water can enter the roof system and cause damage. Some common places that you’ll find flashing on a roof are around skylights, chimneys, vents, valleys, and edges.

Skylights

A skylight is basically a window on your roof. With that in mind, the frame of the skylight creates an opportunity for water to seep into the roof. Skylights are often built with raised wood curves to leave room for flashing. Some skylights even come with flashing built-in. Whether the flashing is pre-attached or not, it’s vital that skylights have flashing around them to protect your home.

Chimneys

The places where the shingles meet the chimney are notorious for causing leaks in roofs. If you have a chimney on your roof, it’s important to install flashing around it to keep water from entering the chimney and damaging the brick or mortar.

complex roof that needs flashing
Flashing would be super important for this roof! All the chimneys, valleys, and vents create the potential for leaks if the flashing isn’t installed properly.

Vents

If your roof has vents, it’s important to install flashing around them to keep water from entering through or around the vents and causing damage. Regardless of whether they’re hood or pipe vents, flashing is needed to protect your roof from water damage.

Valleys

A valley is a place where two roofing surfaces meet at a downward angle. This is another part of a roof that’s notorious for being leaky. It’s important to install flashing in valleys to prevent water from seeping between the adjacent surfaces and causing damage.

Roof edges

Drip edge flashing is a type of roof flashing that helps to keep water from running down the edges of a roof and under the shingles. The installation of drip edge flashing is one way to tell if your roofer did a good job or not.

What is flashing made out of?

Flashing can be made out of a variety of materials. The most common materials used for flashing are aluminum, copper, and steel. Each of these materials has its own benefits and drawbacks. You can work with your roofing contractor to figure out which flashing material is best for your specific roof.

Aluminum

Aluminum flashing is a popular choice for roofing because it is lightweight and easy to install. Aluminum runs the risk of corrosion, so roofing contractors often coat the flashing with masonry and concrete to prevent this.

Copper

Copper flashing offers a long lifespan because it is highly durable. This metal is also easy to solder. One drawback of copper flashing is that it fades into a patina as it ages. This might not give your roof the appearance that you want.

Steel

When it comes to flashing, steel is the primary choice. Steel offers a sleek finish that is aesthetically pleasing. On top of that, it’s highly malleable so it’s easy to work with when installing flashing on the tricky parts of a roof. The steel used for flashing is galvanized to prevent corrosion.

Kirby Contracting | Your professional roofers

The folks at Kirby Contracting are your local roofing experts in southeastern Kentucky. With years of experience, we know all about flashing and every other part of a roofing system. We put this knowledge and experience to work on every project as we strive to give you the roof of your dreams. Call us today for a free quote on your roofing project!

Categories
Uncategorized

How To Tell If Your Roofer Did A Good Job

Replacing the roof on your home is a huge investment. In fact, roof repair and replacement are some of the most expensive aspects of home maintenance. This is because your roof is your house’s first line of defense against the elements. Since it’s one of the most important parts of your home, it’s important that your roofing job is done right. Whether you’re trying to decide on a roofing contractor or you’re evaluating a finished job, this blog post will help you understand how to tell if your roofer did a good job.

The signs of a good roofing job

  • The roof looks even and uniform
  • The contractor removed old layers
  • The contractor used a quality underlayment
  • The contractor used proper flashing techniques
  • The shingles are installed properly
  • The contractor communicated well throughout the project
  • The contractors left the job area as they found it

We’ll go into each of these signs a bit more in-depth to help you understand what a quality roofing job should be like.

The roof looks even and uniform

Once a roofing job is complete, homeowners should do a visual inspection of the roof themselves. As you’re looking at the roof, you want to see a uniform appearance across the roof.

There shouldn’t be any areas that are discolored or that stand out from other parts of the roof. There certainly shouldn’t be any parts of the roof that are drooping or sagging.

You want a new roof to be uniform and consistent from the get-go to ensure that different areas of the roof wear consistently over time and no problem areas pop up. On top of that, your roof is a huge part of your house and affects its curb appeal. A clean, consistent roofing job. greatly improves the appearance of your home.

The contractor removed old layers

Another sign that your roofer did a quality job is if they removed all of the old layers of shingles before installing the new roof. You can see how many layers are on your new roof just by visually inspecting it. If there are more layers on your roof than the amount that the contractor quoted for the job, you’ll be able to tell that they didn’t remove the old layers.

Removing the old layers of shingles will help your roof have the desired clean and uniform look that we’ve already talked about. On top of that, it will help protect the roof from the unnecessary strain that the weight of extra layers would put on it.

The contractor uses a quality underlayment

The underlayment of your roof is one of the most important parts of the roofing project. The underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof material that’s installed between the roof deck and the shingles. It’s there to protect your home in case any water should happen to get past the shingles.

If your roofing contractor didn’t remove old layers of shingle and just slapped new ones on top, the type of underlayment they used wouldn’t even matter because they aren’t worried about the underlayment.

There are different types of underlayment available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Nowadays, the best underlayments are made of high-strength synthetics. This type of underlayment doesn’t break down as quickly as felt underlayments that used to be more common.

The contractor used proper flashing techniques

Water leaks are one of the most common problems that homeowners face with their roofs. Proper flashing on a roof helps prevent leaks and prolong the roof’s life. A good roofing job will include proper flashing installation in all the areas that are prone to leaks.

A good roofing contractor will make sure that new flashing is installed around pipes and chimneys as these areas are prone to leaks. Some contractors may substitute metal flashing for roof cement or caulk. But this isn’t a long-term solution and won’t hold up to the weather that we have in Kentucky.

The contractor installed drip-edge flashing

A specific type of flashing that will be installed during any good roofing job is drip edge flashing.

Drip edge flashing is a metal strip that’s installed along the edges of the roof. It has a small lip that extends beyond the edge of your roof. Its purpose is to direct water away from the edges of the roof and into the gutters. This helps to prevent water damage to your home’s exterior and prevents leaks in your attic or ceiling.

If your contractor didn’t install drip edge flashing or they installed it improperly, water could seep in behind the shingles and cause all sorts of problems like leaks, mold, and rot. Not only does this damage your home, but it also voids most roofing warranties. Make sure that your contractor installed drip edge flashing and that it’s in good condition.

The shingles are installed properly

The shingles on your roof should be aligned and have sufficient overlap between each column. They should also be centered over the sheathing or plywood below them. Proper shingle installation plays a huge part in the final appearance of the roof.

The proper nailing technique is a vital part of shingle installation. Proper nailing technique for roof shingles includes the right type, size, grade, and quality of nails. The nails should go deep enough into the shingle to hide them, but not so deep that they damage the shingle and cause pieces to break off. On top of that, four to six nails should be used per shingle depending on how windy the area is. The nails should be evenly spaced

If the shingles aren’t properly installed, they can come loose and blow off in high winds. This leaves your home vulnerable to water damage.

Your contractor communicated well throughout the project

Another way to tell if a roofer did a good job comes down to how you felt during the project. The roofing contractor should have kept an open, consistent line of communication with you throughout the roofing project. You shouldn’t have felt like you were left in the dark or like you didn’t know what was going on with your home.

A good roofing contractor will keep you updated on their progress, answer any questions you have, and make sure that you’re happy with the final product.

The contractors left the job area as they found it

A sign of a good roofing job is that the area around your home is just as clean (if not cleaner) when the roofers leave as it was when they arrived. This means that they took the time to tidy up after themselves and remove any debris from your property.

You shouldn’t have to worry about nails, shingles, or anything else in your yard after the roofers leave. If the roofers left a mess behind, that’s a sign that they didn’t take pride in their work.

The importance of roofing credentials

If you haven’t selected a roofing contractor for your project yet, there are some important credentials to check for. You want to make sure that the roofer you choose for the job is licensed and insured. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you have professionals working on your home and that you won’t be liable for any accidents that happen on your property.

Kirby Contracting | Quality roofing projects in Kentucky

At Kirby Contracting, we have years of experience in both roofing and general contracting. We are licensed and insured so you never have to worry. We make it our goal to provide the best customer experience possible from start to finish.

If you’re looking for an experienced roofer in London, KY, or the surrounding area, give us a call today! We would love to give you a free estimate and see how we can meet your needs.

Categories
Uncategorized

Why is roofing important?

The Unseen Hero of Your Home

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, but it’s also one of the most neglected. That’s because most people don’t think about their roof until there’s a problem. But by then, it’s often too late.

Roofing is an integral part of your house due to weather protection, aesthetics, energy efficiency, comfort, and home value. Keep reading for a deeper look at all of these factors.

Why is Roofing Important?

Weather Protection:  The roof is the first line of defense against weather damage. It protects the rest of the house from water, wind, and sun damage.

Aesthetics: The roof is a big part of the curb appeal of a house. A beautiful roof can make a big difference in the overall look. A damaged or ugly roof can impact the value of a home.

Energy Efficiency & Comfort: A sound roofing system can help keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This will save you money on energy costs and make your home more comfortable.

Home Value: A well-maintained roof is an integral part of the overall value of a house. An appealing roof is a selling point that increases a property’s value. Potential buyers are reluctant to invest in an older roof or one seeking immediate repairs. A newer roof in a well-maintained condition can significantly increase the value of your asset.

Damaged roofs can lead to all sorts of problems, from leaks and water damage to mold and mildew. And those are just the things you can see. Thus, you should keep an eye on your roof and contact Kirby Contracting if you notice any signs of damage.

Now that you know why is roofing important, check out some tips for maintaining a long-lasting roof!

Categories
Uncategorized

Roofing Contractor in Richmond, KY

Professional Roofing Contractor in Richmond, Kentucky 

Are you in need of a roofing contractor in Richmond, Kentucky? It is our desire and goal to be the first in line here at Kirby Contracting! We are a trusted roofing contractor that provides quality roofing services to homeowners in Richmond and surrounding areas. We have years of experience installing and repairing roofs of all types, so we know what it takes to get the job done correctly, safely, and on time. Contact us today at (606) 312-2452 for a free estimate on your roofing project.

Our experts at Kirby Contracting can replace your entire roof, repair it, and provide a variety of additional roofing services. We offer asphalt shingle repair, roof installation, re-roofing, and storm damage repairs among other things. Our experts are prepared to give you high-quality and long-lasting solutions for all of your roofing needs. We provide long-lasting roofing solutions for individual homeowners or for business and commercial structures as well.

Richmond, KY – Beauty and Historical Significance 

Since its inception in 1798 by a Revolutionary War colonel, Richmond, Kentucky, has been a town steeped in historical excitement. The city of Richmond, located in Madison County offers activities that bring history to life. The presence of Fort Boonesborough, on the banks of the Kentucky River, or the history preserved at the Battle of Richmond Visitors Center and Battle Park reminds us of the historical significance of Richmond.

Residents of Richmond can take pride that their downtown area includes over 100 buildings that take their place on the National Register of Historic Places and three National Registered Historic Districts. We are fortunate that we can offer our services to the residents of Richmond.

Residential and Commercial Roofing Contractor for Richmond 

At Kirby Contracting we have the experience and expertise for both your residential and commercial needs. We understand the unique challenges of commercial buildings as well as the specific challenges of a family home. Having a roofing contractor to count on for either is a necessity for many residents of Richmond.

For commercial buildings, you may find that the roof has a slope that is very gradual or almost totally level. Warehouses, retail spaces, restaurants, and factories are among the most frequent uses for such roofs. Also, those roof structures can be significantly larger than a typical residential rooftop. Heavy equipment such as giant HVAC fans may be seen on these facilities. We can serve as the roofing contractor you need for the Richmond area to safely and securely handle any of these unique needs in these circumstances.

The slope of a typical residential dwelling can be considerably steeper than that of a commercial building. The surface is usually free of anything resting directly on it, with the exception of items such as solar panels. etc. Openings in the roof are not as common; they’re usually confined to chimneys, vent stacks, and skylights.

At Kirby Contracting we have the experience and expertise for your roofing needs whether they are residential or commercial in nature. We offer a variety of roofing services such as roof installation, re-roofing, roof replacement, and storm damage repairs. We have the experience and craftsmanship to bring a top-notch roof over your head.

Quality Workmanship in Roofing For Richmond, KY

We understand that roofing can be an overwhelming task in the minds of many homeowners and business professionals. No repair or replacement for a homeowner or business person can be as essential as getting a new roof. 

A sturdy and well-installed roof will offer you the safety and security of living or working under a roof that is tough and reliable. You can rest assured that we can provide you with the skills and type of workmanship that you and your home or business deserve.

Our team of roofing professionals carries with them the knowledge and skills to manage your home roofing projects from the simple to the complex. The professional roofers at Kirby Contracting will help you plan and work toward a cost-effective roofing solution for your individual needs. We will also do everything possible to make sure your project is completed within a time frame that is suitable for your needs and schedule.

Top of the Line Roofing Materials

It’s our goal to provide you with a roof for a new structure or existing roof replacement that will provide you with long-lasting protection. Therefore, we work with excellent building materials in making sure that we supply the finest roofing product and strive to bring them to you at the most affordable cost.

For citizens of Richmond who need a roofing contractor, we won’t allow our team of professional roofers to work with inferior products or equipment. The high quality of our finished product is not only the product of excellent workers but also of products and materials you can count on.

Need a Complete Roof Replacement In Richmond, KY?

We welcome the challenge to meet your needs for many types of roofing repairs, and we also enjoy working with a homeowner or business owner to help choose, and then professionally replace their entire roof. Our team will work with you if there are safe and secure methods to repair your roof, but there are certainly times when a full replacement is needed.

Also, at Kirby Contracting we understand that a roof is much more than just protection from the elements. It can also be a design element that adds to the beauty and appeal of your home or business. We will give you a variety of materials and styles that are available that will complement the look of your home or business.

At Kirby Contracting we will clearly communicate with you. We can discuss each alternative based on your needs. Our staff will give you the benefit of their years of experience along with your personal preferences and needs to make the optimum choice in roofing style and materials.

Roof Repairs For Unexpected Times

As in many areas of the country, we understand that your home or business structure is susceptible to dramatic weather conditions that may cause damage to your roof. At times you may experience high winds or hail that come from unexpected storms in the area.

Many individuals and businesses may seem to have weathered a particular storm just fine, only to discover much later that their roof has suffered much damage from the hail and high winds. That’s why we encourage people to have a roof inspection after a severe storm.

When you do learn of or are suspicious of damage, you want an experienced roofing contractor in the Richmond area to assess the damage and provide you with timely and budget-friendly solutions.

Your Choice Roofing Contractor For Richmond, KY

We want to be your choice as a roofing contractor for the Richmond, KY area. You can rest assured that we will do everything that we can to make sure that you get a quality roof or roof repair that takes second place to no one.

It’s our desire to serve you with the honesty and integrity that all of our customers expect and deserve. We stand by our work and our products and will give you the security and value that a home or business owner deserves for all of their roofing needs.

Give us a call at (606) 312-2452. We would love to hear from you and serve you in this great community!

Categories
Uncategorized

Roof Repair Tips Homeowners Should Know

Roof repair can either be a DIY project or need a professional touch. Regardless, here are roof repair tips you should know. 

Roof replacement isn’t always the solution to a roofing problem. Sometimes, all you need is just a simple roof repair to fix the damage. Minor repairs may not require a call to a roofing specialist right away, but a roof with more extensive damages may need an expert’s knowledge and experience. Making repairs by yourself may mean more repair costs along the way if not done correctly. What should you do? Here are some tips for when you’re trying to make small fixes by yourself.

Wear protective gear when making a roof repair

Safety should be your top priority. Ensure that you’re appropriately dressed if you’re going to repair a roof. It’s best to wear a long-sleeved shirt and jeans to protect your arms and legs. It’s also advised to wear rubber-soled shoes with traction to prevent slipping and falling. Use a sturdy ladder when climbing up and down the roof. 

Finding a difficult leak 

Leaks are another typical roof repair problem. Use a garden hose to find difficult leaks. Start soaking the spots near where the leak appears inside the house. Make sure to move furniture and valuables that are inside away from the spot of the leak. Have another person check out the inside of the house to see whether drips may appear. Don’t rush it, and let the hose run for a few minutes before moving to a different area. This is a slow but sure process to see where the leak is coming from. If this doesn’t work, start removing the shingles in the possible area of the leak.

Hammer down exposed nail heads

Roofs are usually nailed down, regardless of the material. The nails keep it all together, but the nails may come loose or fall out due to weather. Check your roof for exposed nail heads and hammer them down into place. Use a roof sealant or caulk to cover them up. Exposed nails should be dealt with quickly to keep leaks away.

Fix the small holes

If you spot any tiny holes, be sure to fix them quickly. These littles guys can cause serious damage if left unaddressed. Small leaks eventually grow to large ones and can major problems down the road.

Hire the right roofing service provider

If you find a problem that you don’t think you can handle on own, contact professionals to help get the job done right. Your roof is part of your investment, and it make sense to maintain and preserve it. Hire the right professional and roofing service provider in London, Kentucky to serve you. Do your research, check for proper credentials, and ask for references.

Kirby Contracting | Roof Repair in London, KY

Here at Kirby Contracting, we provide you the service you deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your roof is repaired or replaced quickly and efficiently. Our team is professional, experienced, and insured.

Categories
Uncategorized

How the weather in London, KY affects your roof

London gets more precipitation per year than the national average. Here’s how the weather in London, KY affects your roof!

The roof over your head is what protects your family from the elements. It keeps you from being vulnerable to what’s going on outdoors. However, that doesn’t mean that your roof itself isn’t vulnerable to the weather that it protects you from. Read below to learn how the weather in London, KY affects your roof.

Three Weather Conditions that affect your Roof in London, Kentucky

When it comes to the weather, we experience all four seasons in London, Kentucky. From hot summer sun to cold winter snow, your roof goes through a lot. These varying weather conditions can all affect your roof in different ways. Here are a few specific ones that you should be aware of.

Precipitation

Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. There has to be at least 0.01 inches of precipitation on the ground for it to be counted. Each of the different kinds of precipitation can affect your roof in different ways.

Rain

London, Kentucky gets 48 inches of rain per year. That’s 10 inches more than the national average of 38 inches. With all the rain we get here, it can be easy to forget the effect that it has on our roofs. Even very small leaks can cause big problems when there is consistent heavy rainfall. Furthermore, rain tends to pool up on roofs more during times of heavy rain. This can cause big problems for your roof down the line.

Snow

Snow accumulates on roofs differently than rain. Ice and snow buildup can add extra stress to your roof due to its weight. Ice can build up in gutters and damage them. When ice melts during the day and then refreezes at night, it can seep inside the roofing system and cause damage. 

Hail

Because hail hits your roof harder than rain or snow, it can quickly cause damage to shingles. The falling ice can chip away at shingles until multiple small areas of the roof become exposed. If these areas aren’t found quickly, you could potentially discover lots of leaks the next time it rains.

Sun

On average, London, Kentucky experiences 180 sunny days a year. This is slightly less than the national average of 205 sunny days. Even so, the sun will still affect your roof. High temperatures and exposure to UV rays can cause shingles to become more fragile and crack. As the sun beats down on them, they often become brittle. On top of that, extreme temperature changes can cause roofing materials to quickly expand and shrink, decreasing their longevity.

Wind

Although we don’t experience frequent hurricanes like some of the coastal states, wind can still affect your roof in London, Kentucky. Wind doesn’t have to reach hurricane or tornado levels to cause damage. High winds can cause shingles to blow away or break off, leaving parts of your roof exposed. A quick roof inspection after a strong windstorm will allow you to spot places where shingles have blown. Replacing shingles quickly will help protect your roof and can prevent bigger problems down the line.

Hiring professional roofing contractors like Kirby Contracting to help with your roofing needs can help minimize the damage your roof experiences through the changing weather conditions in London, Kentucky.

London, Kentucky’s Hometown Roofer

Kirby Contracting has been serving London, Kentucky, and the surrounding area for years. We know that keeping your family safe and comfortable is your top priority. Because of that, we make it our top priority. We proudly serve residential and commercial roofing customers. If you’re concerned about how your roof will handle to upcoming weather, give us a call today! (606) 312-2452.

Categories
Uncategorized

Tips for a Long-Lasting Roof

The roof is an essential part of your home. You want it to last a long time, but how can you be sure it will? Here are some tips for a long-lasting roof in London, KY.

Have you ever wondered how long your roof will be able to protect your home and what’s inside? You’re not alone. Most homeowners wonder the same thing. 

Factors that impact your roof’s lifespan

We all want to make wise investments. Sometimes, this may mean purchasing a more expensive product to get the best material. Check out the following things you may want to consider to get a long-lasting roof. 

Quality of material

The materials used to build a roof directly affect that roof’s life expectancy. Low-quality materials are cheaper in the short run, but they’ll need more repairs through the lifetime of the roof. On the other hand, high-quality materials may be more expensive, but they offer more durability and won’t require as much repair or replacement.

We all want to make wise investments. Sometimes, this may mean purchasing a more expensive product to get the best material.

Installation

The installation process for a roof is crucial. It’s vital to hire the right contractors who have the qualifications, licensing, insurance, and experience to get the job done right. Choose roofing professionals who already have great reviews from people in your area. Kirby Contracting is a professional roof contracting business in London, Kentucky. Jacob Kirby and his team are highly recommended for any roofing services.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance will drastically increase the longevity of your roof. It’s easier to repair damages and extend the roof’s lifespan if you’re able to spot the issues early on. Performing this maintenance on a consistent schedule will be the key here. It shouldn’t be a one-time thing. Here are some maintenance tips from your friends and Kirby Contracting.

Keep the gutters clean

Debris is normal on roofs. Make sure that you check the roof for any debris. Keep it clean and free from any gutter blockages all year round. Blocked gutters cause an array of problems, and it’s not just flooding. If you’re able, use a ladder and check your gutters regularly. Clean them yourself or call us to clear any kinds of debris. 

Check shingles for cracks

Extreme temperature can damage your shingles, and it may either crack, shrink, or tear off. Even the most durable materials aren’t safe against certain weather conditions such as storms, hail, and strong winds. Take the time to check for missing or cracked shingles. If you spot any, call in pros to repair the damages. 

Invest in good insulation

Ensure that your attic has good insulation to keep your home’s temperature stable. This will help prevent any water vapor from staying on the underside of your roof. On top of that, it saves you some heating and cooling costs, too. 

Are you in need of any roofing services in London, Kentucky, or the surrounding area? We’re more than ready to help. Call us today!