The US receives rainfall both in winter and summer seasons. Hawaii is the wettest state with an average of 1618 mm of rain yearly. Other winter rainfall states include Washington, Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana. The states receiving summer rains include Iowa, West Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina. It is important to adopt proper roof waterproofing methods to avoid damages.

Use of bitumen materials

•  Roof waterproofing involves the overlay of a suitable bituminous material over the existing roof. Asphalt and Bitumen are materials that are composed of viscous organic liquids.
• Besides the layering with the waterproof liquid, usuage of roofing felt is also a common method. The asphalt felt paper is basically a sheet of bitumen. Roof rolling is the process of attaching this felt sheet on the exisiting roof.
• Many services also use modified bitumen wherein the manufacturer combines asphalt with sand, limestone, or polymers such as APP (Atactic Polypropylene).
• Many advanced roofing services also develop their trademarked waterproofing substances. These solutions can be ideal, but the pros and cons of these methods need to be discussed with the roofers. Most of these advanced products work on the cold application method, thereby minimizing the health hazards from the toxic fumes of hot asphalt application.
• Thermoplastic sheets reimposed with fiberglass also serve water resistance requirements effectively. Such materials have bright colors, making it easy for the roofer to apply it evenly on the surface.
• Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) is a special rubbed additive to infuse increased elasticity in the felt sheet.

The American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) ascribes certain codes to certify the felt papers. Many conscious homeowners also look for Bitumen alternatives because it is an unsustainable crude oil product and is highly flammable. In addition, the application of hot Bitumen tar is highly hazardous for the roofers. You need to connect with a professional roofing service in your area to discuss the issues in detail.

Whenever you are in the process of selecting a waterproofing membrane for the roof, check certain vital parameters, such as:

• The longevity: Find whether the roofer can deliver decades of warrantee on the waterproofing membrane.
• High resistance: In a state like Hawaii, you need a solution that can resist water damage over a constant dampness. If you have a flat roof, find whether the material can withstand hydrostatic pressure.
• Fungi resistance: The material should not be conducive for fungi and bacterial organisms.
• Thickness and elasticity: The cost of the service often depends on the thickness of the membrane. Roof covers with high elasticity have been proven to be more effective than the usual solutions. 

Contact a professional service and choose a suitable provider depending on an evaluation of the traits mentioned above. Water damage weakens the roof over time; a timely investment on waterproofing can save you in the long run as it will help you avoid a complete overhaul.

Choosing the type of insulation that is best for your roof can be challenging, but it is only one of the factors the maintenance managers need to consider. The type of roof insulation selected should be in harmony with the building’s thermal requirements.

Various types of rigid insulations are available for application – a few are listed below.

• Wood Fiber:  The insulation board is organic, made of wood, cane or vegetable fibers compiled with binders and fillers. It can be embedded with asphalt or asphalt coating to increase moisture resistance.

• Perlite: This type of insulation board is inorganic, composed of expanded silica volcanic glass and combined with organic fibers and binders with an exterior asphalt coating.

• Polyisocyanurate: It is a closed-cell foam plastic insulating core placed between organic or inorganic felt facers, glass fiber mat facers, or aluminum facers with glass fiber reinforcement.

• Polystyrene: This insulation is made in two ways, expanded and extruded. The expanded polystyrene is made of polystyrene polymer embedded with a foaming agent that expands with heat, and is molded into uniform closed-cell insulation. The expanded polystyrene is available in densities of 0.70 to 3 lbs per cubic ft (pcf).The minimum density requirement for roof covering is 1.25 pcf.

• Cellular Glass: It is comprised of crushed glass mixed with a foaming agent. The mixed components are placed in a mold and heated, which melts the glass and decomposes the foaming agent. Thus, causing the mixture to expand uniformly and create closed-cell insulation.

• Gypsum: This insulation board is a non-structural, water resistant, non-combustible treated panel with a gypsum core. The board is available with a non-asphalt coating on one side to increase adhesion of the roof membrane. It is typically used as a cover board over foam-plastic insulations as a heat barrier over a steel deck, or as a substrate for vapor retardation.

But the work doesn’t end at choosing the right insulation for your roof; the insulation should be properly secured to the roof deck to provide desired substrate for covering the roof.

These are some of the commonly practiced fastening methods of roof insulation:

• Mechanical fastening: The insulation boards are fitted with self–tapping screws and plates into the roofing deck.

• Pros: This is the commonly used and approved method for attaching the insulation on steel and wooden roofs. This method of fastening is also appropriate with concrete and gypsum deck types.
• Cons: This procedure requires pre drilled pilot holes and usage of special fasteners. Added labor for pre drilling, potential damage to the deck and the loud noises during the drilling, make this method of fastening less popular when fastening decks other than wood or steel.

• Hot Asphalt: This is an acceptable method for fastening insulation to concrete decks.

• Pros: It can be used over base sheets made of gypsum, cement wood fiber, and lightweight concrete on decks that workers can nail into.
• Cons: The odor of asphalt is objectionable as it may be repulsive to some people. Transport of hot asphalt to the roof decks is not practical in some cases.

• Low-rise polyurethane adhesives: These are approved fastening agents that service managers can use for fastening insulation to the roof decks.

• Pros: Without the bad odor, the low-rise polyurethane adhesive provides a substitute to hot asphalt. The deliverance of the adhesive can be easily done to roof decks without much hassle.
• Cons: A research study done by FM Global—a provider of property insurance, has rejected low-rise polyurethane adhesives for attachment of insulation to steel roof decks.

Be certain about your choice of insulation and the fastening methods that are being implemented. Also keep in mind the R–value of the insulating material, membrane compatibility, and energy-code requirements. All these factors will help you get the best out of your well insulated roof.

You know you need to hire a roof contractor when you encounter any of these two situations: either the existing roof has turned too old and needs to be replaced, or you are planning to install a roof for your newly constructed house. Roof replacement or installation is a daunting assignment and requires huge investment. To make the most out of your money investing in roof installation, you need to ensure that a reliable roof contractor is hired. Professional contractors with years of experience in this field and adequate knowledge about the latest methods of roof repair, replacement and installation can handle this task efficiently. How to hire reliable roof installation professionals: Tips & more

• Understand your requirements: Does your roof installation requirements have complex details involved? Are you looking for minor roof repairs or a major level installation? Having clarity about your requirements is the best way to get suitable contractor.
• Look for registered contractors in your city: Whichever roof contractor you choose, make sure they are registered and licensed.
• Research about the contractors you shortlist: It is obvious that you will shortlist a few contractors to finalize the most appropriate one amongst them. It is suggested to research about the roof contractors via the internet (reliable websites) to finalize the best suitable one.
• Select a contractor with a permanent office address: When you hand over responsibility of roof installation to a contractor, it becomes automatically important for you to make sure that they have a valid communication address. This will help you for any future references.
• Mention your requirements in detail: Once you have finalized a contractor, it is recommended that you share your roof repair or installation related requirements in detail. This will reduce the chances of any confusion in future.
• Inquire about warrantees, guarantees and insurance details from your clients: Registered roofing contractors offer a certain level of warranties, guarantees and insurance policies on their services. You should inquire about the same before signing the contract.
• Don’t forget to sign the contract mentioning proper details: Signing a written contract with the details of work to be done, terms and conditions, decided time frame for the entire assignment etc., is a must. The contract should be signed after mutual understanding by both parties.

Keeping all these tips in mind will help you choose a suitable contractor to address your roof installation requirements. Apart from this, your instinct in deciding a roof contracting company as a reliable and suitable option always plays a substantial role.

Roofing technologies have been going through major changes in response to evolving progressive requirements. The newest developments in the field lay impetus in recycling, lightweighing, affordability, aesthetics and eco-friendliness. Whether you plan an overhaul or reinforcement of your existing roof, it makes sense to keep track of the latest roofing resources.

Most of the advanced materials available commercially are now the results of specific innovations from R&D facilities at major roofing services. Now, the new roofs may be applicable with the building codes of the states where they operate, but you need to be sure if your state also allows it. If you are in the same state, or if the company maintains nationwide code compatibility, you can always make practical use of the information presented here.

• Roof made of reclaimed wood or recyclable polymer: Although the use of wood for shingles is ecologically stressful in the long run, roofs made of recycled wood ensure a reduced demand for lumber. Check out the services provided by your local company to design a roofing system from reclaimed wood in your state. Old wood from discarded water and wine tanks, bridges, and mills are great resources to put them in roofing use. The wooden roofs have good insulation properties but they can be hazardous to use in a fire-prone region.

Wooden roofs are highly aesthetic in a distinct classic appeal that you do not find in polymer shingles. However, you can also use the services of a company offering 100% recyclable plastic and lightweight roofing. Wood is highly inflammable, whereas some of the advanced polymer shingles have zero combustion risks. However, both roof styles can be reinforced with metal underlaying and overlaying. 

• Highly eco-friendly utility roofs: Check out the solar shingles from a leading manufacturer. Companies offer these in seven variations, each type capable of different power generation capacities. The technology here is photovoltaic integration in metal roofs, and it is fast catching up as a progressive trend. The shingles are capable of generating electricity in the range of 3 – 120 kw per unit. Although BIPV (Building Integrated PhotoVoltaic) technology has been around for almost three decades, it is now that it is gaining momentum.

Speaking of utility roofs, you can also go ahead with the ‘vegetable roofs.’ Here, you can use the advantage of accessing your roof to plant a greenery layer and vegetables over it. It has been a trend in Europe and other parts of the world for centuries, but America is just now catching on. Besides offering amazing natural insulation, the roofs can serve as your personal kitchen garden, given you the possibility of saving thousands of dollars in grocery expenditure.

An understanding of these resources can help you to plan a great roof if you need it now. Although the primary expenditure may be high, they are significantly cost-effective if you consider the long-term savings.

Do you think sheds are just for lawn movers and yard tools?  Think again.  A well-built structure in your yard can be used for all sorts of purposes.  All you have to do is dream it, and your shed can be whatever your home needs.

A well-built shed is made like a small house.  They have a foundation, framework, a roof, and siding.  Maybe you don’t need to house a lawnmower, or garden equipment, but your shed can be used for all sorts of things.

Maybe you want to store something different.  Why not?  Motorcycles and ATVs fit great in a backyard shed.  Maybe you want to have the perfect pool storage for all of your pool accessories?  A shed can be the perfect pool house.  Maybe you love to entertain in your backyard, but you don’t want to leave all of your extra lawn furniture or other equipment out.  A shed could be your perfect solution.

Using a shed for storage is obvious, though.  Maybe you want the perfect work area to use your tools and to build and fix things.  You shed could become the ultimate tool room.  Maybe you like to do metal working, or something else that may be a bit dangerous to work on in your home.  A shed away from the main part of your property offers you a safe environment while shielding your projects from the elements.  Whether you are a master craftsman, an artist, or you just love to tinker around with tools and fix it projects, your backyard shed can become your oasis for all things building and creating.

Have you ever wanted the perfect playhouse for the kids in the backyard?  Why not convert a shed into the perfect home away from home?  Add windows and some homey accents to make the perfect playhouse for your kids.  Your child will be the envy of their friends with their own custom playhouse.

Adding a shed to your yard means more than just adding storage.  Let your imagination be your guide as you create the perfect outdoor accessory to your home.  Talk to your local shed building professional and see how they can help build you the perfect outdoor structure.

Summertime means we are in the height of thunderstorm season.  Are your gutters ready?  If not, you may want to consider a gutter protection system for more effective drainage and to better protect your home.

The obvious reason for gutter protection is to keep leaves and debris out.  If you have ever cleaned a gutter, you know that it would be great if all that debris never got into the gutters in the first place.  Clogged gutters cause all sorts of other problems besides a mess to clean out.  Gutter protection systems let the rain in and keep the debris out.  This makes for more effective drainage, and alleviates a big mess in your gutters.

Have you ever had critters living in your gutters?  Birds and squirrels love to nest in gutters and cause problems.  Sure, the first big rain hitting their nest usually makes them think twice, but that doesn’t mean they don’t leave all of that nesting debris behind.  With a gutter protection system you can keep birds and squirrels out.  This keeps your gutters clean, and keeps the animals from having an unpleasant surprise when the first big rain of the season gives them an unexpected bath.

Finally, having clean gutters due to a gutter protection system will help keep water from pooling around your house and causing expensive structural damage.  A clogged gutter will often overflow over the side and create a waterfall of sorts right next to your home.  If your basement is susceptible to flooding, this can be a major issue as the pooling water will almost certainly cause a problem.  Stagnant puddles near your home from this overflow can also cause issues with insects breeding close to your home.  Mosquitos love to breed near stagnant water.  They can also cause mold growth and other structural issues.

Protect your home, and save yourself some annoying gutter cleaning and home maintenance tasks by having a gutter protection system installed.  There are several different systems to choose from so you can find the perfect fit for your home.  Talk to an installation specialist today to find out more of the benefits of a gutter protection system!

Ever wonder why you need a building permit to build onto your own property.  After all, you own the property and you want to add something to it.  Why do you need the town’s permission?  It is for your own safety and for the safety of others that you need a permt, and in the long run it is a small hassle to make sure your property is safe.

Undoubtedly, your plan is to build a safe structure on your property that adds value to your home, and adds enjoyment for your living there.  Certainly, though, there have been plenty of people in the past who have built unsafe structures on their properties that have caused a lot of trouble for the other home owners around them.  This is a major part of why you need a permit to add something on to your home.

Imagine how you would feel if your neighbor built a structure that fell on your property and damaged your home or car?  I bet you would wish that someone had stopped them from building an unsafe structure in their yard.  Your town owes it to your neighbors to make sure you don’t destroy their property due to negligence, as well.  It is a major part of why they ask you to get a permit before building on your property.

Another reason to ask you to get a permit is for your own benefit.  A permit protects you from bad contractors building something that will end up causing you or your neighbors damage in the future.  You don’t want to build an addition on your home to have the roof collapse due to poor construction, or for faulty electrical wiring to cause a fire.  You don’t want to build a treehouse for your children in a tree that can’t hold the structure.  You contractor is bound by the permit guidelines as well, and this will help them make good decisions to create as safe a structure as possible for you.  It will also help protect you if your contractor does a bad job by having the support of a permit issued by your town.

Building guidelines are also constantly being updated to compensate for other peoples mistakes in the past.  Some structures that are considered to be safe turn out not to be after a few years of use, so your town is updating its guidelines so you don’t repeat someone else’s mistake.  They are protecting you from making a costly mistake, and helping your contractor make a lasting structure that will enhance your home.

So if you want to know why you need a permit to add to your own property, it is to protect you and your home.  It is for the benefit of you and your contractors making the best decisions possible in the building process.  If you want to add a deck, shed, pool, home addition, or any other structure on your property talk to your local contractor about the possibilities, and get your building permit to add value and beauty to your home today!

When it comes to landscaping around your home, the choice between stamped concrete and pavers can be tough.  Here are a few good reasons why you might want to give stamped concrete a try:

1. Stamped concrete can mimic more than just pavers!  It can even mimic wood or granite.  The possibilities are endless with stamped concrete, and with a variety of textures to choose from you can be as creative as you want.  With stamped concrete you can achieve a lot more different looks than you can with pavers.

2. Stamped concrete can even be used indoors for durable flooring in basements, kitchens, and baths.  You can’t use pavers in your kitchen, but you can use stamped concrete!  Want the look of hardwood floors in your basement, but fear the expensive damage that could be done if your basement ever floods?  With stamped concrete you can get the look without the worry.  You can have beautiful floors in your home with the durability of concrete.

3. Stamped concrete will stand the test of time better than pavers in frost heave, which is when the ground moves during cold weather due to frost.  If you live in a cold climate, pavers can have a lot of issues with ground movement. Because stamped concrete is one large slab, it can withstand these changes better.  You shouldn’t deny yourself a beautiful yard because you live in a harsher climate.

4. Weeds and grass can grow in between cracks in pavers, but that is never an issue with stamped concrete.  Have you ever had weeds grow between the cracks in your pavers or sidewalk?  They are ugly and hard to get rid of.  With stamped concrete weeds are never an issue because they have nowhere to grow in a solid slab of concrete.

5. On flat surfaces, stamped concrete is a clear choice and stands to hold up better over time.  When paving a flat surface, stamped concrete holds up much better than pavers, which can still move and lose their even surface.  If you are paving a flat surface, you stand a better chance at having a longer lasting product with stamped concrete.

The positive attributes of stamped concrete go beyond the five examples I have listed above.  Talk to your local landscaping expert, and see what they can do for you.  Get the yard of your dreams with the added aesthetic appeal of stamped concrete.

Do you have a big basement without much in it?  A barebones basement isn’t exactly an attractive space to be in, and the concrete or stone floors make it not the safest place for children to play.  There are so many possibilities your basement has to offer your family.  If you can dream it, Ameritech can build it.

Ameritech offers basement finishing services, and will help you create your perfect living space.  Are you looking for a space where the kids can play without destroying the main living areas in your house?  A finished basement might be your solution.  Maybe you have always dreamed of having a man cave or a lady cave?  A finished basement is your perfect home away from home.  Running a business from home can be difficult without proper office space.  Build your dream office in your basement and work comfortably from home.  Maybe you need a guest bedroom or a mother-in-law suite?  Build a beautiful and private suite in your finished basement.

Do you still need storage in your basement?  You don’t have to finish the entire space.  Maybe you want a play area, man cave, and office?  You can make your basement whatever you need.  One large living space or several rooms, you decide and Ameritech Home Improvement Services will help it come to fruition.

Why waste space in your home?  Finishing your basement adds value to your home, and valuable living space for your family.  Call Ameritech today for your free consultation and start building your dream finished basement today!

If you are a home owner, you know the importance of good lawn and garden maintenance.  It takes a lot of tools and equipment to keep your yard looking well groomed and professional.  Lawn movers, trimmers, clippers, rakes, and shovels are just some of the tools used in everyday lawn and garden maintenance.  A lot of large tools can take up a lot of space in your garage.

Wouldn’t it be nice to take back your space in your garage?  Maybe you want a tool bench.  Or maybe you need to store your bicycles.  Or maybe you want to take back space so you can actually park a car in there! Wouldn’t it be nice to have a place to store your lawn and garden tools?  How about a custom shed?

Ameritech Home Improvement Services builds a custom shed in your backyard just the way you want it.  It is built from the foundation up like a house, and it is built to last.  Customize your shed to whatever shape or size you need to better store your tools and equipment.

Sheds aren’t only good for lawn and garden tools.  They are great for storing pool supplies and toys, bicycles, and sporting equipment.  They can even be effective storage for off road vehicles and dirt bikes.

If you are in need of extra storage and are looking for a well built and beautiful addition to your home, call Ameritech Home Improvement Services today and get your car back in your garage today!