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Be Ready: 4 Smart Ways to Plan for Hurricane Season

Sunday, April 19th, 2015

Everyone loves the return of warm weather in the spring. However, for those of us on the East Coast, the rising temperatures come with something new to worry about – hurricane season starts in 6 weeks. If you live in a hurricane danger zone, it’s wise to start preparing now; readiness is the best way to ensure your safety and minimize damage to your home if a storm hits. Here are some tips to make sure you’re prepared for the worst.

Protect Yourself with Information

One of the easiest ways to stay safe during hurricane season is simply to stay well-informed of any dangers to yourself or your property. Learn the elevation level and flood-proneness of your home, and keep yourself updated on severe weather forecasts with your computer, TV, radio or smartphone.

Make an Emergency Plan

Knowing what to do in the event of a hurricane emergency can make a big difference. Make sure that you keep basic disaster supplies (water, flashlight, radio) accessible in your home. Also, make an evacuation plan with your family (set a meeting place and time) and practice it.

Hurricane-Proof Your Home

Doors, windows and other openings are the main points of failure when a building is damaged by a hurricane. Also of concern are dead or shallow-rooted trees, as well as lawn or deck fixtures that could become projectiles in strong winds. Fortunately, there’s a thriving industry of hurricane-proofing for these things. If you’re having trouble finding a hurricane-proofing contractor in your area, TalkLocal may be able to help.

Prepare for Repairs

If your home is damaged by the storm, getting everything fixed quickly is an essential part of returning to normal life. Have your local handyman’s number in your phone – if you don’t know who that is, use TalkLocal to find an available one near you.

Proper hurricane preparations start long before the storms have hit the ground but, as with all natural disasters, they can be daunting to think about. There are no shortcuts for educating yourself or keeping your family ready for an emergency, but for the pre- and post-storm housework, we’re here to help. Check out our Android/iOS apps or website to get connected to hurricane service professionals near you.

Tags: disaster preparation, hurricane
Posted in Handyman, Roofers, Tree Removal, Window Replacement | No Comments »

Flat Roofs Repairs

Tuesday, March 25th, 2014

If your flat roof is leaking or has deteriorated because of aging and harsh weather conditions, you need to repair it. In some cases, if the damage is too serious, you might have to replace your roof completely. To make it easier for you, here are some guidelines:

Flat Roofs Repairs – Where to Start

First, you need to identify the source of the leak, and make sure you know what type of material your roof is made of. Different materials require different fixes, so inspect your roof and see what it’s made of. Look at the boarding of your roof. If it’s older, it’s probably made of chipboard.

Be careful when you inspect the roof, especially if it’s made of chipboard. This material becomes soft as a result of water infiltration and you might fall through. On the other hand, if your roof decking is made of tongue and groove plywood, you’re safer because this material is more resistant. However, watch out when you inspect your roof, and if you don’t feel at ease doing it, call a professional roofer.

Flat Roofs Repairs or Replacement?

Minor leaks that are detected early can usually be repaired easily. Once you identify the leak, if it’s not too big, you can use a sealant to cover the cracks. Make sure it’s the right product for the type of flat roof material you have and follow the instructions on the label for application.

However, if your flat roof has been leaking for a while and you’ve been postponing repairs, the entire structure may be affected, and you might have to replace the roof. To be on the safe side, it’s best to talk to a professional roofer before deciding.

Find an Expert

Need flat roof repairs? TalkLocal can connect you with up to three experienced roofers in your area to fix your roof. We’re here to make it easier for you. Our service is fast and free.

Tags: Flat Roofs Repairs
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Best Gutter Guards

Monday, March 24th, 2014

These days, more and more people are looking for items that could help them reduce the frequency of costly, time-consuming roof maintenance routines. The best gutter guards match this description, since they enable homeowners to clean their gutters less often and ensure a satisfactory protection against dead leaves, debris, and dust.

Are the Best Gutter Guards a Smart Investment?

There is no simple answer to this question. Yes, these items can be purchased and installed to reduce the frequency of regular gutter cleaning operations, but they do not guarantee a foolproof barrier against impurities year-round. This is the main reason why, even if you were to choose to install gutter cleaners, you’d still have to check your gutters periodically and make sure they’re not clogged with water, leaves, or ice.

What Kind of Gutter Guards Should I Buy?

There are six different types of gutter guards:

1) Foam gutter guards: this type of product is made of plastic and prevents dust from getting inside the gutter.

2) Reserve curve gutter guards: this model sends the water inside the gutter via its small slit and makes most leaves land on the ground.

3) Bottle brush gutter guards: this model keeps you gutters clean and also deters mice, snakes, birds, and rats.

4) Non-gutter covers: in this case, thin louvers are utilized to divert raindrops off the roof of your home

5) Nylon gutter guards: these elements don’t have to be linked to your roof shingles and they ensure an excellent protection against ice accumulation and snow piles.

6) Mesh gutter guards: these sheets are attached to roof shingles; they have small or large holes that let the water flow down the gutter. Smaller holes are ideal, because they get clogged less often than large holes.

Choose the best gutter guards based on your needs. Keep in mind that newer models are easy to install, easy to clean, don’t require screws or adhesives, and have a long service life.

Ask an Expert

Not sure how to find the very best gutter guards on your own? In this case, just discuss your options with a competent roofer in your area. Find the best one with TalkLocal, a free service allowing you to track local experts with a few clicks.

Tags: Best Gutter Guards
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Flood-Proof Home: Roofing and Siding

Thursday, March 20th, 2014

Don’t Let Flood Ruin Your Roof

Floods can cause extreme damage to your home. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that this can never occur to you. To minimize risks, you need to take the necessary measures to ensure a flood-proof home.

How to Protect Your Roofing and Siding

As the roof is the part that covers the top of your house, it is the most exposed and likely to suffer from the impact of bad weather conditions. The same goes for the siding – the material, which covers the outer walls of your home, is likely to be deteriorated by heavy water. Let’s see what you can do in order to protect the outer parts of your house and have a flood-proof home.

Check Your Roofing and Siding

Before you start your flood-proofing project, you need to check your roof and siding first. It might be necessary to have some repairs done before reinforcing them. If you’re not much of a handyman, you may want to get professional help. This way you can be sure that the job is done properly.

Use Flood Damage-Resistant Materials

Choosing flood-proof materials is the most significant protection measure you can take. It is important that you opt for types of materials that are meant to protect your house against floods. Among these, fiber cement is a top contender for a flood-proof home. It can deal successfully with debris that could be projected onto your house. Moreover, it is advantageous because you don’t have to worry about moisture.

What You Should Do In The Event of a Flood

In the event of a flood, could you repair your roof and siding by yourself? There are certain things you could do, but it is recommended that you act with extreme caution. First, you should inspect the condition of your roof. Be careful, because the whole structure of your house could be affected. Wear boots, gloves, or flood-proof equipment, and never perform this in the dark.

Need Help?

If you need to repair your roofing or siding, you might want it to be done by professionals. Seva Call can help by putting you into contact with the right people in no time.

Tags: Flood-Proof Home
Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Gutter Guard Reviews

Monday, March 17th, 2014

If you want to spend less time cleaning your gutters every season, it is advisable to invest in high-quality gutter guards designed to deter mice, rats, birds, debris, leaves, and ice accumulations that may clog your system. To make an informed decision, start by consulting accurate gutter guard reviews. In case you require additional details, discuss your options with an expert in roofing problems.

Check Out Consumer Reports before Making a Purchase

There are two main categories of gutter guards:

a) Pro-installed, which are obviously more expensive than the ones that can be installed even by inexperienced homeowners

b) Homeowner-installed, which are less expensive

The best method to assess the effectiveness of some of the most popular brands of gutter guards is to consult gutter guard reviews that rate every single product based on several important selection criteria, including:

1) The ability to prevent debris accumulations

2) The ability to withstand simulated heavy/severe rainfall

3) Ease of installation

4) Overall price per foot

5) Type (surface tension, fine mesh, foam insert, screen, brush insert)

According to www.consumerreports.org, LeafFilter gets the biggest score in the first category of gutter guards (pro-installed products). With 86 points, LeafFilter is well liked for its superior efficiency when it comes to preventing buildups and for its “very good” ability to handle a heavy rainfall. This brand is followed by several other popular choices, including Gutter Topper (80 points) and LeafGuard (80 points).

If you are more interested in gutter guards that you could install on your own, note that Gutterglove Pro (89 points), Amerimax 85198 (86 points) and Amerimax 85246 (84 points) are some of the top-ranking products that may actually be worth your time and money.

Ask an Expert

Don’t know how to interpret gutter guard reviews and how to make an inspired decision? If so, just call a local roofer and ask for expert guidance. Find the best one with TalkLocal, your cost-free expert tracking tool. It’s fun and easy to use and will simplify all your decision-making processes.

Tags: Gutter Guard Reviews
Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Flat Roof Restoration

Thursday, March 13th, 2014

Aging, weather conditions, and climatic variations have an impact on your roof. There comes a point when repairs and even restoration are necessary to ensure the comfort of your home. If you have a flat roof, you need to become familiar with the restoration requirements that apply to flat roofs.

To be sure your flat roof restoration is done properly and with the right methods, it is advisable to entrust this job to experts. Companies specializing in this type of restoration will know exactly what to do, and you will gain the peace of mind that your roof is properly repaired.

Flat roofs can crack over time and can accumulate water in some parts of their surface, which can lead to holes and leaks. The most important factor to consider before initiating flat roof restoration is the material your roof is made of. Older flat roof repairs may require materials such as rubber compounds or sheet membranes, while newer flat roofs may need different types of coatings, such as elastomeric coatings. To be on the safe side, consult a specialist before beginning restoration.

Asphalt Flat Roofs

Asphalt roofs tend to shrink over the years due to exposure to sunlight, which can cause cracks to appear on the surface of your roof. Needless to say, cracks make room for water infiltration, and you end up with unpleasant leaks that are sometimes hard to spot, if the roof substrate has been affected. The solution is to apply an asphalt-based coating to seal the entire roof surface.

Metal Sheet Application

Some homeowners prefer to refurbish their flat roof using metal sheets due to their superior durability. Metal sheets improve the appearance of your roof and increase its resistance to elements. However, if you decide to choose this type of flat roof restoration, you need to know that the process is relatively complex and requires expert training and tools.

Find Help

TalkLocal can connect you with experienced roofers in your area who can get the job done well and quickly. Our service is free and effective.

Tags: Flat Roof Restoration
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Gutter Guards for Leaves

Tuesday, March 11th, 2014

Any competent roofer will tell you that gutters, which are not properly protected by gutter guards, should be cleaned at least once on a weekly basis. Of course, this assignment can be time-consuming and quite tedious. To save time and effort, it is recommended to install gutter guards for leaves.

How to Benefit from a “Leafless” Gutter System

If you want to buy and install the very best gutter guards, it is preferable to discuss your options with a competent roofer before giving the green light to this project. There are various kinds of gutter guards; each type displays its own list of pros and cons. If the large amount of dead leaves threatening to clog your gutter is your number one problem, consider opting for a “leafless” gutter system. In this case, you should know two things:

1) Gutters should be covered by a non-combustible, highly resistant mesh with an opening that measures less than 5 mm, to prevent dead leaves from slipping inside the gutter

2) This mesh should be properly installed to enable tree branches and leaves to just roll off the roof surface without any difficulties. The gutter mesh will lead to cleaner gutters and will make you climb on the ladder less often. It protects your property from extensive water damage and allows you to attain peace of mind, even in the event of a storm or a powerful rainfall.

Leaf gutter guards are available in a great variety of colors, including some of the most popular shades of green, brown, red, and beige, so you won’t have any trouble finding the one that is just right for your home.

Ask an Expert

Don’t know how to find and purchase the best gutter guards for leaves? If so, just talk to a competent local roofer. Pick the most reliable one in your area with TalkLocal, your free service designed to connect you with the best professionals in no time, with minimal effort.

Tags: Gutter Guards for Leaves
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Tips for Asphalt Roof Repair

Friday, March 7th, 2014

Most asphalt roof shingles are made with the latest technologies that make them extremely durable and resistant to weather, wind, and fire. However, problems can still develop even with the best products in the market. Fortunately, asphalt roof repair is quite easy to do since you can flatten and re-fasten any curled shingles, while old ones can just be replaced.

Leaking Roof

Is water dripping from your ceiling, or does it have water stains? Roof leaks may be caused by missing or damaged roof shingles. Check your roof for any of these problems.

Water may also seep into the roof at points where the shingles connect or where there are weak caulking. You should also check the end caps that cover the roof peak for any problems that may cause a leak and will require asphalt roof repair.

Leaks due to metal flashing issues can be fixed simply by resealing the joints with roof cement.

Curled Shingles

If you discover shingles that have curled back, you can refasten them. Brush on a layer of asphalt roofing cement over the shingles or caulk with a suitable compound. Make sure to coat the shingle’s underside well with the cement to secure all of the edges. Press down firmly and leave to set.

Replacing Shingles

Replacement is a simple solution for rotten, badly damaged, and missing roof shingles.

1. First, carefully raise the edges of the shingles that surround the damaged one and remove the nails using a pry bar.

2. With the nails removed, slide out the shingle to be replaced.

3. Get rid of any cement residue on the roof. If there are protruding nails, remove or hammer down to level them.

4. Before putting in the replacement shingle, use a utility knife to round its corners at the back so it will be easier to slide the new shingle in. You’ll want to put it in under the existing shingle above and align it with the shingles on both sides.

5. Once it’s in place, lift the edges of the shingles that overlap and secure the top of the new shingle with roofing nails.

6. Each corner of the shingle should be nailed down. Apply roof cement over the nail heads.

7. Smooth down the edges of the overlapping shingles.

Find a Roofer Now

If you’re looking to repair or replace an entire row of roof shingles, or you notice that shingles become loose from your roof very easily, it may be best to hire a professional roofer to tackle the job or assess the condition of your roof instead of continuing to rely on spot repairs. For any help with asphalt roof repair, contact Seva Call. We can connect you with qualified roofers fast and for free.

Tags: Asphalt Roof Repair
Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Hedgehog Gutter Guard

Wednesday, March 5th, 2014

The Hedgehog gutter guard is a filter that is designed entirely as a brush and it is placed inside the roof gutter to prevent the buildup of debris such as leaves, twigs, and moss, which typically causes costly obstructions. It is built with a core made of stainless steel wire that is interwoven with plastic bristles that are UV-resistant. The concept behind the Hedgehog gutter guard is to keep broad leaves and other large items from getting into the roof’s rainwater system.

Installation

Installing the Hedgehog gutter guard is quite easy. All you need is a ladder to reach the gutter and a pair of snips for cutting the cable.

1. First, clear the gutter of any debris, and then simply push the brush down inside the gutter with the bristles extending above the roof tiles.

2. The brush has a tile nose to secure it to the gutter.

3. If you’re unable to use this because you have a flat roof or low-hanging gutter, you can purchase special plastic clips to secure the brush.

Advantages

The Hedgehog gutter guard is a great alternative to the usual gutter mesh. Some of its good points include:

– Very easy to install and fit

– Also easy to remove, if necessary

– Will not crumple or disintegrate into the gutter like a traditional gutter mesh

– Cheaper and simpler system than other products

Disadvantages

As with any product, the Hedgehog gutter guard does have some downsides, including:

– Possible impact to aesthetics of your home since it might be visible from the ground.

– Does not completely keep out small debris such as fine moss or pine needles

– It’s not suited to a large higher capacity gutter only half round or square-line gutters

Maximize Results

Like any other gutter guards, this product still requires some maintenance. Don’t just install it and forget about it. It’s designed to help make gutter cleaning easier and not to completely eliminate the task for homeowners.

It would also work best if moss is first removed from the gutter prior to installation. It’s also a good idea to trim back any overhanging branches from nearby trees.

Get the Help of a Pro

If you need help with installing the Hedgehog gutter guard or with any roof maintenance job, Seva Call can connect you immediately with professional roofers in your area. Contact us now!

Tags: Hedgehog Gutter Guard
Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Rain Gutter Guards

Monday, March 3rd, 2014

If you want to protect your gutter system year-round and spend less money on roof maintenance projects, then consider opting for the very best rain gutter guards. There are numerous products available on the market, so you should do your best to purchase those which are actually tailored to your needs, expectations, and financial possibilities.

The Features and Benefits of Rain Gutter Guards

It goes without saying that you could easily find hundreds of models of rain gutter guards. All of them display different price tags and different design particularities. Nonetheless, they serve the same purpose, and the best ones have a few features and benefits in common.

1) They are affordable and easy to install, even for novices.

2) They are compatible with both existing and new gutter systems.

3) They reduce the frequency of gutter cleaning operations.

4) They prevent even the smallest elements (pests and even small sand particles) from going down the gutter.

5) They prevent buildups and stop the infiltration of small seeds that could grow into your gutter system (this is a common problem associated with less recommended plastic and foam gutter covers).

Micro mesh rain gutter guards ensure an effective protection even in the worst weather conditions. These products can withstand heavy rainfalls and prevent clogs, which force you to climb the ladder to your roof quite often.

Also note that some models, made of eco-friendly, durable polypropylene have a self-cleaning design that lets you invest even less time in maintenance projects. They ensure a more than satisfactory performance in any given set of circumstances and can handle an increased volume of rainwater without any difficulties.

Rely on an Expert Opinion

Would you like to find and purchase the best rain gutter guards? If so, choose to avoid costly mistakes by talking to a competent roofer. Find the best one with Seva Call, your #1 connection to the best professionals in your area.

Tags: Rain Gutter Guards
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