Solar Panel Installation Tips

Osullivans Carlsbad Solar Roofing July 22, 2021April 11, 2022

What You Need To Know Before Installing Solar Panels On Your Roof

Purchasing and installing solar panels is a major home buy that needs careful and detailed research and meticulous planning. Everybody wants to sim0ly step into a store and find the tool that meets their needs and case in minutes but obviously, this isn’t possible. Because solar units are a fairly big investment, this report will help you distinguish the good from the bad and focus on the most useful aspects.

1. How Long Do You Plan To Live In Your Home?

It’s wise to plan a timespan and estimate how long you intend to live in your house. When it comes to the installation of solar panels on your home’s roof, it will take 5+ years for them to return your initial investment.

If you intend to reside in the same home for longer, getting solar units is a smart idea but if you are the kind of person who is always on the go or is in a profession that demands the frequent switch of locations, it’s best to go for other alternative options to control your energy expenditure.

2. The Level of Energy Necessary To Energize Your Home

It’s widely known that every house spares different power levels, depending on the reason their electrical energy is consumed and the number of residents. The dimensions of the system are based on two primary aspects:

1. The insolation and level of power are necessary.
2. An evaluation of utility bills and calculation of the amount of KW of energy you use as a homeowner daily X 0.25 to gauge the size of your system necessary to yield sufficient amounts of power through your home.

3. Your Roofing Type

It’s important to know what roof type you have before you go ahead with the installation. Even though solar units can be applied to almost any roof type, on a few occasions, they may come with extra effort and higher costs. Some roofing companies, for example, attach solar units on composite shingle roofs and won’t accept requests to install the units on Spanish tiles. But, don’t get disappointed. If you do some research, you may find a Carlsbad roofing company that can work with your roof type.

4. Cost Scope

As a result of the marker rise, the value of solar panels has fallen by 60%. If you include government and state tax credits and subsidies to your panel value, that should reach approx. $17K for the initial investment.

5. Location/Area of Residence

Ensure that your location is exposed to sunlight regularly as this is a major factor that determines the amount and type of solar panels to install. Different panels react differently to lack of sunlight/shadow. Some decrease the energy output while others close it down completely. The longer your panels will be subject to natural sunlight, the more effective power will be generated.

Getting A New Home? Here is What To Look Out For

Osullivans Carlsbad Home Improvement May 1, 2021July 22, 2021

Do you know how to inspect your roof?

In case you are going to purchase a new house and wish to pay attention to your roof first, there are several things you should watch out for. It goes beyond just seeing the state of the roof from the ground as this isn’t the best way to gain a deep and wide viewpoint of the condition. Here are the most important things to look out for:

1. Mold Or Stain Spots

Stains and spots are certain elements that you should check as there are indicators of mold development. While black mold is the most frequent, other colors such as green or white are also found. Typically, the mold stains can be seen adobe the roofing material, even though in some cases the stains can be found near the bottom of the construction where water has entered through the house.

In case any internal spots were fixed for water damage, it’s best to inspect your roofing material more closely. In the majority of cases, homeowners will repair the spot where the water has leaked through while leaving out the beginning spot where it initially hit the roofing. Because mold can damage your roof and emit dangerous molecules into the atmosphere of your home, it is essential to solving this problem right away. If you decide to proceed with the purchase of the house, you should be prepared to invest in a new roof or fixing work.

2. The General Condition

In addition to watching out for mold signs, it is also important to inspect the roof for a while to see how it holds up. Are there any lost shingles? Do the shingles look bent or cracked? Make your own search to find out when the new roof was a set-up from the previous owners so you can find out the time you’ll wait until the next replacement of the roof. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s best to contact an expert.

3. Gutters

Since gutters are an essential part of your roofing’s general health, it’s highly important to check their existing state before proceeding with the purchase. In the majority of cases, gutters will just be dirty and have to be unclogged to enable the water to circulate freely. But, if there is any impairment to the gutters, this can result in major water leakage on your roofing and the inside of your house.
Tip: Check the drainage pipes and downspouts as well to make sure that the gutter system is in good condition.

4. Ventilation

A ventilation system on the roof is an important aspect of a healthy and functional house. Its role is to enable both sun and air to enter through to prevent the formation of mold while keeping the ventilation running through the house. There are several kinds of roof vents and if you are unsure about all available options, it’s best to call a roofing expert to check the situation.

5. Sagging

In case you notice some sagging pots on the interior ceilings, this is an indicator of former water leakage. The best way to tackle this is by hiring a roofing expert to check the area below the shingles to find out if any impairment has occurred. They can inspect the area for water impairment and/or mild so you can get ready for fixing work or a completely new roof, in case you proceed with the purchase.

6. Downspout Location

All downspouts on the roofing should not be pointed right to the ground, or there is a high risk of flooding. These should be applied instead at a narrow-angle so the water flow will be oriented away from home.

Why You Must Always Hire An Expert For A Roof Replacement

Osullivans Carlsbad Roof Replacement April 14, 2021July 22, 2021

Residential roofing, whether it has to be fixed or fully replaced, is a major home task. By employing an expert roofer, you’ll no longer worry about any safety and practicality issues. Qualified experts will be able to carry out the work in a prompt manner. It is suggested to choose a contractor with proven ability to do the job to ensure the safety of the roof.

Safety is critical

Going DIY without any professional knowledge can be quite hazardous. If you are still in the learning stage without knowing exactly what you are doing, you may place yourself in a risky situation. Protection from slipping when working 10+feet above the ground is necessary. A seasoned Carlsbad roofing expert will have all the knowledge, training, and skills to execute the work safely. Don’t take any risks. Contact a professional.

The Technical Knowledge

Expert roofers possess the technical knowledge of safely and effectively replacing your roof. Their know-how in the most suitable technique is priceless when doing the project. Homeowners who go the DIY route usually tend to over or underestimate their roof’s dimensions and leave it exposed to pesky issues that may cost even more cash, in the long run, to be fixed.

Additionally, the improper application is a frequent cause of early roof falling. Without the necessary skills and technical know-how, an amateur may miss an important component that leads to costly repair and replacement in the long run.

Time is Precious

If your roof is in a poor state there is no point in waiting forever to replace it. Doing all the replacing yourself may save you some cash at first, but it may end up costing you more down the road. On some occasions, you’ll have to take off the old shingles and carry out repairs before the application of new shingles. Throwing away your old roof is also something that you’ll have to bother yourself with.

By employing an expert who truly knows their job, you’ll be saving more time and money in the long run. Their daily work involves doing roofing projects and so they can do the task more safely, effectively, and promptly. Some minor roof fixing work may seem easy to do by yourself, but seeking an expert’s help is always a wise decision.

Best Materials For New Roof Constructions

Osullivans Carlsbad Roof Construction March 22, 2021July 22, 2021

Do You Need A New Roof Set-Up? We Present You The 6 Top Roofing Materials

Like most people out there, you most likely don’t bother yourself much about your home’s roof and that’s not bad. Typically, the only time our roof draws our attention is when there is a problem e.g. leak or damage. And even though your roof’s primary role is to shield and protect your home from the elements, don’t ignore the actual effect a good roof will have on your house’s appearance and functionality.

There is a broad range of roofing options to choose from and they are all good fits for new developments or the replacement of older roofs. The roof material you’ll select will depend on different variables such as your home’s structure and appearance, your individual needs, and of course your pocket. Your location should also be taken into account as some roofing materials best in specific areas across the country. For instance, clay tile roofs are common in Southern states but not so popular in Midwest or Northeast areas.

1 Asphalt Shingles

These are the most common roofing material without any exaggeration. More than 75% of houses across the country are shielded with asphalt shingle roofs. There are plenty of reasons why: they are cost-efficient, allow prompt installation, and are available in different shades and finishes, not to mention they are also durable. They can last up to 40 years.

There are two main types of asphalt shingle materials: fiberglass and organic-based shingles. The organic types are less costly and are more widely available. Fiberglass-based shingles typically cost more but they are more durable, lightweight, and fire-proof. You can find good quality and not so good quality variations of both types. In general though, the higher the cost, the better the quality of the material is.

There are also two primary types of asphalt shingles: 3-tab shingles and architectural-kind ones. Common 3-tab shingles are a simple and classic choice. Every shingle consists of a single later with two thin slots trimmed into it to form three tabs. On other hand, architectural types include 2 lines of asphalt roofing, one attached on top of the other. These types also bear a solid bottom part and an upper strip cut with broadly spaced, dovetail-formed tabs. The 2 strips are laminated at the manufacturing unit. Once applied, the laminated structure creates a densely textured layer with deep dark/shadow lines.

Architectural kinds of shingles are a much more revamped version of 3-tab shingles appearance-wise and they are also more durable. They also come in different shades and finishes to choose from, which in some cases resemble conventional roof materials. For instance, the natural/tan shades can be made to mimic old cedar shakes and the greyish-black shingles made to look like salt.

2 Cedar Roofing

Several roofing materials are less costly and simpler to set up compared to cedar roofing; however, when it comes to natural beauty and characteristic texture, there is no comparison–cedar roof wins. The only drawback of a wood roof like cedar is that it offers minimal protection against fire unless it’s brushed with a fire-retarding agent. There are two primary kinds of cedar roofing: shingles and shakes. The first are narrower and have a smoother and sleeker texture. Shakes, on the other hand, are bulkier and rougher in texture. Some shakes are bound from tree logs while others are split manual for a more natural and rough texture. A shake roof has a more traditional and distinct vibe. It also bears deep “waters”.

Cedar shingles come in different classes. The top quality class is No.1 “Blue Label” shingles. The high-class shingles are totally clear and trimmed entirely from all heart-wood for maximum decay resistance. Cedar shakes are also available in 4 main classes. The top roofing grade for shakes is the “certi-split hand-split” class. It has a rough facet but the smooth cut backside enables an easier set-up.

3 Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are a growingly popular choice in the shingle market and there is a valid reason why: metal roofs are highly sustainable, durable, cost-efficient, easy to set up, and protective against the elements. Plus, they look great for many different home styles–from New England Victorian homes to Carolina coastal villages.

The common metal roof consists of lengthy panels lined on top of each other that expand from the roof’s edge to the eaves. The usual panel materials include zinc, aluminum, and copper. The typical styles are the standing/raised seams and the corrugated panels. The most popular choice among Carlsbad homeowners though is the standing-seam roofing because the adjacent panel shields the closures. In corrugated panels, the screw tips are revealed. Nowadays, we can also find newer interlocking metal panels that mimic wood shingles, clay tile, and slate materials.

4 Slate

Even though some materials resemble slate in terms of looks, there is nothing better than the real thing. Organic slate has been proven to be a first-grade roofing element. From the 16th century till now, it has been used as a solid roofing material across the country. It is highly durable, fire-resistant, and can make it up to 100 years with proper maintenance.

The only drawback of slate is that it’s costly to purchase and apply. It’s also bulky. Thus, if you are thinking of installing a slate roof on your house, it is suggested that you consult a construction engineer to check the roof’s structure and validate if it can withhold the extra slate weight.

5 Clay & Concrete Tiles

Commonly found in Mediterranean-style houses, clay-made tiles and Portland concrete are valued for their robust aesthetics, longevity, weather element protection, and energy savings.

Both clay and concrete tiles can be shaped in several forms and profiles, giving a distinct and impressive appearance to the roof. Clay tiles also come in unglazed and fire-glazed in a wide range of shades. Some cement tiles also have a decorative pattern but the majority are just unpolished gray cement.

These roofing materials are common in hotter regions as they help control heat. And despite being costly, they are incredibly durable and can last up to 80 years. Keep in mind, though, that clay and concrete tiles are bulky (similar to slate roofs). Thus, you better check with an engineer in advance to validate that your existing roof structure can withhold the added weight.

6 Synthetic/Composite Roofing Shingles

Synthetic composite roofs represent one of the newest and most impressive roofing kinds. Thanks to a structured plastic composite, these solid shingles offer protection from rot, weather elements, and fire. They are also known as “faux shingles” because they mimic the look of natural slate and cedar shingles and shakes.

Their installation process is similar to other roofing shingles: they are nailed to plywood layering in overlapping parts. The equipment, time, and experience needed to set up composite shingles are nearly the same as asphalt shingles, but synthetic “faux shingles” usually cost 3-4X more.

Roof Blisters Vs Delamination

Osullivans Carlsbad Roof Maintenance January 12, 2021July 22, 2021

Roof Blisters Vs Delamination: Comparing The Two & Protecting Your Roof

Blisters and delaminations may be used to describe the same problem but they are not the same. They do share a few common culprits and results though. They both damage the roof’s outer layer and if left to expand, they expose the roof’s structure to wind and water attacks. Knowing their differences is the key to efficient fixing and prevention of problems, ultimately leading to the avoidance of expensive damage repairs.

How Blisters Inflict Damage In 3 Ways

Roof blisters may develop if contractors mistakenly let air and humidity accumulate between the levels of the roof set-up. The more vulnerable roofing types, in this case, are built-up roofs.
Blistering involves three basic problems:

1. Contractors or employees may shatter blisters by walking over them, making the building susceptible to leakage.

2. Solid gusts may grab big blisters and lead to uplift problems.

3. Blisters may also accumulate excess humidity or attract more,

even when it’s not raining outside. This accumulated humidity inside can either enter the building or get trapped in the roof’s interior, causing broad damage.

Repairing Roof Blisters: Stopping The Issue At The Source

To fix damaged blisters for good, it’s crucial to detach the blistered spots down to the insulation. Carlsbad roofing contractors have to check all nearby spots for holes, tears, or any other signs of uneven structure that could aggravate water leakage. Then, they should attach the same number of plies as those who were damaged or naturally detached, making sure to expand the underlying ply at least 6” further the damaged surface. The last step involves the re-application of surfacing and inspecting to ensure a total seal of the area.

Delamination: When the Insulation and Membrane Layers Fall Apart

Delaminations frequently have an impact on single-ply and completely attached roofs. Similar to blisters, delamination may originate from the poor set-up in heavy weather conditions. If the climate is often moist, moisture can accumulate between the insulation and membrane. Even though this isn’t always apparent during the installation, this accumulated humidity can make the membrane slide off the insulation. During heavy storms and winds, there is a high risk of a slide-off.

Even if the installation is properly executed, delamination can still emerge over time because of UV exposure and minor changes in the building’s structure.

Lastly, roofs on specialized buildings that develop high levels of moisture e.g. freezer units or swimming pools, are also susceptible to delamination risk.

Fixing A Delaminated Roof: Detaching and Replacing It

The best course of action in such cases is to just replace the delaminated area with a new membrane. This is not always needed on completely adhered roofs, as they can be salvaged by detaching and replacing the old membrane. A skilled roofer will evaluate if the membrane is delaminated as a result of accumulated humidity or a problem with the company’s materials. In such cases, it is important to thoroughly note down all the uneven structural issues to expand the warranty or fix any emerging replacement problems.

Even though the above issues share similar culprits and outcomes, being able to tell the differences between blisters and roof delamination is crucial to their proper evaluation during checks, repair, and prevention. Similar to other roofing problems, delamination and blistering can be fixed easily if they are spotted and treated early. Otherwise, they may lead to further issues down the road if they are ignored.