3 Things to Keep in Mind When Repairing Leaking Rain Gutters

Ignoring a leaky gutter can cause damage to your home’s exteriors. If you think you have this problem at home, take a read below to see what you can do to solve it.

Determine the cause of leaking
If rushing rainwater hits a blockage while running through gutters, it’s going to surge up and over that blockage, usually spilling over the sides of the gutter. Once the storm is over, grab your ladder and a pair of sturdy work gloves, and take a look inside the rain gutters. If they are full of sodden leaves and smelly muck, it’s likely that your problem isn’t so much a leaking gutter as a spillover. Using a small trowel, a gutter scoop, or your gloved hands, clear away as much debris as possible, dropping it into a bucket for disposal. Then use a power washer or the strongest blast from your garden hose to clear away any remaining grunge. Once gutters are clean, use your garden hose to fill them up with water, and watch for leaks. If water runs through to the downspout without a hitch, you’ve solved the problem. Source: BobVila

Seal the seams
Every connection on a metal gutter needs to be sealed: end caps, splices, drop outlets and miters. Buy a product that’s specifically formulated to seal gutter seams. Seam sealer can handle submersion for long periods of time. It’s also resistant to light, which it will get plenty of.

Most important, high-quality seam sealer is runny, so it can penetrate down into the seam for a durable, long-lasting connection. Most products refer to this property as “self-leveling.” And the runnier the better, so if you’re applying it on a cold day, keep the seam sealer somewhere warm so it stays fluid.

Try to remove as much of the old sealer as you can, and make sure the area you’re sealing is completely dry. Home centers usually stock seam sealer near the gutter parts. Source: FamilyHandyman

Replace large damaged areas
If you have a large area to patch that’s damaged or rusted, your best solution may be to cut that section of guttering away with a hacksaw. Then cut a new section slightly larger than the one you removed and adhere it two both sides of the old gutter using roofing cement to hold and seal it. Source: DoItYourself

Gutter problems often require you to go up a ladder with the right tools and expertise. Don’t compromise your safety. Call us, and we’ll take care of the job for you.

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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3 Important Tips to Avoid Chimney Fire

With all the things that happened this year, it seems like time flew faster than ever. Before we know it, it’s already almost winter. And this means it’s time to start prepping for the cold weather. Take a close look at the following tips to have a safe and cozy way to warm up at home:

Let a certified professional conduct an annual inspection
A damaged chimney can spread fire to the surrounding areas in your home. A dirty chimney with a lot of creosote and soot buildup is dangerous because these materials burn at very high temperatures, spreading the fire. It is therefore important to have your chimney and fireplace checked annually. For best results, use the services of a certified chimney sweep. Annual cleaning of the chimney will ensure better passage for the smoke and exhaust gases, in addition to regular removal of dangerous creosote. Source: DoItYourself

Do a test run
Test out the function of your fireplace by lighting a few small pieces of seasoned wood, lit from the top down. If smoke doesn’t exit vertically from the fireplace into the chimney, but enters the room, immediately troubleshoot and correct any problems. These can include creosote/soot build-up, other debris in the chimney like bird or animal nests, a damper that is closed or partially closed, or wet wood that isn’t burning well. Source: DIYNetwork

Use the right burning techniques
Low-temperature, slow-burning fires, particularly those left to smolder overnight, produce more smoke and leave behind more unburned combustible material. When that hardens into creosote on the chimney walls, there’s an increased risk of chimney fires. Hot, fast-burning fires, on the other hand, leave far less smoke, vapor, and unburned wood behind, so little to no creosote forms.

The best way to burn a clean fire is to use the top-down burn method: Place the large logs vertically at the bottom of the fireplace or wood stove (with the bottoms of the logs facing you), add four to five horizontal layers of kindling, then top with tinder and light. Source: BobVila

Have a relaxing cup of coffee as we take care of any chimney problems for you. Call us today for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Easy Halloween Decorations to Spook Your Guests

Stay true to your annual Halloween traditions even during this pandemic by celebrating safely at home with these easy DIY projects:

The sorceress’ downfall
The wicked witch may have fallen, but your porch will come alive with this easy-to-make decor.

1. Cut two pool noodles to leg size (about 30 inches tall).
2. To make knees, draw a 3-inch half-circle in middle of each leg and cut the shape out. Pull edges together and secure with duct tape.
3. Tape quilt batting around pool noodles, adding extra layers to hip and thigh areas and an almond shape where it bends to complete knee. Use more tape to smooth out form.
4. Pull tights over legs. Stuff witch boots with batting and secure to legs by tying laces tightly.
5. To make sign, hot-glue six paint stirrers together to form a jagged rectangle, then hot-glue another stirrer to the back as a signpost. Paint on a phrase like, “Poison Apples for Sale.” Source: WomansDay

Say your message with jack o’ lanterns
Spell out your greeting in mini pumpkins gathered on your porch.

Step 1: Pencil letters on hollowed pumpkins (carve out the opening from the bottom).
Step 2: Using a drill with a half-inch bit, bore holes to form each letter.
Step 3: Hang strings of Christmas-tree lights, gathered in small bunches, to illuminate each pumpkin (unscrew bulbs where the string descends to the next row). Source: CountryLiving

Let spirits roam around
Cheesecloth is a crucial material for any DIY Halloween toolkit. Its loose, gauzy weave is reminiscent of cobwebs and ancient, forgotten places. You can drape it anywhere — over a mantel, lampshades, a dresser, a chair, or a window — to give your home an instant haunted house feel. It’s also the ideal material for making ghost decorations. A few ideas for cheesecloth ghosts include:

– Floating Ghosts. To give it a freestanding ghostly shape, soak cheesecloth in liquid fabric starch and drape it over a form shaped to look like a ghost’s body. Let dry, remove the form, and you’ll have a ghost that “floats” on its own, as shown on Home Talk.
– Life-Size Halloween Ghost. Use a similar method to make a life-size levitating ghost for your outdoor decor. Make a larger frame, this time using wooden stakes and multiple Styrofoam balls. Then follow the same basic method as for the floating ghosts. Get the full instructions on HGTV.
– Ghostly Outdoor Draperies. Inexpensive cheesecloth makes the perfect budget material for ghostly draperies. Hang yards of cloth from lightweight poplar boards you can staple to your porch roof like they did on HGTV. Source: MoneyCrashers

Want to improve your home’s curb appeal so that it would look awesome even without fancy decoration? We’d love to help! Call us today to get a free estimate.

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

 

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Thinking About Installing Roll Roofing? Read This First!

Deciding on what type of roofing materials to use for your home can be quite daunting considering how many options are out there in the market. If you’re looking for something that’s more budget-friendly, then this is something you should see.

What is Roll Roofing?
Roll roofing is a composite sheet of roofing material manufactured into a roll so it can be laid on the roof in strips that overlap each other. The roofing material used to make the roll can vary depending on the type one desires for their roof. Common materials used to make roll roofing sheets are similar to what’s found in most traditional roofing shingles and can include:
– Asphalt
– Fiberglass
– Asphalt-saturated organic felt
– Asphalt-coated fiberglass Source: LoveToKnow

Advantages
There are a lot of advantages or pros to installing a roll roof. The biggest one is the cost advantage compared to a clay roof or traditional asphalt-shingle roof. The cost of the rolls is less than half of what is needed for a shingled roof. With this in mind, homeowners can see a true cost savings for their overall home-improvement budget.

Rolled roofing is very easy to install, and there is minimal expertise needed to finish the job. Heavy-duty saws or nail guns don’t need to be used, and without a slope, there isn’t a huge risk of falling as with a traditional roofing job.

Roll roofing offers a great deal of color options to match with existing home colors, which allows for a finished look that is professional and adds curb appeal. Source: Improvenet

Disadvantages
– Rolled roofing is less durable than shingles. One reason why shingles work so well: the network of multiple, loosely interlocking shingles expand and contract without stressing individual shingles. By contrast, rolled roofing is like having one big shingle. This shingle cannot respond to changes in the building structure without tearing.

– Rolled roofing has a short lifespan of between five and eight years. Compare this to a lifespan of about 20 years or even more for composite shingles. Rolled roofing tends to lose its grains and develop bald spots after only a few years of use. Also, one of the benefits of roofing with many hundreds of small units (shingles) is that they can move and shift as the house moves and shifts. Rolled roof’s larger sections do not move as readily as the home expands and contracts.

– You can expect extremely poor resale value on residences that use this type of material. Few home buyers would consider rolled roofing to be anything more than a temporary, stop-gap roofing solution. Source: TheSpruce

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Improving painting skills – training never stops

We believe you never stop learning, which means our training never stops.

Recently our Growth & Training manager, Nestor, put 2 skilled foremen, 8 employees, and one older house together to give valuable training. We specialize in managed properties, so work on this single family home was an exception for training purposes. Nestor S and Jordan provided key skills training for proper surface preparation, priming, and painting. The challenges of COVID-19 and work scheduling delayed this training opportunity until fall.

Jordan brought his focus on details to the training, showing how small improvements like properly holding a brush helps create a clean line between soffits and siding, what’s known as ‘cutting in’. Painting paneled entry doors is a unique skill that takes patience and learning the right order to paint each component.

Using our know-show-do training method each employee had a chance to hear how to use a sprayer safely, see Nestor S spray a section, and then try their hand at spraying the siding of the house. With Nestor’s feedback, each one gained confidence and the first level of competence.

As an added bonus, we were able to provide the work at no charge, with valuable donations from Cloverdale Paint and Dulux Paints. And a shout out to Tony Orantes for many hours of hard work to help make this happen.

A big thanks to all of those involved for giving their time and effort. One small way we can give back to the communities in which we work, serving others and bringing beauty and renewal.

 

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3 Useful Tips to Prepare You for Replacing Roof Shingles

Do you feel like it’s already past time to replace the shingles on your home’s roof? Here are some necessary precautions and tips to consider before you go up there:

Assess the damage
Unless you’re seeing water damage inside your house, it can be tough to tell when you need to replace your roof’s shingles. There are, however, a few tell-tale signs to look out for.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Roof Shingles:
– The edges of shingles are starting to curl up.
– Moss or algae are building up on the roof’s surface.
– Asphalt granules from shingles are in your gutters.
– Your roof is more than 20 years old. Source: BudgetDumpster

Bring the right equipment
Before you set the day to remove the shingles from your roof, contact a local equipment rental company for a large dumpster for the shingles. A square-edged spade or roofing shovel are ideal tools for getting underneath the shingles and loosening the roofing nails from the wood. Purchase sheets of plywood to place over the windows below your roof to prevent any debris from shattering them. Two or more bar magnets will be needed so that you can easily gather the nails that will fall to the ground. It will be difficult to see the nails in the grass that surrounds your home. Source: DoItYourself

Wait for cool weather
Asphalt and asphalt sealant will heat up in hot weather, making it moldable and much more difficult to remove. It’s a lot easier to remove shingles that are cooled down and slightly more brittle than the moldable, so do the work of removing them first thing in the morning, before the sun has beaten down upon them considerably.

– Wet shingles to cool them down before removal, if you must work in the heat. Wetting them down with a small amount of water will help them to tighten and firm up, making them much easier to remove, if necessary. Source: WikiHow

Before taking on a roofing project, make sure you’re 100% safe by having the right experience and tools. Or if you want, you can just leave the task to us so you can sit back and relax as we fix any roofing problems for you. Call us today!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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What You Need to Know about Foam Roofing

Have you heard about foam roofing and its outstanding insulation properties before? If you haven’t yet, this is the perfect time to do so as it might be exactly what you need to add more barrier between you and extreme temperatures.

What is it?
Polyurethane foam is a liquid that is applied over existing roofs to create and expand into a foam layer. It is incredibly helpful for asphalt roofing shingles or metal panel roofs to create a layer of insulation and make your home more energy efficient. There are quite a few roof shingle types that can be installed with foam roofing. Source: Modernize

Different types
Cool roof coatings fall under the class of elastomeric coatings. These coatings protect the foam underneath and provide a painting surface. This creates an additional waterproof membrane that reduces heat infiltration on the roof. A cool roof coating may require several weeks of drying for additional layers of foam. The elastomeric coating also reduces the UV radiation from the sun that can cause foam to oxidize over time. All of these coatings can be applied at the same time as well.

Installation of a foam roof will require substrate preparation, coating and sealing. A foam roof cannot be applied directly without conditioning the substrate below. A clean, dry surface is prepared for contact, a process that includes the removal of any existing roofing material. The entire surface is primed with an adherence polymer to increase the adhesion of the foam product to the roof deck. This priming also prevents overspray from foam during the curing phase. Source: Improvenet

Advantages and disadvantages
Spray foam roofing systems have many advantages, such as being more energy-efficient than conventional asphalt or metal panel roofs and creating less of a carbon footprint. However, we should also take into account some drawbacks when installing a spray foam roof on your home or property.

Pros	Cons
Can be used in any climate Lasts over 50 years Eco-friendly Lightweight Seamless Thermal insulation Waterproof Easy to install and maintain Causes minimal disruption for homeowner	Requires professional installation Precision is imperative during installation Fumes may be toxic More expensive than other roofing options Must be installed in dry, warm weather Contact with foam could cause sensitivity or allergy

Source: Fixr

Do you want to have foam roofing installed at home? We’ll be more than happy to assist you in making your place cozier. Call us today to get a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Mid-Rise Tower (updated): Exterior Painting and Building Repairs in North Vancouver

North Vancouver Mid-Rise Tower (updated with After photos)

The Remdal team worked hard this summer helping this North Vancouver / Lonsdale area strata complete their building exterior refresh and repair. The previous post showed many of the photos from early in the project. Here we showcase several significant before and after photos.

It’s amazing how quickly the outside of a building can change. The owners can now enjoy their refreshed and repaired exterior completed by one of our longest serving Restoration crews. Great work by everyone involved: the strata owners & council; the property manager; the building engineering company; and of course, the on-site Remdal crew and project managers.

One of the other challenges faced by the strata council was balcony repair. The solution here was installing a raised tile system over top of the renewed balcony membrane. The water still finds its way off the balcony but the tiles provide a cleaner, higher end look for the owners.

The council also provided owners with various colour schemes to choose from. You can see below how much more bright and clean the alley way entrance and ground level parking looks afterwards.

From July to October, this building underwent a dramatic transition rejuvenating and refreshing this property for many years to come.

The scope of work included:

• Building envelope renewal
• Concrete repairs
• Balcony urethane membrane renewal
• Stucco repairs
• Sealant replacement
• Exterior painting
• Swing stage access

If you have a building with similar needs, please contact us for a proposal, info@remdal.com or 604.882.5155.

The post Mid-Rise Tower (updated): Exterior Painting and Building Repairs in North Vancouver appeared first on Remdal.

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Slate Roofing Maintenance Tips You Must Know

Do you have slate installed on your home’s roofing? It’s known to have an incredible life span and is extremely durable. But that doesn’t mean it’s invulnerable to damages brought by improper care and weather. Find out how you can make your slate roof last a lifetime by following these tips:

Routine checks
At least once a year, you will need to carry out an inspection of your slate roof. Do this in the fall so your roof will be effectively maintained for winter. It’s important not to introduce too much foot traffic on your roof and, when you do, a ladder safely hooked onto the roof edge is the best way to carry out a full and detailed inspection as this will help to spread your weight. If it’s absolutely necessary to walk on the slates, walk on the middle of the slate and use soft-soled shoes. Wear a safety harness at all times when working at height. Source: DoItYourself

Watch out for damaged slates
The most basic repair is the slate itself. You are bound to have broken and slipped slates from time to time, especially if you have large trees around your home or there has been a strong storm. A trained slater can repair individual slates easily. Small, chipped corners on slate may look ugly but will not cause a leak. Instead, keep an eye out for missing or badly broken slates. Source: AngiesList

Only hire experts
Furthermore, you should be exceedingly cautious regarding which roofing professionals you allow to evaluate and service your slate roof. Even more so than negligence on your part, the biggest threat to the life of a slate roof is shoddy or inexperienced workmanship from roofers accustomed to working with asphalt and/or those who simply want to rip a slate roof down to put up their own (familiar) materials. Especially in historical homes, it’s important that you only allow experienced slaters to work on and advise about your roof, or you risk losing significant value and historical integrity. Source: HomeAdvisor

With over 55 years in the business, we’ve handled pretty much all kinds of roofing problems and repairs. Let us take care of your slate roof and ensure that it’s always in its best shape. Call us!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Important Tips When Building Roof Trusses

The structural framework of your roof should be built with precision and expertise to avoid premature damage. Make sure your contractor follows these tips to ensure the best outcome:

Larger roofs require larger lumber
If your home is going to have a very large roof to cover the square footage of your home, you will need larger dimension lumber. For example, a house that covers over 2,500 square feet will use 2×6 roof trusses rather than 2x4s.

Metal connectors are necessary
Trusses are not built by screwing the wood together. They are connected through the use of flat, galvanized metal connectors. They will help form the triangle construction needed for the pitch of your home.

Use perpendicular supports
Starting in the center, and working your way out, add perpendicular 2×4 supports that will help distribute the weight load. Add new vertical support that angles from the bottom of the center support on each side of the 2×4. Source: DoItYourself

Align the trusses
Most roof trusses need to be installed in a specific direction even when the webbing looks exactly the same. Some trusses are painted so that the framer can see where they need to be installed while others have tags at the bottom of the truss where they require additional load-bearing points. Source: RealtyTimes

Protect materials from the weather
A little moisture isn’t going to hurt most building materials, but if a project is delayed or you know you’re in for a long run of wet weather, cover your materials with a tarp. Long exposure to wet conditions can promote mold as well as cause engineered lumber to delaminate and framing lumber to warp and twist. Plus, no one wants to work with wet lumber! Keep the tarp a little loose at the bottom for air circulation. Source: FamilyHandyman

If you haven’t found a reliable contractor that can build your roofing needs with care and decades of expertise, look no further! With over 50 years in business, you can trust that we will only let our best and most qualified tradesmen handle your home projects. Give us a call today!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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3 Ways to Clean Gutters and Downspouts

How often do you give attention to one of the most vital parts of your home’s exterior? Keep your gutters and downspouts clear to prevent water damage and foundation problems. Here are 3 easy steps you can do:

Use a power washer
Has it been a long while since you last cleaned your gutters? A layer of dirt and debris may have built up over time. Blast it away with the fine-spray nozzle of your power washer. (This type of cleaning can get messy; be prepared to rinse the roof and exterior walls afterward.) For clogged downspouts in particular, there’s no better recourse than a power washer. Simply point the nozzle down the hole and rinse the shaft until water can run freely through it. Source: BobVila

Wear gloves and remove debris by hand
Scoop out leaves, muck, and dirt with your tool of choice from the gutters, but make sure you don’t reach further than an arm’s length away in the process of cleaning out the gutters. It is much better to move the ladder one more time than to risk a fall. If you are using a metal tool, be careful not to damage and scrape the bottom of the gutter.

Make sure to check for leaks as well; clogged gutters are bad, but leaky ones can be even worse, as the water might end up inside your walls. Pour a bucket of water into the gutters – this will not only allow you to check for any leaks and examine whether the water is flowing as it should, but also help to get rid of additional dirt. Source: Cleanipedia

Make a gutter bag
Take a plastic bucket and cut and bend the handle so it can be hooked over the edges of the gutters as you work. Here, you will also cut off the bottom of the bucket, creating a bottomless bucket. Now, fasten a trash bag around the bucket just under the metal handle. You can fasten it tightly with a large rubber band, duct tape or a large Velcro strap.

As you scoop dry leaves into the bucket, they will funnel down into the trash bag. This method works well with dry leaves that are bulky but light, but it will not work with heavy, wet gutter debris. Make sure not to overfill the bag so it is too heavy to easily carry down the ladder. Source: TheSpruce

Cleaning gutters and downspouts can be dangerous if you don’t have the right tools. If you’re thinking twice about going up there, it’s better to leave the task to the pros. Call us!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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The Basics of Rubber Roofing

Leaking can easily be considered as one of the most common roofing problems homeowners have to face. Because of it, there’s been a rise in demand for a roofing material that can prevent such problem and provide more benefits. Get to know more about it below:

What are Rubber Roofs?
Single-ply synthetic membrane rubber roofing is ideal for use over low-sloping or flat roofs because it is durable, pliable, and waterproof. Whether they are made from synthetic rubber polymers or are made from plastic polymers, rubber roofs are designed to go in places where asphalt shingles don’t perform well.

Synthetic single-ply roof systems are not the cheapest way to re-roof a home in the short term (roof material is generally measured by the “square”, which translates to 100 square feet; rubber roofing is likely to cost about $300 or $400 per square, while asphalt shingles are usually less than $100 per square). Rubber roofs, however, can last twice as long as other types of roofing and can save on energy costs, so they save you both time and money in the long run. Source: HomeAdvisor

Advantages and Disadvantages
While rubber roofing is often a good option, there are some disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons of rubber roofing that will help you make a decision on whether or not it is the way you want to go:

Pros	Cons
Should last 40-50 years Requires little-to-no maintenance Quick installation Repairs are easy and inexpensive “Green” choice Highly energy efficient Extremely fire-resistant Withstands high winds Cost is lower than most other roofing options	Not as aesthetically pleasing May be hard to find a experienced installer Repainting required after 10-12 years Traditionally used for flat or low-sloping roofs Not as many colors to choose from

Source: Fixr

Care and Maintenance
Like any roofing material, rubber expands and contracts as temperatures fluctuate. For leaks and cracks in the rubber, simply cover them with a latex tape or sealant. If a portion of your roof is especially wrought with cracks, you may want to consider patching it with new rubber shingles or with a smaller roll of rubber roofing.

To be safe, many homeowners with rubber roofs opt to coat the entire rubber roof system in liquid rubber or a similar liquid sealant to prevent upkeep and maintenance down the road. Source: Home.HowStuffWorks

Do you have any roofing needs? We’ll take care of it you. Give us a call today and get a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Get Your Home Ready for Fall with These Easy Tips

Autumn is almost here! Bring out the hot chocolate, fuzzy blankets, and scented candles as you prepare to stay warm and safe in the comfort of your home after following these tips:

Inspect the roof
You should be able to do at least a visual inspection of the roof from the ground. Grab some binoculars to get a closer look or if you’re able and can do so safely, climb on up for a better view. Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles. If your roof is flat, you may need to remove leaves and debris.

Have the chimney cleaned
If you have a wood fireplace and use it often, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional. Source: Lifehack

Prepare the tools you need
Now is a great time to rummage through your garage or shed and get all your fall and winter tools in one, easy accessible location. Nothing is worse than trekking through the snow in search for a snow shovel.

For fall: leaf blower, broom, rake, gardening tools (bulb planting!)
For winter: ice scraper, ice salts, snow shovel, snow blower Source: HGTV

Transform your environment
Since we’re likely to spend more time indoors during autumn and winter it’s a good idea to give your rooms a fresh lick of paint (if you haven’t already done so during lockdown). Giving your walls a new lease of life, even with wallpaper, a wall mural or perhaps new artwork, will brighten the space and be more pleasing to the eye. Source: HouseBeautiful

Keep your home warm
Inspect your windows and doors. Check weatherstripping by opening a door, placing a piece of paper in the entryway and closing the door. The paper should not slide back and forth easily. If it does, the weatherstripping isn’t doing its job.

Also, now’s the time to re-caulk around windows and door casings, if needed. Source: Zillow

Need a pro to check if your roofing, chimney, and gutters are fall-ready? Call us today!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Basic Things You Need to Know about Gutters

Mostly overlooked, gutters are actually very important to prevent flooding and damage to your home. Here are some things you should know about them:

Are Gutters Necessary?
First, figure out if your house really needs rain gutters. Most do, but there are exceptions, so consider the following:
– If your roof has no overhang or only has a few inches of overhang, it’s likely that water will accumulate against the foundation, damage flowerbeds near the foundation, and/or pour down on people as they enter or exit your home. In this scenario, gutters are a must.
– If your home has a sharply peaked roof with an overhang of 12 inches or more, rainwater will naturally tend to cascade out and away from the house, rather than dripping straight down to the ground to puddle against the foundation. In this case, gutters may not be necessary.
– If your house is higher than the surrounding landscaping, water is unlikely to pool around the foundation, making gutters optional. But if the house is slightly lower than the surrounding ground, gutters are required to channel runoff a sufficient distance from the foundation. Source: BobVila

Materials to Choose from
– Aluminum gutters: Most common of all types of gutters, these are inexpensive, lightweight and easy to install. They’re weather-resistant and available in many colors.
– Vinyl gutters: Vinyl gutters are simple to install and rust-resistant. Like aluminum, they come in a wide variety of colors. However, they’re not as strong as other types and tend to become brittle in cold weather — which can lead to cracking.
– Galvanized steel gutters: The most economical gutter, they are very strong and durable. However, they must be treated to prevent rust.
– Stainless steel gutters: These are popular because they are very strong, maintain their sheen and will not rust. They are costly, though. Source: Networx

Sectional vs. Seamless
The final thing to consider is whether you want sectional versus seamless gutters. Most materials are only available in sections that are joined and fastened together as they are installed. Aluminum gutters, however, are now available in seamless varieties, custom made to fit your home out of single, long sheets of metal. The advantages here are obvious. The most common place a gutter fails after years of wear is at the joints and seams. A seamless gutter will never have this problem, making it a popular choice for those who can afford the extra cost. Source: HomeAdvisor

Do you have any gutter-related needs? We’ll be more than happy to take care of them for you. Contact us for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Types of Dormer Roof

Dormer windows are placed on sloping roofs to let natural light in. If you love lots of sunlight in your attic or room, consider adding a dormer on your home by choosing from its many variations. Here are some:

Flat
An extension of the shed roof dormer is the flat roof dormer. In this modern building in Germany, you can see that dormers are hardly an old-fashioned idea. Postmodern architects often take traditional architectural details and turn them on their heads.

Hipped
The hipped roof dormer is slightly less popular than gable and shed dormers, but it’s more elegant. It often mimics the hipped roof of the house itself. A hipped roof has four sloping sides that come together in a peak, rather than a gable which has just two sloping sides. Source: TheSpruce

Bonnet
A bonnet dormer has a curved roof and vertical walls on either side of the window. It’s common to install arch-top windows in bonnet dormers so the top of the window matches the arch of the bonnet.

Wall
This type of dormer can feature any one of the above styles of roofs, but it’s defining feature is that the front of the dormer is an extension of the exterior wall below. Instead of setting back in the middle of the roof, the siding on the main part of the house continues right up into the dormer, making the front of the dormer flush with the front of the house. Source: BobVila

Pyramidal
When a hipped dormer projects from a roof at a 45-degree angle, it takes on a pyramidal shape. This design is unusual but creates an opportunity for a nearly wrap-around view because there are spaces for windows that look out in two directions.

Recessed
Recessed dormers, also known as inset dormers, have one or more walls that are set into the roof, rather than placed on it. This style of dormer allows the windows to be deeper than they might otherwise be. Source: ThisOldHouse

Roof-related projects can be costly, but they’re worth the investment because if done right, they can last a lifetime. Leave it to us!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Before and after: Nyalic clear finish metal protectant

In a prior post, we introduced the benefits of Nyalic and explained the process. Here, we’ll share a couple striking ‘before & after’ examples.

Quick Recap:

Nyalic is a clear coat, finishing product that when used on faded, oxidized pre-finished surfaces, rejuvenates and restores the surface to a like-new appearance, blocking UV rays and limiting chalking or discoloration. In our experience, we most commonly use it on metal window frames, flashings and railings.

Current Project in False Creek

 

Remdal is working hard on a concrete restoration and high-rise painting project in False Creek that includes Nyalic application to the window frames, flashings and railing. The window frame on the left has been cleaned and coated whereas the one on the right shows the faded, weathered condition many of these frames progress to over time.

 

This engineer-specified project also includes vent replacement. You can see the old vents we are removing (some falling off the building in the picture on the right) and the new, improved ones we already installed (on the left). The difference is significant.

Did they install new windows this summer?

In 2018, we painted an Abbotsford school and this project included applying Nyalic to the window frames. When the teaching staff saw how great the windows looked, one even asked if the windows were brand new. The photo shows the top floor completed and the lower floor has only been cleaned. It’s a great example of how Nyalic can rejuvenate these surfaces to their original beauty.

Can you just paint the frames?

Of course, painting is an option and some buildings choose to do so. That said, once you paint the metal frames, they become an ongoing maintenance item prone to peeling, chipping and fading. When access is challenging this can be a costly item to re-do every few years. Also, Nyalic refreshes the original finish so beautifully, it truly seems the best choice when it’s an option.

Key Takeaway:

Nyalic allows for a simple renewal of the clear finish. This is often more cost effective than painting the relevant surfaces, without the risk of peeling or future repainting maintenance costs. For a step by step of the process, visit our blog post here.

Contact us 604.882.5155 or info@remdal.com for more information to see if this can be the solution you need.

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Types of Flat Roof

One of the best roofing options for contemporary homes due to their modern, sleek design is a flat roof. But did you know that there are actually several types of flat roofing that you can choose from? Take a look below to see which one you think would be best for your home.

Built-Up Roof (BUR)
The traditional hot-tar-and-gravel roof is built from three or more plies of waterproof material alternated with hot tar and ballasted by a layer of smooth river stone. Once made of tar paper, these types of roofs gradually are using more-advanced materials such as fiberglass membranes.

Pros
– Gravel is an excellent fire retardant.
– Attractive for windows and decks that overlook the roof.
– It’s the cheapest of the four roof varieties.

Cons
– Very heavy.
– Joists sometimes have to be strengthened.
– Smelly and messy to install.
– Installation’s not recommended for occupied homes.
– It’s not a DIY installation job, and it is hard to find the source of leaks.
– Gravel can clog gutters and scuppers. Source: ThisOldHouse

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)
EPDM roofs are made of rubber. The material used is very durable and looks a lot like the material used in inner tubes. There are 3 different ways to install EPDM or rubber membrane roofing. It can be anchored using fasteners, ballasted or glued down.

This material is one of the easiest of the different types of flat roofing. Leaks in this type of roofing are fairly easy to patch and the material is light weight, but very durable. However, this material is slightly more prone to puncture than other types. The black version of this form of roofing soaks up a great deal of sun and is not generally recommended for extremely hot climates. There is a lighter version for hot climates, but it is much more expensive. Source: DoItYourself

Sprayed Polyurethane Foam (SPF)
Sprayed polyurethane foam is a relatively new product that is sprayed onto the roof as a liquid in order to form a single, continuous, seamless structure. Because foam is flexible and lightweight, it’s perfect for irregularly shaped roofs and protrusions. For re-roofing, SPF also eliminates the need to remove the previous roof, since it can be applied directly over existing roof installations, including asphalt shingles, built-up roofs, clay tile, concrete, metal, and wood. Foam roofing systems are easy to maintain, and with a high insulation value, they can combat some of the heat issues common with flat roofing. The only downside is SPF’s track record. It just doesn’t have much of one yet, so you’re taking a little bit of a risk by going with this product. Source: HomeAdvisor

We can help you choose the type of roofing design and materials that will fit your location, style, and budget. Call us for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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3 Signs of a Failing Roof

Taking time to check your roofing should be a part of your seasonal home maintenance routine. It will help you catch signs that could potentially cause huge problems later on, such as the following:

Shiners
If you can’t see any telltale flow marks and the ceiling stain is fairly small, look at the underside of the roof for ‘shiners.’ A shiner is a nail that missed the framing member. Moisture that escapes into the cold attic from the rooms below often condenses on cold nails. Sometimes you can spot this if you climb up into your attic on a cold night. The nails will look white because they’re frosted. When the attic heats up a bit during the day, the frost melts and drips, then the nails frost up at night again and so on. The solution is to simply clip the nail with a side-cutting pliers. Source: FamilyHandyman

Damaged flashing
The flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys seals the seams of the roof from rain and weather. Examine these points make sure there are no cracks or breaks, which could lead to leaks. In older homes, flashing is often made of roof cement or tar, but it’s a good idea to upgrade to a metal flashing system for added durability. Source: BobVila

Moss
Moss on the roof is more harmful than beautiful. Its spores collect between shingles, growing and spreading to form mats a few inches thick. These mats store rainwater, which wicks underneath shingles, soaks the underlayment and, if unchecked, rots the roof sheathing.

If you have moss, remove it. An air broom works nicely. Don’t power wash the roof, because that can drive water underneath the shingles or tiles. Once the moss is gone, apply a chemical treatment or zinc or copper solution to kill any remaining moss spores. Alternatively, install zinc or copper strips at the roof’s peak to kill moss in the coming decades. When reroofing, consider shingles with built-in moss inhibitors. Source: Nationwide

If you have any roof-related concerns, we’re here to help you out. Call us today and get a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Mid-rise tower: exterior painting and building repairs in North Vancouver

North Vancouver mid-rise tower

The strata owners of this eight floor, 1989 built condo building in Lower Lonsdale are undertaking an exterior repaint and colour change. Council provided owners with sample mock-ups of the colour options on the building so they could preview them before they made their final decision. You can see the modern greys that were selected already being applied to the higher areas on the left.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Remdal team is carefully moving ahead with building cleaning and various concrete repairs using swing stages. COVID safety protocols continue to be a priority including twice daily temperature check and physical distancing.

   

Over the summer, we will see the dramatic transition from pastels to a modern, grey scheme that will rejuvenate and refresh this property.

The scope of work includes:

• Building envelope renewal
• Concrete repairs
• Balcony urethane membrane renewal
• Stucco repairs
• Sealant replacement
• Exterior painting
• Swing stage access

Stay tuned for more photos of this building.

If you have a building with similar needs, please contact us for a proposal, info@remdal.com or 604.882.5155.

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Multi-building complex needing exterior painting, wood repair and safe access

This was an early season exterior painting & wood repair project across multiple buildings in Walnut Grove with a great deal of safe access requirements, including boom lifts, scaffolding, and traffic control.

 

It was a complicated project to coordinate but preparation and cooperation was rewarded with great results and an extremely happy group of strata council members and owners.

 

There were various challenging access areas but the project manager and foremen worked together to find the best solutions for the project and the strata. A great example of Your Project Done Right. 

 

If you have a project that needs the right approach to access and traffic control challenges then contact us here, or at info@remdal.com or 604.882.5155.

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Commercial building painting: triumphing over challenges in Port Moody

It was time to change the colour on this three level commercial building painting project in Port Moody from yellow to modern grey tones.

 

The project was not without challenges. Boom lift access required extensive traffic control and permits. And close proximity to the hydro lines meant additional planning and coordination with BC Hydro and their contractor for cloaking of wires.

  

 

The team takes a short break but still maintains their physical distancing and COVID safety protocols.

  

Later in the project you can more clearly see final results. More great projects can be found here.

Please contact us for your next project proposal or email us at info@remdal.com

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Metal vs. Asphalt: Which Roofing Material Should You Choose?

In a previous blog, we’ve debunked the myths about metal roofing and shown you why it’s a great option for your dream home. Now, we will see how it compares with one of the most popular materials out there—asphalt shingles.

Price
Though you’ll get more life out of a metal roof, you’ll pay the price at the time of installation. Metal roofs generally can run from $120 to $900 per 100 square feet (one 10-foot by 10-foot area, or a “square” of material), while asphalt shingles will be between $100 and $200 per 100 square feet. Its installation will also run you more for metal since it’s a more specialized job.

You may recoup some of the costs of a metal roof down the road, because you likely won’t ever have to replace it. Additionally, insurance companies may offer discounts to homes with metal roofs. You may even qualify for tax credits by installing a metal roof on your primary home. Finally, metal roofs are so energy efficient they can save you money in monthly heating and cooling costs. Source: BobVila

Energy Efficiency
A metal roof will lower your energy bills by about 40 percent in the summer. The reflective surface lessens the transfer of heat into the home. On the other hand, asphalt shingles absorb the sun’s heat, transferring it through the roof to the home, making the home’s cooling system work harder. This is why asphalt shingles are recommended more strongly for temperate climates.

In winter, asphalt shingles perform better, using the heat absorbed from the winter sunlight to make the home much warmer. However, metal roofs also perform well in winter. The year-round energy usage will still be lower with metal than with asphalt.

Even so, some asphalt shingle styles are designated as cool roofs and join some metal roofs in carrying an Energy Star rating for higher energy efficiency. These roofing materials are certified to reflect more of the sun’s energy, lowering the roof’s temperature by up to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though other factors can affect the amount of savings offered, they can decrease demand on the home’s cooling systems at peak times by 10 to 15 percent.

To offset the cost of installing a new roof, you can look for Energy Star certified asphalt shingles or metal roofs. When using these energy-efficient materials, 10 percent of the materials cost, up to $500, can be received as an energy credit. Source: Fixr

Durability
Some metal roofs come with warranties of up to 50 years, but can literally last for hundreds of years, whereas traditional roofs typically last 10 to 20 years. Metal roofs aren’t as vulnerable to hail, wind and fire damage and some insurance companies even offer discounts on homeowner’s policies due to metal’s storm-resistant properties. Source: AngiesList

Which one do you like better? If you can’t decide between the two, we can help you pick the roofing material that suits your budget and needs. Contact us for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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Debunking Common Myths about Metal Roofing

Are you thinking about installing a new roof at home? If you’re thinking twice about considering metal as your material of choice, it’s probably because of the misconceptions surrounding it. Today, you’ll discover why metal can be one of your best options.

Myth: Lower energy cost
This is not necessarily true. If your home has inadequate insulation, air leaks and windows that are not energy efficient, installing a metal roof will not likely lower your heating bills. It is important to remember there are many factors that contribute to your home’s overall energy usage.

Myth: No resale value
This is not true! Metal roofs are actually highly valued. Homes renovated with standing-seam metal roofing recoup on average 85.9-percent of costs nationally and up to 95.5% for homes in the Eastern states, according to Remodeling Magazine. These gains in resale value amount to 1- and 6-percent, respectively, over homes roofed with asphalt shingles.

Myth: Metal roofs are loud
False. Typically, metal roofs are even quieter than an asphalt shingle roof. Metal roofs are usually installed with solid sheathing attached to the underlayment, which helps reduce noise. Source: AngiesList

Myth: Less durable
This couldn’t be farther from the truth! Metal roofs can withstand hurricane-force, 140-mile-per-hour winds and extreme storms.

Quality roofs stand up to hail and hold up under heavy snow and ice loads. Naturally, metal is a top choice for areas prone to severe weather and wildfires.

Myth: Harmful to the environment
Actually, quality metal roofing can last you more than 50 years (almost three times longer than other materials) and can be recycled rather than dumped into a landfill.

Quality roof coatings resist moss and fungus, which means lower long-term maintenance and fewer chemical treatments that can harm the environment. Source: TodaysHomeOwner

Myth: Easily damaged by hail
While extremely large hailstones can dent a metal roof, normal-size hail will not. With textured roofs, minor denting is even less readily visible. Source: BobVila

Roofing is an expensive investment. Aside from picking the best material, you should also let only the most experienced professionals do the installation, so you don’t have any problems later on. Call us today for a free estimate!

 

Contact:
Kerrisdale Roofing & Drains
8296 Ross St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4C6
(604) 360-2114

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