Essential Home Maintenance Checklist for Summer

Make your home last longer and avoid emergency repairs by observing routine upkeep. Here are some tips to take note of:

Inspect leaks
Go around to all your faucets and toilets and check for any small leaks. If you have poor water pressure out of a faucet, the aerator is the likely culprit and it’s an extremely easy fix.

Don’t let the insects ruin your summer
Summer is their playground. You probably won’t have to look too hard to notice any insect problems. Ants, spiders, moths, etc. are all common, and fairly easy to take care of. Keep cobwebs clear, have ant poison handy, make sure all doors are tightly closed, etc. Source: ArtOfManliness

Wash the driveway
Another great summer home maintenance tip is to thoroughly clean your walkways and driveway. The key to cleaning a patio, driveway and walkway is to use a pressure washer. Before you get out your pressure washer however, it is a good idea to check these areas for cracks and weeds. Once you have inspected everything, get out that pressure washer and wash away everything that has been sitting on there for the past year. Source: BudgetDumpster

Schedule your home renovation project
Whether you’re dreaming of a landscape makeover or need to replace a deck, don’t delay booking the right pro for the job. Their schedules tend to fill up quickly in the summer — plus, the sooner the work is done, the longer you will have to enjoy it. Source: Houzz

Clean the outdoor grill
Give your grill a deep cleaning with these simple steps:

– For gas grills, turn the heat up to high and let the grill cook with the lid closed for about half an hour. Allow the grill to cool and then brush it off with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a damp sponge and a gentle cleanser. Clean the grill’s drip pans.

– For charcoal grills, completely empty the grill and wipe out any ashy residue. Then clean it inside and out with hot water, a scrubby sponge and some liquid dishwashing soap. Let the grill dry completely before using it again. Source: TheNest

Summer is also the perfect time to take care of roofing and drainage damage. If you need any help, feel free to contact us.

 

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

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More Things to Consider When Hiring a Contractor

Now that you’ve been spending more time at home, you can’t simply ignore that much-needed remodel that you’ve been neglecting for years. Before you give your plans a go, make sure you check out the following tips:

Go local
Area contractors who have been in business for a long time are usually reliable and safe bets for projects. If they didn’t do good work in your community, they wouldn’t still be around. Source: PopularMechanics

Do a thorough check
Now that you’ve narrowed your list, put your research to use. Call up former clients to find how their project went and ask to see the finished product. But Tom says you shouldn’t rely on results alone. Even more important, visit a current job site and see for yourself how the contractor works. Is the job site neat and safe? Are workers courteous and careful with the homeowner’s property? Source: ThisOldHouse

Create a contract
It is incredibly important that you leave no detail out when drawing up a contract with your contractor. If something goes wrong during the course of the project and you have to seek legal action, your contract will be key to proving your case. Here are the things your contract should lay out in detail:

– Contact information of your contractor such as name, physical address (you cannot serve a subpoena without a physical address), phone number, insurance company, and account and license numbers.

– The project’s start date and end date, or its start date and the length of time until completion.

– Your payment and financing plan.

– A detailed schedule of the stages of the project including any electrical, plumbing and carpentry components.

– A detailed list of all required materials, who will choose them, and how much will be budgeted for them if they are chosen at a later date.

– A guarantee that the contractor will file for all necessary permits.

– Potential time conflicts from other projects the contractor may be working on.

– Change order provisions. Sometimes unforeseen circumstances crop up such as dry rot and this may change the project schedule and cost. Change order provisions lay out what additional work may be done, what it will cost, and how it will affect the date of completion. Some people also choose to include in this section what will happen if they change their mind about a portion of the project.

– All the names of the workers that will be on site and the start and end time of their work day. Source: HomeAdvisor

If you’re looking for a reliable home contractor who can help you with roofing, drainage, and home repairs, we’re here for you. Call us to get a free estimate!

 

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

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3 Tips to Cut Roofing Costs

Are you planning on having your roof replaced or repaired anytime soon? Check out these useful tips that could help you save hundreds or thousands of dollars:

Schedule your project during the off-season
Roofing contractors are in great demand at certain times of the year, typically in the autumn after fall and in the summer. If you live in a climate where you can schedule the repairs in the off-season, you can set yourself up for really handsome discounts over the busy-season rates. However, make sure that the experts will be available since many of the contract labor in this industry move away during the lean season. Source: ArchitectureIdeas

Know the scope of work needed
Understand the size and complexity of your roof and know the exact materials you want to have installed before talking to contractors. These details help keep estimates consistent and encourage competitive pricing, Bulifant says.

If you encounter the term “roofing square” while researching materials or getting estimates, know that one “square” equals 100 square feet of roofing material. And if you’re talking with a roofing contractor, installation and disposal fees probably are included in the estimate. Source: NerdWallet

Research before accepting an offer
You should always obtain several quotes on any home improvement project to find the best price; however, the lowest quote is not always the best. By choosing a subpar roofer or company, you’re putting yourself at risk of delayed completion times and shoddy work. Before accepting the lowest quote, always research the company and workers, checking for any complaints, and ensuring that they’re fully licensed in your state. Although a better contractor may cost more upfront, it will likely save you money in the end. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

We can help turn your dream roofing project into a reality! We’ve been doing this for several households in Vancouver for over 54 years. Call us today if you want to get a free estimate.

 

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

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What is a Green Roof and Why You Should Try It

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly roofing option, you might want to consider installing a living roof for your home. Discover more about it below:

Intensive and extensive green roof
There are three main types of green roofing, determined by the depth of the planting and the level of maintenance they require: intensive, semi-intensive and extensive. While extensive roofs can handle 10 to 25 pounds of vegetation per square foot, intensive roofs aim for 80 to 150 pounds, and semi-intensive fall between those two ranges.

An intensive green roof is more like a rooftop garden, with a great deal of labor, irrigation and feeding required to maintain plants with roots that grow deep into 7 to 24 inches of soil. Some even include water features, such as small ponds. Extensive roofs, in contrast, are meant to be self-sustaining with 1.6 to 5 inches of soil and the need for only once-yearly weeding. If the roof is not easily accessible, an extensive roof is likely the best bet. Source: Engineering

Semi-intensive (or hybrid) green roof
With this treatment, choices in vegetation are much broader than with an extensive green roof. Plus, not much maintenance is required. This green roof can be described as a combination of an extensive and intensive roof, and therefore is also called a hybrid roof. A variety of plants that grow well in a soil depth of five to seven inches are good to use, including certain perennials, ornamental grasses, herbs, shrubs, and sedums. Because irrigation is only needed from time to time and it requires a medium amount of maintenance, most rooftops can benefit from a semi-intensive green roof. Source: Dwell

Why go green?
A landscaped or grass roof has many advantages, if you plan it correctly. Depending on where you live and the water needs of your area, you can choose plants that handle lots of rain or ones that tolerate drought. The key to selection is to find plants that don’t have aggressive roots that can damage your rooftop (like bamboo).

A green rooftop absorbs heavy rainfall and reduces flooding. It also extends the life of a roof by protecting it from the elements. Most importantly, green roof designs insulate a home or building, reducing the temperature inside. Major cities can benefit from living roofs to combat the heat they create, called heat islands.

According to the EPA, city buildings are made of concrete and cement that trap the day’s heat. This heat can raise the temperature of a city “as high as 22 degrees more” than a nearby rural area. This increases the need for air conditioning and electricity, contributing more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Source: Freshome

Still can’t decide which type of roofing will go best for your dream home? We’ve got you covered! Call us today so we can help you pick one that will suit your budget and needs.

 

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

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How to Remove Moss From Your Roofing

We’ve previously discussed how moss can be harmful for your roof, and why you must have it removed right away. Today, we will talk about the steps you need to take to keep it from causing damage.

Clear away the moss
Carefully place a ladder near the area of moss growth, and don slip-resistant shoes, old clothes, rubber gloves, and eye protection. (You may also want to secure yourself with a safety rope.) Hose off the area with plain water, spraying at a downward angle. Then, use a long-handled soft-bristle scrub brush to remove the moss from the roof, scrubbing from the top down to avoid lifting shingles. As you continue, rub gently—don’t scrape, scour, or pound on the roof—and work in one small section at a time to avoid ripping, cracking, or breaking the shingles.

Note: Don’t use a pressure washer on the roof. The high-powered water jets can damage shingles and remove the shingle granules that protect the roof. Source: BobVila

Kill off the remaining moss
Moss may be hardy, but not hardy enough to stand up to bleach, vinegar or even dish soap. You can combine any of these common household supplies with water to make a spray that will prove lethal to roof moss. Start with 2 gallons of water and add any of the following ingredients:

– 8 ounces dish soap
– 1 pound oxygenated bleach
– 1 1/2 to 3 1/2 cups of liquid chlorine bleach or white vinegar.
– Let the solution remain on the moss for 20 to 45 minutes, which should be long enough for the moss to die.

If you prefer to use a store-bought moss killer, you have your choice of several products, including Wet & Forget, Moss B Ware or Bayer 2-in-1 Moss and Algae Killer. Follow the directions on the container for the best use of any of these products. Some are designed to be rinsed off, while others must remain on the moss for an extended period to do their job. Source: Hunker

Use copper flashing for prevention
Copper flashing around skylights and chimneys isn’t typically affected by moss growth, because as water runs off of the flashing, it carries traces of copper sulfate, which is a natural herbicide that prevents moss growth. Typically it’s best to place copper strips as high up on the roof as possible so that when water runs down your roof, the traces of copper sulfate cover as much of the roof surface as possible. If you have a long roof, you may need to install a strip of copper halfway up the roof, as well. According to Ask the Builder, one strip of copper protects 14 to 18 feet of roof below it. Source: HomeGuides.SFGate

Getting rid of moss can be a dangerous job if you don’t have the right tools. Let us help you out. Call us!

 

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

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Can Moss Cause Damage to My Roof?

Have you inspected your roofing lately? When you start to notice fuzzy moss growing on the surface, you have to remove it right away. Or else you might get a headache because of the following problems:

Deterioration
As moss thickens, it works its way under the shingles and raises them up. If the shingles are wood, this process can happen at an alarming rate. Wood’s porous surface is prime real estate for moss growth. Once moss has adhered to wood shingles, the moss can be tougher to remove than from the relatively smoother planes of composite or asphalt shingles.

Once the moss is a thick mat, it becomes a sponge that soaks up and retains all moisture. This stored water works its way under and between shingles and then onto the lower levels of roofing felt and the structural elements of the roof. This eventually leads to rot, and rot leads to further decay of roofing materials. Source: TheSpruce

Vulnerability to elements
As stated above, moss can gradually dislodge shingles. As a result, your house more susceptible to damage by strong winds and severe storms.

Decreased home value
A strong and secure roof adds value to any home. It is one of the strongest selling points of a house. Unchecked growth of moss will negatively affect the value of your home. Source: DoItYourself

Shorter life span
Rainwater leaking through the roof from moss can also result in serious, unhealthy mold growth on interior room surfaces as well as wall component decay that is extremely expensive to repair.

Moss can shorten the life span of a shingled roof and result in costly repairs — both structural and cosmetic — that would not be necessary if the roof were maintained properly and kept clear of moss. Source: OregonLive

Make your roofing last longer by letting us take care of it. We’ll give you a free estimate when you call us today!

 

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

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5 Useful Tips When Planning a Patio

Hanging out on the patio feels relaxing. It gives you a chance to enjoy the outdoors without having to go far, especially now that we’re all advised to stay at home. If you don’t have one, take a pen and paper, and start planning your project using the following tips:

Have ample space
Experts recommend a minimum of 25 square feet of patio per person and a minimum length of 16 feet. You need at least a 6 x 6 foot area out of any traffic path for a dining table and chairs. Next, ask yourself how you’ll be using the patio. Do you want space for a grill? Lounge chairs? Planters? Source: RD

Choose the right materials
Brick, concrete, slate, and flagstone are among the most popular patio surfaces, either alone or in combination. When selecting a material, consider factors beyond just cost. It’s always a good idea to match the style of your home, if possible. And if you’ll be dining regularly, select a surface that is smooth enough to keep tables and chairs from wobbling. Source: BHG

Consider your privacy
When you start to plan, think about the best position for your patio. Where does the sun sit in your garden at the time you’re most likely to use it? Also consider how you can take advantage of any views you have, or alternatively create a private retreat so you can enjoy relaxing in your garden without being overlooked.

Stick with your home’s style
The way you choose to decorate your home and design your garden is a reflection of your personal style, while incorporating your individual tastes, remember to be sensitive to the style of your house too. A modern house will suit more contemporary paving styles, while traditional paving lends itself well to period properties. Source: HouseBeautiful

Think about lighting
– Make your patio or deck livable after sunset by installing general and accent lighting.
– Use brighter lights for dining and seating areas and dimmer ones to outline patio edges and adjoining paths.

You may wish to install sound speakers as well. Source: YellowPages

We can build your dream patio for you. Get a free estimate when you call us today!

 

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

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