Jul 2, 2021 | Home Maintenance, Roof
If you are wondering, “What is roofing felt and its constituent elements,” you’ve come to the right place. Understanding the roofing felt manufacturing process offers you a better picture of its importance. It also helps you make an informed decision.
In this guide, we look at the constituents of roofing felt and the different types available on the market. You’ll also learn the benefits of roofing felt.
That said, let’s get started!
What is Roofing Felt?
Roofing felt is an ancient roofing system that keeps flat roofs waterproof. Also known as roofing belt underlayment or roll roofing, roofing felt is a protection layer installed between the deck and the roofing shingles.
Roofing felt’s one side comes coated with a mineral to protect the felt from sunlight and weather damage. Besides, the roofing material is available in different sizes, though commonly sold in 1m x 10m rolls.
What is Roofing Felt Made of?
Most of the current roofing felt consists mainly of improved bitumen mixed with either fibreglass or polyester. However, Roof Master & Construction experts recommend the latter since it is tough to tear. It also copes well with the usual movement on flat roofs.
While the roofing felt can form a strong roof, it needs a final layer to safeguard it from the elements. Although extreme cold comes with a negative impact on felt roofing, direct sunlight proves its biggest enemy. It dries out the oils in the system, making it weak, and can cause heat expansion movement too.
You can lessen these hitches by adding a surface protection layer. Some of the different final protective coatings include lead flashings and labour-intensive solar reflective paint. However, a mineralized cap sheet gives you a striking maintenance-free finish.
5 Types of Roofing Felt
There are various types of roofing felt to consider in your roofing project. Multiple factors may influence your judgment, including whether you are installing the roof yourself and the size of your project. Some of the roofing felt includes the following.
1. Torch-on Felt
Torch-on felt is a hard-wearing substitute to other types of roofing felt. It is commonly applied on garage and extension roofs. The torch-on felt sees three layers of bitumen felt melt-welded onto the top with a blow torch, creating a waterproof seal.
As the name suggests, torch-on felt requires a gas torch during the application process. Also, you can combine the gas torch with an underlay or lie in a single layer. Despite being an expensive option, torch-on felt offers a long-lasting finish.
2. Fibre-based Felt
You can use less-costly fibre-based felt on garden sheds and wooden outbuildings. This type of roofing felt can also work as a single option or combined with an underlay sheet. It’s also vital to use roofing nails or roofing felt adhesive to attach the fibre-based felt.
3. Polyester Felt
Polyester felt works best in garages and extensions. The roofing felt option requires handling and fixing like a fibre roofing felt using one layer of underlay and hot bitumen or cold adhesive.
4. Glass Fiber Felt
Though commonly used on extensions and garages, glass fibre works better on garden sheds. The roofing felt is expensive but lasts longer than the cheaper options.
It would help if you combined the glass fibre felt with either one or two layers of underlays. However, you may require to add a third layer when using it for roofing an extension of your home. It is applied using either cold felt adhesive or hot bitumen.
5. Self-adhesive Felt
Self-adhesive felt is an ideal option for a DIY project. It permits the roof covering to get laid without the need for naked flames. If you are planning to install the roofing felt by yourself, then this is your solid choice.
The roof felt self-bond to the substrate once the release film gets peeled off the bottom. That makes it an ideal covering for small projects such as porches, flat roofs, and garages. In addition, the roofing solution is tough, durable, and cost-effective.
Reasons Why You Should Use Roofing Felt
Adding a protection layer between your structural roof decking and your roof shingles helps create a gorgeous and durable roof. Among the reasons why you should use roofing felt include the following.
1. Provides Additional Protection Against Weather
Shingles act as your roof’s first line of defense against elements. However, having a backup layer of weather protection beneath helps prolong the life of your roof. If a significant weather incident breaks your shingles loose, the roofing felt safeguards your woodwork against rain until you replace the shingles.
2. Improves Look and Uniformity
Sometimes roof decks fail to lie perfectly straight or flat. Using roofing felt gives an even, uniform surface upon which you can install your shingles. Also, it can help thwart the picture framing effect or the pattern of your wood decking via your shingles by offering an added layer on top of uneven wood.
3. Prevents Wood Resin Stains
When you use particular types of wood to build your roof, there is sometimes a risk the timber will leach a small amount of resin over time as it ages. Therefore, having a layer of roof felt blocks the resin, stopping it from staining or compromising your roof shingle.
4. Durability
A good roof stands the test of time, whether experiencing high levels of foot traffic or very little. Roofing felt is a durable option that holds up well to UV rays and extreme heat during hot seasons of the year.
Provides Backup Protection Against Ice or Water Damage
Ice or snow dams are common causes of residential water damage. Sometimes the heat from your house melts snow or ice on your roof. As a result, the water is likely to leak into your roof’s corners and openings and eventually into your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, or insulation.
The most significant protection against ice and snow dams is a protection membrane seal around the shanks of the roof clasps for a leak-resistant fit. Also, roofing felt offers extra protection against leakages, hence offering an extra layer of water resistance.
Final Words
The first thing to consider when opting for roofing felt is the directions on your final roofing material. Also, once you understand what roofing felt is made of, always hire a professional roofing contractor who guarantees you the best work worth your money.
Jun 24, 2021 | Home Maintenance
Buyers’ guide to choosing the most efficient water heater in 2021!
A sound hot water system is an essential part of your home. It should work efficiently in providing enough hot water used in bathing, doing the laundry and dishes, and keeping the house clean. Working with an efficient and durable hot water system will not only ensure a steady supply of water but will save you the cost of energy bills and money in the long run. This will also help keep the environment protected. But it’s always about choosing the BEST water heater. It could be easy to do that!
This guide will examine vital factors and tips to consider and choose the most efficient hot water system for your home. This will include having a clear picture of the different types of water systems available, the sizes, and the operating mechanism. Let’s talk about these now:
Choose the Right TYPE of Hot Water System
There are different types of water heater available. Knowing this fact is a good idea and will give you a better idea when choosing the hot water system.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Heat pump water heaters do not generate heated water by the direct use of electric elements or a gas burner, but they use heat drawn from outside and concentrate this heat inside its unit to produce hot water. They are known to be very energy efficient than the other types of water heater, which we will discuss.
However, a drawback to this type is that the air around the system mustn’t be too cold, which means they are climate selective. They also cost more to install initially but will save money in the long run.
Conventional Storage-Tank Water Heaters
This is the most popular type found in homes today. They have a simple concept which maintains the water at the needed temperature by using a thermostat. The heating electric or gas burner heats the water inside the tank and maintains this temperature for a long time. They are inexpensive to purchase but require a higher cost of operations due to standby loss of heat.
Tankless Water Heater
They are also called demand water heaters, and they only provide hot water when you need it. They avoid the drawback of running on standby heat supply and will therefore be energy efficient. Tankless water heaters don’t occupy space but will produce water at inconsistent temperatures.
Solar Water Heaters
They work with a similar mechanism as the conventional storage tank heater, but their source of power is directly from the sun. They are energy efficient and also cost-effective. This is because the sun is free for all to use. Meanwhile, it would be best if you were prepared because it will be affected by climatic variables.
It would also be best if chemical dosing pots are present in the water system you choose. They will help feed chemicals into it to prevent corrosion, microbial growth, and scaling.
Know the Suitable Fuel Types for You
Another essential factor to consider when buying a water heater is the energy source or fuel type it operates with. There are different sources of energy that can be used to power a water heating system. They include:
- Electricity; which is very common in the USA and popular in tankless, conventional storage, and heat pump water heaters.
- Fuel
- Geothermal; also common in many homes, but will be best if there was already a geothermal heat pump in the house. It makes use of heat drawn from the ground.
- Solar energy; best for places with suitable climatic conditions where the temperature doesn’t drop too low.
- Propane gas; which is readily available for use in the USA and is ideal for tankless and storage water heaters.
So What’s Your Choice?
Having studied the different water heating systems, you need to consider your budget and funding over the long term. You will also need to consider your available space as these water heaters come in different sizes.
Jun 15, 2021 | Solar
In 2019 the United States surpassed two million solar installations, with this number forecast to double by 2023. More and more US homeowners are realizing the benefits of installed solar panels on their properties.
While only a small percentage of homeowners have so far installed solar panels, a sizeable 46% of those without say they have given serious thought to the idea.
In this blog post, we will look at the undeniable benefits of having a solar powered home. From reducing your home’s energy bills to increasing its overall value and much more, there are a large number of unquestionable benefits to choosing solar for your home.
1. Better for the Environment
Solar panels are a renewable energy source that utilizes the power of the sun. As such, they can be considered a clean form of energy, in stark contrast to non-renewable power sources such as oil and coal.
As the world battles climate change, switching to solar energy in your home is one way that you can play your part. With solar panels, you will greatly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a brighter and greener tomorrow for the planet.
2. Increase the Value of Your Home
According to the Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, buying a solar energy system will likely increase the value of your home. Solar panels are viewed as upgrades, similar to a renovated kitchen or a finished basement.
Homebuyers are willing to pay a premium of around $15,000 for a property that has an average-sized solar system. This is a useful thing to keep in mind if you are considering installing solar panels on your property.
Check this link—https://blueravensolar.com/blog/can-solar-panels-increase-the-value-of-my-property/—to learn more about how solar panels can increase your home’s value.
3. Save On Energy Bills
This is the primary reason why most homeowners choose to install energy bills. By producing your own electricity, you can save thousands of dollars in energy costs over the lifespan of your solar system. If you live in a location with high levels of sunlight, solar panels are an especially good choice.
People who live in tiny homes are opting for a solar powered tiny home, helping them remain off the grid.
4. Little to No Maintenance Required
Solar panels are durable and generally require little to no maintenance over the course of their lifespan. That means less hassle for homeowners; all that is usually required is a quick dusting a few times a year. A solar system can last between 20 to 30 years, which highlights the durability of this energy source.
5. Make Money Through Net Metering
If you produce more energy than you need through your solar panels, you have the opportunity to earn extra cash. Net metering allows you to sell your excess energy to the grid for use elsewhere. Just another great reason to make the switch to solar energy!
Discover the Benefits of a Solar Powered Home
A solar powered home stands to reduce your energy bills, protect the environment, and increase the value of your home. If you have been considering installing solar panels on your home, then the above benefits are remembering the next time your energy bill comes in the mail!
Like this blog post on the benefits of a totally solar powered home? Be sure to check out our other interesting articles on our blog post today.
Last updated Jun 12, 2021 | Plumbing
Did you know that the average family of four in the US goes through around 400 gallons of water on a daily basis?
When your plumbing is running smoothly, that probably isn’t a fact that means much to you. It’s only when things go wrong that most of us realize how much we rely on our pipes!
Whether you have a leaky faucet, a faulty water heater, or a clogged drain, a plumber can be a lifesaver—as long as you hire the right one. An experienced professional can resolve plumbing issues in a matter of hours, but the wrong one can lead to further headaches.
If you’re not sure how to hire a plumber, we’ve put together a basic guide to walk you through the steps. Here’s what you need to know to partner with the right professional.
Find Plumbers Near You
If you don’t have a go-to plumber, one of the easiest and most straightforward ways to find one is to ask trusted friends and family members to refer one to you.
Barring this, it’s a good idea to do a quick search for the “best plumber near me.” This can help you come up with a list of potential companies you’d like to work with. Make sure, of course, that the businesses in question are residential plumbers, not commercial ones!
Check the Basics
Before you go any further, make sure the plumbers on your list meet a few basic requirements.
Any plumber you work with should be licensed, insured, and certified by your state. In addition, they should have significant business experience to ensure that they’ll do things right the first time around.
Look for Reviews and Testimonials
A great way to narrow down your list is to see what others are saying about any plumber you’re considering. To do this, head to the plumber’s website to see if they have any testimonials to share.
In addition, be sure to check third-party review sites like Google, Yelp, and Facebook, as well as the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Consider the Scope of Your Project
To further narrow down your options, consider the scope of your project.
For example, if you’ll need to upgrade your entire system or require extensive plumbing repair, you won’t want to work with a smaller business based out of a truck. Instead, you’ll need to find an established company with the tools and manpower for this sort of work.
Weigh the Details
From here, it’s time to pay attention to a few key details that should factor into your decision.
- Pricing: Get a quote from any company you’re considering to ensure that they’re giving you a competitive offer
- Warranties: Find out if the plumber offers any guarantees on the work they perform
- Availability: Most reputable plumbers have typical work hours in addition to an “emergency services” option, so make sure these hours work with your schedule
- Response time: It’s always a good idea to seek out a company that boasts a low estimated response time for emergencies
Once you have a better idea of how well the plumber can meet your needs, it’s time to make the hire!
Take These Steps to Hire a Plumber Today
Though it takes time and effort to hire a plumber you can trust, these steps are well worth the investment. Finding the right professional to tackle your plumbing problems can mean the difference between a smoothly running system and long-term frustration, so don’t hesitate to take your time finding the best person for the job!
Need more helpful guides like this one? Check out our other posts for additional insights.
Jun 12, 2021 | Solar
The cost of solar panels is less than 25% of the price it was in 1990.
Solar panel installation costs have fallen as the technology continues to mature. Still, it doesn’t get on your roof for free. So how to solar panel installers come up with their pricing for home solar panels?
Keep reading to see the breakdown.
What Goes Into a Solar Panel Installation?
The best way to know what it will cost to get a solar panel installation is to ask professional contractors, such as those found here, for a “shopping list” of sorts.
The common components of a solar energy system in your area will likely include:
- Solar panels
- Solar inverter
- Mounting system
- Battery backup system (optional)
- Gas, Diesel, Propane backup system (optional)
Battery Backup Systems and Generators
A battery backup system is required if you’re trying to be off-grid. A battery backup system may end up costing as much as the solar and the install, and affects how and where the inverter is installed.
The constant costs and maintenance of gas, diesel, and propane systems is one reason that batteries are coming into favor. Yes, the upfront cost causes many to stagger, but it will save over the lifetime of the system.
Going off-grid or using a battery backup will understandably make your system more complex, and therefore more costly.
Different Types of Solar Panels
Something that changes the price of home solar panels by a large margin is that not all solar panels are created equal. There are three main types of photovoltaic solar panels in use today, and this causes a direct effect on solar panel prices and solar panel cost. They are:
- Monocrystalline silicon solar cells
- Polycrystalline silicon solar cells
- Thin film solar cells (TFSC)
TFSC are great because of their flexibility. You’re able to use them in a range of situations that a rigid system can’t.
Monocrystalline silicon solar cells come from a single crystal of silicon and carefully sliced into thin wafers. Polycrystalline silicon solar cells are made up of bits of several silicon crystals.
Monocrystalline solar cells are the most expensive, but only by a few cents per Watt. As the Watts increase, though, so does the price. It’s more expensive, but the efficiencies from monocrystalline make it a clear winner for saving on electricity bills in the long run.
Solar Inverters
A key part of solar panel installation, solar inverters convert DC power to AC.
If you’re going to get a battery backup, this has to be arranged in advance for this reason. Batteries must receive DC power to work effectively. After the battery gets its DC power, the inverter will change it to AC.
A solar inverter system hooked up to a battery costs about ten times as much as each inverter type otherwise would.
There are again three options to choose from if you’re not going with a battery backup.
- String inverter
- Power optimizer
- Microinverter
Microinverters invert each panel individually. Power optimizers have a separate and direct line to the inverter. String inverters are the base type, and cheapest, which links all solar panels together before going through the inverter.
The larger the system of solar panels you have, the larger the inverter, the pricier the system.
Things Are Heating Up
Solar panel installation is trending toward a high demand in coming years as prices for solar technologies fall. Currently, installation is only 24% of the total cost of a home solar power system. Since this sector is seeing so much growth, you’ll likely see a lot of other costs drop as well.
Interested in more solar facts and guidance? We have the latest in technology and home improvement tips to keep you busy. Keep browsing to stay ahead!
Jun 7, 2021 | Heating, Home Maintenance
Your furnace is an essential part of keeping your home comfortable. Unfortunately, people often miss the early warning signs that they need to replace their furnaces.
This can cost time, hassle, and money on your energy bills. Regular maintenance and inspections can increase the lifespan of your furnace because, rather than opting for replacement, a simple furnace repair could be all it takes.
Here are the main signs that you need to replace your furnace.
Your Furnace is More than 20 Years Old
There’s significant debate over how long a furnace should last. On average, a well-maintained furnace should last for twenty years before it needs to be replaced.
Even if your furnace is still operating after 20 years, it’s wise to invest in a replacement to maximize efficiency and to take advantage of the latest technology.
Your Heating Bills are Increasing
Perhaps the biggest sign that a furnace is about to come to the end of its natural lifespan is rising heating bills. Rising heating bills could mean that your air ducts are not properly sealed, or it could mean that the internal parts of your furnace are beginning to wear out.
Older furnaces cause your heating bills to rise because they need to work harder to maintain your desired temperature.
Hire a professional if you notice a spike in your heating bills.
Your Furnace Needs Regular Repairs
If during the last two years you have had to carry out more than a couple of repairs per year, it is time to get a new furnace.
The cost of regularly repairing your furnace will quickly surpass the cost of a new furnace. Compare prices to see if it’s a cost-effective decision to make.
An easy way to tell whether it’s worth purchasing a new furnace is if the repair bill is more than 50% of the cost of a new furnace.
Your Furnace Makes Strange Noises
The running costs of a furnace make up almost 51% of a home’s energy consumption, alongside air conditioning. A telltale sign that your furnace is becoming problematic is to listen to the sounds it’s making.
Rattling, popping, and banging are just some of the sounds your furnace should never make. Furthermore, if your blower appears to be turning itself on and off regularly, this is another sign that your furnace needs to be completely replaced.
Your Furnace is No Longer Keeping You Comfortable
Do you frequently find that your rooms are too hot or too cold? Are you adjusting your thermostat every few minutes to reach your desired temperature?
This means your furnace is no longer distributing heat properly around your home. While it could indicate that your thermostat is faulty, in most cases, it’s a sign that your furnace must be replaced.
Conclusion
The cost of a new furnace can be expensive, but in the long-term investing in a new furnace could save you money. Whether you’re bleeding money on biannual repair bills or higher heating bills, it’s time to consider upgrading to a modern furnace.
Contact an HVAC professional in your local area for a full inspection of your home’s furnace.
