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Destructive Mold in Your Home? Part 2

In our last post we gave you some detailed information about a particularly deadly form of mold which can develop unnoticed in homes. SC is a greenish-black substance that grows slowly over time, forming in hidden damp areas in your home’s structure. Susceptible materials are anything made of wood, paper, or cellulose. That includes drywall, framing lumber, sheathing, insulation, wood floors, and door and window frames. If it grows in your attic, it can spread to any boxes or paper items stored there. This picture shows black mold in an easily-noticed place. However, it often grows in areas where you can’t see it, such as in the space behind your walls.

Preventing it from ever developing is the best thing you can do, but if it has started forming, early and thorough clean-up by a mold remediation contractor is imperative. If you find evidence of what you believe to be black mold, it’s a situation best left to professionals. If you disturb it, you run the risk of spreading the microscopic spores further into your home, contaminating even more areas. Professional mold remediation firms are trained proper handling of contaminated materials as well as disposal. Many experts recommend that you temporarily move out of your home while the clean-up is being done.

Since small, slow roof leaks are one of the major causes, what are the warning signs that you may have a problem with your roof?

The most obvious are the tell-tale brownish stains on your ceiling; these indicate a more substantial leak, however. Much of the moisture leading to black mold development soaks into the underlying roof structure, your attic beams, and insulation, so it never reaches the ceiling. But never ignore ceiling stains; they are almost always a sign of a roof leak.
Sagging areas in your roof which are detectable from the outside. Take a look at your roof from the exterior, on all sides, and from several angles. Do any areas appear to be sagging or seem to be “different” than other areas of the roof? That could indicate a possible leak. A sagging roof could also indicate that structural damage has already developed.
Buckled, curled, or missing shingles. While these problems do not always indicate that leaks occur, they at best they are leaks waiting to happen, because they are evidence that your roof has already been damaged, and its ability to keep out moisture has been compromised.
Missing flashing. Like damaged shingles, missing flashing is a warning sign, indicating another possible point of entry for water.
Roof rot. Roof rot is a serious problem, even if it has not yet produced leaks through to the underlying structure. Roof rot means the roofing has become infiltrated with moisture and has decayed. While the other problems listed may be fixed by repairs, your only solution to roof rot is a tear-off and replacement.

While small leaks may not always be detectable early, unless you notice one of the above signs, building experts recommend an annual inspection by a qualified roofing contractor. Iron River Construction offers free inspections. If you haven’t had yours looked at recently, give us a call.

Dangers of Snow and Ice on Roofs

If you’re like most Twin Cities homeowners, your roof has a pile of snow following last weekend’s storm, unless you’ve already been up there with a roof rake or a shovel. And you may already have some ice build-up or icicles at the edge. Some people are tempted to leave those picture-perfect icicles in place, and you may have heard that snow on the roof can be helpful, but the truth is that both snow and ice on a roof pose hazards – both to people and the structure.

Although snow and ice on roofs both have the same cause (snowfall), they can cause different problems, and how you deal with them is different. The only real similarity is that both have the potential to cause problems if they develop significant weight. Here are the basics.

Snow

You may have heard the term “snow load” in reference to a roof. Basically it has to do with the pressure a build-up of snow is putting on the roof. One cubic foot of snow can weigh up to 30 lbs., and even more if it is rained on. Snow typically weighs more per square foot than ice.

Keep in mind that your roof structure bears the majority of the weight of the snow, so it’s important not to let it build up. This is especially true for older homes. A high snow load has the potential to damage a roof. Other factors involved are the age of the roofing and the quality of the installation. Generally speaking, the greater the “pitch” of a roof (the angle of the steepness), the less prone it is to snow build-up. Also, attic insulation that does not provide for adequate air circulation can contribute to the problem.

Ice

The main danger from ice on a roof is the formation of ice dams at the eaves, which has the potential for doing severe damage not only to the roofing but to the underlying structure, soffits and fascia, and rain handling systems. Those beautiful calendar-picture icicles dangling from your eaves are a disaster waiting to happen. Ice dams permit water to seep under the roof, causing leaks, rot, and mold and mildew formation.

Snow and Ice: A Nasty Combination

The real problems come in when snow and ice build up together. The snow, due to its weight, puts a stress on the roof structure, while the ice dam traps water from melting snow. With each additional snow accumulation, there is more pressure on the roof as well as more ice dam build-up from melting snow. Emergency roof repairs could be the result.

Taking good care of your roof means removing snow and ice quickly and safely. While you may be able to shovel or rake off the snow, it may be preferable to have an experienced professional take care of removing the ice dams so that you don’t inadvertently do damage to your roof or the surrounding elements. If ice dam formation is a recurring problem, consider seeking out the advice of a professional roofing company for steps that you can take to correct the situation.

Prevent Ice Dams and Roof Repairs By Making Sure Your Home Can “Breathe”

Just like people, houses need to breathe, too, and that should be the function of a good eave system. The eaves are the underside of your roof’s overhang,and they may extend out just a few inches or a couple of feet. Whatever their size, their purpose is much more than cosmetic. They should do more than just finish off your roof and give you a place to mount the gutters. They also keep water from running off the edge of the roof onto the outside walls. And well-designed eaves should have vents that allow air to circulate into your attic space. This allows your home to “breathe.” This is especially critical in the winter.

Ice dams are a problem for many Minnesota homeowners, especially those with older homes which are not well insulated. The main cause of ice dams is a warm attic, which means the upper area of the roof is much warmer (causing snow melt) than the cold, lower portion of the roof (where the melted snow freezes and forms an ice dam). When attic air is close to the same temperature and humidity level as the outside area, it makes it much less likely that ice dams will form in the winter.

If your roof is in need of repair, or if your roof has had problems with ice dams in previous winters, talk to a roofing contractor such as Iron River Construction about installing vents that will help conduct cool air into your attic, thus reducing the likelihood of an ice dam developing. Remember, your roof is a system, and the eaves are an important part of it.

Two Types of Insurance Adjusters – In Case of Storm Damage, Which One is Right for You?

Many people are not aware that they have the right to hire an independent adjuster if they are making an insurance claim for damage repairs following a storm. Your homeowner’s insurance company will have their adjuster assess your claim to determine the amount they will compensate you for in the event of a loss, but you are not obligated to accept your insurance company’s estimate of the damage. You are entitled to have an independent adjuster take a look at your situation as well. How are they different?

The main difference is that adjusters who work for insurance companies are paid by them, and their base salary is usually not tied to the dollar amount of claims processed. The independent adjuster works as a private contractor who is paid by the homeowner, usually on a percentage of the claim settlement.

The in-house insurance adjuster has a vested interest in keeping his employer’s financial liability to a minimum; the independent adjuster’s motive is to have your claim settled for the maximum amount possible, since what he is paid is directly based on your insurance settlement. Larger claims mean larger commissions.

One other advantage is that oftentimes independent insurance adjusters are retired contractors, and they are more familiar with the hands-on business of damage repairs. With their construction experience they may be able to spot problems an insurance professional might overlook.

When determining whether to hire your own independent adjuster, it’s important to keep in mind that you will be paying a commission; there is no cost to you if you accept the insurance company adjuster’s assessment of your claim. This is especially important in light of smaller, straightforward claims, where it would just make good financial sense to go with your insurance company’s value. But in the case of complicated repairs, it might be wise to retain an independent adjuster.

It’s a good idea to have all of the facts before you sign that claim settlement, because once you accept the check you won’t be able to come back with a request for additional payment for something that wasn’t spotted originally.

If you’re submitting a damage claim to your insurance company and you have any questions about damage claims adjustment, contact Iron River Construction. We’re experienced with storm damage repair and we have extensive experience in dealing with adjusters. Serving the Minneapolis metro area and greater Minnesota – call 952-442-1762.

MN Roof Repair Alert: Unnoticed Roof Leaks May Be Destroying Your Home

If you haven’t heard the term “black mold” yet, you probably will be soon, because it’s been making the news. This green-black substance is toxic, and poses a dangerous health hazard that can cause sometimes-fatal respiratory problems even in healthy people. In attempts to destroy it, some homeowners have even burned their infected houses down and started over. use sometimes-

What causes this terrible mold to develop? Water. In many cases it comes as a result of flooding, but more and more cases are being reported that are a result of a previously-undetected roof leak. A small, hidden leak allows water to slowly seep inside your home, soaking into the insulation and structural lumber. Mold spores can float in the air, and they flourish in warm, humid environments. These spores aren’t visible with the naked eye, but they pose a major threat nonetheless. Black mold infests anything made of cellulose – wood, drywall, even paper. Think about your home’s structure and how much of it is made of cellulose materials. As it works its way into the structural lumber, the wood will eventually rot.

How can you tell whether you might have a problem? Take a look at your home from the outside. Do any areas on the roof appear to be sunken in or sagging? If so, that means the supporting wood has been compromised, and you probably have rot. Any material that has this black mold has to be removed and destroyed, and that may mean replacing door and window frames, wood floors, ceilings, drywall, etc.

Be sure to take a good look at your insurance policy, because some homeowner insurance companies are denying claims based on black mold that can’t be tied to a specific event like a flood. With a hidden slow leak, it may take years for the problem to surface, and homeowners in this situation have had to fight in court to get compensated from their insurer.

Roof leaks can mean more than an inconvenience, especially if they lead to the development of black mold. Have your roof inspected soon to make sure that this destructive substance. Iron River Construction performs free roof inspections in the Minneapolis area and greater Minnesota. Call today.

A Roof Inspection Can Reveal Inadequate Attic Ventilation

Poor ventilation in attic space is one of the main causes of ice dams. And if you have an ice dam, you probably are paying too much for energy use, because you’re warming the attic as well as the interior of your home. Not only is this costly, it can create problems for your roof and your home structure as well. How do you know if you have sufficient air circulation in your attic? A roof inspection can be revealing. In most cases, inadequate air flow in your attic space will result in telltale evidence on your roof. A good roofing professional will be able to spot the signs. Keep in mind that some things do not necessarily indicate ventilation problems; they may simply be indicators of an old deteriorating or damaged roof. Here are some things to look for:

Shingles that are curled or buckling. Shingles on old roofs will do this as well, but if your roof is younger than 10 years old, this could be an indicator of a warm attic.
Transient ceiling leaks. Wet or damp ceilings that come and go may not be due to a roof leak, although you may have a hidden leak you’re not aware of. Apparent leaks can also be caused by condensation from warm, wet air trapped in your attic. If left untended, this will eventually lead to mildew and even black mold, a toxic substance that is becoming a growing concern and could result in major damage to your home that your insurance may not cover. If you spot any signs of mold or mildew in your attic, contact a roofing contractor experienced in roofing ventilation. Mold and mildew should not be ignored.
Ice dams. A warm attic means warm shingles, which means snow melt in the winter. When the melting snow hits the cold edge of the roof, it freezes, causing roof-damaging and leak-causing ice dams.

There are a number of things that can be done to correct insufficient attic ventilation, and Iron River Construction can recommend the best solution for your home. If you suspect that air is not circulating properly in your attic space, call today for a free assessment. Iron River Construction serves Minneapolis and the greater Minnesota area with roofing and other home remodeling services.

MN Emergency Roof Repairs – What You Should Know

No matter how good or new it is, any roof can be damaged from Minnesota’s sometimes severe or extreme weather, and such damage often may require an emergency repair. Quick action is necessary to prevent further damage to your roof and/or other areas of your home, inside and out. If you’ve suffered storm damage to your roof, here’s what to keep in mind:

Don’t attempt repairs during the storm, or you may be facing injury from high winds and lightning. It’s best to evaluate roof damage in the clear light of day once the storm is over.
Have your roof professionally inspected. Even though you may be able to handle minor repairs yourself or take steps to prevent further damage, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor to evaluate the extent of the damage. Roofing inspectors can spot damage you may miss, and they are best qualified to recommend needed repairs.
Minimize further damage: A damaged roof can result in roof leaks. Water entering the interior of your home can cause structural damage. A roofing repair expert can be of great help with this.
Locate the source of any leaks and stop them if you can. You may be able to plug leaky areas until repairs can be made. Patches, rubber sheets, sealants, and other materials can be helpful until a roof repair expert can step in to make permanent repairs.
Choose a professional roofer. A qualified roofing contractor should provide you with a license, proof of insurance, references, and information on warranties. Be sure you get a detailed written estimate.

Emergency roof repairs don’t have to be a source of panic when you’ve got a local MN roofing contractor on your side. If a storm has affected your roof, contact Iron River Construction today for a free inspection and repair estimate. Call us at 952-441-1762.

Tags: MN roof damage, roof repairs Mpls, roofing contractor Mpls

When Is It Time to Replace Your MN Roof?

Let’s face it – the prospect of a leaking roof, particularly in the middle of the winter or a heavy rain, is a scary proposition. There is no arguing that a brand new roof will provide you with a greater sense of security than repairing a damaged roof once it reaches the end of its useful life. The question is, where exactly is that point?

Because most homeowners don’t know when a roof is worn out, some roofing contractors that will use scare tactics to get homeowners to opt for a new roof replacement versus a repair on a roof that actually still has plenty of life left in it. A quick review of a few indicators will help you feel more confident if you are considering replacement versus repairs.

First, you need to evaluate your roof’s condition. Is it damaged, or is it just dirty and stained? If you’re in doubt, have your roof professionally inspected.

Then if the primary reason you think it is time for a new roof is because of a leak, there are some additional points to consider. Determine whether the roof leaks in a single or multiple locations. Next, ask yourself whether it is in a location that has leaked and been repaired before. A single location, leaking for the first time, usually is not by itself an indication that you need a new roof. It is more likely that a single component of the roofing system such as flashing, a vent, or a misnailed shingle has failed but the rest of the roof still could be in decent condition.

Leaks in multiple locations will tell you a much different story. If multiple locations are having shingles come loose, nails rise, and flashing fail, these are indications that the roof needs to be replaced. The general rule of thumb is that if the roof is over 15 years old, and has more than a third of it is in need of repair, an entire roof replacement is recommended. Why? When your roof reaches this point, things are not going to get any better, and you will be facing multiple roof repairs in the future. On the other hand, with a new roof, everything will be covered with a warranty for 20 years or more. In addition to this, roofing today is much better that that of even 15 years ago. The warranties are better, the materials are better and if you go with a reputable roofing contractor, installations are much better as well.

If you have any questions about whether your roof needs repairs or replacement, the licensed roofing professionals at I River Construction will come out and inspect your roof for free to help you decide. With us you will get the whole truth and nothing but the truth. 952-442-1762

MN Roofing and Siding Go Hand in Hand

In the past, the most popular building materials used in home construction for finishing the exterior were brick or wood siding. Today, there are other options which perform as well (or better) than brick and wood. Cement fiber siding such as James Hardie siding is one of the many types of extremely durable and beautiful siding options which has gained national attention. The advantage of cement fiber board is not only that it possesses the look of actual wood siding, it will also stand up to the elements just as well as cement. In fact it is quite likely that once the existing siding has been replaced with cement fiber siding, the home owner will be outlived by the siding and may never need to replace any portion of it.

The second major component of a house is the roof. Roofing is an integral part of the entire house that maintains its energy efficiency and contributes to the comfort and security of the home. Without a solid and durable roof above, the interior contents of the home are subjected to the elements outside of it, much like a home without good siding. Most roofing materials come with some measure of warranty, but unless they were installed by a certified contractor, this warranty may not be valid. Depending upon the manufacturer and quality of the roofing material, it is common to have warranties ranging from 15, 20, or 30 years. It is important that the roofing contractor installs the new roof according to the manufacturer’s directions, or this warranty could be voided.

The most commonly installed type of roofing material has traditionally been asphalt shingles. While there are many other choices, asphalt shingles are very affordable and work well in all kinds of weather. Your roof is an entire system. It is composed of several parts that should catch and channel water away from the house and its foundation, so that water will not erode any part of it. Unless the roof is viewed as part of this system, an inexperienced roofer can make some big mistakes. Joints may not be installed properly, shingles may not overlap the way they should, and some of the features that help prevent wind from getting under them may be compromised. Only a properly trained technician should be installing a new roof, and even then your roofing contractor should very knowledgeable about the particular product being installed. Each product hasits own elements to make it work as designed.

Siding and roofing are your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Your home is a major investment, so before you replace your siding and/or your roof, make sure you have an experienced professional contractor who can get it done right the first time. Call Iron River Construction at 952-442-1762. Licensed and insured MN siding and roofing contractors.

Tags: siding contractor

Making Sure You Get What You Pay for With Your New Roof

Choosing the correct replacement for an aging roof is no easy task. The perfect roofing solution for one building may be the worst option for another one right down the street. That’s because no two buildings are precisely alike, even if they closely resemble each other. The amount of sun a roof receives, the amount of vegetation around the house, and the pitch and angles of the roof all play a role in choosing the best roofing material. So how do you choose the right new roof for your house, given all the options in the marketplace? You can start by asking your roofing contractor these questions.

1. What physical elements influence the roofing system selection?

You need to begin by looking at the building’s location and the external influences of its surrounding area. You need to examine building codes, weather trends, and topography – even the direction the building faces.

When it comes to roof replacement, you need to list the attributes of the roof area itself. It’s best to detail the roof’s size, shape, slope, deck construction, edge detailing, protrusions, rooftop access and existing roofing system. Along with this basic information, you need to find out why your original roof is no longer adequate. Did a low growing branch wear a portion of it out? Did the house receive an abnormal amount of wind or hail that caused one portion of the roof to wear faster than the rest of it? Only an experienced contractor will be able to locate and identify all the unique features about your home, in order to help you make the right decision about what roofing material to use during a roof replacement or repair.

2. What kind of warranty accompanies the roofing material you’re considering?

Most residential roofing material comes with a 20-year warranty, provided that you keep up with its maintenance schedule. There are routine inspections that are required to keep these warranties in effect, and as long as you have them inspected periodically, your protection will remain current. The key is to find a local roofing company that will tell you this up fron, and then provide the needed inspections for free. Some contactors will sell you a roof and then charge you extra for a maintenance contract. Or they might not tell you about the requirements that

3. Is all the roofing material designed to work together?

Your roof consists of more than the shingles. There are layers to it, as well as soffits, gutters, and downspouts. A good roof will manage the water from rain and snow, resist hail, and stand up to the broad range of temperatures throughout the year. Only by using a ‘roofing system’ that was designed to work together can you be sure that you will get the most out of your investment.

For most people, their home is the biggest investment they will ever make. It only makes sense to take care of it to the best of your ability. Start by contacting Iron River Roofing in Minneapolis, MN. We have the right answers for you. 952-442-1762

Tags: roof repair, roofing contractor, roofing materials

MINNESOTA STORM REPAIR SPECIALIST

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