Friday, September 21, 2018

Torch Roofing

Most people have heard of flat roofs. They are commonly used for commercial business all over town. But, most people aren’t familiar with torch roofing or how it is installed and maintained.

Torch roofing uses a material called Bitumen (or asphalt). This material is good for waterproofing a roof. However, torch applied roofing need s an additive to stabilize the inability of asphalt to expand and contract. In the past, asbestos was added to the asphalt. Now, roofing contractors use a modified Bitumen using other additives.

This modified Bitumen Is applied two ways. One is called SBS Self-Adhered or mop applied  and the other is APP (atactic polypropylene) torch applied. The torch applied (APP) type of the modified Bitumen is sometimes marketed as a rubber-like membrane, which is misleading.  The additives used to make the modified bitumen doesn’t actually contain rubber at all; APP uses plastic type modifiers, not rubber.

APP Modified Bitumen requires the use of a torch and propane tank to apply it to a roof. The roofing material creates an impermeable roof that has an average life of between 15 and 20 years. It is ideal for flat roofs because of the protection it offers from rainwater which collects on the roof surface. The cost is only slightly more than the traditional tar and gravel  roofing material that is frequently used. APP torch roofing provides better results than tar and gravel. Most building owners think that the additional cost is well worth it.

Another benefit of APP roofing over tar and gravel roofing is the smell. The tar can leave behind noxious fumes, which sometimes drives homeowners to temporarily move out to avoid the smell. Since, torch roofing does not contain tar, it does not have bothersome fumes associated with its installation.

APP roofs are also fire resistant and heat resistant. With additional coatings, torch roofing gains in fire resistance. APP torch roofing also deflects harmful UV rays that can deteriorate other roofing materials. It also won’t melt in the sun or become brittle over time, like tar and gravels roofs.

If installed properly, torch down roofs are low maintenance and tear and puncture resistant. This means you save some money on roof repairs. When it is time to repair or replace the roof, a new roof layer can be added easily. This also saves the cost of labor from tearing off an old roof.

Since APP roofing is applied using a torch on top of the building, only experienced professional roofing contractors should install this type of roofing. The dangers of working with an open flame on a building or residence should be taken very seriously. And Guardian Roofing is the expert contractor to call for your roofing needs.

When your home is ready for a new roof, repairs, or maintenance, you need a reliable, dependable roof repair company. You count on you roofing contractor to keep your home safe and dry. Guardian Roofing is committed to providing top-quality service, professionalism and workmanship.

If you are looking for a roof repair contractor please call us today at 844-499-7822 or complete our online service request form.

 



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Wednesday, September 12, 2018

The Guardian Gazette: September 2018 Newsletter

Here at Guardian it is our mission to provide the best customer service possible. Part of that customer service includes keeping our clients informed on how they can best protect their roofs from the harsh winter months. Here are our top three tips on how small changes can prevent big problems:

1. Keep your roof free of debris – Excessive buildup of debris (leaves, branches, etc) not only has the potential to increase water damage but can promote the growth of moss as well. This also applies to your gutters and downspouts. Be sure to regularly clear and clean your roof and gutters to prevent damage and maintain the integrity of your home.

2. Be on the lookout for raised areas – lifted or broken shingles are one of the most common types of roof complaints; this problem can occur through weak adhesive, faulty nails or high winds. Whatever the reason, loose shingles can cause raised areas on your roof which in turn can catch the wind and tear off completely in the fall and winter months. Prevent shingle tear off by scheduling regular roof maintenance checkups.

3. Keep your attic properly insulated – Poorly insulated attics are a costly problem for a homeowner; they can lead to high energy bills and continual roof issues like shingle failure and ice dams. Have your attic inspected to determine if you have the proper amount of insulation required to extend the integrity of your roof and the value of your home.

How to: Transition your home from summer to fall

By: Helen Racanelli

Follow these helpful tips for decorating, storing and organizing your home for the fall season.

When the fall air arrives, it’s a natural time to transition your home for the cooler temperatures winging their way to an evening near you. “With every season comes subtle changes in the home,” says Toronto decorator Laura Collins. “While a fresh coat of paint is quite an extreme approach to seasonal decor, interchangeable throw pillows, cozy blankets, and fall inspired florals, might be a perfect solution,” she says. We also caught up with Calgary-based professional organizer Jennifer Zagorsky for her take on prepping for September and beyond. These experts share their tips for decorating, storing and organizing for the season.

» READ THE FULL ARTICLE


This month’s featured review:

“Jim Singleterry came out to our house and looked at the dry rot and and gave us a quote that we felt was fair. Jim was professional and very personable, would do business with him anytime.”



We are so grateful for our customer reviews. A kind review is one of the greatest gifts the Guardian team can receive from a client. Each month we reward three clients for their positive accolades.

This month, we are rewarding Ron P., Sue O., and Lafare H. Please expect a $50 Amazon gift card in your email inbox soon!


WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Do you have an interesting roofing story?

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Monday, August 13, 2018

The Guardian Gazette: August 2018 Newsletter

Guardian Roofing Meets With Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus

Mayor Visits Prominent Local Business To Recognize Quality Service Standards

SEATTLE, WA, July 11, 2018 /24-7PressRelease/ — Guardian Roofing, a Seattle-based home service provider, recently met with Auburn, WA Mayor Nancy Backus in an effort to better understand the needs of residents of the community and tailor their service offerings accordingly. Auburn is a critical area for Guardian and the work they do helping people with roofing needs as well as pest control.

Backus is meeting with some of the local businesses that are cornerstones for the city’s success. The meeting included discussions on the local community and the need for quality service, cost-effective pricing and exceptional customer service. The Mayor explained how Guardian can help these residents and contribute services and offerings that will be of the most value to them.

Guardian’s business strategy is based on strong values and business ethics which are evident throughout the organization and to clients across the region. Their passion for maintaining a family-owned feeling coupled with their drive to set a high bar in the service industry has paid off and they have now grown to over 80 employees.

» READ THE FULL ARTICLE


15 Brilliant Ways To Keep Your Home Cool Without Air Conditioning

By Samantha Toscano and Suzy Strutner (HUFFPOST)

In warmer months, it’s tempting to crank the AC or plant yourself in front of the nearest fan. But these aren’t the only tricks to keeping cool. It turns out there are plenty of ways to buffer your home from the heat without racking up your electric bill. And they’ll make you feel like a DIY champ, too.



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Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Guardian Roofing Meets With Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus

Mayor Visits Prominent Local Business To Recognize Quality Service Standards

SEATTLE, WA, July 11, 2018/24-7PressRelease/

Article by: 24-7PressRelease

Guardian Roofing, a Seattle-based home service provider, recently met with Auburn, WA Mayor Nancy Backus in an effort to better understand the needs of residents of the community and tailor their service offerings accordingly. Auburn is a critical area for Guardian and the work they do helping people with roofing needs as well as pest control.

Backus is meeting with some of the local businesses that are cornerstones for the city’s success. The meeting included discussions on the local community and the need for quality service, cost-effective pricing and exceptional customer service. The Mayor explained how Guardian can help these residents and contribute services and offerings that will be of the most value to them.

Guardian’s business strategy is based on strong values and business ethics which are evident throughout the organization and to clients across the region. Their passion for maintaining a family-owned feeling coupled with their drive to set a high bar in the service industry has paid off and they have now grown to over 80 employees.

According to Lori Swanson, Owner and Founder of Guardian Roofing, when asked about the company’s strong track record, “Employees are the foundation of a solid business. One secret to our success lies in the creation of innovative employee incentive programs as well as extensive benefits and ongoing training.”

Mayor Nancy Backus was elected to her first term as mayor in 2014 and is the first female to hold the office in Auburn’s 125-year history. Prior to taking office, she served 10 years as an Auburn city council member and spent 25 years as a financial manager for the Boeing Company. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and is a proud wife and mother to a high-achieving, soccer-playing daughter attending Green River College.

Guardian Roofing is trusted by homeowners and businesses from Tacoma to Seattle. As full-service residential roof contractors for repairs, replacement, minor and major roofing projects, Guardian Roofing has established itself as the premier roofing contractor in Seattle and surrounding areas. Founded in 2005, Guardian has helped thousands of clients in the Puget Sound protect their homes and families, holding the distinction of being the only Roofing Contractor endorsed by Rob McKenna, former Attorney General for the State of Washington.



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Monday, July 9, 2018

Lighting Up Your Home With Skylights

No matter where you live in In Washington State – Seattle, Tacoma, or Bellevue – you have probably thought about putting a skylight in your home. Skylights bring the outside light into your home in a way that light fixtures can’t. Especially on those cloudy days or you want a view of a starry sky, Skylights are worth the investment. Unfortunately, like just about anything else in a home, Skylights occasionally have problems. Since they are often inconvenient to access, skylight repairs can be particularly difficult. And, if the repairs aren’t done properly, you’ll have a leaky roof to deal with.

Common Skylight Repairs

Repairing a leaky skylight is the most frequent repair homeowners may have. About 90 percent of all leaks are caused by damage to the metal flashing around the skylight. Flashing is a piece of metal that sits flush against a skylight opening and prevents water from leaking under the shingles. Most leaks are slow. Homeowners may not see a leak for several years until the drywall next to the skylight starts to buckle or stain. Because they might be hard to notice when they start, it might be a good idea to have your skylight and your entire roof examined regularly by a professional to identify any problems.

Modern skylights that are properly installed or repaired by a professional should remain watertight for a long time. Newer skylights are built in accordance with rugged construction requirements. But, they can crack with impact from hail or tree branches. If your older skylights are in an area where it can be easily damaged, consider replacing it with a newer damage resistant plastic version. Ot have the trees trimmed to reduce potential damage.

If you decide to replace your skylights, you need to research your options. There are different types of skylights. Some skylights can open a few inches to allow air circulation. Some ventilation skylights may open with a pole while others may use gears that raise and lower the skylight. Sometimes these gears can get jammed. Some other skylights can be opened automatically with motors, which are great for high ceilings. However, these motors need occasional maintenance and repair. Skylight repairs for automatic models may also be electrical rather than mechanical, and might require a different type of service technician to fix than other skylight problems.

Skylights aren’t just rectangular either. There are tubular lights that are great for small spaces like bathrooms and hallways. Some manufacturers also other additional options, like shades. These shades can be opaque or semi opaque and can be opened and closed to provide maximum control over the amount of light allowed in.

Not all skylight problems are a result of damage. Sometimes skylight repairs are a result of insufficient cleaning and maintenance. Skylights do tend to be neglected because of their location. You may find special tools on extending poles for regular dusting. Some service providers may be able to include skylight cleaning along with their regular service, like gutter cleaning. Some window cleaning services also include skylights as part of the whole house window cleaning.

When your home is ready for a new roof, repairs, or maintenance, you need a reliable, dependable roof repair company. You count on you roofing contractor to keep your home safe and dry. Guardian Roofing is committed to providing top-quality service, professionalism and workmanship.

If you are looking for a roof repair contractor please call us today at 844-499-7822 or complete our online service request form.



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Thursday, June 28, 2018

Rats Are In Seattle

When we see mice or other rodents, like rats or chipmunks, out in our Pacific Northwest forest, we think they are cute. They are definitely not cute when we find them in our homes. Unfortunately, rodent issues are fairly common in the Seattle area.

When the weather starts to cool down, rodents go looking for food and shelter for the winter. Rodents like to chew on wood and electrical wires, which increases the fire danger behind your walls, in the attic, and under the floors. Rodents can also do other damage to your home. Getting inside isn’t a problem for them. Rats can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter.  Mice can fit through a hole the size of a dime. And if the rodents can’t find an opening, they will often make their own by chewing their way inside.

According to Orkin, a pest control company,  Chicago tops the chart for rodents problems, however, Seattle – Tacoma area is listed in the top 10.

Orkin: These are the top 50 rattiest cities in America

  1. Chicago
  2. New York
  3. Los Angeles
  4. San Francisco – Oakland
  5. Washington, DC
  6. Philadelphia
  7. Detroit
  8. Baltimore
  9. Seattle – Tacoma
  10. Dallas – Ft. Worth
  11. Denver
  12. Minneapolis – St. Paul
  13. Cleveland – Akron
  14. Atlanta
  15. Boston
  16. Hartford – New Haven
  17. Portland, OR
  18. Miami – Ft. Lauderdale
  19. Indianapolis
  20. Houston
  21. Milwaukee
  22. Pittsburgh
  23. New Orleans
  24. Cincinnati
  25. Richmond – Petersburg
  26. Sacramento – Stockton
  27. Kansas City
  28. Charlotte
  29. Norfolk – Portsmouth – Newport News
  30. Buffalo
  31. Columbus, OH
  32. St. Louis
  33. Raleigh – Durham
  34. Grand Rapids – Kalamazoo
  35. San Diego
  36. Albany – Schenectady
  37. San Antonio
  38. Tampa – St. Petersburg
  39. Rochester, NY
  40. Nashville
  41. Champaign – Springfield – Decatur
  42. Greenville – Spartanburg
  43. Memphis
  44. Phoenix
  45. Syracuse
  46. West Palm Beach
  47. Orlando – Daytona Beach
  48. Madison
  49. Flint – Saginaw
  50. Green Bay – Appleton

Does the thought of sharing your home with uninvited guests make your shutter. It probably should. In addition to potential damage to your wood and wiring, rodents can also carry diseases with them. However, there are some precautions you can take to help keep them outside.

As part of your routine maintenance of your home, take note both inside and outside for rodent droppings, burrows and rub marks along baseboards and walls. Also, look for possible entry points outside the home and seal cracks and holes as you find them. Rodents prefer spaces that are hidden, dark, warm and difficult to reach. Cut back trees and bushes to at least three feet away from your home to avoid giving rodents a starting point to access the gutters, roof or other hidden openings. Installing weather striping around entryways to help block rodents from sneaking inside, as well as keeping your home more comfortable. Use plastic storage containers or metal tins to store food instead of plastic bags, which are easily chewed through. Keeping you home clean and wiping up crumbs and spills immediately will help avoid attracting rodents.

If you find that your home is being shared by unwanted guests, Guardian Pest Control can help. Our pests control specialists can quickly solve any pests issues you may have.

When your home is ready for a new roof, repairs, or maintenance, you need a reliable, dependable roof repair company. You count on you roofing contractor to keep your home safe and dry. Guardian Roofing is committed to providing top-quality service, professionalism and workmanship.

If you are looking for a roof repair contractor please call us today at 844-499-7822 or complete our online service request form.



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