How to Choose the Best Shingles for Your Roof

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As the snow starts to melt and the days grow longer, many homeowners begin thinking about home improvement projects they want to tackle in the coming year. One of the most popular home improvement projects is roof replacement. If you are in the market for a new roof, it is important to choose the right shingles for your home. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of roof shingles and how to determine which type is best for your home.

What Is the Difference Between Roof Shingles & Roof Tiles?

The first step in choosing the best shingles for your roof is to understand the difference between roof shingles and tiles. Roof shingles are made of asphalt or fiberglass and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. They typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years and are one of the most popular choices for residential roofs. Roof tiles, on the other hand, are made from clay or concrete and typically have a lifespan of 50+ years.

How to Determine Whether You Should Install Roof Shingles or Roof Tiles?

When deciding whether to install roof shingles or roof tiles, there are a few factors you should consider. First, you should consider the climate in your area. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or severe weather conditions, roof tiles may be a better choice as they are more durable and have a longer lifespan. Additionally, you should take into account the size and design of your home. Roof shingles are a great choice for small and medium-sized homes, while roof tiles may be more appropriate for larger or more complex roofs.

Which Type of Roof Shingles Is Right for Your Home?

Asphalt Shingles

If you live in an area with moderate weather conditions, asphalt shingles are a good option. They are available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home, and are relatively inexpensive. Asphalt roofs also have a shorter lifespan than other types of shingles and require more maintenance, but they are a good option for homes on a budget.

Fiberglass Shingles

Fiberglass is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability and long lifespan. Fiberglass shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, but are more expensive than asphalt options. Additionally, fiberglass shingles are more resistant to extreme weather conditions, making them a great choice for homeowners in areas with severe climates.

Wood Shingles

Wood shingles are an attractive and cost-effective option. They can add a rustic charm to any home, but they may require more maintenance than other types of shingles. Additionally, wood styles are not as fire-resistant as other materials and may not be the best choice for homes in areas with frequent wildfires.

Steel Shingles

Steel shingles are a great choice for homeowners looking for long-lasting and durable protection. Steel-based roofs are fire-resistant, making them a great option for homes in areas with frequent wildfires. They are also more resistant to extreme weather conditions and do not require as much maintenance as other types. However, they are more expensive than other materials and can be difficult to install.

Rubber Shingles

Rubber shingles are a relatively new option, but they are quickly becoming popular due to their durability and long lifespan. They are designed to resemble traditional roof shingles and can be customized with different colors and styles. Rubber styles are also fire-resistant and are relatively easy to install.

Routine Roof Maintenance & Repairs Will Help Your Roof Last Longer

In addition to choosing the right type of shingles for your home, it is important to perform regular maintenance and repairs to ensure your roof lasts as long as possible. This includes clearing away debris and checking for any signs of wear or damage. Also, you should inspect your roof regularly for any loose or missing shingles. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your roof is in good condition and able to withstand any extreme weather conditions.

Contact Three Sons Window & Door for Professional Roof Installation & Replacements in Waltham, MA

Whether you are looking to install a new roof on your home or replace an old one, Three Sons Window & Door can help. We offer professional roof installation and replacement services in the Waltham, MA area. Our experienced team of roofing professionals will work with you to determine the best type of shingles for your home and budget. Contact us today to learn more about our services and get started on your roofing project!

 

The Best Methods for Removing Leaves From Gutters

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It’s that time of year again when the leaves start to pile up and clog your gutters. If you’re not careful, this can lead to some serious damage to your home. In this blog post, we will be discussing the best methods for removing leaves from your gutters safely and efficiently. We will also provide tips on how to prevent leaves from piling up in the first place!

Importance of Routinely Clearing Leaves from Gutters

Leaves that fall into your gutters can cause a lot of problems if they are not removed on a regular basis. Clogged gutters can lead to:

  • Water damage to your home’s foundation
  • Cracks in your sidewalks and driveway
  • Pooling water around your home’s exterior
  • Insect and rodent infestations

As you can see, it is very important to keep your gutters clear of leaves. But how do you go about doing this? Read on to find out!

Ways to Remove Leaves from Gutters

There are a few different ways that you can remove leaves from your gutters.

Method #1: Use a Ladder

This is the most common method for removing leaves from gutters. You will need to use a ladder to reach the gutters and then use a scoop or your hands to remove the leaves. Be sure to use a stable ladder and have someone hold it for you if possible.

Method #2: Use a Leaf Blower

This is a quick and easy way to remove leaves from your gutters. Simply point the leaf blower into the gutters and turn it on. The leaves will be blown out of the gutters and away from your home.

Method #3: Use a Pressure Washer

This is a more powerful method for removing leaves from your gutters. You will need to use a pressure washer with a nozzle attachment to reach the gutters. Be sure to use caution when using a pressure washer, as too much pressure can damage your gutters.

Preventing Leaves from Piling Up in Gutters

Now that you know how to remove leaves from your gutters, let’s talk about how to prevent them from piling up in the first place.

Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards are a great way to prevent leaves from clogging your gutters. They are placed over the top of the gutters and allow water to pass through while keeping leaves out.

Trim Trees and Bushes

If you have trees or bushes near your home, be sure to trim them back regularly. This will help to prevent leaves from falling into your gutters in the first place.

Clean Your Gutters Regularly

It is important to clean your gutters regularly, even if there are no leaves present. This will help to prevent any build-up from occurring and will keep your gutters functioning properly.

Contact Three Sons Window & Door for All Gutter & Home Exterior Inquiries in Waltham, MA

As we head into the Fall and Winter months, be sure to keep your gutters clear of leaves. Use one of the methods listed above to remove leaves from your gutters safely and efficiently. By following these tips, you can help to prevent any water damage or other problems that can occur as a result of clogged gutters. For any questions regarding your gutters or renovating your home, contact Three Sons Window & Door in Waltham, MA. With a wide range of services, we’re sure to be able to help you with all of your needs! Give us a call today at 781-899-6353, or visit our website to receive more information!

8 Tips to Keep Your Gutters in Good Shape

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It’s no secret that keeping your gutters in good shape is important. If they’re not maintained properly, they can cause all sorts of problems for your home, from water damage to roof leaks. Through a consistent routine of inspecting, cleaning, repairs, and more, you can keep your gutters in top condition and save yourself a lot of headache down the road. In this blog post, we’ll give you 8 tips for keeping your gutters in good shape.

Inspect Your Gutters Regularly

The first step to keeping your gutters in good shape is to inspect them regularly. You should be checking for things like cracks, holes, rust, or any other damage. If you see any of these things, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible.

Routinely Clean Your Gutters

In addition to inspecting your gutters, you should also be regularly cleaning them. This means getting rid of any debris that’s accumulated, such as leaves or twigs. Not only does this help keep your gutters functioning properly, but it also helps prevent pests from taking up residence in your gutters.

Make Repairs Promptly

If you do find any damage while inspecting your gutters, it’s important to make repairs promptly. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and can eventually lead to serious damage to your home.

Be Careful When Working on Gutters

When you are cleaning or making repairs to your gutters, it’s important to be careful. After all, you’re dealing with a lot of sharp objects. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection, and use a ladder that is in good condition.

Inspect Your Roof & Home Exterior

In addition to inspecting your gutters, you should also be regularly inspecting your roof and home exterior. This will help you spot any potential problems early on, before they have a chance to cause serious damage. If you are considering installing a new roof for your home in Waltham, MA, our team of experts can help.

Check the Downspouts

In addition to the gutters themselves, you should also be sure to check the downspouts. These need to be clear so that water can flow freely through them. If they become clogged, it can cause all sorts of problems, including water damage to your home.

Consider Gutter Guards

If you’re tired of dealing with clogged gutters, you may want to consider installing gutter guards. These can help keep debris from getting into your gutters, and make it easier to keep them clean. If you live in an area with a lot of trees, gutter guards may be a good option for you.

Hire a Professional

If you don’t have the time or expertise to keep your gutters in good shape, you may want to hire a professional. This is especially true if you have a large home with multiple stories. A professional will be able to quickly and easily identify any problems, and can make the necessary repairs.

Contact Three Sons Window & Door for Roof Replacement & Installation in Waltham, MA

As you can see, there are a few different things you need to do in order to keep your gutters in good shape. By following these tips, you can avoid serious problems down the road. If you’re in need of a roof replacement or installation in Waltham, MA, be sure to contact Three Sons Window & Door. Our team of experts can help you choose the right roof for your home, and will ensure that it is installed properly. Visit our website to receive an instant quote today.

icicles on a roof

Winter Roofing To-Do List

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Insulation

New England winters are known for being bitter cold, which is why you want to make sure that your home is properly insulated below freezing temperatures. Before winter comes, it is so important for homeowners to check their current insulation. If you find when checking your insulation that it is damaged by water, missing, loose, or damaged in any other way, you should replace it. Insulation will keep a home temperature controlled and will keep that freezing cold air outside. 

 

Clean Gutter

Cleaning out gutters is one of the most important tasks on this winter to-do list. During the autumn months, leaves, acorns, pine cones, and other debris will get trapped and build up in your gutters. If this debris isn’t cleaned out properly, you can find damages to many parts of your home, including your roof, the foundation of your home, and your yard. When gutters are clogged with debris, they are unable to disburse water properly, causing water to damage other key parts of your home.

 

Roof Replacement

It is always important to get your roof replaced when it needs to but even more critical to do before the winter months. If your roof replacement is overdue in the winter months, you are risking the integrity of your home. Water will leak in throughout cracks in your roofing system, which will damage your ceiling, attic, and overall structure of the house, which will cost fortunes. So how do you know if your roof needs to be replaced? Keep an eye out for broken, missing, or damaged shingles or water damage on your ceiling because these are some of the key signs it is time for a replacement. For more signs that your roof needs to be replaced, click here.

 

Cut Overhanging Tree Limbs

If your home is surrounded by trees that have branches hanging over your house, it is a smart idea to cut back those overhanging limbs before the snow begins to fall. Snow can become very heavy on tree branches causing them to hang lower, and sometimes the pressure is too much, causing them to break. To keep your home safe from the impact of falling tree limbs, cut them back.

 

Contact Three Sons Window and Door

If you are in the Greater Boston Area and are looking for expert roof replacements before winter, please contact Three Sons Window and Door. Our experienced contractors provide roof inspections and consultations to ensure your home is adequately protected for the winter months. Request a free estimate today.

Man replacing shingle roof

Signs Your Roof Needs to be Replaced

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Your roof plays an integral role in the comfort, safety, and functionality of your home. It can be easy to forget just how important a good roof is until yours has a major issue. If your own comfort and protection isn’t enough reason to schedule a roof replacement, installing a new roof is a home improvement project that offers a great return on investment in terms of resale value. Instead of waiting for disaster to strike, look out for these signs that your roof needs to be replaced ASAP. 

 

Your Roof is More Than 20 Years Old 

One of the easiest ways to determine if your roof needs to be replaced is to look at the roof’s age. If your roof is old enough to buy a drink legally, it needs to be replaced. Asphalt roofs typically last 20 to 25 years. While some can last longer, it’s better to be proactive than reactive when your roof develops a major issue due to its age. 

 

You Can See Light or Water Coming in Through the Attic 

Examining the health of your roof can start without taking a step outside. Go into your attic during the day and look up. The ceiling of your attic is actually the backside of your roof. If you can see daylight shining through, call a roofing contractor right away. You can use the same method during a heavy rainfall to check for any water making its way inside the home. 

 

Damaged or Missing Shingles 

Your roof should be inspected at least once a year to check for shingles that are damaged or missing. Damaged or missing shingles leaves your home at risk of water damage, pest infestations, and poor temperature control. You can try to do the inspection yourself, but it’s best to leave it to an experienced roofing contractor. If you do examine the roof on your own, make a note of where you find any signs of damage or missing shingles. 

 

Moss Growth 

If you notice moss or algae growing on your roof, it’s a sign your roof needs to be replaced. Moss growth only occurs when your roof isn’t properly draining water. Water could be backed up under the shingles for a variety of reasons ranging from clogged gutters to poor attic insulation. Your roofing contractor can dive in deeper to determine the specific cause. Once the issue is resolved, your current roof will need to be replaced. 

 

Roof Replacement Services

Contact Three Sons today to schedule your roof inspection and consultation. Roof replacements should be scheduled before winter weather returns to ensure your home is properly protected, so don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment! Our team can assist in installing a new roof, repairing your current roof, replacing your gutter system, and whatever else your home needs to be in excellent condition again. Installing a new roof is a home improvement project that offers a great return on investment if you ever decide to sell.