Tackling Mold on Your Roof

Mold is a type of fungi that thrives in damp and humid conditions, making your roof a potential spot for growth. While roof mold might not be as noticeable as the mold you see inside your home, it can lead to some serious issues if ignored. Here are a few things to keep in mind about the risks associated with mold on your roof:

Structural Integrity: Mold can weaken your roof’s structure. It can damage shingles, deteriorate wood, and affect the overall stability of your roofing system.

Health Concerns: Mold spores can become airborne and make their way into your home, potentially causing respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritations.

Energy Efficiency: Mold can compromise your insulation, leading to higher energy bills and a less comfortable indoor environment.

Curb Appeal: A moldy roof isn’t just a concern for your home’s health; it can also impact its appearance and market value.

To keep your home and family safe from the risks of mold, it’s important to take proactive steps. Here are some friendly tips for prevention and remediation:

1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Aim for annual inspections to catch mold early. Professionals can spot potential issues before they become serious.

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Good airflow in your attic and roof helps keep moisture levels in check, reducing the risk of mold. Consider adding roof vents or attic fans if needed.

3. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof. Regular cleaning can help prevent this and reduce mold growth.

4. Repair Any Leaks Promptly: Address signs of water infiltration as soon as you notice them. A leaking roof is a prime spot for mold to thrive.

5. Act Quickly on Mold Removal: If you discover mold, it’s important to take action. Hiring professionals experienced in mold removal is the safest way to ensure thorough and effective treatment.

6. Install Zinc or Copper Strips: Consider placing these metal strips at the top of your roof. Rainwater reacts with them to release ions that can help prevent mold and algae growth.

7. Trim Overhanging Trees: Keeping tree branches away from your roof allows for better sunlight and airflow, which can deter mold growth.

8. Choose Mold-Resistant Roofing Materials: When it’s time for a roof replacement, consider materials designed to resist mold growth.

Mold on your roof is a concern that deserves attention. By taking preventive measures and addressing issues promptly, you can protect your home and your loved ones. Regular inspections, proper ventilation, and maintenance are key to keeping your roof healthy. If you find mold, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure your roof stays mold-free. A well-maintained roof not only safeguards your home but also enhances its beauty and value.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

A Fall Maintenance To Do List

As the days get shorter and outdoor projects become harder to tackle, now’s the perfect time to take care of a few key tasks before the colder weather sets in. Here are my top five tips to prepare your home for fall and winter.

1. Clear Those Gutters Falling leaves are just around the corner, and they’ll quickly clog your gutters and downspouts. If you've been thinking about installing gutter guards, now’s the time! These will prevent debris buildup and spare you the hassle of frequent clean-outs. Clean, functional gutters are essential to channel water away from your home and avoid potential damage.

2. Check Your Doors Stiff, hard-to-open doors are a sign that cooler temperatures are already having an effect. As the weather shifts and wood contracts, gaps can form, allowing cold air to seep inside. Make sure your door sweep is in top shape, and consider adding weather stripping to seal any cracks between the door and its frame.

3. Assess Your Insulation Many homes I visit are under-insulated, which creates discomfort in both winter and summer. Adequate insulation helps maintain a steady temperature throughout the house. If your second floor is consistently warmer than the first, it’s a good indication that your home could benefit from more insulation.

4. Inspect Your Roof Now is an ideal time to check your roof for any damaged shingles or issues around the chimney flashing. Snow lingers on roofs far longer than rain, making it easier for leaks to develop during the winter. Addressing small roof problems now can prevent larger, more expensive repairs later.

5. Evaluate Your Windows Using a thermal camera, I often find homes losing a lot of heat through old wood sash or aluminum windows. Replacing them with energy-efficient vinyl windows can make a noticeable difference. And the added bonus? Many vinyl windows come with tilt-in sashes for effortless cleaning, which we love at my house.

6. Get Your Hot Water Heater Tuned It’s not an outside project but if your hot water heater isn’t working when you need it, it’s going to make life very uncomfortable. Make an appointment now to have your systems flushed and inspected before the season gets too busy, or DIY it if you’re comfortable doing the work. Either way, don’t wait until it’s too late.

Owning a home means regular upkeep, but it’s an investment that pays off in comfort and energy savings. By taking a few simple steps now, you can enjoy a cozier home this winter—and keep those utility bills in check.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company founded in 1975. Have questions? Email info@odonnellbros.com with “Ask the Pro” in the subject line. All inquiries may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Gutter Maintenance for Fall

It may only be September but leaf maintenance season is right around the corner. Over the next two months, leaves, branches, and other debris will begin falling onto your roof and down into your gutters, building up over time. As winter approaches, this buildup can contribute to the formation of ice dams, a heavy mass of ice that settles onto the edge of your roof where the gutters are installed.

The main function of a gutter is to create a pathway for water to move away from your home and through a downspout to deposit in a safe place away from your home’s foundation. This system is vital to a house; it makes sure water can flow freely and not cause leaks in your roof, attic, and walls. But if your gutters are blocked up, the water has nowhere to go and will flow over, creeping up into your roof shingles and down through your siding. This kind of damage is both costly to repair and entirely preventable. 

To give your gutters a good clean you’ll need a ladder, a lawn bag or bucket, a small hand rake (or scoop) and a hose. Don’t be tempted to spray debris down the downspout with water; it’s likely that branches and leaves will get stuck inside, clogging it up and leaving you with a whole new mess to deal with.  Start at the downspout opening and work your way backward, collecting gunk away from the downspout and disposing it into your bucket. Work in small sections and don’t let your bag get too heavy – it could throw you off balance and land you in the emergency room. 

While you’re making your way around the house, check for any gutter damage, such as sections coming loose. You want to make sure you get those fixed while the weather is good. Once you’ve finished cleaning, you can give each section a good spray with the hose to check and make sure the water is running through and you don’t have any hidden build-up in those downspouts.

If gutter cleaning is a job you’d rather not take on, hire a contractor to complete the maintenance and then speak to them about putting gutter guards on your home. These wire or mesh overlays are installed on top of the gutter and prevent debris from entering the channel in the first place. They offer a great solution to a messy job and will provide you with peace of mind for years to come. If you see me around town installing them for homeowners, feel free to say hello and ask any questions you may have. 

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.