Homeowners are not always familiar with the issues that can arise from clogged gutters, but there are many. If water is not able to flow freely through your gutters and away from your home, damage can result in several different locations, from your roofing to your foundation. There are many reasons you should get your gutters cleaned out. Here is a look at some of those reasons.

Roof Damage

When your gutters are clogged with leaves, there is no room for water to flow. When water fills inside the gutter, it can flow over at the roofline. This results in cracked or damaged roof shingles. A cracked roof will allow water to penetrate through the cracks and into the home. Often the damage left behind involves costly repairs, including a rotten roof, damaged trusses and plywood, ruined insulation, and sheetrock damage. A clean gutter allows water to flow freely which allows the water to be directed off the roof and away from the home.

Overflowing Gutters Can Damage Landscaping

One of the first signs your gutters are clogged is hearing the water spill over the roof and pooling on patios and landscaped areas surrounding the home. You can easily damage the landscaping and plants by essentially drowning them. Standing water around the foundation of a home will eventually find its way to the lowest point of the home, which can lead to basement flooding or mold issues.

Damage to Brackets

Clogged gutters can fill with water and the weight of the water can damage the gutters and their brackets. Gutters can start to sag, pitch, or even fall from the weight. When the bracket fails, the gutter can fall from the facia and create even more damage to your home.

Pest Infestation

When gutters are filled with leaves, it becomes an ideal location for birds, insects, and small rodents to find and make a nest. Often these creatures eventually move from the gutter system and find a way into your home. A clogged gutter is one of the main reasons pests infiltrate into a home. With proper cleaning, you reduce the risk of pest infestation into your gutters and home.

Damage to Facia

The facia is the board that is behind the gutter system. This board can become damaged when the gutter is clogged with leaves. The facia of your home is a vital part of your home and gutter system.

Cracks in Foundation

When water flows over the top of clogged gutters, it can pool around the home’s foundation. As winter approaches, the water that freezes in and around the foundation will expand (much like an ice cube in an ice cube tray). When the water expands, it can generate cracks in your foundation which leads to bigger problems for the basement or slab of the home.

Wet & Moldy Basement

Leading water away from the home is vital to the overall health of your home. When gutters are clogged, the water does not run away from the home and eventually finds its way into the basement. If the rain is severe, flooding in the basement is likely. If the water is not removed from the basement, it can turn to mold which is not only bad for the home, but bad for the occupants of the home as well.

Getting your seamless gutters replaced has never been easier! Our expert gutter technicians can quickly determine what you need and how much it will cost. Our price will include the removal and disposal of your existing gutters. Our professionally trained crew will fabricate, install, and complete most gutter projects in one day.

Gutter Cleaning Services by A-Top Roofing & Construction

We also understand the need to keep your gutters clear of leaves and debris. A-Top Roofing and Construction offers gutter cleaning services for our customers in Monmouth County, Northern Ocean County and parts of Middlesex County, NJ.

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341 or click here!

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About A-Top Roofing & Construction

Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, gutter cleaning, windows, and skylights.

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech, Englert Gutters, and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

Do you plan to replace or repair your current roof? Preparing will ensure a better outcome especially when it comes to the small details. At A-top Roofing and Construction, we handle all things related to roofs including roof replacement, roof installation and roof maintenance.

When you are faced with so many choices and options, how do you know you are making the right decision? Our roofing specialists will help you find the right roofing products that will best accommodate your needs and your budget.

A-Top can install, repair, replace and maintain various types of roof structures

Asphalt Shingles – By far the most popular material used on houses throughout the Northeast and especially here in Central New Jersey, asphalt shingles are durable and less expensive than other roofing options. The come in a wide variety of colors, styles and are easy to install. Most A-Top roof replacement projects can be completed in one day. Asphalt shingles are waterproof and come with a manufacturers warranty which can last up to 40 years.

Wood Shakes and Cedar Shingles – In a rustic environment, no other element brings out more emotion than wood. Wooded shingles are precisely sawn on both sides and wooded shakes are produced rougher to look more realistic. Although wood shingled roofing can last a long time, typically a 12–18-year life span is typical.

Flat Roofs – For commercial and residential applications, flat roofs can be less expensive to install and can provide a contemporary aesthetic. A-Top Roofing has multiple solutions for repairing or replacing your worn flat roof.

Metal Roofs – Standing seam metal roofs are a great way to enhance your homes beauty or to create highlighted detailed areas over doors and windows. If you have a fireplace, skylights, or dormers, it is best to let the seasoned professionals handle the installation of your new metal seam roof.

Slate Roofs – Slate roofing can add a timeless quality to your home. It is resistant to weather, fire, decay and is easy to maintain. Slate roofs are more expensive than other roofing systems but have been known to last up to 100 years or more.

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For a free roof quote, Click here https://a-topconstruction.com/roofing

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It can be exciting time to have your roof replaced. If you are prepared, the experience will run smoother and be less stressful. And always remember, if you love the service, leave a 5-Star rating for the roofing company if you are satisfied.

Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and skylights.

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

A-Top Roofing & Construction

137 Freehold Road/Route 522, Manalapan, NJ 07726

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341 or click here!

Do you plan to replace and possibly upgrade your current roof? Preparing for this major home improvement project will ensure a better outcome, especially when it comes to the details. This checklist is the perfect guide to help you in preparing your home, connecting with a contractor and setting expectations for your home roof replacement.

Connecting with a Roofing Contractor

The roofing contractor will come to your house to examine the existing roof conditions and look at the project details to accurately quote the project and become familiar with the work conditions.

• They will walk the perimeter of the home to see areas that need protection and areas to avoid.
• They will search out exterior outlets for using power tools – in certain circumstances, they might obtain power through the garage or an open window.
• Discuss the dates and coordinate materials and a dumpster to remove existing roof material, if needed.
• Verify the correct materials, color, brand has been delivered to the project site.

Scheduling Your Home Roof Replacement

Schedule tasks in advance and make sure you follow local laws and work with a professional roofing company like A-Top Roofing and Construction who can get all the required work permits in a timely fashion so there is no delay when it comes to project timing.

It is also important to schedule the removal of items on the roof in advance, like satellite dishes and solar panels.

Preparing Your Homes Exterior

The roofing company will have a full crew on-site and they will be creating a mess. The more you clean, clear and protect, the better the outcome of the project.

• Protect outdoor lighting, water features, yard art, and bird baths from falling debris.
• Move patio furniture, barbecue grills, and children’s toys away from the house perimeter.
• Take down wind chimes, flags and other home decorations.
• Mow the lawn – This will help in the cleanup if the debris is easy to spot.
• Mark sprinkler heads near the house with orange tape or red flags so the roofing crew can easily spot them.
• Take photos before the project begins in case there is an issue down the road.
• The roofing company you hire may cover the landscaping with tarps or cloth to protect flowers and shrubs from getting damaged.
• Move your cars into the street so the roofing crew has access to the driveway for a dumpster.

For the Homes Interior

Roofing is not only messy, but also noisy. Walls will vibrate, windows will rattle and thumping will occur throughout the project.

• Cover items in the attic with a tarp or cloth.
• Put a drop cloth on the floor of the attic to isolate falling particles and debris.
• Remove or secure TV’s, mirrors, china cabinets, artwork and other valuable attached to the walls.
• If you work from home – consider alternative arrangements.
• Prepare the pets and make daycare arrangements for the kids to visit friends or family.
• If you go offsite, remain in easy contact with the roofing contractor for questions if they arise.

Click here for a free home roof replacement quote!

After the Home Roof Replacement

Once the home roof replacement is complete and the clean-up is finished, make sure you are satisfied with the work. Here is the checklist of items you can do when the job completed.

• Make sure you have the warranty information on your new roof.
• Inspect the property to make sure the clean up is completed to your satisfaction.
• Use binoculars to visually inspect the roof while you are safely on the ground.
• Contact your contractors to re-install any satellite dishes or solar panel s that were previously removed.

It can be an exciting time to have your roof replaced! If you are prepared, the experience will run smoother and be less stressful. And always remember, if you love the service, leave a 5-Star rating for the roofing company.

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Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing & Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, windows, skylights and mold remediation.

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

Here in New Jersey, a homes’ age can be directly affected by how well it is protected against the elements. Weather, storms, heavy rain and even the snowy winters all play an important factor on our homes age. So what can you do to protect your home and the resale value of the home as an asset? We will explore those topics and more and hopefully give you clear understanding of how to keep your home from prematurely aging itself.

How old is your home?

The average age of a home in Central New Jersey is 32 years old according to the association of realtors. The best age to buy a home is when you can comfortably afford the payments and tackle the repairs and maintenance. After the first 10-15 years, a home starts to age and show signs of wear and tear. From fading roofs to leaky doors and windows, eventually you will need to repair or replace all major components of a home between the 20-, 25- and 30-year mark including the roof, gutters, siding, doors and windows.

How well is the outside of your home protecting the inside?

Starting at the top, a roof in working order is the main line of defense against water intrusion. The gutters should also be in good working order. Roof leaks in the attic, ceilings areas showing signs of leaks, or even water in the basement means your house needs repair or maintenance as your roofing system is beginning to fail.

What about the age of my roof?

Heavy rain, winds and storm damage can wreak havoc on a roof. In New Jersey, Especially in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, we often find ourselves in the direct line of fire when it comes to storms. Keeping your roof maintained and checking for damage after storms is important. Always try to view damage from the ground level by walking around the home from a distance. Never go on the roof if it can be avoided. If you have damage, contact us and we can perform a thorough inspection for damage. 

What about the age of my gutters?

We have seen that gutters that are not well-maintained often do not work as they should. Gutters can become loose, preventing water from flowing freely through the downspouts. And many times, water is not properly directed away from the house and ends up traveling down into the basement or crawlspace. Water infiltration into the home can lead to mold and mildew. When black mold appears, it can have a direct impact on your health or those in your family.

What about Timing? When is the best time to repair your home?

The best time to repair your home is before storm season begins. In New Jersey, there is a swell of summertime roofing projects in anticipation of hurricane season which lasts from August and can extend through November. There is also plenty of time to replace your roof or gutter system in fall before the winter. If the winter is mild, roofing and gutter projects can be done throughout the winter. Springtime in New Jersey has long been the most popular time to get your roof and gutters repaired or replaced.

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About A-Top Roofing & Construction

As hurricane season approaches, homeowners must be aware that the high winds and heavy rain storms bring can do serious damage to your roof, especially here in the Northeast. When storms occur, homeowners should make it a habit to inspect their roof or call in a professional if they suspect storm damage.

Rain alone can damage a roof, but when you add high winds and flying debris or hail to the mix, your roof can sustain significant damage. Although it may be temping to climb up on your roof, A-Top recommends against this whenever possible. Always try to assess storm damage from the ground level if possible. You can even use sports binoculars to see more detail.

Most Frequent Signs of Storm Damage

1. Missing Shingles – Roof systems that already have cracked or peeling roof shingles are most susceptible to being lost during storms, especially if it brings high winds. If your roof is newer, the warranty may cover you in the event of damage.
2. Visible Water Inside the Home – Most visible leaks found inside the home are most likely due to the result of high winds during a storm. Both shingles and the roof underlayment may be compromised and are allowing water to penetrate into the attic areas and down into the home.
3. Granular Loss – Some granular loss is normal, especially in new roofs. During a storm, granular loss creates horizontal lines which indicates the shingle seal is broken. Granular loss is common as shingles flap in the wind and could also cause cracking.
4. Loose Debris – After a storm or hurricane, if there is loose debris in the yard, it could indicate that loose debris may have struck the roof and damaged it. If there is a large storm/hurricane that causes lots of debris, an inspection by the pros at A-Top Roofing and Construction is highly recommended.

PRO TIP! – Gutter maintenance is critical for the health of your roof, especially during storms and hurricanes. Regular maintenance of your gutters will help them last longer and do their job correctly. Keeping your gutters free of leaves and other debris is key.

A Word about Insurance…

Homeowners Insurance covers your home and personal property in the event of a covered loss, which includes damage from hurricane winds. All policies vary, but a roof replacement is typically covered if it is caused by a sudden act of nature or sudden accidental event. Most homeowners’ policies will not pay to replace or repair a roof that has gradually deteriorated over time. We recommend you contact your insurance company immediately once you learn you may have storm damage.

Why A-Top Roofing and Construction to Replace or Repair Your Roof?

A-Top Roofing and Construction has been replacing and repairing roofs for over 35 years. A family owned and operated business, we pride ourselves on providing affordable roofing services and some of the best warranties in the business. If you are looking to see some of the homes we have done in your neighborhood, click here! https://projectmapit.com/a-top-roofing or call (732) 446-6341.

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About A-Top Roofing and Construction

Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for almost four decades years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and skylights.

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341 or click here!

Year after year, your gutters are called into action to keep rain and storm water away from your home and it’s foundation. Although your home’s gutters may have performed well over the decades, every gutter system has an expiration date.

Gutters prevent a host of potentially expensive moisture related problems which can affect your homes eves, attic, structure and basement. And if the problems are persistent, mold will start to appear which is hazardous to your overall health, as well as your pocketbook. When your gutters are not functioning properly, it is important that you notice the warning signs to avoid costly repairs to your home.

Signs your Gutters Need to Be Replaced

Cracked Gutters – If your gutters are cracked, they are pretty much useless. Large cracks are often visible anytime, but during a storm smaller cracks will also reveal themselves. No matter how large or small the cracks, consider replacing your gutters as age has finally rendered them ineffective.

Unlevel or Warped Gutter Systems – From the weight of being clogged or just wear and tear over time, gutter problems occur at the gutter’s weakest points: the seams. These cracks and breaks at the seams can be repaired over the lifespan of the gutters, but they will eventually need to be replaced. With the introduction of seamless gutters, these weak points disappear entirely, avoiding the problem altogether. You should consider replacing your old system for a new seamless getter system from Englert when the time comes.

Click here to see different types of gutters and a color chart from Englert!

Damage to your Home – As your gutters fail, other areas of the home are affected by the intrusion of water. When water can cascade over the top of gutters, exterior wood elements like window sills, door jams, and exterior trim will trap water and prematurely age your home.

Mildew Makes an Appearance – When you start to see mildew, it is a sure sign of water penetrating the home during a storm. Mold and mildew can impact the health of your home and your family; once found it should be removed by a professional and the source of the water should be located and addressed immediately!

PRO TIP – Gutter maintenance is critical. Regular maintenance of your gutters will help them last longer and do their job correctly. Keeping your gutters free of leaves and other debris is key. Did you know A-Top can install Englert gutters that offer guards to protect against clogged gutters?

Styles and Design

Englert has a family of products that are endless. A-Top uses Englert Gutters because of the bold new colors, easy installation process and lasting value for your home. The trends are not only based on color, but materials as well. Mixing and matching materials allows you to make areas of your home stand out and can give your home a greater retail value as well as an increase in protection from storms.

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A new year has come and gone and that means a whole new set of siding trends that make your home look new again. What are people getting most excited about? Long gone are the days when homes were one solid color. High contrast exteriors using bold colors and mixing materials are included in these latest trends in siding.

New Siding Trends – Think Bold With High Contrast Exteriors

With robust new colors available from CertainTeed, siding colors are trending bolder and brighter. Homeowners are getting more daring and creative with the use of colors and accents to boost their curb appeal. When it comes to the latest trend, think high contrast and two-tone.

A-Top Roofing and Construction is seeing this trend take on a few different forms – from dark colors like black and navy blue with off white accents or even white vertical siding with black trim for an extreme look. Boldness and standing out in your neighborhood are growing in popularity.

Click Here to See the Latest Colors, Products and Siding Trends from CertainTeed!

Warm Whites and Creamy Whites Trending Up

Pure white trending as a siding color is losing some steam while creamy whites (warmer whites and soft grays) are trending upwards. As darker and bolder colors become more popular, an off-white offers contrast to brighten the home as opposed to pure white accents and trim. For those looking to go bold with a forest green or burgundy home exterior, the creams and beige tones will contrast much better than the white.

Styles and Design: The Latest Siding Trends from CertainTeed

CertainTeed has a family of products that are endless. A-Top uses CertainTeed siding because of the bold new colors, easy installation process and lasting value for your home. The trends are not only based on color, but materials as well. Mixing and matching materials allows you to make areas of your home stand out and can give your home a greater retail value, in addition to an increase in energy efficiency.

Why Choose A-Top Roofing and Construction to Replace Your Homes Siding

A-Top Roofing & Construction’s professional crews specialize in removing your existing siding and trim and installing new siding products to manufacturers’ specifications. Our team is prompt and courteous and trained on safety and maintaining a clean work site.

With low maintenance and long-life expectancy, vinyl siding offers you a variety of ways to spruce up your home, increase its value, and is more affordable than other products. We offer a wide variety of selections in our showroom. Our siding options are available in diverse color palettes which will inspire you. We offer attractive colors which range from the bold and rich hues, like blue and green, to neutral tones like grays and beige.

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Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, windows, skylights and mold remediation.

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341 or click here!

A-Top Roofing & Construction goes the extra mile with a reputation for quality roofing products and roofing installation services for over 3 decades.

If your roof is not very old and you notice a few loose or missing shingles, you may be able to replace them. But for older roofs with more extensive damage, it may be time for a new roof. It is important to call a professional like A-Top Roofing & Construction, located in Manalapan, NJ for a thorough roof inspection to be sure you know the condition of your roof, the extent of any damage, and your options moving forward.

Signs of Failing Roof Shingles:

There are many ways to spot if your roof is failing and it is time to replace it with a new roof. Most new roofs from reputable roofing contractors will include a warranty from the manufacturer of the roof shingles, like GAF or Owen Corning.

Here is a List of the Signs of a Failing Roof:

• Attic leaks can be the first sign of a failing roof.
• Peeling or blistering paint inside your house.
• Ceiling and wall stains inside your home.
• Roof shingle decay could be a sign water is penetrating through your roof.
• Extensive shingle damage, including cracked, brittle or curled bottoms.
• Dark Streaks may look like dirt but more often is moss, lichen or algae.

Advantages of a New Roof:

Some of the advantages of a new roof may seem obvious; curb appeal and protection from rain and storms are at the very top of the list. Did you know you can save money on energy costs when you replace your older roof with a new roof? New roofing options and products are available with superior warranties and deliver on the promise of limiting solar heat gain.

Advantages of Having a New Roof Installed:

• Curb Appeal
• Energy Efficient
• Superior Lifetime Warranty
• Higher Resale Value
• Extensive Choice of Colors and Style Available

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Located in Manalapan, NJ, A-Top Roofing and Construction has earned a reputation for beautifying homes throughout the Central Jersey area for over 30 years. We service Monmouth County, parts of Middlesex County and Northern Ocean County. Our full range of services include roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and skylights.

Our award-winning staff and professionally trained installers will get the project done on time and on budget. We partner with brands you trust like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Pella, Andersen, TimberTech and Azek which means extensive customer choice backed by the best warranties in the industry.

Call Today for Free Estimates! (732) 446-6341

Prioritizing your home improvement projects can be challenging. As warmer weather approaches, it is time to start thinking about your roof. Spring is the best time to replace the roof on your existing home for many reasons.

You’re Buying A Home That Needs Work

If you are buying a home in an existing neighborhood you may have gotten it for a great price. Part of the discounted price may mean things need fixing up or replacing. Consider the age and condition of your roof; if the home you are about to buy needs a roof replacement, this could give you negotiating power or leverage on the purchase. Once the closing takes place, a new roof may be one of the initial investments to increase your homes’ value and curb appeal.

Selling Your Home

If you are thinking of selling your home, you want to get top dollar. Replacing the existing roof may add value to the selling price. The home’s curb appeal will also be enhanced. If you are selling and not in a hurry, spring is a great time to replace your roofing.

A Roof Has Come to the End of its Life

After about 20 years, a roof will begin to deteriorate. If it is showing signs of wear and tear and you see cracked or missing shingles, it may be time to replace your roof. If your roof is leaking and can no longer be repaired, spring is a great time to replace it. When you replace your roof, there are various types of roof materials and warranties available. Make sure your hire a reputable roofing contractor who has a great reputation and qualified professionals.

Replace Your Roof With an Energy Efficient Roof

Everyone loves to save money on energy costs. If you are replacing an older roof with a new roof, there are energy efficient roofing shingles that are affordable and beautiful to look at. Many new roofs come with a limited lifetime warranty that can ensure you will not have to worry about replacing it for 20, 30 or even 40 years!

Updating the Look of Your Older Home

A new roof can transform your homes entire look and feel. A new roof is not only more energy efficient, it can also make your home look great. Roofing manufacturers like GAF and Owens Corning have developed new products which will enhance the exterior look of your home. New styles and colors are trending and are offered by A-Top Roofing and Construction.

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The winter temperatures can delay some roof projects. Temperature and snow can hamper any contractors scheduling. Spring is here and now is a great time to call A-Top Roofing & Construction.

A-Top Roofing services homes throughout Monmouth County, Northern Ocean County and parts of Middlesex County. Call us today at (732)-446-6341.

PROJECT MAP IT! Be sure to visit our Business Hub Page, where you can learn all about what our past clients have said about us. If you would like to view a map of or our past projects in or near your neighborhood, click here.

When the snow and ice start accumulating on you roof in winter, one of the affects are icicles hanging from your gutters. Yes, they may be pretty to look at, but icicles can loosen or tear off your gutters, and also create ice dams, resulting in water backing up into your home and creating all kinds of expensive repairs.

Snow covered roofs and freezing temperatures in winter allow icicles to form. This leads to ice dams: Thick ridges of solid ice that build up along the eves of the home. The issue has little or nothing to do with your roof or roof shingles. Blockage of ice in your gutters may be causing water to travel in a path it would not normally travel. Like a clogged toilet, the water will not travel down, it will only travel up (over your gutters) and into your home.

Ways You Can Mitigate Damage From Ice Dams in the Future:

By taking care of common trouble spots, listed here in order of priority, you should enjoy dam-free winters and use less energy to boot:

1. Ventilate Eaves and Ridge. A ridge vent paired with continuous soffit vents circulates cold air under the entire roof. Both ridge and soffit vents should have the same size openings and provide at least 1 square foot of opening for every 300 square feet of attic floor. Place baffles at the eaves to maintain a clear path for the airflow from the soffit vents.
2. Attic Hatch. An unsealed attic hatch or whole-house fan is a massive opening for heat to escape. Cover them with weather stripped caps made from foil-faced foam board held together with aluminum tape.
3. Exhaust to the Outside. Make sure that the ducts connected to the kitchen, bathroom, and dryer vents all lead outdoors through either the roof or walls, but never through the soffit.
4. Add Insulation. More insulation on the attic floor keeps the heat where it belongs. To find how much insulation your attic needs, check with your local building department.
5. Flash Around Chimneys. Bridge the gap between chimney and house framing with L-shaped steel flashing held in place with unbroken beads of a fire-stop sealant. Using canned spray foam or insulation isn’t fire safe.
6. Seal and Insulate Ducts. Spread fiber-reinforced mastic on the joints of HVAC ducts and exhaust ducts. Cover them entirely with R-5 or R-6 foil-faced fiberglass.
7. Caulk Penetrations. Seal around electrical cables and vent pipes with a fire-stop sealant. Also, look for any spots where light shines up from below or the insulation is stained black by the dirt from passing air.

Ice damming is a common problem for many older homes in winter. You may be in need of repairs dur to damage from ice damming. Always hire a licensed professional who carries insurance and can help you navigate insurance issues or claims.

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