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November 13, 2025 in Roofing, Tips

Winter Roof Inspection: Is Your Roof Ready for Ice & Snow?

Winter roof damage can cause costly problems. Best to be proactive!

Snow. Sleet. Freezing rain. They have two things in common: They are all characteristic of winter weather and none of them stand a chance against a well-built roof. That is, unless the homeowner has neglected to show care and attention to their roof. If there are cracks in the armor, these frigid elements can take a serious toll. That’s why a winter roof inspection and preventative measures are so crucial to your comfort and well-being this winter.

So what proactive steps can you take to make sure your roof is ready? We’re glad you asked!

Common Winter Roofing Problems

Ice Dams

No, we’re not talking about gargantuan Hoover Dam-sized blocks of ice. We’re talking about snow and ice that has melted due to your attic’s heat, only to be refrozen in your eaves. It’s one of the most common issues roofs face during the winter, and one of the most damaging. Why? Because this trapped ice can loosen shingles, allowing water to infiltrate your walls and attic.

On top of the threat of water infiltration is the effects of the additional weight on your gutters. It can cause strain that leads to sagging and even breakage, a common cause of winter roof damage.

Heavy Snow Loads

To expand on the effects that added weight can have on your roof, consider this: If ice in your gutters can cause issues, what kind of damage can several inches of snow covering your entire roof cause? The white powdery stuff that falls from the sky looks pretty and serene, but settling on a surface that isn’t equipped to handle it is a recipe for disaster.

If left unaddressed (especially on older roofs), unnecessary stress is placed on your roof, and you even face the possibility of structural integrity being reduced. Prompt roof snow removal is in order, no?

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

This is Maryland, baby. You know what that means? It means we can be enjoying spring-like weather, head inside to grab a lemonade, and walk out the door into a full-on blizzard. There’s just no telling what mother nature has in store for us from moment to moment.

It’s due to this erratic weather behavior that we need to be vigilant regarding our rooftops. Constant freeze-thaw cycles mean water can seep into cracks and refreeze in inconvenient places. Maybe ice forms inside a small crack that, as a result, becomes a big crack. Let that progress far enough and you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands. Moisture infiltration in your walls can damage insulation and your ceilings, both of which are a major headache.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter

Alright, we’ve spent plenty of time dooming and glooming while talking about what could go wrong. Time to turn fortune in your favor and discuss what can be done to prevent it, starting with a homeowner winter roof inspection.

• Inspect Shingles, Gutters, and Flashing: Keep your eyes peeled for damaged shingles, cracked flashing, and loose gutter connections. Address them as you notice them rather than putting them on the backburner.

• Clear Blockages and Debris: Leaves, sticks, and other buildup have no business hanging out in your gutters. Tell them to find another place to congregate and evict them.

• Check Attic Insulation and Ventilation: Great insulation is key to maintaining warm temperatures within the rooms you spend time in. Additionally, it prevents your attic from becoming too warm, which may lead to the aforementioned ice dams.

Take these precautions and you’re reducing your winter workload (and stress levels). Sure, you may still have to worry about roof snow removal if it gets too hefty, but rest easy knowing you’ve prevented ice dams and the like.

When to Call a Professional

There are certain home repairs that are perfectly okay for you to perform as the homeowner. However, there are several that should be left to the professionals. Water stains, sagging areas, and even excessive icicles (though they look cool) are signs that you should call in the pros. At PJ’s Roofing, we’ve performed a winter roof inspection or four-hundred. Honestly, we don’t know the number, but it’s a lot. We’ll be able to use our trained eyes to identify any issues and make the necessary repairs.

Schedule a Winter Roof Inspection Now

There are plenty of things to worry about during the cold winter months. “Is the driveway shoveled?” “How’s the HVAC doing?” “Did we get enough hot chocolate?” You don’t want another stressor on your plate, so why not take care of it before mother nature starts sneezing snow all over us?

For all your winter roof inspection and repair needs, you know who to get in touch with. We look forward to serving you this winter!

October 16, 2025 in Roofing, Tips

Roof Maintenance: How Maryland Homeowners Can Prepare Their Roofs for Fall and Winter

Spare a thought for your roof. Arguably the most weather-exposed portion of your house, it’s positioned to take a beating at any time of year, but perhaps none more so than in fall and winter. Heavy rain, snow, ice, and even falling leaves will take their toll on your roof throughout the next five to six months. The good news is, a little preventative roof maintenance now can go a long way toward preventing extensive repairs later. Here’s our guide to getting your roof ready for a Maryland fall and winter.

1. Inspect Your Roof Thoroughly

Consider this step one of a proper roof maintenance checklist: a detailed roof inspection. Look for missing, cracked, or loose shingles that may have been damaged over the summer. Shingles in poor condition can let in moisture once the rain and snow arrive.

Check your attic for signs of leaks or water stains, and inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights: common trouble spots for leaks. Don’t forget to look over gutters and downspouts for cracks or clogs that could cause water to back up under shingles.

2. Clean & Maintain Gutters

Your gutters play a critical role in directing water away from your home. When they’re clogged with leaves and debris rainwater can overflow, damaging your roof, siding, and foundation.

As such, you should clean your gutters at least once per fall. Use a scoop or trowel to remove debris, then flush the system with a garden hose to ensure smooth flow. Also, make sure downspouts direct water several feet away from your home.

If your property has a lot of trees, consider installing gutter guards to reduce roof maintenance and, importantly, minimize future blockages.

3. Trim Overhanging Branches

Tree branches hanging too close to your roof can cause problems when fall winds or ice storms hit. Broken limbs can damage shingles or even puncture your roof.

So trim back any overhanging branches, well before winter arrives. This not only prevents the aforementioned potential damage from falling limbs but also reduces the amount of debris landing on your roof and in your gutters. And the resulting improved sunlight and airflow will also help discourage moss and algae growth (more on that next).

4. Check for Moss, Algae, or Fungus

Maryland is humid. This is not breaking news. But what may be is the fact that a humid climate can make roofs prone to moss and algae, especially on shaded or north-facing sections. Over time, these growths can trap moisture and weaken shingles.

What to do? Look for green or black streaks and treat them with a roof-safe cleaning solution. Never, ever use a pressure washer, as its obnoxiously powerful blast can damage shingles. Preventative treatments are also available to help stop future growth, and can thus be another important box to tick off on your roof maintenance checklist.

5. Prepare for Winter Weather

Good, preventative roof maintenance means making sure your attic has proper insulation and ventilation before freezing temperatures arrive. Such insulation prevents ice dams: ridges of ice that form along the roof’s edge and force water under shingles.

So be sure to seal any small leaks and check that roof-mounted equipment like satellite dishes or antennas are secure. A quick tune-up now can help prevent major issues later.

6. Schedule Professional Inspection or Maintenance

Even the most careful homeowner can miss subtle signs of wear. Scheduling a professional inspection now ensures that small issues are fixed before winter storms have the chance to make them worse.

A licensed Maryland roof maintenance service, like PJ’s Roofing, can professionally assess your roof’s condition, perform needed maintenance, and help extend its lifespan. Regular inspections also help protect any warranties you may already have in place.

7. Safety Tips for DIY Checks

If you plan to inspect the roof yourself, be cautious. Use a sturdy ladder, wear shoes with good traction, and avoid working on wet or icy surfaces. Remember that a professional roof maintenance service is always just a phone call away, which will have the equipment and experienced personnel to make this part of the job easy, and safe, for you.

Remember Your Roof

It’s out there every day protecting you from the worst weather-excesses mother nature can devise, and right now is the perfect time to prepare it for the especially daunting season ahead. By inspecting it, cleaning the gutters, checking for moss and algae growth, and trimming back the trees, your roof and your home will be ready for what’s to come. 

At PJ’s Roofing, our experienced team of roofing professionals provides homeowners like you with reliable, high-quality services they can trust, at any time of year. To schedule your fall roof inspection or roof maintenance appointment, contact PJ’s Roofing today.

August 15, 2025 in Roofing, Tips

The Effects of Summer Heat: Signs of Roof Damage

Our relationship with the summer sun is a complicated one. On the one hand, we love going to the beach on a warm day, seeing our plants get vital nutrients, and throwing pool parties. On the other hand, though, the sun can be the cause of discomfort and damage. Think of the heatwaves we’ve had this year alone. People stayed inside at all costs, energy bills skyrocketed as a result of HVAC use, and more. One thing we don’t often think about when it comes to extreme summer heat is how it affects the outside of our homes…namely our rooftops. If you notice signs of roof damage caused by summer heat, it’s important to address it. But what are the signs? How hot does a roof get in the summer?

In this blog, we’re going to turn up the temperature a bit. Let’s take a look at the signs of roof damage you should be on the lookout for, as well as the various types of roof damage our sun can cause.

How Summer Heat Damages Roofs

You might wonder why (or even how) the sun causes damage. Aren’t roofs designed to withstand this kind of stuff? Yes and no. While roofing materials are designed to be as durable as possible, extreme heat can still take its toll. Add that to the general wear and tear that rooftops experience over the years, and there’s potential for real damage to happen.

Here are the various types of roof damage that can occur:

UV Ray Exposure

Our skin isn’t the only thing at risk when ultraviolet rays are allowed unimpeded access. These invisible rays can slowly break down the protective oils found in roofing materials. Take asphalt shingles, for instance. UV rays can cause their colors to fade and they could lose their flexibility. Over time, they can become brittle, making them easy to crack or outright break.

Thermal Expansion

Ever notice how some of your doors might fit in their frame a little too snugly when it’s hot outside? The same thing can happen to roofs. With temperatures climbing during the day and dropping at night, materials expand and contract, which contributes to eventual cracking, warping, or loosening.

Moisture Trapping

If you have trapped water in your roof structure, it’s already deteriorating, which can lead to various water-related issues. High heat exacerbates the issue by expediting that deterioration. The result? Rot, mold, and eventual structural weakening.

Signs of Roof Damage Caused by Heat

How hot does a roof get in the summer? Pretty darn hot! It is, after all, an effective first line of defense in the battle to keep a home cool. In the midst of summer (especially heatwaves), keep an eye out for these signs of roof damage:

• Curling or cracked shingles: These are clear signs of material fatigue and UV damage.

• Granule-loss on asphalt shingles: If shingles are losing their granules, it may be hard to tell by looking at them. Instead, check your gutters. If they have excessive amounts of granules, it means the protective coating on your shingles is losing its integrity.

• Warped or sagging areas: Long periods of stress caused by heat can cause warping, leading to structural damage if left unchecked.

• Discoloration and fading: This is a telltale sign of prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Damage to flashing or sealant: These components can become too dry when exposed to too much heat. They may even pull away from their seams.

Preventing Various Types of Roof Damage

There are three vital steps you can take to prevent roof damage:

• Schedule a professional inspection: Give your local roofing contractor (us, of course) a call. It can be really beneficial! We’re happy to inspect your roof and let you know what action needs to be taken.

• Optimize ventilation and insulation: If your attic is well-ventilated, heat buildup is kept to a minimum and your roof will live a long and happy life.

• Trim overhanging branches: There are plenty of risks to ignoring branches that overhang your roof. One of these risks is debris accumulation, as it can create areas of heat retention.

Know the Signs of Roof Damage

Your roof is a vital component of your home’s structural integrity, as well as a major contributor to your indoor comfort. Don’t let the summer sun cause damage that will break your wallet and shorten your roof’s lifespan. Use the tips we’ve given you here to identify signs of damage and respond accordingly. At PJ’s Roofing, we’re happy to perform any inspections or repairs you need. Get in touch and let’s chat!

June 13, 2025 in Roofing, Tips

5 Benefits of Professional Roof Inspection Services

When you want to make sure something is in good condition, you have to give it a good inspection. That’s why we schedule regular visits to various medical professionals, after all. It’s why we take our cars in for routine servicing every six months or so. The list goes on, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that a roof is no exception. If you want to get the most out of it and help it last as long as possible, it’s a good idea to utilize roof inspection services.

These inspections are meant to evaluate the condition of your roof, catch budding problems, and offer solutions. Unfortunately, most people only hire roofing contractors when a problem becomes big enough to cause significant concern. But you’re not “most people,” are you? You want to do your due diligence and give your roof the TLC it deserves. Read on for all the advantages such an approach offers.

Early Detection of Roof Damage

Perhaps the most obvious purpose of roof inspection services is to catch small issues and address them before they turn into big, nasty problems that cost lots of money. Roof inspection companies, like ours, use their expertise to detect these signs of damage, such as:

• Minor leaks that haven’t reached the occupied spaces in your home just yet
• Cracked shingles and flashing
• Weak spots that could give out under the pressure of heavy rain or snow

These issues in their early stages are no threat, but like a persistent cough that goes unchecked, they could become something costly and even dangerous if left alone for too long. Better to give us a call and make sure everything is in order!

Extended Roof Lifespan

Longevity is a big factor for any roof. While every roof is designed with that factor in mind, its true potential can only be realized with proper maintenance. Services from roof inspection companies such as PJ’s Roofing can help extend that lifespan. Our experts will let you know of any maintenance needs specific to the material your roof is made of—asphalt, slate, shingles, and so on. In addition, we’ll provide sound recommendations for preventative care so you can minimize wear and tear on your roof.

While some preventative maintenance is easily carried out by the homeowner, some tasks should be left to the pros. Take the treatment of algae, moss, and debris; in many cases, these things require professional care to be fully removed from your roof.

Roof Inspection for Insurance Claims

We’ve heard way too many stories about storm damaged rooftops causing homeowners dearly in repair costs. Oftentimes, this is due to the damage not being covered by insurance. Why, though? Well, if an insurance company doesn’t receive proof of the roof’s condition prior to the storm, they can’t be certain of what truly happened or when. You know where we’re going with this …

It’s a great idea to get a roof inspection for insurance purposes! Say your home falls victim to such an incident and a tree falls on your roof in the midst of a strong storm. If you took recent advantage of roof inspection services, it would be difficult to deny that the storm was the culprit. Services from roof inspection companies will provide:

• Documentation on the pre-storm state of your roof
• Evidence that will help you support your insurance claim
• A timeline relating to the storm and the damage it caused to your roof

In short, a roof inspection could be the difference between a claim denial and a fully covered roof repair!

Improved Energy Efficiency

Your roof plays a huge role in the insulation and ventilation of your entire home. When a professional performs an inspection, they can uncover hard-to-spot issues like:

• Poor ventilation in the attic, which leads to heat buildup
• Damage to insulation, causing uneven temperature in the home
• Holes and cracks that allow air-conditioned indoor air to escape

Addressing these concerns can go a long way towards keeping energy costs down.

Peace of Mind

You’re familiar with the feeling of leaving a routine checkup with a clean bill of health from your doctor. You can have the same peace of mind about your home when you take advantage of roof inspection services. The knowledge that your roof is in good condition will help you rest a bit easier at night. You know every small issue has been addressed, so you don’t have to live in fear of that nagging possibility of a major roofing issue. That feeling is priceless—especially during the harsh winter months and the spring/summer storm season.

Roof Inspection Services You Can Count On

A professional roof inspection is a great way to detect damage, but there’s a lot more to it than that! It can help you prove insurance claims, reduce costs, extend the roof’s lifespan, and simply put your mind at ease. You take care of yourself with regular doctor visits. Why not take care of your roof by getting in touch with PJ’s Roofing? We’re always happy to provide an inspection!

March 12, 2025 in Roofing, Tips

Preventative Measures to Protect Against Roof Wind Damage

When built well, a roof can be an incredibly strong component of your home. Every shingle can be perfectly installed and cracks and holes may be nonexistent. These are signs of a great installation by talented professionals, but there’s one adversary that, under certain circumstances, puts your roof to the test: Mother Nature. When she’s in a foul mood, the result can be all kinds of roof wind damage—missing shingles, lifted flashing, and even structural damage.

The best way to keep your roof (and your home) protected from these gargantuan gusts is to take proactive steps that will strengthen it against high winds. There are key preventative measures you can take before the next big storm hits, so you don’t have to resort to roof damage repair. As Maryland’s storm season runs from August to October, there’s plenty of time to take action. Let’s discuss.

Choose Wind-Resistant Roofing Materials

One of the most effective strategies in preventing wind damage to roof materials is to use materials that are built with that very purpose in mind. There are plenty of materials to choose from, so you aren’t limited to just one option that may or may not fit your style:

• Asphalt Shingles Rated for High Winds: Shingles with Class F or H ratings can withstand wind speeds up to 130 miles per hour!

• Metal Roofing: This offers superior protection in storm-prone areas thanks to its durability.

• Impact-Resistant Tiles: Roof wind damage is much less likely to occur when your roof is made of clay-and-concrete tiles that are designed with durability in mind.

If you live in an area prone to high winds, it’s also important you ensure that the materials you use comply with local building codes to achieve maximum wind resistance.

Secure Shingles and Flashing

Even the best materials can be ineffective if they’re not properly installed. That’s why it’s vital to secure your shingles with nails and other hardware that’s specifically designed for wind resistance. Additionally, pay extra attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure it’s fastened and sealed with strong adhesives. Finally, if there are any particularly vulnerable areas of your roof, consider roofing cement or additional sealants.

Reinforce the Roof Decking

To maximize wind uplift resistance, you’ll want a strong roof deck. It’ll help you reinforce your roof’s structural integrity so it doesn’t risk flying away in a storm—we’ve all seen those videos, and we’ve all prayed that never happens to us. Here’s what you can do:

• Use hurricane clips or straps that will properly anchor the roof to your home’s frame.
• Use high-quality, durable plywood for your decking.
• Re-nail your existing decking, or add fasteners for extra stability.

Maintain Gutters and Drainage Systems

If your gutters become clogged or damaged, water can pool and ultimately weaken your roofing materials. If it’s merely a clog with no damage, the fix is likely quick and relatively easy—it can get a little messy, though. Don some gloves and, using a sturdy ladder to reach the gutters, manually remove anything that may be causing a blockage. The process is similar with your downspout, though you may need to utilize a gutter scoop.

If the screws and other hardware used to keep your gutters in place become damaged, it’s important that you rectify this before the next storm hits. Once this damage is fixed, we recommend running a test with a simple bucket of water to ensure you have proper drainage. Simply dump it into your gutter and make sure it reaches the bottom of the downspout!

Trim Nearby Trees and Remove Debris

Overhanging tree branches may not look very threatening, but they have the potential to become dangerous projectiles during a strong storm. Here’s what you can do to minimize risk of needing roof damage repair:

• Remove dead branches, as they are more likely to break off.
• Trim any other branches that pose a risk.
• Clear your yard! Even ground debris can be picked up by strong winds.
• If you plant trees, do so at a safe distance from your home.

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections

The best kind of roof problem is the non-existent one. The second best is the small variety—the type that can be easily addressed before it grows and becomes a big headache. To catch these problems before they evolve into substantial threats, routine roof inspections are highly recommended. Hiring a roofing professional (we happen to know a few) is a good idea at least once a year. Additionally, if there’s an upcoming or recent storm, having a pro inspect for potential roof wind damage can’t hurt! They can identify early signs of wear and tear like curing shingles or rusting flashing, as well as address minor repairs promptly.

Check for Loose or Weak Roof Components

No matter how strong your roof is, it’s important to give it a look after a storm to make sure it didn’t suffer roof wind damage. Here’s what you should inspect for:

• Missing or damaged shingles
• Loose flashing around chimneys and vents
• Unsecured fascia boards or soffits

If you notice any wind damage to roof elements on your home, it’s important to contact a professional for repairs as soon as you can.

Prevent Roof Wind Damage

It’s good to be proactive! By taking steps to prevent roof wind damage, you’re saving yourself immeasurable headaches down the road. By choosing strong materials, trimming branches, giving your gutters some TLC and, of course, scheduling professional inspections, you’ll make sure your home is fortified and ready to stand up to Mother Nature. To schedule your roofing inspection and other services today, you know who to contact: PJ’s Roofing!