Infinite Roofing & Construction Roofing Blog

Roofing, Siding, Guttering and Solar info and topical blog - Capital Region NY

How to deal with animals in your roof vents and attics

by Leave a Comment

roof critters

Maybe you’ve heard an animal in the attic scratching at night?

In North America we are home to variety of wildlife that sometimes make their way into your roof vents and attics. Some common types of animals that make their way into your home include raccoons on the roof, birds squeezing into exhaust vents, squirrels nesting in the attic and other critters that you would much rather see in nature rather than your home.

How do I get rid of an animal in my attic or roof? In this article we’ll answer many questions you may have regarding how to get rid of these pests and keep them out.

The first question you most likely have is, how to know if you have an uninvited animal guest in the first place without consulting a local roofing contractor first? You will most likely hear the tiny scurrying of the animal across your ceiling from above or even see or smell its presence. Animals are often looking for a warm cozy place to nest during mating season in the spring months, especially in northern climates.  

How can animals get through roof vents or into your attic?

Some signs of entry for pests include:

  • Gaps in between the fascia and the eaves
  • Open chimneys
  • Loose fascia
  • Missing shingles
  • Holes in the siding

Once an animal is inside of your home there are some common signs to look for such as:

  • Nests or hives
  • Droppings or urine marks
  • Chewed wires or pipes
  • Torn insulation or air ducts

How do I squirrel proof my roof?

During the day squirrels are the most active critter that may cause havoc in your home, while at night nocturnal animals such as raccoons and bats are more prevalent. There is a distinctive difference in the tread sounds of squirrels, mice and rats compared to those of larger animals like raccoons which are much slower and heavy. Their sounds may be heard from overhead in the attic, ceiling, in between walls, exhaust vents or inside of chimneys. Trimming tree branches that hang close to your roof will prevent squirrels from gaining access to your home. Squirrels can jump from more than 10ft away so be sure to cut enough of the limb.  

Potential damage can be done by not only mammals but other common infestations like insects, termites or cockroaches. We recommend that you always consult with a professional in pest control or a local roofing contractor to remove uninvited animals or pests from your home as it can be dangerous. A well trained animal specialist can remove the problem in a safe and effective manner while following the bylaws of the protected species.

Bees and Wasps:

These tiny tenants like to hive in your attic or outside in the corners of porches or decking. In the summer months bees and wasps are less likely to make a home in your attic because of the temperatures reaching up to 180 degrees F. The wax in a honeybee hive melts at 130 degrees F so it’s more likely to see their hives on the perimeter of your home than inside. Once a hive is detected it is important to have it safely removed so your and your family do not get stung, especially if there is an allergy in your family.

Mice and rats

How do I keep mice out of my roof vents?

Among the most common pests in a household include mice, rats or other rodents. Garbage and clutter attract these rodents but even if your home is very clean they will still seek shelter and a source for food. In the fall into winter months rodents look for shelter indoors to escapes the cold and nest. They reproduce very quickly in large numbers so it’s important to take care of the problem when you first see the signs.

These pests enter your home at ground level and can squeeze through the smallest of cracks, once they have broken inside they travel between walls through your entire house. Rodents become dangerous because they like to chew things including wires, wood, insulation, piping and even concrete; resulting in property damage and creating a fire hazard. Some ways to prevent an infestation of mice is by sealing off small holes around the exterior of your house and inspecting your vents for small openings. If you do find small gaps cover with mesh to prevent the rodents from slipping through.

Birds and Bats

If you have found a bird in your home or nesting up in the attic it is not an uncommon occurrence. In the summer birds and bats can easily enter your home through a window or door that has been left open or even slip through a gap between siding, finding its way to your attic to nest. These animals like dry, private spaces where they will be unbothered and protected from predators.

 If a bat colony has formed in your attic it is best to deal with immediately because of their guano deposits. Not only does this give off an abrasive odor but the acidity levels make the material highly corrosive to building materials, wood, and insulation. Bats can also gain access to your home through extremely small spaces which make your home vulnerable to an infestation.

Birds on the other hand like to make nests in heating pipes and exhaust vents to capture the warmth which acts as an incubator. This might sound harmless but their droppings can attract cockroaches and other insects.

Does bird poop affect shingles?

Bird droppings contain uric acid which damages your roof, asphalt shingles are even more susceptible. The acid within the droppings dissolves the asphalt and also provides nutrients which encourages algae growth or moss.

Raccoons

Related to the panda bear, raccoons look cute and friendly but possess the power to rip shingles right from your roof, breaking into the soffit and fascia. Some entry points can leave large holes which snow and rain can penetrate that cause serious weather damage to your home. Chewing through insulation and wires risking a fire hazard also poses a problem.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”-Benjamin Franklin

There are many options available to aide you in prevention of keeping animals out of your attic and roof vents. It is always best to consult with a local roofing contractor and animal removal specialist service to humanely remove any animal infestations.

A local roofing contractor can:

  • Help seal any holes or gaps that are potential entry points at roof or ground level
  • Replace missing or old shingles and repair holes in fascia or soffit
  • Use gutter guards to keep out squirrels
  • Install spikes along eaves which deter birds from roosting on your roof
  • Install mesh or other metal to cover large openings around chimney, ridge vents or gable

Is it normal for a new roof to lose granules?

by Leave a Comment

Shingle Granule Loss

Whether they are installed on a residential roof or a flat commercial roof, an asphalt shingle is usually composed of three layers: the backing material, asphalt and an outer layer of granules. These granules give asphalt shingles several distinct properties, such as their color and their energy-efficient, reflective properties. Your trusted, local roofing contractor, Infinite Roofing takes a look at this essential roofing component, and whether or not loose granules are something you should be concerned about.

Loose Granules

Shingle roofing granules are usually made from crushed stone and minerals. In today’s world the manufacturing techniques for shingles have been constantly advancing. The granules that are used now allow roofing manufacturers to create asphalt shingles of virtually any color, size and shape. As your roof ages, some of the granules start to come loose from the asphalt layer. In fact, it’s not as  uncommon to find some loose granules in your gutter weeks after the roof is installed. 

It is important to note that shingle granule loss is a normal part of roofing wear and tear. Your granules stay on your roof for most of your roof’s lifespan. If you do find a few loose granules in the gutter runoff, it’s no reason to panic. In fact, the only time that you should call a local roofing company like Infinite Roofing is when the runoff looks like someone dumped a morning’s worth of coffee grounds into gutters. Then it could really be a sign of premature wear and tear.

Causes of Granule Loss

Wear and tear was mentioned above but there are some other causes for granules to come loose. What you don’t want is to end up with asphalt shingles that expose that asphalt layer, or what is commonly referred to as bald shingles. Your roof can also sustain damage that could be caused by hail or airborne debris. Therefore, that could be the cause if you notice any loose granules on the ground or in the runoff right after a storm. Another cause of loose granules is if someone was walking on the roof. However, there is no need to panic in most of these situations, most roofs are built to endure a lot. However, notifying your local roofing contractor about a high amount of loose granules is important.

What causes shingle granule loss?

Asphalt shingles are well known for their durability, protection and longevity. Asphalt shingle roofs continue to be among the most popular types of roofing system. Asphalt shingles have been perfected over the years because of advancements made in granule technology and improvements in other surface materials. Shingle granules shield the roof from UV rays and increase its fire resistance. If your shingle roof does not have granules, your shingles would be left exposed to sunlight, which would end up causing it to deteriorate much faster.

The age of your roof can cause it to lose granules at an exponential rate. As roofs age, the bond between the granules and the asphalt shingle becomes weaker, allowing the granules to fall off. If your granules are falling off due to roof age, then you should consider replacing your roof. However, if you just purchased a new roof, then you may be experiencing slight granule loss. When the shingles are manufactured the granules are embedded into the asphalt but some excess granules that are not embedded into asphalt may fall off during packaging, shipping or installation or after a rainfall. If there are any granules that are loose on your roof, inspect the shingles to ensure that the embedded granules are still intact. If any of your shingles seem to be losing the granules prematurely, contacting your nearest roofing company would be a good idea because the product might be defective.

Your shingles are blistering

Blistering shingles can also be a cause of loss of granules. Aging, wear and tear, or storm events can cause moisture to get stuck inside the shingles which can cause them to blister. If your shingles are blistering and losing their shingles, your roof is in definite need of repair.

Additional Causes

  • With older roofs, foot traffic can be a cause of shingle wear and granule loss. 
  • Continuous weathering can, over time, cause your granules to become loose and eventually fall off. 
  • Major storm events, such as hail storms, can loosen and/or displace the granules.

Shingles granule loss does not always mean you need a full roof replacement, contact an experienced and certified roofing technician to inspect your roof and perform the appropriate repairs.

Uniform Granule Loss

Long-term, uniform granule loss is not considered functional damage by insurance companies.  It’s generally considered part of the natural aging process, unless your shingles are failing prematurely. The rate at which shingles lose granules depends on the quality of the shingles and the weather/climate zone of the home on which they are installed. Granule loss which is uniform across the roof is usually a result of normal weathering. Over time, the bond between the granules and asphalt deteriorates, and granules will be loosened and carried away by runoff. Prolonged exposure to hail can also loosen granules. With older roofs, even marble-size hail may loosen granules. If you suspect hail damage it is best to contact your local roofing contractor as they will give you the best advice. You may even be entitled to a new roof, provided by your insurance company. Premature failure of the granular bond to the asphalt surface can also be caused by poor-quality asphalt. It can also be caused by other conditions.

What are roofing granules made of?

Many flat commercial roofs have asphalt shingles that contain roofing granules. These are tiny particles that consist of graded crushed rock, porcelain, slag, slate or tile. Roofing granules are used on flat commercial roofs for several reasons. Here are a few of their benefits, along with some conditions that can affect them. Roofing granules are constructed with a ceramic coating. The granules that are most commonly used consist of ground-up molten rock particles, such as solid volcanic lava, basalt or granite. To obtain the proper granule size these particles are processed and then covered with a silicate mixture. Once this has been done, the next step is adding color to the mixture. After coating the granules, rotary calciners treat the coating so that it turns into a ceramic. This is done to make the shingles more durable and seals in the color. It also gives the final product an additional aesthetic appeal.

Advantages of Roofing Granules on Flat Commercial Roofs

One of the main advantages of roofing granules is that they provide aesthetic beauty. This is the result of colors that have been blended together, giving a roof depth and a rich appearance. Besides cosmetic appeal, roofing granules also serve practical purposes. For instance, they’re designed to protect the asphalt coating of shingles from harsh UV sunlight. Because roofing granules can make a roof cooler, this can mean having lower utility bills for your business. As a result, you’ll have more money for other expenses. What’s more, roofing granules provide fire resistance for shingles.

Essential Characteristics Needed For Stones

The type of natural stones that’s selected in making roofing granules is just as critical as the coloring process and the distribution of the particle size. The main qualities that are required are hardness, opaque and rust-resistant. The stone has to be exceptionally durable and hard. In order to be suitable, the stones must be hard enough so that they can withstand foot traffic from building owners or contractors who have to walk on the roof surface. They must also be opaque enough, so harsh solar rays won’t be able to pass light through the granules. The best stones are darker ones, such as trap rock or gabbro, which is a dark, coarse igneous rock. These are better than quartz or granite stones, which are more likely to allow light to penetrate through them. The degree of iron content in a stone is just as crucial. To be suitable, a stone should have only a small amount of iron in its composition. This is to prevent iron from leaking out from granules, which can lead to rust stains on a roof.

What are the granules on shingles made of?

No doubt you have noticed the rough surface of asphalt shingles, very different from the relatively smooth surface of asphalt roads. There’s a reason for this, during the shingle manufacturing process, before the asphalt has fully set, granules are adhered to the surface of the shingle, giving it this motley, rough appearance.These granules are typically made from minerals or mineral fibers, but some are also made from metals like copper. Traditionally, these granules are applied to shingles to protect the asphalt because prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to damage. Also, the granule layer on the shingles looks much better on a roof than streaks of black asphalt. Metal granules are added to help prevent algae growth.

In summary

While the granules on your shingle roof should be securely adhered to the asphalt layer, a brand new roof may have excess granules from the manufacturing process that will fall off soon after the initial roof installation. This is nothing to worry about. A small number of loose granules here and there are also no great cause for concern. In time however, an older or more weathered roof may start to lose its shingle granules in larger amounts and this is when you know you have a problem. This makes it more difficult for your shingles to protect the underlying roofing materials and prevent sun or water damage. Missing granules are also associated with damaged or broken shingles. If you are losing granules, you will probably know about it when you find loose shingle granules around your house, especially in the gutters or where water runoff from your roof spills to the ground. These piles of granules come from somewhere, and it usually means your shingles are losing them. The second and most critical sign is being able to spot bare shingle spots just by looking at your roof. Your local roofing contractor would tell you that this is a sure sign that granule loss has been going on for some time.

If you are concerned about granule loss on your roof, please reach out to us at Infinite Roofing and we would be happy to advise you and give you a free, no obligation estimate to get your roof back in shape! Call 518-444-ROOF or email us at info@infiniteroofingny.com.

New Year’s Roof Resolutions

by Leave a Comment

The Infinite Roofing Team is reminding homeowners and business owners of the importance of the roof over their heads. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home or business, both aesthetically and functionally, so it makes perfect sense to keep a close eye on it to keep it in good health. We’re recommending that you add your roof to this year’s list of important New Year’s Resolutions.

Scheduling A Professional Inspection 

Most homeowners and business owners are unable to spot faults on their own in a roofing system until it’s too late or until water has penetrated the surface. Therefore, by scheduling an inspection with your local roofing contractor, they can help pinpoint any potential problems before it is too late. The point of having a roofing contractor is so that they can provide a complete and thorough inspection of your roofing system. As a homeowner possibly without very much roofing experience, it would be much harder for you to spot any problems than a trained and experienced professional. A professional roofing contractor could find any leaks, roof membrane damage, and membrane deterioration. Your local roofing contractor can also give you advice and recommendations on how you can improve the safety, longevity and durability of your roofing system.

Think of a roof inspection as a preventative measure that could save you thousands of dollars in per year. A professional roof inspection can reveal structural weaknesses in your roof, deficiencies, or damage that can lead to much more expensive roof repairs if left unchecked. A roof inspection also includes a thorough check-up of your home’s ceilings and interior walls for possible water infiltration such as ceiling tile stains, incorrect roof flashing, excessive debris, and curb or pipe penetrations. A comprehensive roof inspection can catch membrane deterioration early and have it fixed, if possible.

Make your new year’s goal, getting your roof checked at least twice per year! Some warranties won’t be completed without a thorough roofing inspection by a reputable local roofing contractor. Roof penetrations and incorrect flashing could potentially void the manufacturer’s roof warranty. Deterioration and damage can lead to premature roof leaks and cause serious emergency situations or disruption to your property. Preventative action always pays off! Therefore, we strongly recommend that you make scheduling a professional roof inspection a New Year’s Resolution.

Keep An Eye On Your Gutters

It’s critical to keep your gutters in working order to allow water overflow to drain from your roofing system. You want to ensure that water flows away from your roof without pooling in corners. You can also check your gutters to find out if you have significant and threatening shingle or tile breakage as well. The role of gutters is to route rainwater away from your home. It can be difficult for homeowners to identify minor gutter issues before they become full-blown failures. Neglect leads to clogs, which can cause leaks in the gutters. These leaks typically form at the joints, at the areas where gutters lengths and downspout meet. These areas are often sealed using a sealant, which can get worn out due to weather exposure. Gutters will also tend to overflow if clogged, so cleaning them regularly at least twice a year is important. Holes from rust spots are yet another source of leaks and can develop from the smallest exposed metal surfaces.

Water pooling around your home’s foundation is the biggest risk you would face when neglecting your gutters. This weakens the ground that the foundation sits on, which could cause the house to settle inappropriately. Also, your home’s foundation is made of concrete and concrete absorbs water. Water pooling around the foundation due to faulty gutters can weaken the foundation, causing irreparable damage. The fascia boards that hold the gutters in place could get damaged as well. The exposed wood will begin to rot if soaked in water. Gutter hangers could come loose, necessitating a complete gutter replacement.

Replace Missing Shingles Or Tiles

If your home or business has loose or missing shingles or tiles, you may wind up facing much more than an aesthetic problem. With missing or damaged shingles or tiles, your roof is much less likely to remain weatherproof. 

When shingles from your roof fall from their adhesive backing or nails give out, they leave the insulating and adhesive layers open to the elements. This exposure can cause roof leaks, structural damage, weatherproofing damage and dry rot. Even if the open patch of a roof is small, average amounts of rainfall are enough to soak the layers between the exposed area of your roof and the inside of your home. Unwanted wetness in your home will cause roof damage as well as weaken floorboards, soak the insulation, and let moisture into your foundation. 

Over time, the water from roof leakage can weaken your home’s structural beams and foundation, causing much larger, permanent problems. If your support beams fail to provide support for the weight of your house, you may experience foundation cracking, roof caving, and wall breakage.

Dry and hot as well as frequently changing weather conditions will stretch, condense, and water down the weatherproofing and adhesive layers beneath your roof tile. After these layers are exposed to dry air and direct sunlight due to missing shingles, they will lose their protective properties. 

In hot weather areas, unprotected parts of your roof will experience dry, scorching air throughout the entire day. The air saps the moisture from places that need oil and moisture to function properly, causing them to expand without pliability. They will crack and weaken, leaving them vulnerable to breakage. These problems can also occur in combination. When they do, small problems with over-dryness or excessive moisture can cause much larger problems for the entirety of your house. 

Since residential and commercial roofs in the region have to put with so much constantly changing weather, the cause of slipped, broken, and missing roof tiles or shingles can be one of a combination of the following:

  • Wind – Even if your roof is built with consideration for wind damage, strong, gusting winds can still pull shingles from their place if the come with enough force. 
  • Trauma- Unusual weather events such as hail, rainstorms, or blizzards can pull tiles from their place. Tiles will slowly weaken and break from too much impact.
  • Dryness- Most types of roofing require moisture to stay weatherproof and secure. Droughts and severely hot weather will pull that necessary moisture from the tiles.
  • Weakening- Underlayment and sheathing underneath your tiles will start to give in to the elements over time. This allows your shingles to slip and opens them up to damage.


Consider Roof Cleaning

Cleaning your roof not only helps to please the eye, but it also helps in keeping it in efficient working order. Eliminating leaf and debris buildup can reduce the risk of mold and mildew that can seriously threaten the functionality of your roofing system. 

Roof cleaning is commonly overlooked, however, when the siding of your home is dirty or the paint is peeling, it becomes an obvious sign that it is time for maintenance. However, the roof of your home tends to be a bit more out of the line of sight. As they say— “Out of sight, out of mind”. What many homeowners fail to consider is that a roof that is not properly cleaned and maintained can lead to damage which will shorten the lifespan of perhaps the most important protective feature of your home. 

Your roof is exposed to the elements all day, every day. Dirt and debris will collect on it. Natural rainfall is typically enough to wash off the appearance of most superficial dirt. However, the dark stains and green areas that appear on your roof are caused by other natural elements. Some of these elements are algae, lichens, and moss.

If you have ever noticed any black stains on your roof, these stains are a growth called algae. Algae feed off both asphalt and limestone roofing in moist, cool and shaded areas of your roof. When there is minimal light, algae forms a blue-green color. The more shaded areas of the roof are more likely to have this algae, which can also harbor various types of molds. This explains why some roofs are stained only on one side. These algae spores are transported by wind or animals and can quickly spread from rooftop to rooftop in neighborhoods of single-family homes, townhomes, apartments and commercial complexes.

Lichens are essentially a combination of algae and fungus. Lichens are a fungus that grows along with algae. These plant-like organisms from a branching growth of root-like tentacles that penetrate deep into the shingle’s base for nourishment. Lichens are tough to remove from the roof and can reappear from humidity and rain. 

Unlike algae and lichens, moss is an actual plant. Moss has a shallow root system and requires a lot of moisture to survive. Areas with less sunlight remain damp longer. Overhanging tree branches not only provide more shade, but they also drop debris that serves as a food source for moss. Like algae, moss spores are often transferred by wind or animals and can easily spread throughout neighborhoods. 

The staining and growth patches caused by algae, fungi and moss can damage your roof through shingle deterioration and wood rot. Both lead to expensive repairs and can shorten the life of your roof. A thorough, professional roof cleaning can help minimize or reverse this damage.

Use these top roofing tips to get the year started right. Happy New Year from the Infinite Roofing team.

Tips: End Of Summer Roof Maintenance!

by Leave a Comment

Infinite Roofing and Construction

As summer slowly comes to an end and the blazing hot sun is in full gear. Many homeowners are engaging in as many outdoor activities as they can. Like going to the beach, relaxing on their back patio, or grabbing some propane to spark the grill. Hardly anyone is thinking about climbing up a ladder to check in on their roof. During the winter months, the roof has protected you from cold and wet temperatures and now it’s time to for a little roof pampering.  

A majority of homeowners believe Fall is the best time to call their local Roofing Contractor to take care of the roof, but roof maintenance is a year-round activity. Summertime is the best time to start as any. Summer brings a bit of challenging weather conditions, including high temperatures, humidity, torrential rain, thunderstorms, and heavy winds. 

Taking time to perform a quick evaluation assures your roof can withstand summer heat and storms, is in good operating condition, and maintaining the structural integrity of your home. Just like any other part of the house, the roof requires regular maintenance to keep it functional. Though in theory, you can inspect your shingles from the ground with a pair of binoculars, maintenance should be up close and personal. Please do not hesitate to contact your local roofing contractor. Should you require a local roofing company, Infinite Roofing is here to help! 

Should you decide to tackle this by yourself, please be sure you are following the safety tips listed: 

  1. Always use proper safety equipment such as a sturdy ladder, a hard hat, eye and face protection, and a harness.
  2. It would not hurt to bring another person along as a precaution.
  3. Be sure you are aware of where you are stepping to avoid an unwanted accident and/or roof damage.

To get you started, here are few roof maintenance tips to help this summer:


1. Gutters and downspouts cleaning.  Water always finds its way, so clearing any debris that could potentially clog gutters and downspouts is essential to roof maintenance. Preventing water from flowing to places where it shouldn’t prevent damage to substructures beneath the shingles and under the foundation

2. Trim away overhanging branches. Tree branches that hang over the roof offer a highway to heaven–or a warm, dry home– for small birds, squirrels, and other rodents you may not want living in your home. Tree limbs and branches are a common cause of roof damage but can be easily prevented by trimming away any large tree branches that could snap due to the wind, heavy ice or snow or even disease and decay. During the warmer months, you will notice more debris on the roof from leaves and dust from small branches and pine needles. Prompt bris removal is critical for a long-lasting roofing system.

3. Moss Removal. While trees may provide shade when you want to relax out front on a hot summer day, shade also means added moisture. A roof that does not get much sunlight in the rainy months is also at risk of moss growth. Be sure your local roofing contractor monitors your shingles for signs of moss, mold, or mildew growth and remove it immediately if spotted. Some moss killers may cause discoloration and/or damage roofing materials. Roofing contractors will guarantee the use of safe chemical moss killers.

4. Replacing damaged and/or missing shingles. Most roofing contractors agree that a roof can last between 15-20 years. It also depends on if the old roof was removed and there is only one layer of shingles, and if it’s ventilated properly. Keep in mind, if a roofing contractor has installed a roof over an existing layer or several layers, and it is older than 15 years, chances are you’ll most likely need a new roof. Shingles that are buckling or curled are another sign that you may need a new roof.


5. Repair broken flashing and damaged seals. Sealing and flashing are essential components in your home’s battle against moisture. If there is any penetration through the roof, there is the probability that the flashing and seal directing water away from the hole will fail. Check roof penetrations and repair leaks immediately to prevent further damage. Your local roofing contractor can help you determine the state of your flashing and sealing and can advise you as to whether or not repair or replacement is needed.


6. Blocking animals from entering the home. Four-legged pests such as rats, raccoons, and squirrels will gladly accept an invitation to move into your attic, ruin insulation with urine and feces and/or chew through electrical cords and cables. Use an industrial cloth or any other means to block access through roof vents and other openings.

To Sum It Up!

End of maintenance can be a bit intimidating, especially for new homeowners so if you’re unsure of what to do or just don’t have the time to inspect your roof yourself, make arrangements for your local roofing contractor. They can help you spot problems before they develop into costly repairs!

DIY method to remove Moss and Lichen With Vinegar

by 18 Comments

Damp conditions are perfect for mosses and lichens to grow, lichen consists of a fungus and photosynthesizing plant, while moss itself is a plant. When materials like leaves collect on your roof, a perfect bed is formed for moss and lichens to grow. People try finding ways to remove moss and lichens themselves without having to hire roofing contractors and there are ways to take care of that problem yourself and also do it in an environmentally friendly way. You can remove moss and lichens from your roof by using vinegar as an environmentally friendly weed killer. Roof cleaning is an important aspect of having your house look new and not aged. Algae and moss on roofs adds years to the look of your house, removal of algae will bring newly replaced roof look and make your house stand out.

Step 1

Ensure to clean up any organic matter on the roof such as leaves, twigs or other debris. Organic material is a perfect growing ground for moss and lichen, not only that it can also rot and possibly damage your roof.

Step 2

Use a push broom, or other sorts of stiff brush, to scrape away any stubborn mold or lichen patches still remaining. Begin with the top of the roof and work your way toward the eaves. For your safety stay well away from the edge of the roof.

Step 3

Use a tall ladder, and set it up next to the house. Get rid of any moss around the roof edges using the brush. Repeat this step and work your way around the house to make sure all sides are covered. If ever any step seems like they may be too dangerous for you to perform yourself, roofing companies always offer cleaning services and professional roofing contractors can always inspect your roof while cleaning.

Step 4

Take a bucket and pour distilled white vinegar into it. The vinegar should be labeled with its acetic acid strength, which shouldn’t be more than 5 percent. To help the vinegar cling to moss and lichens add a 1 oz. of dish soap, and finally pour the mixture into the spray bottle.

Step 5

Use the spray bottle and apply the vinegar to the moss and lichens on the roof, then get off the roof and apply the vinegar to the moss and lichens around the edge.

Step 6

This is where the waiting game begins, it generally takes a couple of days for the vinegar to kill off the moss and lichens.

Step 7

Use the brush that was used earlier to remove the dead lichens and moss.

Step 8

The final step is to clean the roof is to use a garden hose or sprayer to rinse off everything.

An option to consider when trying to avoid problems related to moss and algae on the roof would be to consider the GAF StainGuard technology. When your roof has run its life and it’s time to replace the roof, talk to your local Albany roofing contractors about the possibility of having the GAF Timberline shingles that have the stain guard technology, or the GAF Ultra shingles that have the StainGuard plus technology installed.

Blue-green algae, also known as Gloeocapsa magma, has spread throughout more than 80% of the U.S., leaving dark black stains wherever it grows, and making millions of perfectly good roofs, and the homes they protect look old before their time.

Many traditional algae-resistant shingles use a granule technology developed more than a quarter-century ago. There is a layer of algae-fighting copper in the granules that is released onto the roof when it’s wet. Granules get older as the roof ages, and it releases less and less copper, affecting and reducing the shingle’s algae resistance.

StainGuard Plus™ Time-Release technology from GAF releases algae-fighting copper more efficiently, over time, for long-lasting algae-fighting power.

Unlike the older layered technology, StainGuard Plus™ technology uses specially engineered capsules, that are infused throughout with thousands of copper microsites so copper remains within reach, ready to be activated in the battle against blue-green algae stains.

StainGuard Plus™ uses a time-release technology, its algae resistance so powerful, it comes with a 25-year ltd. warranty against blue-green algae discoloration.

Roofing companies offer GAF products with the warranties in Albany, we at Infinite Roofing and Construction pride ourselves for our GAF certification and the knowledge to sell you the right product, with the correct installation so you as a consumer can get all the benefits provided by the GAF StainGuard technology for the protection it guarantees for your roof.

Moss and lichen are an easy problem to solve, but why not prevent the problem altogether by getting the right material for your roof that would prevent the growth of moss and protect your roof throughout the years.

Looking for a roof that would last years and also be Eco-Friendly?

by Leave a Comment

Infinite Roofing and Construction

Shingles have to be replaced by the homeowners at some point in a roofs lifetime. Conventional asphalt shingle roofs last about 20 years if you are lucky because they are constantly exposed to sunlight, heat, cold, rain, wind, and sometimes snow, sleet, and hail.

If you’d like a roof that will outlast a conventional asphalt shingle roof and is made from eco-friendly roofing materials, consider the products outlined here. Many of them are virtually immune to hail. Green roofing products are many and varied, ranging from recycled-plastic shingles to recycled-metal roofs to sustainably harvested or reclaimed wood roofs to having plants grow on your roof. The best option for your home depends on the design of your home, local building codes, and price considerations.


Recycled Shingles

The most popular and perhaps the most environmentally friendly option would be shingles made from recycled waste materials, such as plastic, rubber, or wood fiber. Some products are made from clean post-consumer waste (waste from homes), others from post-industrial waste (factory waste). Recycled-content shingles are amazingly durable, and they look amazing, too. You’d never be able to guess they were made from “waste” materials!

Waste from landfills are reduced by recycled-content roof shingles help our need to extract and process raw materials, which reduced pollution and lowers energy consumption. Some of these products are recyclable, too, and many come with amazing 50-year warranties. A few even carry fire ratings that could lower your insurance rates.

Infinite Roofing and Construction

A popular choice throughout the country has been wood shingles and shakes for homeowners and roofing contractors. Unfortunately, conventional wood shingles are made from old-growth western cedar. Although the amount of energy it takes to produce this product is relatively low, the harvest of old-growth trees is not sustainable in the long run. These shingles are also quite combustible and can no longer be used in areas where there is a risk of brush and forest fires.

If you are still considering installing wood shingles try considering shingle made from reclaimed lumber. Reclaimed lumber products are made from old bridges, mills, old water, and wine tank and other sources.


Slate and Clay Tiles

Slate produces an extremely durable tile, one that can last hundreds of years, and is also an all natural material. It is, however, an energy-intensive process to mine the slate tiles, but most companies salvage slate and clay tiles. Roofing contractors are very familiar with slate roofing as that is getting increasingly popular, the install cost may be a little pricey, but with that being said your roof will last twice as long with barely and repairs to be done.


Infinite Roofing and Construction

Metal Roofing

Many metal roofing products include at least some recycled material, but one advantage of metal roofing is that it can be recycled at the end of its life. Because metal roofs can last up to 50 years, roof replacement is less frequent, which means less waste in the long run. They offer exceptional durability and fire-resistance, and they’re ideal for those who want to collect rainwater from their roofs to water gardens (or for household uses). You don’t have to worry about chemicals that might leach from a conventional asphalt roof. Standing-seam metal roofs work nicely as the base for thin-film photovoltaic panels, too.

Metal roofs are great in snowy climates because they allow snow to slide off, which prevents ice dams from forming. (Ice dams can damage roofs of improperly insulated homes.) To protect walkways from snow sliding off the roof, you’ll need to install snow bars or a similar device over walkways, garage doors, and entryways. Although other eco-friendly roofing options may not always be available at every local roofing company or roofing contractors may not be trained to handle the installation of those specific roofs, metal roofing on the other hand is extremely popular and the popularity is growing so most if not all roofing contractors know the inside outs of installing a metal roof.




Rubber Roofing

Another recycled roof material is reinforced rubber shingles made from old steel-belted radial tires. The material is coated with ground slate for texture and comes in a variety of colors. A big advantage to this material is a long life and a 50-year warranty, including against hail and other extreme weather. The only downside to rubber roofing is that it is not always allowed in all counties. Make sure with your local roofing company and the building department that rubber roofing is allowed to be installed on your house.


Infinite Roofing and Construction

Green Roofing

A green roof is a roofing system that is an addition to the existing roof and add flora to it. Depending on the green roof type that you plan on installing the plants may be modular or have a drainage system to it.

There are many different reasons as to why a homeowner of a business owner would want to get a green roof. The installation of a green roof reduces the need to manage any stormwater that accumulates, as well as the stress put on local sewer systems. The plants would also help prevent the distribution of smog and would catch any pollutants in the air.

Having an eco-friendly roof not only helps the environment but also as a homeowner, your roof life will last longer preventing the replacement costs. Contact your local roofing contractor today to discuss the options of eco- friendly roofing and how that may benefit you.


Infinite Roofing and Construction


Are you a new homeowner? Here’s what you need to know about your Roof.

by Leave a Comment

Infinite Roofing and Construction

If you are in the process of buying your first home, Congratulations! First-time homeownership is an exciting development in your life, and a house is an incredibly valuable investment for you and your family’s future. As a new homeowner, however, it’s important to understand your relationship with your home and how to keep it in great shape for years to come. One part of the home that new homeowners frequently find themselves clueless about is the roof and how to maintain it.

Most home inspectors will pass a house saying that the roof still has 5 to 10 years left. However, most inspectors aren’t trained to look at a house roof and are good at inspecting issues such as furnaces or any foundation problems. Look for roofers in Albany that can do a thorough inspection, do your research and look at different roofing companies and their credibility to pick the best one for your new house.

Once you have a roofing contractor in mind, it’s time to schedule an appointment. The best season for roof inspections is in the summer, hands down. The good weather makes it easier to inspect a roof, and perform any maintenance that is necessary. After your first roof inspection, it is good practice to have one conducted annually – generally in the late summer months like August or September, immediately before the harsher seasons of fall and winter in most climates.

Infinite Roofing and Construction

Getting the most out of your roof inspection from your roofing contractor requires careful consideration of your inspection report. Take any issues that you, and the roofing contractor find seriously. Do not assume that because your roof is young it will not have major problems. If something comes up and it’s on your report, address it immediately. The last thing you want is to be left out in the cold – quite literally – in the winter, with a damaged roof.

Here are some things that you as a new homeowner may need to look out for while getting a roof inspection done for your house by roofers in Albany.

1- Look for any discoloration in the shingles.

2- See if the ridge cap shingles are a different color, many times the ridge cap shingles will be slightly different colors, meaning that the ridge vent was leaking and has been replaced, this would indicate that the whole roof is in a need of a replacement after the ridge vent has failed.

3- 4-foot horizontal lines going horizontally across the roof, this means that plywood has gotten wet and soaked up water. Other signs that would confirm that fact is popped out nails, and raising of the studs. All of these factors imply that the roof was previously leaking or still is.

5- Another thing to look at is the condition of the chimneys counter flashing, a good tell of how old the shingles are is to look at the bottom few courses right at the eaves and see if you can see areas where shingle color has worn away, if that is the case then all you would be able to see is the black fiberglass matt. If the fiberglass matt is visible that means that all the granules have fallen off and the fiberglass matt is just soaking up water and will leak soon.

Infinite Roofing and Construction

Ones the initial steps of getting your roof inspected by roofers in Albany is done and you now own your dream house, follows the responsibility to maintain your roof throughout the years that you will be living at the house.

Weather and wind can take a toll on your roof quickly and can wear down roofing materials quickly. Blown-off shingles, for example, weaken the overall strength of a house’s roof and need to be replaced. It’s always easier to replace a few missing pieces than the entire roof.

Additionally, if you live in a wooded area or near trees, it’s important to regularly brush off debris from your roof. The added weight of leaves particularly in the autumn, when trees shed their leaves they can press down on your roof, and weaken the integrity. Similarly, you will want to clean out your gutters of leaves and dirt so they can adequately drain rainwater, which is also a threat to your roof if left unchecked.

More than anything else, you should also understand your roof’s warranty and insurance policy. Infinite Roofing and Construction provides a 10-year in-house warranty. Should you get a new roof from us, we will cover the install and materials for 10 years.  Insurance does not always cover roofing damage, so be sure to carefully check over your policy to know what is and is not covered, this way you will be ready to protect your roof from damages in the future.



Do you really need 3 estimates for a roofing job?

by Leave a Comment

You’ll need to get as much information and knowledge about the process when looking to replace your roof. You need to weigh your options for roofing materials, their cost, and learn as much as you can about the local roofing companies that will be doing the work. In particular, your goal should be to find the best work for the best value.

Conventional wisdom, and also your insurance companies state and push that you should get three estimates from your local roofing companies and choose the median. Why? Supposedly, a drastically lower estimate may indicate cost-cutting measures that could result in shoddy workmanship, while the highest estimate could wind up costing you a pretty penny for average durability.

Meanwhile, if you’re replacing your roof due to an insurance claim, your insurance company may be stressing that you obtain at least three estimates. However, the three-estimate rule is not a hard-and-fast requirement for insurance claims, nor is it a necessity for your own decision-making process

So how many estimates do you really need?

The thought process behind requesting multiple estimates is solid. replacing a roof is a major undertaking that costs you a good deal of money and stands to make a lasting effect on your home’s weatherproofing, durability, and resale value for years to come. Of course, you want as much information as possible so you can feel comfortable proceeding. You also want to make sure the local roofing contractor you choose provides high-quality materials and high-quality installation and the best way to make that determination is to compare them to other local roofing companies that offer the same service.

However, do you really need three estimates? Not really. In this case, the “right” number of estimates depends completely on you. Get as many, or as few estimates as you need in order to feel comfortable with the roofing company you choose and their pricing.

Insurance companies are in no way required to get three estimates. All roofing contractors receive payment following a third-party system designed to set industry standard prices. Your insurance company will pay your area’s best roofers in Albany the exact same amount as it pays the worst roofers in Albany. Gather as many estimates as you feel comfortable with and choose the best company, just as you would if you were footing the bill on your own.

How do you go about choosing the best company? Ask these questions aside from the affordability factor to determine the best roofer in albany for your job.

  • Have they performed work in the area? Ask for references and addresses. There’s no better way to get a feel for a company’s customer service and workmanship than by speaking with former customers.
  • How experienced is the crew? It’s a good sign if your roofing company has been in business for decades and has great reviews. However, make sure to ask about the experience level of the particular crew that will be performing your work; a long-lasting company can easily hire a crop of newbies that may not have any more experience than you do.
  • How can I reach out during the process? Asking this question, in particular, gauges the company’s customer service. Their willingness to answer questions, guide you through the process, and remain available speaks to how smoothly the process will go on install day.
  • Ask about any certifications that the roofing company may have, having certifications backs up the work that is done by the company and it would guarantee that they have the best training necessary to be working on your roof.

There is no number of “right” estimates that you would need to get, go with what you think is suitable for you. Infinite Roofing can provide you with a free estimate for your insurance company with a detailed inspection of your roof. Our certifications, reviews and our highly trained crew will guarantee a happy and easy going roof installation.

A homeowners guide to protecting the exterior of their house during a roof installation!

by Leave a Comment


Sometimes during a conversation with the customer, it can be pretty obvious that they care about their garden and landscape. It’s these jobs you’ll know to take extra precautions with, but concerns about landscape don’t always come up in the conversation. Its always wise to maintain a clean job site, as it won’t cause problems post-install, and a clean work site is a safer site for your crew, the homeowners, and any neighbors or visitors.

When homeowners sign a contract with local roofing contractors, usually their main concern is that their roof installation is done properly. Unfortunately, the most common complaints about local roofing contractors is the occasional mess that is left behind after a job, and in some cases, the landscaping around the house can be damaged.



We at Infinite Roofing and Construction follow a “Never There” policy, as professional roofers in Albany we know that in the residential roofing business leaving the work property clean and undamaged is a priority for almost every homeowner, so we don’t take any chances. We always protect the landscaping, and we perform a magnetic sweep of the area after every workday to make sure all nails are picked up.  

We also hang tarp on the eaves of the house to prevent felt paper from blowing back and damaging the siding. The bottoms of the tarp are tied down to a tree or trucks so they are tight and any debris slides away from the house. We will move the grills away to prevent any damage. Our customers appreciate this attention to detail around their home.

We take our  “Never There” policy seriously, and even though with our roofing company you wouldn’t need to worry about your landscaping, extra care is never harmful, and It’s essential for you to protect the exterior of your home from any possible damage due to a roofing job.


Here are some important guidance for protecting your home exterior during roof installation and repair.

Secure any items hanging on the exterior portion of your home. Protect your at-risk items like patio furniture, potted plants, grills, and gardening tools with tarps and/or plywood, prior to starting roofing work.

You should relocate vehicles, falling within your home’s boundary to protect them from damage, and this includes vehicles parked in the driveway. Also, ensure to cover and protect valuables stored in your attic.

Prune back trees that are present close to the roof line, prior to beginning the roof installation process. This allows proper roof access to the local roofing contractors and prevents damage to the fresh roof.



Mow down your grass to the minimum height possible to prevent the nails from getting concealed, after falling into the long grass and ensure to shut your automatic sprinkler systems down, a day or two prior to beginning your installation to minimize any possible damage.

Secure your flowerbeds or landscaping surrounding your home by screening them with tarps or plastic by protecting them from dust and trash. You should also move out any hanging plants during your roof installation.

Damage to your pools, spas, and any nearby expensive equipment from debris and nails can be prevented. Cover the pools using a tarp and the spas with polypropylene to ensure your property’s protection before starting roof job.

Infinite Roofing and construction will make sure that any and all damage is prevented, and that the customer doesn’t worry about the aftermath of a roofing job, but little extra measures will only help and put your mind at an ease.



5 Most Amazing Roofs in the World!

by Leave a Comment



While most roofs your see constructed and completed by your local roofing companies may not strike the eye that much. They may seem just like any other roof in your town, something you see every day. These typical roofs are constructed to weather the elements and help regulate temperatures. There are times when you get to travel the world or even just in your home country and you get a chance to see the amazing architecture around, and some of those buildings have the more interesting designs that contain unique architectural features hyper-functionality or fantastic panoramic views, qualifying them as tourist attractions. When it comes to roofs with a high degree of visual appeal, here are some of the most amazing roofs in the world.

Cube Houses

Cube houses are a set of innovative houses built in Rotterdam and Helmond in the Netherlands. They are based on the concept of “living as an urban roof. These cubed roofs are tilted on a  conventional house 45 degrees and are rested upon a hexagon-shaped pylon. His design represents a village within a city, where each house represents a tree, and all the houses together form what may seem like a forest. The central idea of the cube houses around the world is mainly optimizing the space, as a house, to a better distribution of the rooms inside.



Brazilian Leaf House

Just outside of Rio de Janeiro, sits a beautiful little house by the amazing blue water,  with a flowering roof that protects and shades like a tropical banana leaf. The open-air abode designed by Mareines and Patalano is meant to encourage interaction and connection between man and nature. With verandas and open spaces in between rooms and no corridors, the tropical beach house is perfect for parties and social gatherings. The open layout also takes advantage of trade winds that blow in from the sea which provide natural ventilation and passive cooling.



Grand Palace

The king of Thailand has some pretty sweet digs, Located in Bangkok, Thailand this palace grounds span about 2.35 million square feet. These images portray the top of the throne hall (known as Phra Thinang Dusit Maha Prasat). The adornments are extremely complex and beautiful, but each one is chock full of symbolism pertaining to Thai history and Culture.

Sydney Opera House

The curvaceous shapes atop this opera house in Sydney, Australia makes this structure unique throughout the world, East of the “shells” are concrete panels covered by over a million Swedish tiles. 14 years of work and around 102 million Australian dollars were put in creating this majestic and very famous roof.



Marina Bay Sands

Opened in 2010, the SkyPark at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is truly a roof with a view. This rooftop oasis, complete with tree and flower garden paradise, stands over 650 feet in the air and is constructed from 7,000 tons of steel.