Why Commercial Janitorial Services Are Essential to Your Business

Running a business is no walk in the park. Between client meetings, scheduling, and everyday responsibilities, sometimes cleanliness gets overlooked.

Janitorial Services

This is where Commercial Janitorial Services New Haven CT come in. While you may think their job is confined to mopping floors and emptying trash cans, they have much more to offer.

It’s no secret that productivity is a critical measure for businesses. Managers often make significant investments in training and technology to increase productivity. However, many overlook one of the simplest and most effective improvements: cleanliness. By partnering with commercial janitorial services, businesses can ensure their work areas are clean and organized to minimize distractions. This will allow employees to focus on their tasks and increase productivity.

Cluttered workstations, messy offices, and unorganized spaces can be distracting and overwhelming for employees. Professional janitorial services will remove any obstacles that may be hindering employee performance and productivity. This includes emptying trash, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, restocking supplies, and more. Clean environments have been shown to increase focus and concentration, allowing employees to complete their work more efficiently.

Janitorial services also help prevent the spread of germs and viruses in workplaces. This is accomplished by regularly sanitizing common areas, restrooms, and employee workstations. Cleaner workplaces mean fewer sick days, which ultimately leads to improved productivity.

A clean workspace can also boost employee morale. Studies have shown that 86 percent of employees place high value on a well-maintained workplace. In addition, a clean and organized workplace can create a positive first impression on clients, which can lead to more business opportunities.

Employee retention is another benefit of a professional janitorial service. Working in a dirty and unorganized environment can be frustrating and even stressful for employees, which can lead to burnout and turnover. By investing in a quality janitorial service, companies can keep their skilled workers happy and productive, which will save time and money on recruiting and training new hires.

In addition, a clean and organized workplace has been shown to improve employee health. In particular, poor indoor air quality can be a leading cause of respiratory problems and allergies. Effective janitorial services will include regular dusting and vacuuming, as well as air purification and ventilation. This can help to reduce the amount of allergens and pollutants in the workplace, which will lead to healthier employees and a more efficient workplace.

Reduced Absenteeism

Several studies have shown that employees are more productive and less likely to miss work when they’re working in a clean environment. That’s why it’s important to maintain a clean and healthy workplace by hiring commercial janitorial services. The more hygienic the business, the lower the risk of germs and allergens spreading among employees, which can lead to illnesses that impact productivity and morale. In addition, a cleaner work environment is a great way to demonstrate that management cares about employee wellbeing and wants them to be at their best on the job.

The best janitorial services use cutting-edge technology to ensure superior cleaning outcomes. For instance, they may use UV light disinfection and HEPA filtration vacuum systems to make sure that surfaces are free of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. In addition, they might employ advanced tracking and reporting systems that allow managers to monitor cleaning activities in real-time. This enables them to quickly respond to issues and optimize the cleaning process.

Janitorial and commercial cleaning are two different things, with the latter focused on larger maintenance tasks such as deep carpet cleaning, power washing, and high-level window cleaning. Because of their scope, these services tend to require a higher level of expertise and more specialized equipment than janitorial services do.

Additionally, while janitorial services focus on the day-to-day cleaning of workspaces, the scope of commercial cleaning can include any property that has a significant amount of onsite traffic, such as a shopping center, office building, hospital, hotel, or restaurant. It might also include any space that hosts public events or gatherings.

Both janitorial services and commercial cleaning can help businesses save money by keeping their property looking its best and maintaining functionality. By preventing stains, spills, and other wear and tear, they can avoid expensive repairs down the road.

Moreover, both janitorial services and commercial cleaning can boost a business’s reputation by leaving visitors, clients, or employees with a positive impression of the company. This is especially true if the business hires a professional janitorial service that uses cutting-edge technology to ensure superior cleaning results.

Increased Customer Satisfaction

Janitorial services are a crucial component of any commercial facility. They provide businesses with a spotless environment that decreases distractions, boosts productivity and promotes a positive first impression. They also ensure that all areas of the business are clean and sanitized, including restrooms, kitchens, breakrooms and other common areas. A trusted janitorial service provider can work closely with your company to develop a customized cleaning plan that meets your business’s unique needs, budget and timeline.

To maintain high standards, a janitorial service should follow strict cleaning guidelines that address health concerns like germs, dirt and dust. The service should also utilize advanced tools that reduce risks and offer exceptional cleaning results. This includes hospital-grade disinfectants that kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria, color-coded microfiber cloths that minimize cross-contamination, and HEPA backpack vacuums to trap 99% of airborne particles. Additionally, a reputable janitorial service should be reliable and responsive to customer requests. This can be achieved by offering flexible scheduling options and ensuring that all cleaning is completed during off-hours to avoid disruptions.

Providing regular reports to clients is another way to show that you are committed to client satisfaction. These can be in the form of email updates or even a client portal that allows customers to scan a code to see when their space was last cleaned. This allows you to keep in touch with your customers, and it shows that you care about their opinions and are always looking for ways to improve.

When you prioritize customer retention, you can build a thriving janitorial business that thrives on loyalty and referrals. Investing in training and providing a robust mobile-friendly customer portal helps improve communications and makes it easy for clients to submit requests, receive status updates and stay in touch with their janitorial team.

Other ways to show your appreciation for loyal clients include discounts and loyalty programs. Moreover, you can use the client feedback that you collect to identify areas for improvement and enhance your overall service. This can be done by soliciting feedback from your clients through surveys, phone calls or in-person meetings.

Increased Security

Janitorial services help to keep businesses safe by keeping surfaces clean, reducing allergens and pathogens, and promoting a healthy work environment. While this is an important function, a good commercial cleaning company should go beyond just sanitizing surfaces and sweeping floors.

Innovative custodial safety programs reduce accidents and lost workdays by prioritizing employee training, streamlining cleaning processes, and fostering a culture of safety. As a result, the overall number of injuries and illnesses are reduced, which creates a safer workplace for both janitorial staff and office employees alike.

Cleaning and sanitizing shared areas is crucial for commercial spaces, as they are hotspots for germs. High-traffic bathrooms, kitchens, and frequently touched objects such as door handles can spread colds, flu, and other serious illnesses if not properly cleaned and disinfected. Professional janitorial services follow strict protocols to clean and sanitize surfaces and rooms thoroughly, reducing the spread of disease in your workspace.

A quality commercial cleaning service will also have stringent hiring practices to ensure the security of your facility and your customers, visitors, or clients. They should conduct background checks and only hire people who are trustworthy and law-abiding. They will also implement internal protocols for assessing and reporting any potential risks to the customer or client.

Janitorial employees can be a big asset to your business security by helping to prevent theft, vandalism, and other crimes that may occur when the building is unattended. They will be able to report any suspicious activity to you and the police, minimizing risk and potentially saving your business from costly damage.

To ensure the security of your property, choose a janitorial service that offers a range of scheduling options. This includes day and night services, weekend service, and 24/7 emergency services. You should also consider whether the cleaning company will use their own cleaning equipment and supplies, or if they will require you to provide them. This will help to ensure that only janitorial employees are accessing your business during non-office hours. It is also a good idea to establish a protocol with your janitorial service provider about how they will gain entry to the property.

Essential Lawn Care Tips for a Lush, Green Yard

Lawn Care includes standard lawn maintenance services such as mowing and trimming. It also involves weed control and fertilizing to promote healthy turf grass and discourage pests.

Lawns need fungicide treatments to prevent and treat common lawn diseases such as brown patch and summer patch. Adding legumes such as white clover to a shade mix helps to maintain soil fertility by associating with bacteria that fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. Visit https://www.primecutlawnky.com/ to learn more.

Lawn Care

The lawn is a key part of many landscapes. It provides a vibrant backdrop for herbaceous borders, makes an ideal place to host summer picnics, and serves as a foraging ground for birds and other wildlife. It’s also an important source of oxygen and carbon dioxide, reducing air pollution and contributing to a healthy environment. But maintaining a lush lawn requires regular, comprehensive services that go beyond basic weekly mowing. These services include pest control, fertilization, weed control, soil testing, aeration and seeding and deep root feeding for trees and shrubs. These services are known as lawn care and differ from lawn maintenance, which generally addresses simple cosmetic needs.

A professional lawn care service will have a variety of tools to handle these comprehensive tasks. These tools include a mower for cutting grass, a trimmer for trimming hedges and bushes, a spreader for adding fertilizer, and a hose with a spray nozzle for watering gardens and flower beds. In addition, the service should have a van or truck for transporting equipment and a trailer to store extra equipment and supplies.

Some lawn care professionals will use organic treatments for weeds and pests, instead of toxic chemicals. This helps reduce the environmental impact of lawn care, and also promotes healthier soil that is more resistant to disease. Aside from the environmental benefits, an organic lawn care program will cost less than a traditional chemical treatment program.

Another way to cut down on mowing costs is to keep the lawn short. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper and shade out weeds. It will also make the lawn more drought-resistant. When mowing, it’s also important to mulch the clippings or shred them and use them as natural compost. This will help reduce the amount of grass that ends up in landfills.

If you’re looking for a lawn care service that can take the weight off your shoulders, look no further than Lawn Love. We’ll work with you to schedule recurring services, allowing you to stay on top of your lawn without the hassle. And we’ll provide you with an online portal to track your services and budget.

Fertilizing

Lawn care companies offer services that promote healthy turf growth and improve the appearance of your property. Mowing, fertilizing and weed control are some of these services. Landscapers also provide landscaping services that transform outdoor spaces through design, construction and planting. They plant trees, shrubs and gardens as well as install hardscape features such as decks, patios and stone walls.

Fertilizing is the practice of applying nutrients to the soil for grass and other plants. The nutrients are usually supplied by natural or synthetic sources and may include a variety of macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Micronutrients such as boron, copper, iron and zinc are also important to plant health.

The best way to maintain a healthy lawn is to fertilize it on a regular schedule, ideally every four weeks from spring to mid-autumn. When a lawn is fertilized regularly, it is less likely to be damaged by weeds or disease.

There are three primary nutrients that most grass needs: Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Grass requires these nutrients in order to grow thick and dense and be able to resist environmental pressures such as heat, drought, insects and diseases. Nitrogen is the most commonly depleted nutrient in turf because it is used so extensively by the plant for internal processing, including creating chlorophyll necessary for photosynthesis. Because it is water-soluble, nitrogen can easily be leached out of the soil by rain or irrigation water. Fertilizers with high nitrogen levels help maintain the levels needed for healthy turf.

The second nutrient most grasses need is phosphorous, which encourages root growth and aids in disease resistance. Phosphorus is also a water-soluble nutrient and like nitrogen can be lost from the soil. Fertilizers containing phosphorous are usually added in the fall to prepare grass for colder weather and stimulate root development.

A third nutrient often required by grass is potassium, which helps with disease resistance and encourages water uptake. Potassium is also a water-soluble nutrient but unlike the other two can be retained in the soil. Grass can receive these nutrients naturally from the soil as well as from organic matter such as manure and processed sewage, but it is much easier to obtain these nutrients from a fertilizer. There are many different types of fertilizers, from natural and slow-release to fast-acting and synthetic.

Weed Control

Weeds interfere with your grasses by competing for soil, water and sunlight. They can also inhibit the growth of desirable plants, as they steal nutrients from them and overtake their space. Weeds can be controlled with a variety of methods, including manual pulling, cultural control, herbicide treatment and the use of mulches.

Herbicides (weed killers) are pesticides designed to kill unwanted plants. These are available in many different forms, with the most common being a liquid spray. These are used to treat individual weeds or entire lawn areas. Weed killers work by killing the cells of the weeds, stopping their ability to grow. It is important to apply these chemicals according to the label instructions, as too much may damage desirable plants or run off into streams and creeks and cause environmental problems.

It’s also important to understand that not all weed killers are created equal. Some have features that make them difficult to kill, such as waxy leaves or hairs. Others can have complex root systems that require more than a single application. It is important to try to kill the weeds as early as possible, as once they mature, they will be more difficult and time consuming to remove.

There are also some weeds that will not be killed with any chemical treatment, as they have evolved mechanisms to overcome their natural enemies. These are called weedy resistant or invasive weeds and can be hard to get rid of, as they can compete with desirable species for the same resources.

A good pre-emergent herbicide can help eliminate these, as it prevents new weed seed from germinating by blocking the baby roots. This is a more environmentally friendly approach, but it is only effective for a few weeks, as the weeds will still sprout and grow.

Another option is to use a post-emergent herbicide, which kills existing weeds that are already mature. This type of herbicide is more expensive, but it will work longer than pre-emergents.

Finally, biological control is a method that can be effective for some weeds, especially when they are introduced, invasive species that have spread from their native range. This is achieved by introducing specific natural enemies of the weed, such as herbivores or pathogens. For example, purple loosestrife is a problematic invasive weed that has been successfully controlled in many parts of the US with the introduction of beetles and weevils that specialize in eating this plant.

Irrigation

A well-hydrated lawn is the cornerstone of a lush, healthy landscape. Rather than manually watering a garden or lawn with a watering can or hose, many homeowners and business owners turn to irrigation systems. These sprinklers are a great investment that allow for more control over when, how much and where water is distributed. These systems have been proven to reduce watering waste and to increase the health of a lawn through the proper distribution of nutrients and moisture.

When an irrigation system is installed, it is typically paired with an automated controller. A good controller will tell the sprinklers when to open and close, based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. The system can also be programmed to avoid buried pipes or other obstacles. Additionally, a rain sensor will notify the controller that the lawn does not need to be watered, preventing unnecessary water waste and potentially lowering your energy costs.

An effective sprinkler system can be the difference between a lush, green yard and one with brown spots or other signs of overwatering-induced diseases. Similarly, mowing at the correct height promotes deep roots and drought resistance and keeps the grass from losing water through evaporation.

Over time, a layer of organic material will build up on the top of your grass, called thatch. Although a small amount of thatch is inevitable, too much can hinder the health of your lawn. When thatch becomes too thick, it can prevent water and air from reaching the root systems. A power rake can help reduce thatch and promote the growth of a lush, beautiful lawn.

Proper lawn care requires a multi-faceted approach that includes mowing, aeration, fertilizing and weed control. A full-service lawn care company will have the resources and expertise to provide these services year-round and keep your landscape looking its best.

What Does a Plumber Do?

Plumber West Covina installs and repairs pipes, fixtures, and appliances. They read blueprints and building codes to determine the location of plumbing systems, and they use specialized tools to identify problems and make repairs.

Plumber

Low water pressure while showering or doing laundry is a telltale sign that there is a leak somewhere in your home. A professional should be called immediately to prevent further damage.

The plumbing industry requires a wide range of skills to ensure that water, gas, and waste are efficiently distributed throughout residential, commercial, and industrial structures. Plumbers work closely with construction teams and architects to integrate plumbing systems into building projects and ensure that all relevant safety standards are met. They also diagnose problems and provide recommendations for repairs to keep systems in good working order.

One of the most common plumbing issues is a clogged or damaged sewer line. When this happens, raw sewage may back up into homes, causing unpleasant odors and significant property damage. Fortunately, there are less invasive ways to inspect and repair the sewer system than digging up the entire pipe.

For example, a plumber can use a camera to spot leaks or cracks in the pipe. These waterproof cameras can travel through different size pipes to find the source of the problem. They can also pinpoint the exact location of the blockage so that the plumber can perform a targeted repair.

Another way that plumbers diagnose sewer issues is through hydrostatic testing. This method involves sealing off access points in the pipe and filling it with water that is then pressurized. If there are any cracks or leaks in the pipe, they will be identified by a drop in pressure that is detected by sensors.

When the plumber is ready to start on the repair work, they will first need to mark the area of the pipeline where they will be working. This will help prevent them from damaging any underground utility lines or other infrastructure. They will also need to let the homeowner know about any obstacles that may interfere with the work, such as sprinklers, electric dog fences, or outdoor furniture.

Once the plumber is clear on where they will be working, they can start by performing a smoke test of the sewer line. While this process may sound alarming, it is actually a very straightforward and efficient way to identify problems with the sewer line. A plumber can then use a camera to determine the severity of the issue and suggest the appropriate repairs.

Repair

The sewer lines that run from your home to the city line or septic tank require periodic maintenance to ensure they function properly. Plumbers can use a variety of tools to inspect these lines, including a camera and pressure gauges. When a problem is identified, the plumber can repair it quickly to prevent future issues.

Older homes and properties may have clay or cast iron sewage pipes, which can crack or collapse over time. A professional plumber can replace these pipes with newer, more durable materials that will last longer. In some cases, a plumber can perform trenchless replacement methods such as pipe lining or cured-in-place pipe (CIPP).

Sewer backups are a common plumbing problem, and they can be caused by many things. Grease, tree roots, food scraps, and soap scum can all clog the lines, leaving you with no way to use your sinks or toilets. A plumber can use a variety of tools to clear the blockage and restore the flow of waste.

A sewer line that has collapsed or is leaking can be very dangerous for your health and property. A professional plumber can use excavation techniques to locate the damaged area and dig a trench or remove the affected section of the pipe. They can then install a new line or repair the existing one.

Depending on the cause of the issue, a plumber may be able to fix it with a drain snake or hydro jetting equipment. A hydro jetting session involves running a high-pressure water jet through the line to break apart and flush away debris. This method is often used for stubborn clogs, such as those caused by grease or tree roots.

Because the plumber is responsible for ensuring the safety of customers, they must have excellent customer service skills. They must be able to answer questions clearly and concisely, explain complex issues in simple terms, and provide accurate estimates for services. They also need to be punctual and respectful of their customers’ property. While researching plumbers for a sewer line repair, look for ones with positive reviews and good customer service. You can also ask friends and family for recommendations.

Installation

Plumbing is the work of a skilled professional who installs, repairs and maintains the piping, fixtures and appliances that deliver water to and from household and commercial buildings. Plumbers often need to have good customer service skills as they work with people to discuss their needs, answer questions and provide estimates. Plumbers can also choose to become self-employed and run their own businesses after gaining experience in the industry.

Before starting any work, a professional plumber will always check to make sure they are not working with any underground utility lines or electrical wires. They will mark the location of pipes with spray-paint or other means before digging to avoid damaging them. They may also need to have a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for any sewer repair or replacement work.

Licensed residential plumbers are trained to perform new installations and repair or replace plumbing fixtures in a home, including toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, faucets and water heaters. In addition to this, they can work with more complex plumbing systems like those found in multi-level buildings, schools and malls.

Unlike residential plumbers, licensed commercial plumbers are usually employed by large businesses or government agencies to help with construction and maintenance of larger scale plumbing systems. They are often responsible for repairing or replacing large pipes, water heaters and sewage systems that serve multiple levels of a building or the entire city. These plumbers also need to have good customer service skills in order to communicate effectively with their supervisors and coworkers, as well as customers. They need to be able to explain complex plumbing issues clearly and concisely. Additionally, they must be able to handle the pressure of working on high-profile projects that could affect public health and safety.

Maintenance

Plumbers are responsible for the installation and repair of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that carry water, waste, gases, and hot liquids. They use a variety of tools and skills to complete their work, including reading blueprints and understanding building codes. They also must be able to troubleshoot problems and make adjustments to ensure the plumbing systems are functioning properly.

Depending on the area in which they work, plumbers can specialize in residential or commercial services. The former involves working on pipes and other infrastructure inside homes, while the latter deals with larger-scale plumbing in commercial and industrial buildings. Some also choose to focus on a particular aspect of plumbing, such as sewer repair.

The majority of plumbers find employment through an apprenticeship program, which offers a combination of classroom learning and hands-on training. The length of the apprenticeship varies, but most programs last four to five years. To be accepted into an apprenticeship, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and pass a background check and drug test. Once they’ve successfully completed their apprenticeship, they can become licensed plumbers.

A plumber’s job is often dirty and dangerous, and they must be comfortable working with a wide range of tools in tight spaces. They must also be able to deal with unpleasant and stressful situations, as they may encounter angry customers who are frustrated by their plumbing issues.

Another important part of a plumber’s job is educating clients on how to prevent future plumbing problems. This can include explaining the importance of maintaining proper water pressure, flushing drains regularly, and installing water-efficient appliances. It’s also helpful for plumbers to have good customer service skills, as they may need to interact with clients on a regular basis.

Many people consider a career as a plumber because they enjoy working with their hands and like the idea of helping others with their plumbing needs. However, it’s not a suitable career for everyone because of the physical demands and stressful situations that can arise on the job. To be successful as a plumber, you must have a strong desire to work with your hands and have a good understanding of hydraulic systems. It’s also important to stay up-to-date on new technology and plumbing systems, as well as keep up with current trends in the industry.

How to Properly Maintain and Repair Your Roof

The roof protects your home or building from moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew inside, rotting wood, higher heating and cooling bills, and lower resale value. Regular maintenance and periodic repair are the best ways to keep your roof healthy. Contact Columbus Roof Repair for professional help.

Roof

Start with an outside examination, looking for leaks, water stains, moss, sagging or discolored shingles. Then inspect the flashing around vent pipes, dormers and chimneys.

Shingles are constantly exposed to sunlight and weather, so it’s no surprise that they will degrade over time. Fortunately, shingles are fairly easy to replace when they become damaged.

Some signs of shingle damage include leaks in your ceiling, dark spots on the roof, and a musty odor. If you notice any of these signs, you should have your shingles inspected and repaired.

The first step in replacing a shingle is to remove any overlapping shingles from the row above the damaged one. This prevents you from damaging the underlying shingles when you pry up the old shingle. Using a flat pry bar, loosen the nails that hold the shingles in place. When you’re done, put the shingles aside and make sure to pick up any stray nails and debris from the work area.

Once you have the surrounding shingles removed, it’s time to begin the repair process. Begin by loosening the shingles and nail heads with your pry bar, starting with the shingle that’s immediately above the damaged shingle. Slide the pry bar under the shingle, and pull up at a 45-degree angle. Repeat this step on the shingles in the row above and below the damaged shingle. Once the shingles are loosened, you’ll be able to pull them up and discard them.

You’ll also want to inspect the shingles in the repair area for cracks and loose areas. If you find any, apply roofing cement to these areas to keep them secure.

After you’ve inspected the damaged shingles, you can begin replacing them. Start by placing a new shingle over the existing one, and nail it into place with roofing nails. Apply a dab of shingle cement underneath the tabs to help seal them to the roof.

After you’ve replaced the damaged shingles, you should re-caulk any gaps with caulking compound to prevent moisture from getting into your home. Also, re-caulk any ridge vents you have to ensure they are properly sealed and watertight. If your shingles are severely damaged or have reached the end of their lifespan, a complete roof replacement may be necessary. Contact Presidio Roofing to learn more about the different options available for your home.

Leaking Gutters

Gutters are the simplest part of your roof’s waterproofing system, but they play a crucial role. They collect roof water and direct it away from your house, preventing damage to the walls, foundation and landscaping. If you have leaking gutters, it’s important to find the source of the leak and fix it right away to prevent further, more expensive damage.

Leaking gutters often appear around the corner seams where each section of the gutter connects to the downpipe. This happens because the sealant between each piece of gutter has degraded over time, and it’s important to replace it before it’s too late. Ideally, you can use caulking or waterproof tape to make your repair.

Metal gutters can also leak at the corners, and this is usually caused by the expansion and contraction of metal as it responds to temperature changes. This can cause the corners to pull away from the fascia board, causing a gap where water can seep in.

Water leaking from gutters may also indicate that the water isn’t draining properly. This can lead to wood rot, which is very serious and may require costly repairs or replacements. It can also lead to water stains on the side of your home, and it can even cause soil erosion and hydrostatic pressure pushing against foundation walls.

One of the most common ways to prevent this is by using gutter aprons. These are L-shaped lengths of metal that attach to the edge of your roof under the shingles and angle down over the inner edge of the gutter, eliminating the gap between the wall and the gutter and channeling rainwater directly into it. They are available at most home improvement centers and cost less than $10 per section.

If you’re not comfortable making this type of repair, or if the leaking is due to a more serious problem with your gutters, it’s best to hire a professional to handle it. They’ll be able to check the entire gutter system and make any necessary repairs. They can also install new downpipes and gutter corners, and will ensure that they’re fastened securely to the fascia boards of your roof.

Debris on Your Roof

Debris on your roof isn’t just an unsightly mess, it can also cause major damage. Natural debris such as branches, leaves and pine needles can scrape or scratch the surface of shingles and cause other serious problems. In addition, these items can clog gutters and allow water to overflow onto siding, potentially damaging the wood. Leaving this debris on your roof can also conceal damaged areas and lead to bigger issues down the road, so it’s important to clean it regularly.

In addition to natural debris, man-made objects can also fly off and land on your roof. This includes everything from antennas, shutters and fencing to lawn chairs and bits of masonry. These items can be very damaging to the shingles and can punch holes in them, especially during high winds or serious weather events.

It’s essential to regularly trim nearby trees and clean your gutters to prevent these types of debris from landing on your roof. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, a professional roofing contractor can take care of it for you.

Light debris is typically easy to remove on your own, as long as you’re comfortable with being up on a ladder. Be sure to wear slip-resistant shoes and have someone else hold the ladder for safety. Heavy debris can be more difficult to clear off your roof and may require the use of specialized equipment.

If you have a leaky base flashing, your residential roofing contractor will need to remove shingles and the surrounding area around the affected section of the metal pipe collar to assess the extent of the problem. They will also need to remove cedar, Hardi-Plank or vinyl siding if it’s in place to access the flashing. This is a more involved process and can be expensive, but it’s necessary to get the leak fixed properly. Once the damaged shingles and flashing are removed, the roofing professional can perform the necessary repairs. For example, if the metal pipe collar has been bent or cut by the shingle, it will need to be straightened. The roofer will also inspect the metal flashing for any signs of rust or corrosion, and repair them as needed.

Weather

The Chicagoland area sees 23 days of severe weather on average every year, with gusty wind, rain and hail. Any of these can damage your roof. And if your roof is damaged, everything in your home is at risk.

The first thing to do is assess the damage to your roof, from the ground and from inside your house. Get up in the attic, crawl space or wherever you have access to look around. Look for dripping water, damp stains and pooled water on the ceiling, walls, floor or wood beams. Look also for signs of sagging or cracking.

Next, make sure you have the proper roofing repair tools, a ladder and any other supplies you need to do the job well. A good basic set includes a pry bar for removing and leveraging sheathing, flashing and shingles; shears for neatly cutting shingles; a cat’s paw nail puller (the preferred tool of most roofers); and caulking gun or putty knife to apply roofing cement to cracks and holes. If you find holes that are larger than a cat’s paw, or extreme physical damage to your roof that is beyond what you can reasonably do on your own, it’s time for a professional.