roof with snow
roof with snow

Icicles are beautiful as they hang from the roof of your home. Depending on the lighting, they can really add to the ambiance and aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, they’re not all they’re cracked up to be. Yes, they’re fun to look at, but they will cause a host of serious issues with your roof if you’re not careful.

Icicles Are a Sign of Ice Dams

Not all icicles mean you are dealing with ice dams and not all ice dams are connected to icicles, but it’s still something you should watch out for. For both ice dams and icicles to form, a few things need to happen. There needs to be snow on the roof, heat inside the attic to melt the snow, and cold enough weather to refreeze that melted snow once it hits the eaves of your home where there’s no insulation. Sometimes that water will freeze into an ice dam, and other times it will begin to drip off the roof to form an icicle.

Ice Dams Can Cause Serious Damage

Your home becomes susceptible to severe damage when you have ice dams on the roof. The weight of the ice could begin to pull the gutters away from the roof. This opens up gaps where moisture can seep down into the structure of your home. That moisture will cause paint to peel, insulation to get wet and eventually moldy, and dampness to permeate your home.

You Can Prevent Damage From Ice

Regardless of how much you do, you’re going to run into issues with your home. The good news is you can take some preventative measures to avoid ice damage to your roof and home:

  1. Have the roof installed correctly to begin with. Part of our asphalt shingle roofing system includes an underlayment with a leak barrier that prevents water buildup and ice dams.
  2. Take inventory of the insulation in your attic. When you add insulation to the floor of your attic, the warm air stays inside your home, rather than making its way into the attic to melt the snow on top.

Learn More About Your Roof

Keeping your roof in good condition is essential to the quality of your home. Contact Badger Contracting by calling 410-417-6972 or sending us an email to learn more about your roof and what can be done to protect it.

newly repaired roof

If your roof develops a leak, no matter how minor it may appear, it is crucial to have it repaired immediately. Even the smallest leaks can lead to bigger problems over time. Sometimes, what appears to be a small leak on the surface, may be causing severe problems that are not yet visible. When you put off repairing a leak of any kind, you are setting your home up for the following problems.


Mold and Mildew

When moisture does not dry out of a home properly and continues to form, mold and mildew become especially likely. If your or family members have allergies or respiratory illnesses, this could lead to severe symptoms.


Electrocution

Electricity can be lethal and water is its most dangerous conductor. If the water comes into contact with bad wiring, anyone who later comes into contact with that combination may suffer electrocution. This may range from a minor shock to a potentially fatal incident.


Structural Damage

If leaks remain unrepaired for too long, you risk structural damage. In fact, by the time you recognize you have a leak, structural damage may have already started. Water from a leak can cause the foundational pieces of your home to rot and rust, which can lead to a structurally unsound home.


Slip-and-Fall

Depending on the type of floors you have, water may present a slip risk in the home. Tile and hardwood floors may be especially likely to cause someone to slide when wet. If you have children or seniors in the home, the risk of serious injury from a fall may be higher than normal.


Insulation Damage

The attic insulation may not recover from the moisture if left for too long. In fact, the water may cause the insulation to clump. This will lead to reduced performance, which can cause your heating and cooling bills to skyrocket. Wet insulation may also become a breeding ground for mold and mildew.


Big Bills

The longer your roof goes unrepaired, the worse the problem becomes and the more damage it causes. The worse the issue, the more expensive the repair. Your insurance company may also refuse to foot the bill if it is discovered that you allowed the problem to persist.


Your home is one of the most important investments you will ever make. Secure that investment by ensuring you keep a leak-free roof over your head. Contact Badger Contracting for a quote today.

snow on residential roof
snow on residential roof

There is only so much you can do to prepare your roof for winter, but when the colder temperatures hit, you might realize you didn’t do quite enough. While this could make you nervous because the snow has fallen and the city is freezing, we have some solutions. Maintaining your roof during the winter months isn’t as hard as it may seem.


Keep the Roof Clean

You should never climb up on the roof on your own, but if it seems the roof won’t hold the amount of snow it currently has, you should contact the professionals to help you get it cleaned off. You can work with our roofing contractors to discuss solutions, which might involve a roof renovation in the future if your roof isn’t built to hold the amount of snow you typically get.


Bolster the Insulation

The more insulation you have inside the attic, the warmer the roof will be. While it won’t necessarily stay warm during winter, bolstering your insulation could aid in keeping the snow melted and sliding off as it should. Adding insulation to the attic is something you can have done during winter, as it doesn’t require climbing up on the slippery, wet roof.


Stay Current on Repairs

If you notice there are leaks coming from the roof, you will need to get it repaired in a timely manner. Too many homeowners wait until spring, but our professionals have the tools and safety equipment to ensure the repairs get done, even in bad weather. If you wait too long, the damage will become worse, leaving you with more extensive and expensive repairs.


Getting Started

As you can see, all is not lost if the cold temperatures have already rolled in and the snow has started to fall. If you have issues with your roof this winter, contact Badger Contracting today by calling 410-417-6972 or sending us an email to find out how we can help.

light snow on a roof in the winter
light snow on a roof in the winter

With winter right around the corner, you’re probably already taking steps to prepare your home for the cold temperatures and heavy snows. Have you made time to take a look at your roof? You don’t want to wait until the first storm hits to realize you have a problem. It’s better to prepare your roof for winter ahead of time so you can relax inside the warmth of your home while the winter passes.


Clean Your Gutters

After windstorms and leaves falling, your gutters are going to be full of debris. Perhaps you’ve already noticed a problem when it rained and your gutters didn’t drain properly. Your gutters should be clean so when the ice on the roof begins to melt, it will have somewhere to go. You may also want to install a gutter protector to avoid future clogs and prevent more debris from collecting inside it.


Prevent Pest Infestations

When those cold temperatures hit, there are going to be a lot of pests looking for a warm place to hunker down for the winter. You don’t want your roof to become the access point at which they enter your home. Check the roof for damage such as holes and cracks that might allow the wildlife to get in. If your roof received damage from a storm, or just from regular wear and tear, keep the pests out by hiring professionals to preform necessary repairs.


Seal the Gaps

Typically, around your flashing, you’re going to find cracks and gaps. If these areas are not sealed properly, your home will be susceptible to leaks. If more serious damage is found while sealing the flashing, you’ll probably want to replace the flashing all together.


Getting your home ready for winter can be a long process, but it’s worth protecting such a huge investment. Contact Badger Contracting today by calling 410-417-6972 or sending us an email to schedule service for your roof.

Close up of an asphalt shingle roof
Close up of an asphalt shingle roof

Is it Time to Consider a Replacement?

The average residential roof lasts about 30 years, making it easy to push a roof replacement to the back of your mind. Unfortunately, you cannot forget about it altogether, at some point, it will need to be replaced. If it’s been a while since you have inspected your roof, take some time to do so before the cold weather hits. If your roof is experiencing any of the following, it may be time to consider a replacement.  


1. Damaged Shingles

There are a lot of ways shingles can get damaged, including weather, temperature, foliage, and more. When you look at your shingles, they should be lying flat against the roof. Shingles that have curled, buckled, cracked, or are missing altogether, could indicate serious problems ahead. You can also look around the perimeter of your home to check for loose granules that have fallen. Any of these issues with your shingles could mean a replacement is in the near future.


2. Attic Issues

There are a few signs to look for in the attic that can point to serious roof damage. Streaks or stains most likely indicate the past or current presence of a leak. Roof leaks can lead to serious damage and should be addressed immediately. While you’re inspecting the attic, keep an eye out for rays of light. This light means your roof is lacking proper coverage, leaving it vulnerable to the elements.


3. Old Age

You might maintain the most perfect and pristine roof, but like most things, it cannot last forever. Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your roof, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. If you are unsure of your roof’s age, ask your contractor. We can help you locate the records that reveal when the roof was installed. If it was installed 25 to 30 years ago, a replacement might be in your best interest.


Getting Started

Maintaining your home is essential to good health and comfort. When your roof shows signs of wear and tear or old age, it’s time you contact Badger Contracting to discuss a roof replacement. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today for more information!


If your roof is not installed properly, you can end up paying way more in resulting damage than the roof installation itself. Improper installation will likely lead to leaks. Water from a roof leak can do significant damage to your home’s interior, as well as the overall structural integrity of your home. For reasons such as this, it is important to properly vet the contractor working on your roof.


Flexible Payment

A contractor may present a thousand plausible reasons for why he or she needs payment upfront. However, good contractors do not ask customers to assume all the risk by paying in full, upfront. Instead, work with a contractor who provides a good estimate and knows how to work with your insurance company or lender. Note that asking for money upfront and then disappearing is a common form of fraud.


General Liability Insurance Certificate

Speaking of insurance, your contractor should have a certificate showing proof of liability coverage. Some contractors may try to convince you they do not need insurance because they are “self-insured.” This is sometimes legal, but it puts you at risk. Should something go wrong, the company becomes personally liable and may try to get out of paying you.


Good Reviews and References

Few contractors are going to start the working relationship by telling you what customers disliked about their services. Do the research yourself by checking the reviews online. Googling the business is an easy starting point. You should also ask for a list of references. A contractor that is confident that they are providing good quality work will be more than happy to provide this list.  

Badger Contracting brings these and many other qualities to the table. We are dedicated to providing unparalleled craftsmanship on every project. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today to find out more.

You have a comfortable home with a roof over your head, but do you ever stop to think about the condition of that roof? Regular maintenance and repairs are an important part of ensuring you have a roof when you need one most. The following are four things you can do to care for your roof this summer.


1. Conduct Regular Inspections

It may be obvious you have a problem when water starts pouring through your ceiling, but wouldn’t it be nice to fix the problem before that happens? You can avoid those bigger issues by conducting regular inspections. First, stand outside your home and look up at the roof to see if there are any obvious issues you can see from the ground. Next, climb a ladder to get right up close so you can check for loose or cracked shingles, torn roofing materials, damaged gutters or other types of damages. If getting on a ladder doesn’t seem safe, or isn’t something you’re comfortable with, contact the professionals.


2. Repair the Damages

If you’ve noticed your roof has damage, be sure to get it repaired as soon as possible. Leaving small problems for any amount of time is only going to encourage the problem to get bigger. Repairing your roofing issues in a timely manner could also save you money.


3. Waterproof the Roofing

With humid summers and wet winters, your roof is likely to get hit with moisture on a regular basis. Waterproofing your roof can protect it from moisture, keeping it looking nicer and lasting longer.  It will also prevent damage to the interior structure of your home.


4. Replace the Roof

If your roof is 20 years old or more, there’s a chance you’ll want to improve or replace it. Summer is a great time to get that done, as the weather is a little more welcoming for your roofer. If you’d like to update the look of your house, consider a new style or color of roofing materials.


Contact the Professionals

Summer is the perfect time to take care of your roof. For more ideas on how to get it done, or to speak with a professional roofer, contact Badger Contracting by calling 410-417-6972 or emailing us today.

Roof damage due to storm or decay

Your roof is capable of withstanding a lot of wear and tear, so it can be difficult to know when it’s time for a repair service. Prevent a major roof issue with quality repair services in your local area. The following are a few things to watch out for that may signal the need for an emergency roof repair.


Water Leaks

If you notice any water damage or leaking water on the ceiling in your home, there’s usually already a significant leak. Water damage on your ceiling means that water has entered your roofline and ran through all your insulation. Immediately contact a professional roofing team to find the source of the leak and prevent it from causing even more damage to your insulation and drywall.


Cracked or Missing Shingles

Asphalt shingles can become damaged by UV rays, ice, and other issues. Older shingles may start to crack, cup, curl, or completely fall off. A missing shingle will cause a significant amount of water to enter your home during the next storm, so it is vital that you seek a prompt repair.


Sagging Roofline

Take a minute to look at your roof from the ground. Are there any points that seem to be sagging or bowing? A warped roof is usually caused by improper installation of sheathing or severe water damage. Damage to this structure could, over time, lead to a more significant issue.


Contact Badger Contracting Today

Receive emergency repairs at great prices with the team at Badger Contracting. Contact us today to request a quote and find out how you can enjoy quick, efficient repairs. If you don’t see any of these issues, consider an inspection to determine the state of your roof and see if there are any preventative maintenance steps that we can take. A minor repair may reduce the cost of your next major roof project. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today for more information!

When it comes to roof health and potential repairs, people tend to consider two things. Are there any missing shingles and do they spot any leaks? However, roof decking also plays an important part in keeping your roof functioning and protecting your home. Roof decking keeps the interior of your home dry, while also improving soundproofing. 

Roof decking refers to pieces of plywood that sit beneath the visible roof. Unfortunately, this invisibility often creates an out-of-sight-out-of-mind effect. So, how do you know if there is a problem with your decking?


Signs Your Decking Needs Replacing

The good news is that roof decking lasts for a long time. While it acts as a foundation for the shingles, the singles also protect that wood. The limited exposure to the elements works in its favor. Even so, when the shingles suffer damage, the decking then becomes exposed and leads to the following red flags:

  • Spikes in your heating or cooling bill
  • Leaking in the attic or other top-floor spaces
  • Mildew or mold in the attic and other top-floor spaces
  • Stains along the walls or in the ceiling
  • Visible damage around the chimneys or flashing
  • Small or gaping holes in the roof

Replacement of Decking When Changing Shingles

Professionals recommend inspecting roofs twice a year, right before the winter and right after. Homeowners who do this can spot issues early enough to repair them before the decking suffers damage. Because of this, replacing the shingles does not always mean the decking needs replacing too. Good contractors test the strength of the decking to ensure all is well before laying down shingles, so if you need to replace it, you get told upfront.

The good news is that there are many easy ways to prolong the life of your roof decking. Always replace damaged or missing shingles as soon as possible. Next, ensure your gutters are kept clean to prevent water from sitting on the roof. For inspections and other roof maintenance needs, contact Badger Contracting by calling 410-417-6972 or emailing us today!

Your siding and roof are the key exterior features that protect your home from the elements. Knowing what signs indicate a need for siding replacement can be crucial. Don’t wait until it becomes compromised and allows moisture or other issues to damage the interior of your home. Contact a professional contractor if you experience any of the following signs.


Extensive Holes and Chipping

Small holes in siding can be patched or repaired, but significant damage to the structure of your siding means it’s time for a replacement. This can happen to most siding materials, including vinyl, aluminum, and wood. Replacing the siding altogether is typically more cost-effective than patching several holes.


Frequent Cracking and Peeling Paint

How often are you painting your siding? Other than wood siding, which should be painted every 10 years, paint jobs should not be needed frequently. If your paint begins to peel and crack after a few years, it may be a sign that there is an issue with your siding and it needs to be replaced. Talk to your contractor about the type of paint used, this will help determine whether the paint or the siding is the source of the issue.


Rot, Mold, or Mildew

While dry rot may only eat away at wood siding, problems like mold and mildew can affect any and all types of siding. These issues could also be pointing to moisture issues behind your siding. Some surface mildew can be cleaned, but rot, mold, or extensive mildew issues require your siding to be removed and replaced.


Enjoy Quality Siding Services for Your Home

Don’t let compromised siding allow moisture and insects to eat away at your sheathing, framing, and other interior materials. Contact Badger Contracting today to learn how you can restore your home and enjoy long-term savings. Invest in siding replacement to enjoy years of minimal to no maintenance and a home exterior that keeps you protected. Call 410-417-6972 or email us today for more information.