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Is It time for a new roof?

 

How often do you look at your roof? If you're like most people, you run in and out of the house, shuttle the kids back and forth, and glance up at the roof line only occasionally as you back out of the driveway.

But inspecting your roof regularly and making little fixes as needed can prevent some costly repairs down the road -- and keep those raindrops from falling on your head. There's another benefit, too: Keeping your roof in good condition will also be a big plus if you decide to sell your home.

 

So, what should you look for when inspecting your roof? The Professionals recommend home owners to do a roof inspection at least two times a year -- spring and fall. The best place to begin is inside your house -- grab a flash light and make a trip to the attic.

Here are four things to look for on the inside:

1) Places where the roof deck might be sagging

2) Signs of water damage or leaking

3) Dark spots and trails

4) Outside light showing through the roof.

 

Exterior check

When you take a look at the exterior of the roof, pay attention to such things as damaged flashing, missing shingles, curling, blistering, buckling, rotting and algae growth (which occurs most often in humid climates and appears as dark or greenish stains).

5) Visually inspect your roof for cracked, torn, bald or missing shingles.

6) Scan the roof for loose material or wear around chimneys, vents, pipes or other penetrations.

7) Watch out for an excessive amount of shingle granules (they look like large grains of sand) in the gutters -- this is a sign of advanced wear.

8) Check for signs of moisture, rot or mold. Note that wet spots may not be directly under your faulty shingle; water can travel down to its lowest spot before it drips. Mold, fungi and bacteria can grow quickly -- within 24 to 48 hours of a water-related problem.

9) Examine the drainage, and make sure gutters and down-spouts are securely attached. Also ensure all drains are open and allow water to exit, and all gutters and down-spouts are free of debris.

10) Check that all bath, kitchen and dryer vents go entirely outside of your home, not just into the attic space.

 

What is your roof made of?

determining when you need a new roof also depends on the roofing material as well as the part of the country in which you live. With that in mind, here are some tips on the following roofing materials:

•             Cedar: A cedar roof in need of repair or replacement will split and fall apart in dry climates. In moist climates, it will get mossy. The lifespan of a cedar roof is about 20 years.

•             Tile: "Look for broken or cracked tiles," Bennett says, "but don't walk on the roof to do so or the tiles will break. Tile roofs can last up to 100 years, but individual tiles can break. They can be replaced, but only by a specialist."

•             Concrete: should never need replacing

If you have a roof with wooden shakes, you should also watch out for damage from termites, carpenter ants and/or other wood-boring pests.

Check the simplest solutions first

If your roof has water damage, don't jump the gun and assume you need to start all over with a brand new roof.

If your roof was properly installed and is less than than 15 to 20 years old, it can often be repaired rather than replaced.

Contact Anthony with San mountain roofing 604-856-4481 to find out what they think needs to be done and to get an estimate.

 

Getting a new roof

If you do decide to go ahead and replace the whole roof, keep in mind the weather specific to your location and climate when choosing materials.

For example, wood and asphalt shingles aren't especially fire resistant -- and this could be a problem if you live near a lot of dry brush and trees. Slate, tile and metal are more expensive materials, but they are a worthwhile investment because of the extra protection they offer against fire.

If, on the other hand, snow loads are an issue where you live, you might want to consider a durable and lightweight standing-seam metal roof. These can typically cast off the snow before it becomes a problem.

But before setting your heart on slate or tile -- and we know they look really gorgeous -- realize that these are very heavy materials. Some house framing just isn't strong enough to support the extra weight of this sort of roofing.

 

Start now -- before you have no choice

Don't wait until water is unexpectedly pouring into your home by way of a leaky roof. Start protecting your home by using some simple observation skills. If you find problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you need to replace your roof. Many repairs can be made before a major rebuild is necessary.

If you do need a new roof, be aware that this isn't an average "do it yourself" type of project. It's tough work -- especially if you're taking off the old roof -- and can be dangerous, too.

 

Most people would agree that  "Having a roof over ones head" as one of life's essentials -- and there's a reason for that. It's not just a matter of practicality or aesthetics (though both of those play a part). Your roof is what keeps you and your family safe from the sun and snow, lightning and rain.

So be confident in the  knowledge that once your roof is in tip-top shape, it will stay that way for years to come.

 

Call Anthony Zandbergen with

San mountain roofing

604-856-4481

tell him Ronald sent you.

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With Fall and Winter soon on its way, I have been receiving question like "should I replace them or not, will I see a return or not" etc..   and so I have put together this quick and easy guide for upgrading your windows.

So Consider this:

If they’re doing their job properly, you should not notice the windows in your house at all, But if you are in the market for an upgrade, there are tons of options that can add value to your home and make a stylish statement.

 

Why replace your windows?
Windows play a huge role in the energy efficiency of your home, but that’s not all they do; if you’re planning on selling your house in the next year or two, new windows are a huge selling feature. They are actually one of the top five things buyers ask about the home, so the investment can and will add considerable value. New Windows also instantly create curb appeal and can make a dated exterior look fresh and modern.

The checklist

Here are some telltale signs that your windows need replacing. Inspect them regularly for the following:

  • Drafts
  • Condensation and fogging
  • Rot or mould
  • Cracked caulking


High vs. Low

When buying windows, look for:

  • High R-value – determines how well the window prevents heat loss.
  • Low emissivity – reflects the heat to the warm side of the glass.

 

  • Installation options

You have two choices for Window installation: retrofitting (inserting new windows into the existing casing) or brick-to-brick (stripping out the windows and frames and starting fresh). Retrofitting is less expensive, but brick-to-brick is the more energy-efficient option. And remember, if you’re installing a new window where one didn’t previously exist or enlarging an existing window opening, you have to get a building permit – no exceptions!

Types of windows

 

Casement
Swinging in and out like a door and operating with a crank, they offer a high level of ventilation and have a tight seal when closed. This is a great choice for hard-to-reach or awkward places because they’re easier to open.

Double-hung
One of the most common types of windows, they consist of two sashes that move up and down. They are great for ventilation and complement any style of home.

Picture
Large and fixed and usually flanked by two casements or double-hung windows, their big, dramatic shape allows for lots of natural light and unobstructed views. They can be pricey because of their size, and keep in mind that they offer no ventilation.

Bay
Made up of one large fixed window in the middle and a casement on either side, they project from an exterior wall and are a staple in many Victorian-Style homes. Take caution when installing – they’re large and heavy, meaning they need adequate structural support.

 

 

For further information or questions regarding windows upgrades contact

Anton VanDyk with Centra windows at

www.centrawindows.com

 

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While the Fraser valley Real Estate Market is getting stronger and with the guidence of professional Full Service Realtors, home owners recognize that they can not ask 2006 and 2007 prices anymore. September saw the largest year-over-year increase in property sales this year to date.

The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board processed 1,131 sales on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) in September, an increase of 32% compared to the 857 sales processed during the same month last year and 10% fewer than processed in August.

Ron Todson, President of the Board, explains, “It is good news however, it’s important to put the increase into context. Our home sales in September went from the worst in 10 years to just below our 10-year average.

“It can take a year or more for the market to recover from regulatory changes such as last year’s tightening of mortgage rules introduced by the federal government. Although we are seeing evidence of first-time home buyers returning to the market, we have to keep in mind that it is more challenging now for them to get financing, so although we’re witnessing a recovery to a balanced market it is gradual.”

Todson adds, “An improvement in our sales in the Fraser Valley has not translated to an increase in home prices because inventory levels have either kept pace or depending on the property type and community are elevated.

“Your REALTOR® can provide specifics for your area, for example there is 12 months of condo inventory right now in White Rock/South Surrey, 5 months of inventory for single family homes in North Delta and only 3 and a half months of townhouse inventory in Langley. Real estate is local so to understand your market, talk to an expert.”

In September, the benchmark price of single family detached homes in the Fraser Valley was $552,900, a 0.6% increase compared to $549,500 during the same month last year. For townhouses, the benchmark price was $296,200, a decrease of 1.4% compared to $300,500 in September 2012 and the benchmark price of apartments was $203,100, 1.9% less than in September 2012 when it was $207,000.

The Board received 2,375 new listings in September, a decrease of 7% compared to the 2,544 new listings received during the same month last year – leaving the volume of active properties at 9,875 a decrease of 5% compared to September 2012 and the lowest it’s been since March of this year.

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Welcome to the launch of my new site,

I am very excited about how site has turned out and am looking forward to all your comments.

I have tried my very best to make this site as simple and user friednly as possible.

If you have any question about buying or selling or need more info on any part of the real estate process.

I have the answers here at nowsold.ca for you.

Enjoy, and please feel free to leave me a comment if you would like to see any changes or improvements to make your experience with me or the site a better user one.


Best wishes.


Ronald 

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Reciprocity Logo The data relating to real estate on this website comes in part from the MLS® Reciprocity program of either the Greater Vancouver REALTORS® (GVR), the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) or the Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB). Real estate listings held by participating real estate firms are marked with the MLS® logo and detailed information about the listing includes the name of the listing agent. This representation is based in whole or part on data generated by either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB which assumes no responsibility for its accuracy. The materials contained on this page may not be reproduced without the express written consent of either the GVR, the FVREB or the CADREB.