Incurring roof damage is frustrating, but determining the best next step after incurring roof damage can be a challenge of its own. As a homeowner, you may feel the tension between wanting to make the best, long-term decision for your family and waterproofing your home quickly — especially in Gainesville, FL. Frequent rainfall can pressure homeowners to act quickly, not taking into account all the benefits of a roof replacement. 

We laid out the pros and cons of getting a roof replacement, as opposed to a roof repair, to help you decide what’s best for your family in a timely manner.

When Should I Get a Roof Repair?

Whether or not you get a roof repair is largely dependent on the material of your roof and the size of the damage. Damaged, torn, or missing asphalt shingles, for example, often only require a simple repair. Other roofing materials, such as metal panels, may be more costly to replace. If you only need to fix a small section of your roof, a repair may suffice. 

It’s also important to consider the age of your roof. Most asphalt shingle roofs only last about 10 to 15 years — if your roof is newer, it might make sense to repair the damaged sections for now and consider full replacement down the line.

Pros of a Roof Repair

• Solution for Common Issues: A quality roof repair can effectively fix common issues such as missing shingles, water leaks, and discoloration.

• Quick Fix: Roof repairs often take less time to complete than roof replacements. If you have a newer roof with a small damaged area and are looking for a quick way to replace a few shingles, a roof repair may be best for you.

• Save Money in the Short Run: As of 2022, the national average for roof repairs was $950. This number is expected to increase with inflation, however, this is considerably lower than a full roof replacement, as less of the roof is worked on.

Cons of a Roof Repair

• Does Not Replace the Need for a New Roof: Repairing your roof helps maintain your roof’s current quality, but does not improve it beyond its original condition. When your roof ages, you will still need to replace it no matter what repairs have been made.

• Mismatched Shingles: Finding shingles that match your original roof is difficult, especially if you are working with an older roof. This mismatch can decrease your curb appeal.

When Should I Get a Roof Replacement?

Similarly, examining the type of roofing material your roof is composed of and the size of the damaged section are great first steps in determining whether or not you need a roof replacement. Additionally, if the type of damage is a sign of aging not tied to a specific weather event, it may be best to replace your roof. For example, if you or an inspector find unusual wear on ridge cap shingles, it’s time to get a roof replacement. This is when the shingles on a steep ridge crack before the balance of the roof.

Pros of a Roof Replacement

• Hurricane Protection: Florida is the most hurricane prone state. It’s important to ensure your roof is durable before, during, and after these strong storms to protect your home. McFall uses shingles that have a 130 mph wind warranty to better protect your home during storm season.

• Save Resources in the Long Run: Getting a roof replacement resets the clock on your roof’s life expectancy. Save yourself the money and time spent repeatedly reaching out to a roofing specialist for small repairs and consider a full roof replacement on older roofs.

• • Curb Appeal: Roof repairs aim to match your current level of curb appeal. Replacing your roof will improve it! Increase the resale value of your home with a sleek new roofing material and uniformly colored shingles.

• Energy Efficient: Is your current roof increasing or decreasing your energy bills? Contact a green home building contractor to find out. Replacing your roof with highly-reflective metal roofing panels or lightly-colored asphalt shingles can lower your monthly energy bills. Additionally, adding environmentally friendly ridge vents during a replacement can extend the life of your roof.

Call McFall for a High Quality Roof Replacement

McFall Roofing was built out of a need for quality roofing in Gainesville, Florida. We have over 20 years of experience serving North Central Florida as the premier roofing contractor. We put emphasis on great quality and attention to detail, offering 10-year warranties on labor. If your roof is in need of a quality replacement, call McFall to discuss your options.

Metal roofs have become increasingly popular in Gainesville and North Central Florida over the last 10-20 years. Many of the reasons cited for the trend include their durability, maintenance, energy efficiency, and value. It’s true that metal roofs last longer in Florida’s harsh climate compared to other roof types like asphalt shingle. However, are metal roofs always best? Read on to learn when it’s best to install a metal roof and when another roof type might be more appropriate.  

When Are Metal Roofs Best and When Is a Different Roof Type More Appropriate? 

The answer to this question depends on variables like budget, your home’s location, and the surrounding environment. 

When Are Metal Roofs Best?

Metal roofs are always best when they’re installed on a home with full sun exposure. One of the greatest characteristics of metal roofs is their energy efficiency. They have tremendous insulating properties and also direct much of the sun’s heat energy away from the home. With Florida’s long, hot summers, metal roofs help homeowners cut down on cooling costs. Therefore, homes that are in open fields away from trees are ideal candidates for metal roofs.

Florida is prone to strong winds from frequent inclement weather – especially near the coast. Homes that are located in areas prone to frequent high winds benefit from the strength that metal roofs provide. Unlike asphalt shingles and other commonly used materials, metal roofing can withstand strong winds and heavy rains. . They’re able to last 2-3 times longer than shingles, even in harsh environments. 

When Should You Avoid Installing a Metal Roof?

Many Florida homeowners are under the impression that metal roofs are always best. However, there are cases when the cost of a metal roof outweighs the benefits. Gainesville, FL is recognized as a Tree City every year by The Arbor Day Foundation. This is a great accolade for the city. However, a dense tree canopy minimizes the benefits of metal roofs for Gainesville homeowners.

If you live in a neighborhood with a dense tree concentration (e.g., every neighborhood in Gainesville), you’re not going to get the most out of a new metal roof. If your home is shaded, the felt benefits from the energy-efficient characteristics of metal roofs are negligible. Additionally, falling limbs and branches will cause dents and dings on the roof surface. 

Maintaining metal roofs in a tree-dense environment is also more challenging than asphalt shingles. For example, most new asphalt shingles contain anti-microbial properties and require less maintenance in shaded locations underneath trees. Metal roofs, on the other hand, require regular cleaning once or twice a year to maintain their appearance. They’re also prone to unsightly green and black stains when homes are underneath trees.

Lastly, if you choose exposed fastener metal roofing, you’ll need to change the screws out about every 10-15 years because the screws are prone to rust. Many homeowners choose exposed fastener over standing seam metal roofing because of its lower cost. However, even in these cases, spending more on a metal roof over an asphalt shingle roof wouldn’t be worth the extra cost. 

Since Metal Roofs Aren’t Always Best, McFall Can Help You Determine What’s Right for You

Working with McFall, a devoted local roofing contractor, ensures you receive the utmost  knowledge and expertise needed to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that last. 

McFall Roofing in Gainesville, FL knows that metal roofs aren’t always the best. Our experienced team can help you determine what type of roof is ideal for your home based on your budget and the surrounding environment. 

Contact us today to get started on your residential roofing project!

Planning a home addition is exciting! However, one goal with any home addition is to ensure the new space looks like it’s always been a part of the existing home. Even to the untrained eye, new materials tend to stand out next to old ones. The roof on a new addition is no exception. Read on to learn how to make sure your roof matches the existing roof when planning your home addition. 

What Factors Contribute to a Mismatch Between the Existing Roof and a New Addition? 

Before you can understand how to make sure your roof matches, you have to understand what causes a mismatch. The following factors contribute to the mismatch between the roof of an existing home and a new addition.

• Sunlight, wind, and rain
• Aging
• Changes in material availability

Sunlight, wind, and rain

Here in North Central Florida, we are well aware of the elements. Intense sunlight, heat, rain, and wind mark the climate in Gainesville, FL. These conditions lead to changes in your roof. Elements like sunlight break down the color of your roof because of ultraviolet (UV) rays. 

UV rays cause the color of roofs to fade – especially asphalt shingle roofs. Roofs end up being several shades lighter a few years after they’ve been installed. Frequent, heavy rain washes away roof granules, which also alters the color and texture of shingles.  

Aging

Like everything else, roofs age. As they age, shingles begin to curl, crack, and stain. Algae and overhanging trees stain the roofs and/or leave long dark streaks across the surface. Stains make roofs appear much older than they actually are. Many new roofing materials contain anti-algae properties but that’s not always the case for older shingles. 

We will discuss how properly cleaning the existing roof can help with matching the new roof in one of the upcoming sections. 

Changes in Material Availability

Depending on the age of your existing roof and the manufacturer of the roofing material, the roofing contractor might not be able to acquire the exact same material. Manufacturers periodically discontinue certain colors or product lines. Additionally, the same product lines can sometimes have slight differences in granules or other characteristics due to product improvements and advancements. 

How to Make Sure Your Roof Matches Following Your Home Addition

The following are a few practices your roofing contractor can implement to keep your new addition from sticking out like a sore thumb. 

• Matching the existing roof line, pitch angle, and eaves
• Locating the same manufacturer of the existing roof
• Cleaning the existing roof

Matching the Existing Roof Line, Pitch Angle, and Eaves

Additions are usually easy to spot because one or all of these components are often out of alignment. Ideally, you want the roof line of the new addition to match up perfectly with the existing one so it resembles one continuous plane. In many cases, the roof line of the addition isn’t tied in properly and is higher or lower than the rest of the roof, making it look like an afterthought. 

Another common issue with additions is a mismatched pitch angle. The pitch of the roof refers to the rise over the run. It’s the “steepness” of the roof. For example, if the existing roof has a 4/12 pitch, then the addition should also have a 4/12 pitch. 

When it comes to the eaves of the roof, you want to make sure the lengths of the eaves are the same. Roof eaves are the part of the roof that extends past the exterior walls. Like the roof line, you want the eaves of the addition’s roof to line up exactly with the existing ones. 

Locating the Same Manufacturer of the Existing Roof

The easiest way to try to match your roof shingles is to take a sample of your existing shingles to your contractor. The contractor will then attempt to match it with the supplier’s current inventory. If you’re able to find the exact roofing material, you may still have trouble matching the color if the roof is over 10 years old and faded. In that case, instead of trying to match the original color, you want to find a color of roof that’s lighter and has a similar tone to your current roof. 

Cleaning the Existing Roof

Last but not least, once you’ve done your best to follow the other steps, you want to clean your existing roof. Most roofs will clean up effectively with the proper cleaning techniques. Removing dark streaks and other stains will bring your older roof closer to its original appearance. This is one of the easiest ways to match your old roof with your new home addition! 

McFall Knows How to Make Sure Your Roof Matches

Making the roof of your new addition match perfectly with your existing home is nearly impossible. However, At McFall Residential Roofing, we specialize in roof installation and have over three decades of experience in both roofing and construction in Gainesville, FL. 

Working with McFall, a devoted local roofing contractor, ensures you receive the utmost  knowledge and expertise needed to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that last. 

If you’re looking to add on to your home, McFall Builders and McFall Roofing have you covered! We are 2 distinct brands that can take care of your new addition from the foundation to the roof. Two distinct brands, one commitment to quality.

 Contact us today to get started on your residential roofing project.

A roof is far more than just a “roof over your head.” Roofs are complex systems composed of a variety of parts – each serving a unique purpose. Furthermore, some of these parts have confusing names that you don’t hear outside of the roofing industry. It’s important to educate ourselves as homeowners so we know what to look for and ask when it’s time to repair or replace our roofs. Let’s delve into the question of what are the different parts of a roof called and explore their role and importance.

What Are the Parts of a Roof Called?

The following are the 9 primary parts of a common roof system.

1. Roof underlayment and decking
2. Common Roof Materials
3. Ridgeline
4. Hip and ridge cap shingles
5. Ridge vents
6. Gutters
7. Fascia
8. Drip-edge
9. Soffit

What Are the Different Parts of a Roof and What Do They Do?

1. Roof Underlayment and Decking

Roof underlayment refers to the material that is placed between the decking and the shingles. Typically, the material used is a type of synthetic material. It functions as a moisture barrier.

The decking is a key component of the roof system because it serves as a base and structural support for the shingles. It’s often composed of OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or plywood. During roof replacements, professional roofing contractors check the integrity of the decking and replace the underlayment to ensure they’re free of wood rot or warps.

Replacing damaged or worn decking is important before installing new shingles. Think of the underlayment as the foundation of the roof.

2. Common Roofing Materials

Shingles, metal, and concrete or clay tiles are used in both residential and commercial roofing. In every case, these materials compose the roof surface and are the primary barrier between your home’s interior and the elements. There are different types of these materials including the following.

Shingle

• 3-tab
• Architectural composition
• Luxury

Architectural composition shingles are the most widely-used roofing material in Gainesville, FL because of their affordability and appearance. Architectural shingles also come in a variety of colors and styles.

Metal

• Exposed fastener
• Standing seam

Exposed fastener and standing seam metal roofs are the most common types. They’re used frequently in commercial and residential applications. Metal roofs also come in a variety of colors.

Tile

• Concrete
• Clay

Plywood is often used as the decking for concrete and clay tile roofs. These types of roofs last for a long time when properly maintained.

3. Ridgeline

The apex of a roof is called the ridgeline. A ridgeline is where 2 opposing roof planes join together. It’s the top of the roof gable and where ridge cap shingles and/or ridge vents are installed. We talk about these parts in the following section.

4. Hip and Ridge Cap Shingles

The shingles installed on the ridge cap are unique from the rest of the roof. Hip shingles are designed to be used on a specific part of the roof called the hip. Roofs have multiple hips. These are areas where the sloping sides of a roof meet. The underlayment of each roof side meets at the hips and has a joint between them. Hip shingles are designed to overlap this area and provide an extra water barrier. They also bend to the shape of the roof in a way that is functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Ridge cap shingles are specialized asphalt shingles that are laid over the ridge of the roof. They’re thicker and bent to the shape of the roof’s ridge so they fit securely.

5. Ridge Vents

Ridge vents are installed on the peak of a roof. These vents allow the home’s attic to exhaust heat without compromising the roof’s waterproofing. Ridge cap shingles are usually laid over ridge cap vents to protect them. Again, these vents help regulate the temperature of the home’s attic space while keeping water, wind, and debris from entering.

6. Gutters

Everyone is familiar with gutters! Most new gutters are seamless, which means they aren’t installed in sections but are one, continuous piece that is cut-to-fit on site. Gutters are designed to move water away from your home’s foundation as it runs off the roof. Water from the gutters is expelled via downspouts. Keeping your gutters free of leaves and pine needles is important to protect your home. You can have gutter guards installed which minimize debris accumulation.

When gutters aren’t functioning properly, water falls around your foundation during heavy rains–causing erosion. This may damage your foundation over time.

7. Fascia

Fascia is the board behind gutters that connects a home’s roofing with its rafters. The fascia usually has a non-corrosive sheet metal like aluminum attached to it as a barrier. This barrier is known as fascia cover. This is what gutters are attached to when they’re installed. Besides protecting the wood, when gutters are absent, the fascia gives an attractive, “finished” look to the roof system.

8. Drip-Edge

Drip-edge is a type of metal flashing that roofers install along the sides of a roof line. Drip-edge is designed to move water away from the fascia and to protect the underlayment of the roof system. Drip-edge is essential to keep your roof decking and fascia from rotting – especially in a rainy climate like North Central Florida.

9. Soffit

Last but not least, soffit is a material used to cover the underside of your roof overhang. Multiple materials are used for soffit but it’s usually composed of vinyl or aluminum. The soffit is most visible from ground level and provides another source of ventilation for your attic. It allows your home to “breathe” while simultaneously preventing animals or insects from entering. You must ensure your soffit is securely in place. Otherwise, animals like birds, raccoons, and rats can get into your attic and wreak havoc.

The Importance of Maintaining and Repairing the Parts of a Roof

Maintaining your roof system and quickly repairing any damaged areas is crucial. Routine inspection and cleaning of these roof parts will maximize the life and effectiveness of your roof. When you need roof repairs, it’s important to call a certified roofing contractor like McFall. Here are a few issues to look out for when it comes to your roof parts:

• Clogged gutters
• Bent drip-edge or gutters
• Cracking or peeling shingles
• Higher-than-average electric bills
• Broken or misaligned downspouts
• Exposed or improperly secured soffit
• Loss of shingle granules/discoloration of roof material

If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to address them quickly and call a roofing professional.

McFall Will Take Care of All the Parts of Your Roof in Gainesville, FL

At McFall Residential Roofing, we specialize in roof installation and repair. The benefit of working with a local roofing contractor like McFall is that you get the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that last.

When it comes to knowing the ins and outs of the parts of your roof, McFall is your local industry expert here in Gainesville, FL!

When it comes to our homes, we all know some issues don’t need to be resolved right away. For example, if one of the light bulbs in your chandelier is out, you probably don’t need to drop everything you’re doing to replace it. However, when it comes to areas of your home like your roof or attic, some issues can be a high priority. When it comes to roof and attic emergencies, there are a few common signs. Certain emergencies require immediate attention. Read on to learn what they are and why they’re important to resolve in a timely manner.

Look for These Signs

This isn’t an exhaustive list of all the signs of a roof or attic emergency. However, the following are certainly the major ones.

• Water leaks
• Missing shingles
• Rotting wood
• Animal intrusions

Water Leaks

Water leaks are one of the most significant signs of roof or attic emergencies. In North Florida, we are prone to torrential downpours. There are times when we can receive as much as a few inches of rain in only an hour.

For this reason, any small puncture or tear in your roof can allow a significant amount of water to enter your home, damaging trusses and insulation in your attic, and the drywall and flooring in your home’s interior. Water not only damages materials but also causes mold growth.

Mold growth presents many challenges through secondary damages and its threat to human health — dealing quickly with a leaky roof is paramount in preventing these. You may notice mold growing in your attic following a roof leak before you’ll see it spread to the rest of your home. Anywhere you notice rotten/wet wood or insulation in your attic is a sign that you have a serious roof emergency. Be sure to call a roofing professional immediately. We’ll discuss rotting wood more in a moment.

Missing Shingles

Missing shingles are another sign of a roof emergency. Obviously, the purpose of shingles is to protect our homes from the elements. Due to events like thunderstorms which cause high winds, shingles can sometimes be ripped off the decking.

Older roofs are more prone to losing shingles during high wind events. When a shingle is missing, you may not notice the negative effects right away, but you will likely see your roof begin to leak because of our climate.

You must address this issue quickly and get your roof repaired. It’s not something you can put off for weeks or months. Leaving a missing shingle unchecked will undoubtedly lead to more damage. Again, the damage will start in the attic and then spread to other parts of your home.

Many attics are home to wiring, HVAC ductwork, insulation, and the structural support of the entire roof system. If this part of the home is compromised, it can not only lead to interior damage but can also threaten the structural integrity and strength of the entire home. Left unchecked, damaged roofs and attic systems can collapse.

Rotting Wood

Rotting wood is something that happens slowly. Common areas of rot on a roof system include the decking and the fascia board. Decking is the wood underneath the shingles and serves as the barrier between your shingles and the attic or trusses.

Another sign of roofing emergencies related to rotting wood is when the decking develops soft spots, or the fascia board begins to splinter and fall away. The roof’s structural integrity is compromised at this point, and these materials must be replaced. If homeowners wait too long, they’re likely to see leaks, roof collapses, or animal intrusion into their attic space.

Again, attic damage creates a new list of problems that affect the entire home. The attic serves as an added barrier between the elements and the inside of your home. Much of your home’s energy efficiency is dictated by the health of your attic. If you begin noticing a musty smell in your home but can’t determine a source in your home’s interior, a great place to check first is your attic. This is where you will see the first signs of water damage, mold, and wood rot as a result of a leaky roof.

Animal Intrusions

Another sign of a roof or attic emergency is an animal intrusion. If you’re seeing bats, birds, squirrels, rats, or raccoons in your attic, it means that your roof system is compromised. Although a roof system and attic aren’t air-tight (you want them to breathe), they should be sealed enough to prevent animals from getting in the space.

If there are holes in your roof or the fascia is lifting away, it will provide an opportunity for animals to seek shelter – especially during cool Florida winter nights or during frequent rain events. Although replacing or resecuring fascia is an easy fix, failing to leave this type of damage unchecked can create numerous and costly repairs down the road.

Animals like raccoons and rats are very destructive. They can eat or chew through insulation and electrical wires, and defecate on your attic’s building materials. Rats also build nests that are highly unsanitary. Making sure to repair or close up any open areas of your roof system is integral to preventing these animals from getting into your home.

Trust Mcfall Roofing for Your Roof and Attic Emergency in Gainesville, FL

At McFall Residential Roofing, we specialize in installing and repairing roofs in Gainesville, FL. We can repair all aspects of your roof system including the trusses and decking. The benefit of working with a local roofing contractor like McFall is that you receive the utmost knowledge and expertise needed to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that will last.

Contact us today to get started on your residential roofing project.

Metal roofing is an increasingly popular roofing material here in Gainesville, FL, and the surrounding area. As a result of its growing popularity over the last decade, there are now more colors and designs available than ever. Read on to learn why metal roofing has become more popular and what advantages it provides over other roofing materials.

How Many Different Types of Metal Roofs Exist and Why Are They Popular?

There are at least 7 different types of metal roofs that are made. Some roofs are made from aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, or zinc. The most popular metal roofs are composed of a steel and aluminum blend. Not only are there many types of metal roofing materials, but there are also a variety of colors, designs, shapes, and styles–each manufactured and installed slightly differently.

Metal roofs are popular here in Florida because of their durability. They can withstand high winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures. Many Floridians choose them over asphalt shingle roofs because they can last twice as long in our harsh climate and sustain less damage during hurricanes or other strong storm events.

Additionally, they add a more “modern” look to homes or businesses and are easier to maintain.
Lastly, they have many applications. For example, they work well both for residential and commercial structures. Historically, they’ve been used more frequently for commercial roofing projects but are still widely used for residential projects.

What Types of Metal Roofing Are Most Common in North Central Florida?

The two most common types of metal roofing here in North Central Florida are the following.

1. Standing Seam Metal Roofing
2. Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

1. Standing Seam Metal Roofing (SSMR)

SSMR is a common type of roofing here in Florida. It gets its name from what looks like raised or “standing” seams on its surface. When people picture or refer to metal roofing, they’re usually referring to SSMR. These seams are approximately 1-inch in height and are easily visible.

Although durable and easy to maintain, these roofs are generally more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs. However, their lifespan makes up for their cost. Even with little to no maintenance, SSMRs will not need to be replaced as often as shingle roofs.

2. Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing (EFMR)

Another type of metal roofing you could likely recognize is EFMR. This is a very popular type of metal roof because it’s cheaper than SSMR. However, one of the drawbacks compared to an SSMR is that it requires more maintenance. Since the screws or “fasteners” are exposed, they will need to be changed out about every 10-15 years.

Although different from SSMR, EFMR still packs a ton of durability. Using this type of metal roofing on your home depends on your budget.

Is a Metal Roof Ideal for Every Home?

The short answer is not necessarily. Metal roofs will best serve homeowners who live in open fields away from trees or other areas where there’s high sun exposure. One of the main benefits of metal roofs is increased energy efficiency. However, this benefit is nullified if your home is located in a well-shaded area. Also, trees will cause the metal roof to stain – requiring more frequent maintenance.

In this case, unless you’re wanting a metal roof simply for design or architectural purposes, the added cost of a metal roof versus an asphalt shingle roof may not make sense for you.

Mcfall’s Residential Metal Roofing Installation in Gainesville, FL

At McFall Residential Roofing, we specialize in installing metal roofs for your home. These roofs are ideal for the Gainesville, FL climate and are easiest to install and maintain. We can help you with any color or style of seam metal roofing.

The benefit of working with a local roofing contractor like McFall is that you get the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home. We will assess your specific situation and help you determine if a metal roof is best for your unique home. At McFall, we follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that will last.

Contact us today to get started on your residential roofing project.

Gainesville’s warm, humid climate makes many asphalt shingle roofs in our area prone to growing roof algae, a “junk drawer” term for a vast group of diverse photosynthetic organisms. They’re common in nature and we often see them thriving in warm, wet locations. Although they’re perfectly fine in their natural habitat, you don’t want algae growing on your home’s roof surface. Read on to learn how to get rid of roof algae and why it’s important.

What Is Roof Algae?

In North Central Florida, it’s common to see black or dark-colored algae stains on residential asphalt shingle roofs. They may appear as long or short streaks, making your roof look much older than its actual age. There are a number of factors contributing to the growth of this roof algae. In Gainesville, clogged gutters, clumps of pine needles, overhanging branches, or poor roof ventilation are often the culprit of roof algal build-up. Further, frequent rains, intense sunlight, and excessive humidity provide the perfect growing conditions for algae, which is spread via airborne spores.

Why Should I Get Rid of Roof Algae?

Roof algae affect roofs differently. Depending on the color of your roof, algae may have little or profound effects on its health. For example, darker-colored shingles will be less susceptible to damage caused by excess heating as a result of the algae. The following are the main reasons you should get rid of roof algae.

Enhance Your Roof Appearance and Lifespan

Thinking back to high school science class, darker-colored materials absorb more heat than lighter-colored ones, which is why you want to wear a white shirt on a hot day vs. a black one. When algae grow on lighter-colored shingles they cause the roof’s surface temperature to get hotter than it would in their absence.

Excess heat damages the roof’s granules and compromises the roof’s overall strength, shortening its effectiveness and lifespan. Maybe your roof is made of darker-colored shingles. In this case, appearance is more of a factor than damage since the roof is already less reflective because of its color.

Often, a roof can look like it’s damaged or much older than it actually is simply because it is dirty from algal growth. This can be important if you’re planning on selling or simply want to increase your home’s curb appeal.

Increase Your Home’s Energy-Efficiency

Again, a darker-colored roof surface is going to absorb more solar and infrared energy from the sun and the surrounding environment. As a result, it will increase your home’s cooling load during the summer months in Florida. Heating begins from the top down into your attic — forcing your home’s cooling unit to work double-time during especially hot, sunny days.

By getting rid of roof algae, you can save money on your energy bills and boost the overall appearance of your home!

How Do I Get Rid of Roof Algae?

In many cases, if you’re a DIYer, you can clean your home’s roof using a standard garden hose and a simple chlorine bleach water solution. All you have to do is apply the solution to your roof from the top down using a gentle spray. After letting the solution sit for about 20-30 minutes, you can gently rinse the roof with a low-pressure nozzle on your standard garden hose.

It’s important that you don’t use a high-pressure washer to rinse your asphalt shingle roof because it will damage the surface by removing the granules. Granules are an important part of the roof system because they give the shingles their water-repelling properties.

However, there are times when simply cleaning your roof is not possible. In this case, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor to replace your old roof system with a new one.

Consider McFall Roofing in Gainesville, FL For Roof Replacement

If your roof has aged and succumbed to wear and tear, it’s best to call a residential roofing professional like McFall Residential Roofing. The benefit of working with a local roofing contractor like McFall is that you get the knowledge and expertise you need to make the best decisions for your home. We follow industry best practices and use high-quality roofing materials to give our customers beautiful roofs that will last.

Contact us today to get started on your residential roof replacement.

Can you remember when there were fewer options for consumers than today? Technology, innovation, and opportunity drive change across every industry and commodity — roofing is no exception. Read on to learn how roofing has changed in the last decade and what the changes mean for homeowners.

How Roofing Has Changed

Roofing has changed significantly throughout the US in the last decade, and new roofing technology means it will continue to do do regularly. However, we’re going to focus on the most noteworthy changes that have occurred relative to North Central Florida. The most significant changes include the following.

Increased Asphalt Shingle Roof Options

Just like the beverage selection at the convenience store, homeowners now have an array of options when it comes to asphalt shingles. Not only are there hundreds of color and texture options, but there’s also a growing trend of “designer” roofs. Designer roofs transcend the normal consensus regarding roofs – that roofs are not beautiful and are only practical.

Now, roofs can add aesthetic value and curb appeal to homes. Not only do homebuyers want roofs that are newer and built-to-last, but they also desire roofs that are beautiful and add to the overall appearance of the home. This trend continues here in 2022.

More Insurance Scrutiny Regarding Roof Age

In North Central Florida, we see a new trend with insurance carriers regarding roof age. These changes result from rising insurance scams over the last decade, which have cost insurance companies millions of dollars in lawsuits and attorney fees. The added burden of replacement costs due to frequent hurricanes in the last few years is another driving force. We see insurance carriers cancel policies for homeowners whose roofs are only 15 years or older.

In some cases, insurance companies refuse to write homeowner’s policies for homebuyers purchasing a home with roofs 8-10 years of age or older. As a result of insurance carriers tightening their guidelines, homeowners sometimes must decide to purchase a new roof out-of-pocket or lose their insurance coverage. We expect this trend to continue.

Increased Use of Metal Roofing

There’s a growing trend in the usage of metal roofing. Metal roofing has not only become trendy, but it’s also extremely durable and resilient in the harsh Florida climate. Frequent hurricanes, heat, and humidity punish asphalt shingle roofs. Metal roofs, on the other hand, last much longer than asphalt shingle roofs and add great character to a home’s exterior. Growing demand has also led to more color options for metal roofs than before.

The McFall Difference

At McFall Roofing, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality work in Gainesville, Florida. Since our inception, our goal has been to fill a need for a reputable roofing company in Alachua county that uses premium materials and industry best practices. Although roofing has changed, McFall’s commitment to quality is unchanging. If you need residential roof repairs or installation, contact us or request an estimate today to get started on your roofing project!

Gutters may be the unsung heroes of your new roof for various reasons. And while they may seem inconsequential, if they are improperly cared for, they can cause more harm than good to your home.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to keep them working properly and protect your new roof installed by McFall Residential Roofing. Read on to learn more about what makes gutters so important for your roof and home.

Why Gutters Matter

The main purpose of gutters is to divert water that hits your roof away from your home. In North Central Florida, we see a large amount of rain, so it’s essential that your gutters are able to do their job. Without them, water runoff can hang around and absorb into your foundation, leading to water damage. They control this water runoff and prevent erosion.

How Gutters Threaten Your Roof

Having clogged gutters prevents them from working as they should. Dirty gutters are almost worse than having none at all because water backs up and can damage the fascia and allow your structure to rot.

Seepage

Water seepage occurs when water that gets stuck in your gutters leaks into gaps on the outside of your home. This water may begin to migrate from there into the roof, leading to ceiling leaks inside your home.

Mold Growth

Stagnant water is a fertile breeding ground for mold growth that can spread to your roof and through any vulnerable openings to the interior of your home’s surfaces. This causes damage to your home and your health.

Structural Damage

When gutters are inadequately cleared out, especially after heavy rain, the excess weight causes them to pull away from your soffits and fascia, which can lead to significant home damage.

How to Maintain Your Gutters

There are steps to take to keep your gutters in working condition so they can do their job properly for your roof.

• Clean them often to remove any leaves or yard debris that accumulates and clogs them.
• Secure them using gutter screws when they begin to sag or loosen.
• Regularly check for joint and seam leaks and apply silicone caulk as needed.
• Repair your downspouts as needed and ensure the joints fit correctly.
• Use splash blocks, an irrigation pipe, or an extension to divert downspouts away from the house.

Of course, the best way to maintain your roof is to rely on professionals!

Keep Your McFall Roof Safe With Clean, Functional Gutters

Gutters do an essential job of keeping your roof protected from harmful water runoff and erosion. But they have to be kept clean, or they can actually harm rather than help your roof. When you have a new roof from McFall Residential Roofing, protect it through our expert roof maintenance services. We perform thorough roof inspections and professional debris removal to fix minor issues early to avoid more extensive, costlier problems. Contact us today to enjoy the peace of mind that comes from trusting your roof to McFall.

Repairing vs. Replacing Your Roof

Spotting signs that your roof is not in great condition is easy — you may notice water spots on your interior walls and ceilings or loose shingles in your yard. Knowing whether your roof can be repaired or should be replaced entirely is a little bit harder. Read on to learn the benefits of repairing vs. replacing your roof and how to know when it may be time to say hello to a brand-new roof. 

When to Repair

Repair is an easy way to restore functionality to your roof while keeping in mind the following factors.

Money

One of the most obvious benefits of repairing aging or damaged roofs is the cost savings, as it is much cheaper to repair parts of your roof rather than the entire thing. In addition, if your roof only shows minor signs of wear or damage and is not near its expiration date, it is less expensive to repair it. 

However, if your roof needs continual repair over the course of a few years, you may spend more trying to keep the same roof than you would to get a new one. 

Convenience 

Repairing your existing roof adds life to it. Your roofing contractor will just repair the parts of your roof that need it. And replacing a few shingles or roofing sections is much easier than replacing, as your roofer will attempt to match your existing shingles rather than you having to worry about choosing a new color or style of material.  

When to Replace

Sometimes, your roof is in such poor shape that it only makes sense to replace it. There are a few factors to consider when thinking about why it may be smarter to get a new roof than to keep your existing one. 

Age

Depending on the material you chose for your roof, it can last around 10-15 years for flat or rolled roofing while typical shingle roofs should last 20-25 years. So, if your roof has been on your home for close to that period, it would make more sense to replace it. This helps you avoid sinking money into a repair and then having to pay for a new roof shortly after. 

Style

If your aesthetic style has changed since you had your roof put on and the roof no longer matches what you have done to update the exterior of your home, you can use this opportunity to get a new roof that better matches how you want your home to look. This may even be choosing a completely different material than you had before.  

Value

Replacing your home’s roof and investing in a new one not only adds to your home’s curb apparel but also increases its resale value. Buyers want to know they will have peace of mind in their potential home’s roof for years to come without having to worry about incurring the damage and headache associated with a deteriorating roof. 

Water Damage

If you notice the aforementioned water damage inside your home through visible water spots or mold, or if your home has just been through a significant storm, replacement is likely your best option. This is particularly true if there may be damage to areas of your roof that you don’t generally see.

McFall Will Help You Decide Which Is Better When It Comes to Repairing vs. Replacing Your Roof

When considering whether to repair or replace your roof, rely on experts who can give you knowledgeable, reliable guidance. At McFall Residential Roofing in Gainesville, FL, we will recommend the best course of action for your roof and complete the work with the utmost dedication to quality. Giving you peace of mind through a dependable roof is our passion. Reach out to us today for an estimate or to schedule an inspection and get back to enjoying life without worrying about your roof.