Author: Edie Tucker

Balloon Decoration Ideas

Edie Tucker Balloon Company , , , , ,

Balloons are a classic decoration for birthday parties, but they’re also perfect for baby and bridal showers and themed events. These inspired designs and crafts use different styles, sizes, and colors to create beautiful decorations that will impress your guests.

Balloon Decoration

A well-designed balloon display will set the tone for a party before anyone even arrives. A reputable professional has the experience, knowledge, and tools to make your event memorable. Reach out to Bat Mitzvah Party for expert assistance.

Balloon garlands are one of the most versatile party decoration ideas and are perfect for any event. They can be used to add a pop of color to a dessert table, or they can be hung along a staircase to create a stunning backdrop. Balloon garland is easy to make and can be adjusted to fit any theme or ambiance.

A balloon garland is made up of a series of linked balloons that can be shaped to create any desired shape. They are a great way to add height and dimension to a room, and they can also be woven in with other decorations such as flowers or foliage to enhance the visual appeal.

Creating a balloon garland is fairly simple and requires only a few materials. To start, you will need a large selection of balloons in a variety of colors and sizes. You will also need a supply of adhesive strips or command hooks to hang your garland. It is recommended that you use an electric balloon pump to blow up your balloons in advance, as this will save time and effort. Having a variety of balloon sizes is important, as it creates a more dynamic and eye-catching design. Once you have all of your balloons inflated, you will need to attach them to the adhesive strip or string in your chosen pattern. It is recommended that you space the balloons evenly and begin with the largest ones first, followed by smaller ones as you work your way down the line. Finally, you will need to add in filler balloons as needed to create a balanced and cohesive appearance.

Once your garland is complete, you can secure it in place by attaching it to the hooks or using additional strips of adhesive. It is recommended that you test your garland to ensure it is sturdy before the day of your event. Depending on the weather conditions and the size of your garland, it may be necessary to adjust it as needed. A garland can last for hours to a few days, depending on the type of balloons and the environment in which it is displayed.

Bouquet

Bouquets are a common element of balloon decoration, used as centerpieces or as backdrop elements for events. They can be shaped into various shapes, and are normally tied together with a ribbon or other decorative material. They are commonly used for birthday parties, weddings, and other celebratory occasions. They can also be used as a decorative item in homes and offices.

Balloon bouquets are a popular choice for party decor because they are inexpensive and easy to make. They can be crafted with any number of balloons in different colors and sizes, making them versatile for any occasion. They can also be shaped into various designs, such as flowers or animals. Some decorators even use them to make a centerpiece for a wedding or baby shower, or to decorate a venue.

Some balloon decorations can be quite complex, but they require a certain amount of skill and creativity to create. They can be made into a variety of shapes and designs, such as arches, columns, and even sculptures. Some even incorporate other items, such as lights or furniture. The word “bouquet” can also refer to the smell of these decorations, which can be quite pleasant.

There are many ways to make a bouquet, but the most important thing is that it is well-arranged and attractive. This will help the guests enjoy the event, and it will also impress them. Using the right balloons and materials can also help with this. It is also essential to keep the bouquet away from sunlight and heat, as these can deflate the balloons and cause them to oxidize.

The most common balloon decorations are archways and columns, which can be created in a variety of styles. Some of these are symmetrical and neat, while others are more organic. Some decorators even specialize in only organic balloons, which are inflated to random sizes and are arranged in an unstructured way.

Another great option for creating an elegant balloon décor is the spiral column. These can be crafted in a variety of colors, and they can be matched to any theme or brand. They are perfect for adding a touch of drama to any event. In addition, they can be used as a backdrop for a photo booth.

Centerpiece

Centrepieces are a major part of table decoration. They are used at wedding receptions, birthday parties and other events. They can be made from flowers, or from other material such as balloons. They are a great way to set the tone for the event and create a focal point for guests to take photos. They are also popular for holiday times like Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. They are often very tall and can span the entire length of a table.

There are many types of centerpieces that can be made from balloons, and they can be arranged in different styles. Some are created from a single large balloon, while others are composed of smaller balloons. They can be decorated with ribbons, tassels, flower buds or other accessories to add color and texture. They can also be shaped into animals or characters, such as Mickey Mouse, Spiderman or a Princess. Using a combination of clear and patterned balloons can be very effective in creating an eye-catching centerpiece.

One of the most common ways to use balloons is to make a garland or arch. This is an easy-to-create and visually appealing decoration that can be used at weddings, birthday parties, graduation parties, or other special events. The balloons are typically grouped together in clusters or quads and linked with other shapes such as organic, topiaries and Roman columns. They can also be topped with a specialty topper such as an ornament or figurine.

Balloon columns are another popular decoration option. They can be arranged in a variety of shapes, and they are available in both latex and foil. They can be customized to match the theme of an event, and they are great for adding height to a room or space. They can be stacked or anchored, and they are suitable for indoor and outdoor venues.

Another type of balloon decoration is a balloon sculpture, which is an artwork created from a collection of balloons. These can be done by either a professional balloon modeller or a balloon decorator. Some people choose to combine these two arts to create a more elaborate design. They are referred to as Deco-twisters. They are a fun and entertaining way to decorate for an event, and they can also be a great source of revenue for a business.

Columns

When it comes to creating a show-stopping balloon display, columns are an incredible choice. They’re a cost-effective option that can transform any space with bright, eye-catching color and visual excitement. These versatile decorations can be arranged to frame entrances, create an unforgettable backdrop for a corporate event, or showcase brand messaging at a tradeshow.

The type of column you choose will depend on the setting, budget, and event duration. For example, outdoor columns may require more durable materials and secure anchoring to withstand weather conditions like wind and rain. Additionally, events that last longer than a few hours may need to consider how quickly the columns can be assembled and moved into place.

To create a balloon column, start by choosing the style you’d like to use and gathering your supplies. You’ll need a balloon pump, a plastic base like a PVC pipe, and fasteners like cable ties or nylon threads to attach the balloons to the base. You can also embellish your columns with ribbons, lights, or other decorative elements to add a finishing touch.

There are many different styles of balloon columns to choose from. Choose from classic spiral designs, packed or organic styles, and even unique toppers that add a touch of glamour to your display. Foil and Mylar toppers come in a variety of shapes from stars to hearts to numbers, making them a popular option for themed events or milestone celebrations like anniversaries or birthdays.

Other options include the use of specialty techniques or a combination of colors to form a unique design. For instance, colored-stacked columns offer a block-like structure of hues that can be customized to match specific themes or branding. You can also incorporate a gumball topper, which hosts a large balloon with several additional smaller ones inside of it, or choose to incorporate lighting for an even more stunning effect.

Understanding The Life Cycles Of Common Pests For Better Control

Edie Tucker Pest Control , , , ,

Pests can cause serious damage to your property if they are left untreated. This is why it’s important to understand their life cycle so that you can use Armis Pest Management methods at the right time.

A pest’s life cycle consists of several stages that vary in length. Understanding these stages helps you to prevent pest infestations by targeting them at the most vulnerable stage of development.

pest control

Egg Stage

The life cycle of an insect is divided into four distinct stages – egg, larva or nymph, pupa, and adult. Pests that have a complete life cycle include beetles, moths, caterpillars, and leaf-feeding beetles (caterpillars). Those with an incomplete life cycle can cause damage at more than one stage. For example, ants can damage plants in the egg, larva, and adult stages.

Many pest species lay eggs in damp soil or other substrates. The eggs then hatch into a larva or nymph, which feeds on organic material until it matures. The larva or nymph then goes through several molting stages and transforms into a pupa before it becomes an adult. Depending on the type of pest, the egg and larval stages can have significant negative impacts on crops.

In some cases, pests can be controlled by targeting specific life cycles. For example, mosquitoes require standing water for breeding, so interrupting this phase with proper preventative measures can help control their numbers. Flies also have an aquatic phase, and disrupting their reproduction can significantly reduce their impact on humans, animals, and gardens.

Flies’ mating behavior involves males displaying elaborate courtship displays to attract females using scent, sound, and visual cues. They can lay up to 500 eggs in a single day and select locations near decaying organic matter where they will lay their eggs. Once hatched, fly larvae are voracious feeders and play an important role in breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients.

When beetles and moths lay their eggs in or on a plant, the young larvae burrow into the soil, feeding on roots and tubers, leaves, flowers, and fruits. This damages the plant and can result in stunting or death. The length of the larval or nymphal stage can vary from less than 30 days to one or more years for different kinds of beetles.

Bean leaf beetles and hornworms also have a damaging larval or nymphal stage, and both the beetles and their nymphs can damage fruit. As the name suggests, these insects attack beans and legumes, but they can girdle tomato and pepper plants as well.

Larval Stage

Once a pest species’ eggs hatch, it enters the larval stage. The larva is a specialized feeding stage that doesn’t look very much like the adult pest and has unique characteristics and behaviors of its own. Larvae consume food to grow and develop, shed their skin several times (this is called molting), and may even be able to suck liquids out of plants that they are eating.

The frog hopper is a good example of a larva that can suck out the liquid of its prey. Its larval mouthparts are specially adapted for this purpose. It also allows the hopper to move rapidly in search of new food, which can lead to higher encounter rates and feeding success.

After the larva reaches maturity, it becomes a pupa. The pupal stage is a non-feeding and immobile stage of the life cycle. It’s during the pupal stage that many pests become most vulnerable to preventative and control measures.

It is important to understand the importance of this life-cycle stage when planning pest control activities. By knowing that pests are most vulnerable during this period, you can target prevention and control measures at the most effective time. This could prevent the development of a pest infestation from occurring or becoming unmanageable on your property.

Many animal species have a complex life cycle that contains distinct postembryonic stages – namely, egg, larva or nymph, and adult. The development of these separate life stages, known as metamorphosis, gives the individual species the ability to adapt and occupy different ecological niches. For instance, barnacles and tunicates have pelagic larvae that move to a suitable habitat before molting to settle into their adult form. Likewise, the larvae of sea-floor invertebrates such as mussels and crabs need to move into a new territory when they mature into nauplius forms. This process is also known as dispersal.

Pupa Stage

Insects that undergo complete metamorphosis have a pupal stage as well. The pupal stage usually takes place in a cocoon or some kind of protective case. Inside this, the insect goes through major changes to become an adult. Some pests, like mosquitoes, emerge from the pupal stage ready to seek blood for reproduction. Others, such as rodents, spend a good portion of the year in their pupal form before they’re ready to reproduce and cause damage.

As the larva reaches the end of its final instar, it secretes special cells that will transform it into an insect adult. These cells are called imaginal discs. The imaginal discs rest dormant until some cue (temperature, day length, growth, etc) triggers the hormones that will kickstart the pupal process. Once triggered, the larva sheds its outer layer of skin. As it does so, the imaginal discs assemble into the insect’s new, mature body.

During the pupal stage, insects remain inactive. The exception is some ant species, which can move around while in the pupal phase. These ants are sometimes referred to as “nymphs.”

The transformation from larva to adult can take a couple of weeks, a few months, or even a few years. It all depends on the temperature and the species. If it’s cold, the process will slow down considerably.

A few insect groups don’t have a pupal stage, such as cockroaches and crickets. In this case, the newly hatched nymph looks much like the adult insect it will eventually become. The only difference is that the adult nymph may have wings or reproductive organs. This type of nymph is sometimes called an object or exarate pupa. Other insect groups have functional mandibles that can cut their way out of the pupal cuticle, or adect their way out. These types of pupa are sometimes referred to as adect or exarate.

When it comes to damaging plants, grubs and beetles are the most destructive of all insects. The wormlike, legless larvae of these pests feed on the roots and other underground parts of the plant, causing severe crop damage. Once they reach maturity, the larvae either dig themselves into the soil for a prolonged hibernation or drop to the ground where they create oval pupal cells in the soil.

Adult Stage

The adult stage is the last of four pest stages and the one that usually causes the most damage. Adult insects are easy to spot and can be controlled with targeted insecticides and biological controls. However, interrupting the pest’s life cycle at the egg or larval stage is the best way to control the pest.

Some pests have incomplete life cycles, meaning that they hatch from eggs into nymphs which look similar to the adults and remain in this nymphal stage until they mature into adulthood. Insects with incomplete life cycles include the grasshopper, true bugs (stink bug and squash bug), and cabbage maggots. These insects injure plants by piercing and sucking juices or by chewing leaves and stems.

Other insects have complete life cycles, such as beetles and moths. These lay their eggs either singly or in groups, and the eggs hatch into grubs that feed on the roots, tubers, or leaves of the plant. After reaching maturity, grubs form a protective cocoon, which is called pupa, and the moth or beetle emerges into the adult stage.

These insects injure plants by chewing leaves and stems, sucking juices, or spreading diseases. Some, like the bean leaf beetle, cause significant crop losses. These beetles overwinter in or near crop residue and damage soybeans by feeding on the underside of the leaves, leaving rounded holes. They also attack the pods and may girdle the plant.

Other insects, such as aphids, mites, and gall midges, have complete life cycles and are easier to control than adults. The aphids are especially difficult to control once the populations reach an outbreak level. In addition, the aphids are often more difficult to control during hot and dry weather.

Some insects are perennial pests, meaning that they exist in some locations year after year, such as the plum curculio, flea beetles, and striped cucumber beetles. Others, such as the gypsy moth and cankerworms, have irregular boom and bust patterns. The fluctuations appear to be caused by factors such as weather, competition with other insects, and disease.

Preventative Measures to Prevent Air Conditioning Repair

Edie Tucker HVAC , , , ,

Air conditioning is a crucial part of creating a comfortable home environment. By removing excess humidity and circulating filtered air, it can reduce the risk of respiratory problems and allergies.

ac repair

If you notice any issues with your air conditioner, it’s time to call for a repair. A qualified service tech will inspect your system, check your refrigerant levels and verify that the ducts are properly sized.

The evaporator coil in your air conditioner is responsible for absorbing heat from the air in your home. When this coil becomes dirty, the air conditioner is unable to properly cool your home and may even damage your system. A dirty coil is one of the most common problems homeowners face with their AC units. A few simple preventative measures can help keep this part of your system clean, preventing many air conditioning repair issues in the future.

Dirty evaporator coils often become dirty as a result of air pollution in the house and lack of regular maintenance. When air filters are not changed frequently, dust and other contaminants can collect on the evaporator coil, reducing its efficiency. If there is no air filter, this problem is worse, as the contaminants will be allowed to directly contact the evaporator coil. This can lead to ice formation on the coil, restricted air flow, and increased energy consumption.

Another sign of a dirty evaporator coil is the inability to reach your desired temperature setting on your thermostat. This happens when the evaporator coil is unable to absorb heat from the air, which results in your air conditioning running longer to cool your home. Over time, this can cause your air conditioner to overwork itself and reduce its lifespan.

A dirty evaporator coil can also restrict the refrigerant’s ability to transfer heat, which can lead to a freeze up on the coil. This can then limit airflow and create a vicious cycle as the coil ices up and restricts airflow, creating more icing. This is why it is so important to regularly inspect your evaporator coil and remove any debris that is present.

If you notice that your evaporator coil is dirty, it’s important to call an air conditioning professional. They will know how to safely access the coil and ensure that it is cleaned correctly without damaging other parts of your air conditioning unit. They will also be able to identify any signs of mold or other potential problems with the coil and address them accordingly.

Dirty Compressor Coils

The air conditioner’s compressor unit is located outside, so it must be protected from debris that could damage the coil fins and other components. Nevertheless, the coils will inevitably come into contact with dust, dirt and other pollutants in the surrounding environment. This is why regular coil cleaning services are so important.

Dirty condenser coils cause your system to work harder and longer to maintain cooling efficiency. The buildup reduces the coil’s ability to absorb or dump heat, forcing the compressor to run longer to achieve the same results. This increased stress can lead to premature wear and tear on the system, putting it at risk of breaking down in the future.

When the coils become too coated with dust, they can no longer convert hot refrigerant gas back into a liquid. This causes the compressor to overheat, leading to a breakdown of the entire air conditioning unit.

As the cooling process continues, your condensate drain line may become clogged with water and dirt. Unless it is cleaned, this can lead to the overflow of the air conditioner, flooding your home with water and other debris.

You’ll also notice a drop in your air conditioner’s cooling capacity as the coils begin to lose their luster and function more slowly. The reduced performance of the air conditioner is a sure sign that it’s time to call an AC technician for a coil cleaning and inspection service.

Dirty coils reduce your air conditioning system’s efficiency, resulting in higher energy bills during Florida’s scorching summers. It is important to keep the evaporator and condenser coils clean to avoid high energy bills, decreased indoor comfort and potential system failure. A professional air conditioning technician can perform a routine coil cleaning and inspection to remove any accumulated dirt, debris or dust. In addition, they can ensure the system’s drain lines are clear of clogs and straighten bent coil fins to improve airflow and cooling efficiency. To get started, schedule an air conditioning inspection today. It’s easy with our online scheduling tool! Just click the orange “Schedule Now” button below to see available times at your neighborhood Jiffy Lube.

Low Coolant Levels

Refrigerant (also known as Freon) is a key component of any air conditioning system. It is what absorbs heat from the air and causes it to cool down. When there is not enough refrigerant in the system, it will affect how well your AC works and can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. There are several signs that your AC may be low on refrigerant.

One is when you notice ice on the evaporator coil or in the refrigerant lines. Another is if you notice that the air coming out of your vents feels warmer than usual. This is because there is not enough refrigerant to absorb the heat from the air and lower its temperature. If you hear hissing or bubbling noises, it is also a sign that your refrigerant levels are low and you should call an HVAC technician right away.

The most common cause of low refrigerant is a leak in the system. Over time, the seals that hold the refrigerant in place can deteriorate, leading to leaks. These leaks will allow the refrigerant to escape the system, which can result in lower cooling performance and higher energy bills.

Another reason for low refrigerant is contamination. Moisture, dirt and other foreign substances can get into the refrigerant lines and degrade it. Regular maintenance, proper handling and storage of the refrigerant can help prevent this.

In addition, low refrigerant is a sign that there are other problems in the system that need to be addressed. Leaks, corrosion and other issues can all be resolved with air conditioning repair before they worsen.

Adding more refrigerant to your system can be tempting, but this is not a long-term solution and will likely only mask the problem. You will need to have the system inspected and repaired by a professional before adding any more refrigerant. They can also recommend other maintenance and inspection services to help keep your air conditioner running properly. Contact our experts today for more information or to schedule your next service! We’re ready to help you live comfortably again.

Dirty Filters

Dirty filters are one of the most common issues affecting your air conditioning system’s performance. Every filter will get dirty over time, but there are some situations that cause them to clog more quickly than others. These dirty filters may lead to efficiency and performance problems in your AC unit that could require air conditioning repair services.

The primary function of an air filter is to trap airborne contaminants like dust, dander and other allergens so that they don’t recirculate throughout your building’s ductwork system and into the spaces you inhabit. This is important for your home or office’s indoor air quality, particularly if anyone in your space suffers from respiratory issues or allergies. The bad news is that dirty filters also allow those same airborne contaminants to enter your air conditioner and circulate back out into the indoor space.

Air filters typically get dirty when they are not replaced frequently enough. This happens because the filter has gaps that allow airborne pollutants to slip through. As time goes on, these contaminants build up on the surface of your air filter until it gets clogged with particles.

As a general rule, your air filter should be changed monthly. For best results, your air filter should be changed more frequently if you have pets or live in a dusty area.

When your air filter is too dirty, it will prevent air from flowing through the cooling coils in your system. This can make your air conditioner overheat. If this occurs, you will need to shut off your AC and clean or replace the filter.

The most noticeable sign that your air filter is too dirty is when your HVAC system fails to cool the building to a comfortable temperature. It will produce hot and cold spots or never reach the temperature that you have set on the thermostat.

A dirty air filter will also cause an increase in your energy bill. This is because your air conditioner has to work harder to keep the space comfortable, which requires more energy. Over time, the added stress can wear on the components of your system, causing them to break down or overheat.

Why Roofing Maintenance Is Important

Edie Tucker Roofing , , , , ,

Performing regular roofing maintenance allows for early problem detection. Repairs can then be made before they become serious.

Roofing

Look for shingles that are cracked or missing, especially after a hailstorm(opens in a new window), excessive wind, or an ice dam. Also, inspect the caulk around flashing and vent pipes and note areas with moss.

Wood shingles and shakes can last for decades with planned maintenance, but the material is vulnerable to the effects of sun exposure and rainfall that speed degradation. The woods of the preferred shingle and shake species—western redcedar (Thuja plicata), coastal redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum)—are inherently more durable than other timbers because their cores contain compounds that resist moisture uptake. These materials, however, are still subject to deterioration from environmental stresses including UV radiation, changes in the wood’s moisture content and leaching of natural preservatives.

Degradation is more rapid on wet, warm roofs because water seeps into the structure and cools the wood, lowering its strength. Other factors that influence a wood shingle or shake roof’s life include the slope of the roof, its shading by overhanging trees, the amount of air circulation available to facilitate drying and the quality of the original wood.

Fungal spores that float through the air and move with moisture settle on a wood shingle or shake surface and gradually grow inside it. As the fungi mature, they degrade the structural components that give a shingle or shake its strength. The spores also produce enzymes that break down the cellulose, starch and other materials in the wood.

Good housekeeping of a wood shake or shingle roof includes regular cleaning to remove debris and limit organism growth. A roof should be swept or leaf-blown regularly and washed at least twice per year, especially prior to the fall rains in the Pacific Northwest. Branches of overhanging trees should be removed to improve a roof’s ability to shed moisture. Accumulated plant growth retards shedding and retains moisture, favoring the fungi’s continued growth.

An experienced professional should perform any maintenance beyond basic housekeeping on a wood shake or shingle roof, including application of chemicals for fungus and moss control; removing plant growth and stains; washing and power-washing; applying water-repellant, UV-blocking and preservative treatments; and repairing and replacing damaged shingles or shakes. A service provider should use protective plastic tarps or sheets to prevent damage to surrounding vegetation and to limit overspray from chemicals. A second technician should be on the ground ready to rinse runoff and overspray with hose-pressure water, or spraying through a power-washer nozzle, as needed.

Slate

A home with slate roofing isn’t going to need a new roof for quite some time. Slate shingles can last up to 200 years and often remain in place long after the home’s original owners have moved on. This longevity makes slate a very attractive option for homeowners looking to make their properties as durable and charming as possible.

Slate roofs tend to need less maintenance than other common roofing materials, but they still require routine cleaning and inspections. Homeowners can perform some basic cleaning tasks on their own using a ladder and a brush, but it is important to contact professional cleaners for more in-depth care and repairs.

Some of the most common problems with slate roofs involve cracked tiles and faulty flashing. These issues usually lead to water leaks within the home, and they can be very expensive to repair. Performing regular roof maintenance inspections can help prevent these issues and minimize the cost of repairs.

Generally, most problems with slate roofs can be fixed with select tile replacements or a re-pointing of the flashings. However, if the problem is allowed to advance too far, it may be necessary to replace the entire roof.

If you are considering purchasing a property with a slate roof, it is important to read the warranty policies carefully. It is also a good idea to have a professional inspect the roof and determine whether it needs any attention before you move in. This will give you peace of mind that the seller is aware of any issues with the roof and will be able to provide proof of the proper maintenance and repairs that have been made.

The most important part of slate roof maintenance is the inspection process. During the inspection, homeowners should look for any signs of leaks, broken tiles, or faulty flashing. These problems should be addressed immediately, as they can lead to water damage inside the home.

Generally, it is best to have a slate roof professionally cleaned and inspected at least twice a year. Performing this maintenance can save you money on repairs and increase the lifespan of your home’s roof.

Clay

The distinctive terra-cotta hues of clay tiles add enduring beauty to any home. These sturdy roofs can withstand extreme climates, but they do require some maintenance to keep them functioning optimally. Using a ladder to reach and clean a clay tile roof can be dangerous if you don’t have extensive experience climbing up on one. Just one wrong step could shatter a fragile tile, leading to serious property damage. An experienced roofing contractor can safely inspect your clay tile roof, clean it, and repair any damaged areas.

Like any other roof, clay tile roofs collect dirt and mildew that can clog gutters and promote the growth of mold and algae. These deposits can damage the surface of the roof and cause leaks. Periodic professional roof cleanings remove these unsightly stains and restore the roof’s appearance. Never attempt to power wash a clay tile roof, since high-pressure water may crack the delicate tiles.

Clay tile roofs are durable and can last up to half a century with proper care. A professional inspection helps identify issues that can decrease their life span, such as improper installation or the presence of faulty flashing. The inspection can also determine if the roof is protected by the appropriate building codes for your area.

Besides cleaning and repair, a professional roofing company can recommend a protective sealant to discourage the accumulation of mildew, mold, and algae. This protectant is also effective against the damaging effects of sunlight and acid rain, which can discolor or damage clay roof tiles.

In addition to clay roof tiles, a quality roofing contractor will check for other areas that need attention, such as clogged gutters and debris buildup. They will also look for weakened mortar or the presence of insects, birds, and vermin. In high-humidity climates, these conditions encourage the development of mold, mildew, and lichen that can break down the surface of clay tiles.

The expert roofers at Kelly Roofing can help you keep your clay tile roof in good condition for as long as possible. A regular professional roof inspection will prevent problems from growing out of control and ensure your clay tile roof continues to protect your home for decades to come.

EPDM

EPDM, or Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, is an inexpensive and versatile roofing material used for flat or low-sloped roofs. It is durable, resistant to moisture, and easy to repair. While these characteristics make it an attractive option for commercial roofing, proper maintenance is crucial to maximize the lifespan of your EPDM roof.

The first step in EPDM roof maintenance is regular visual inspections. This will help you identify any issues before they become serious problems, such as leaks or cracks. It’s also important to check for any debris, such as fallen leaves or branches, and water pooling on the surface of the roof. These problems can weaken the membrane and shorten its lifespan.

Regular cleaning is also essential to maintaining your EPDM rubber roof. This should be done at least four times a year, and you should use a cleaner that is specifically designed for roofs and free of petroleum distillates. You should also minimize foot traffic on the roof, as this can damage the EPDM surface.

Another common issue with EPDM is shrinkage, which occurs when the synthetic rubber loses its elasticity over time. This can cause the membrane to pull away from walls and drains, creating crevices where water, bugs, and debris can enter the building.

Professional maintenance can help you address these issues before they become major problems. A commercial roofing crew can perform an extensive inspection to evaluate the condition of your EPDM roof and make repairs as needed. They can also repair any damage caused by the original roof installer and ensure that your roof meets all local and federal regulations.