The average home has hundreds of different components. As a homeowner, you are responsible for making sure all of these components are working properly. When it comes to important parts of your home, like the gutters, you will have to stay one step ahead of serious repair issues. The older your gutter system gets, the higher the chance becomes of leaks and other serious issues arising.

Homeowners in the U.S. spend millions of dollars on residential gutter replacements annually. When your existing gutters start to show signs of wear, you have to take action immediately. Here are some things you will notice when it is time to invest in new gutters.

Issues Involving Broken FastenersThe pieces of metal that secure your gutters to the roof are known as fasteners. Your gutter system won’t work properly if these fasteners are not level. These fasteners will start to wear out over time. While you can replace a fastener here and there, you need to take notice if multiple fasteners are breaking at one time. Generally, this is a sign of rust or excessive weight in your gutters.

The only way to diagnose the underlying cause of these fastener issues is by working with professionals. With the assistance of the team at Boyd Construction Co, you can start the process of getting your gutters replaced. Your new gutter system will feature new and durable fasteners, which means you shouldn’t have to worry about flooding or other problems.

Holes, Rust Spots and CracksHomeowners should get in the habit of inspecting their gutter system a few times a year. During this inspection, you need to take notice of any rust spots, holes or cracks that are present. Smaller cracks don’t present much danger, but they will grow over time. Larger cracks will allow water to leak out of your gutters and onto the side of your residence.
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This might result in damage to yoru shingles and fascia. The cost of these new gutters is worth it due to the long-term damage it can help you avoid. Attempting to take the process of installing new gutters alone is a recipe for disaster. This is why you need to realize the importance of hiring professionals.

Gutter Pitch ProblemsDo your gutters look like they are sagging? If so, it is time to start the process of replacing them. These sagging gutters will have a hard time draining properly. When all of the water in your gutters isn’t drained, a lot of excess weight will be created. This weight can eventually send your gutter system tumbling down. If you want to avoid the damage caused by a collapsed gutter system, then you need to take action as soon as gutter pitch problems are discovered.
Are you ready to get new gutters installed? If so, Boyd Construction Co. is here to help. 

​With some attention, your new coated roofing should provide many years of protection for your home or commercial building. A coating roofing system is highly durable and can withstand the test of time through extreme outdoor elements. However, just like any other part of your home or business, keeping the roof clean and free from debris will provide you with maximum performance and a longer lifespan. Let's look at what you can do to ensure your coated roof stays in like-new condition for years to come.
 
Provide Proper Drainage For Your Roof
Standing water can wreak havoc on any roofing system. Ponding water significantly increases the potential for moisture to seep into the roof's structure if there is a puncture in the coating. Ensure that your building has a sound drainage system to direct water off the roof and away from the foundation of the building. Keep gutters and drains clean and free from accumulated dirt, limbs, leaves, and other debris that can quickly create clogs.
 
Limit Walking On A Coated Roof
Coated roofs are incredibly sturdy, but unprotected areas of the roof are more susceptible to damage if it experiences frequent foot traffic. Limit foot traffic on your roof and access to rooftop equipment to protect the coating membrane from damage.
 
Protect Coated Membrane From Exposure To Chemicals And Liquids
Avoid degrading the membrane of your coated roof by protecting it from exposure to liquids that contain chemicals and petroleum products. Solvents, grease used to lubricate rooftop units, oils, kitchen wastes, and animal fats can also damage your roof. Prolonged exposure to these hazardous materials may cause swelling and degradation of the coating if not cleaned immediately. Use catch pans and other drainage systems to dispose of liquids and chemicals properly and direct them off the roof.
 
Avoid Puncturing Your Coated Roof
While coated roofing systems are highly durable, they are not impenetrable. Avoid puncturing the roofing system by cleaning up loose items like screes, nails, bolts, and other building materials immediately. Ensure that anyone who services rooftop equipment, like HVAC units and antennas, protects the roof membrane from abrasion and impact caused by tool parts.
 
Snow Removal Precautions
Take extra precautions when removing snow from your coated roof. You can avoid damaging the roofing system by removing the snow quickly and efficiently, using plastic shovels, and paying careful attention to wall flashing. Never use a snow blower or shovel with sharp edges when removing snow or any other substance from your roof.
 
Consult Your Roof Construction Professional
If you have any questions or concerns about adequately maintaining your coated roofing system, consult your roof construction professional.

​A lot of work goes into keeping a residential roof damage-free. The average homeowner is not afraid to shell out big money to have their roof maintained by professionals a few times a year. While routine roofing maintenance is a great way to extend the life of your roof, it will not make it last forever. Eventually, you will be presented with proof that your existing roof needs to be retired.
Most of the $20 billion worth of revenue generated by the roofing industry comes from new roof installation projects. When presented with signs that your roof needs to be replaced, you have to take swift action. Here are some problems that can arise if you wait to replace your damaged residential roof.
The Risk of Water DamageWhen a residential roof needs to be replaced, a homeowner will be presented with a number of warning signs. Perhaps the most common problem you will notice when it is time to invest in a new roof is multiple leaks. In most cases, roof leaks will start small and get progressively worse. Trying to patch these leaks will only fix this problem temporarily. The only surefire way to eliminate these leaks is by getting a totally new roof.
The longer you wait to have a new roof installed, the more water damage you will have to contend with. Not only can water damage rot the wood under your roof, it can also cause mold formation. Some mold can be toxic, which is all the more reason to take immediate action when these leaks are discovered.
Storm Damage Can Get Much WorseDuring the summer months, most areas get severe thunderstorms. These storms are capable of producing high winds, torrential rainfall and hail. When a particularly bad storm moves into your area, damage to your roof can occur. If the roof you currently have in place is covered in old and brittle shingles, the amount of storm damage you receive will increase.
If strong winds hit these brittle shingles, it will tear them right off of your roof. Missing shingles are one of the main causes of roof leaks. Instead of trying to deal with significant storm damage this summer, you need to get your damaged roof replaced immediately.
Issues Involving Energy WasteFending off the hot temperatures of summer will require the use of a residential HVAC unit. It will be extremely hard for your HVAC unit to run efficiently if all of the air it cools escapes through your drafty old roof.
Not only will this overwork your HVAC unit, it will also increase the cost of your monthly energy bill. The money you spend on these higher energy bills could be better invested in a new roof. With the help of an experienced roofing contractor, you can get your new roof installed in no time.
Are you tired of dealing with the problems caused by your old roof? If so, it is time to let the team at Boyd Construction Co. install a new roof on your home. 

​With the summer months approaching, you may not be thinking too much about roof maintenance. After all, no leaves are falling or cold weather to cause potential problems. While this is true, your roof still requires upkeep during the summer months.

Hot weather brings in a few unforeseen issues. Get to know how hot weather can damage your residential roof so you can take steps to prevent problems.

UV LightUV or ultraviolet light can cause roof damage, especially in the summer when light hits surfaces at “full strength.” It may even penetrate on overcast days. This means that no roof is safe from exposure to UV light during the summer.

Over time, UV light exposure can impact roof quality. It can cause the materials to decay faster, and eventually, the shingles may buckle, split, and peel while wood cracks and appears bleached. The protective oils in your roof may start to dry out, too, making it brittle, dry, and more susceptible to damage.

High TemperaturesIf your roof is exposed to the sun, it is extremely vulnerable to extensive heat damage with no shade. For example, on a hot, 90-degree day, the temperature that your roof reaches can exceed 150 degrees. This is especially true if your roof is made from darker materials that absorb the heat. The higher temperatures will also cause the materials used for your roof to break down faster.

High HumidityTemperature increases can also cause sticky, humid weather. When air is humid, condensation may accumulate under your shingles. The collection of water can result in serious damage and eventually leaks. Also, as moisture stays “stuck” in one place, mold may begin to develop. Not only does this cause further roof damage, but it is also a health hazard.

Thermal ShockDuring the summer, the temperatures on your roof can go extremely high during the day and then cool down quickly when the sun goes down. This sudden and rapid change in temperature can result in the contraction and expansion of your roof. This will result in the tension of the roof materials and a shorter lifespan. Also, sudden changes in temperature like this will weaken the integrity of your home’s roof structure as time passes and may cause a split or warped roof.

Tips for Preventing Damage to Your Residential RoofWhile all the factors above can result in serious damage to your roof during the summer months, there are a few ways that you can protect your roof, too.
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For example, one of the best ways to ensure your roof is ready for warm weather is to make sure your attic is properly ventilated. You should also invest in regular maintenance and inspections to find and handle any small issues before they become more serious. The professionals can get on your roof, look at the surface, and find and fix issues to keep your home’s roof in good, protective condition. 

​To talk a little bit more in-depth about what we do on a regular basis, let's look at some scenarios that property owners might have.
 
The first one is a problematic skylight in the ceiling of a room or space.
 
Over time, the flashing can come loose and admit moisture or even pests. Ice dams can create skylight problems as well. Excessive moisture can compromise the footprint of the skylight and require professional work to repair the surrounding area of the building.
 
Roof Pen Testing
 
In this scenario, the property owner has a leak that can't be easily pinpointed, or assessed at its point of origin.
 
What we often do is apply a type of roof penetration test with a power washer. That requires simulating heavy rainfall and helps in figuring out where water is coming in. Then we put together a treatment plan for your property.
 
Roof Coating
 
In the third scenario, somebody has a roof that's just generally weak or vulnerable across the board. They may have a traditional structure that doesn't have modern sealing or coating in place.
 
The coating is a comprehensive solution to make sure that there is an adequate barrier for moisture and precipitation and also support for the underlying insulation that prevents cool or hot air loss.
 
So these are three things that we do in local buildings, and there's a lot more that we consult on with local property owners. In other words, these are some of the things you might be considering as you look at your roofing areas and try to figure out why there's a problem and what to do about it.
 
In general, as we said, coating is a more comprehensive solution – for every part of your building that has vulnerability.
 
Basically, it's important to find a good firm that is licensed, insured and bonded, so that you know you'll get the work done the right way and protect your building.
 
Otherwise, you can run into some unpleasant surprises along the way.
 
Some states have homeowner and contractor conflict resolution boards in place, and some don't, so check the rules in your local area.
 
Let Boyd Construction help you to keep your property in safe and livable condition, preventing some of the threats that devalue a property before its time. We are active all over local neighborhoods, consulting, installing and generally, doing what we do best!

​If you’ve read this blog before you know that at Boyd Construction, we offer a range of services in home improvement.
 
But how does that relate to the most common piece of our services to our customers, the property owners who call us to help maintain their homes and investment properties?
 
Well, first of all, there's the question of how people perform interventions in terms of property maintenance. In other words, it’s worth looking at how they figure out that something is wrong, and how they go about fixing it.
 
One big question is whether a problem is cosmetic in nature, or whether it interferes with the functionality of the property.
 
Roof Work
 
In the roof world, this equation is a little bit more strictly delineated.
 
A roof may come with a warranty, or a real estate transaction will show how much of a lifetime the roof has left. Then, on a certain timeline, the roof has to be replaced.
 
In the interim, it can be repaired, for example, with replacement shingles or some other type of repair.
 
Brick And Other Surfaces
 
When you're talking about maintaining other parts of your property, the question can be a little more ambiguous…
 
Most brick work is cosmetic in nature – the brick hasn't decayed to the point that it makes the building weaker. Instead, it just looks bad. There are certain interventions with brick and foundations that are functional, but a lot of times, the brick will just need to be pointed and re-mortared or even painted.
 
We have the ability to do these jobs, as well as power washing equipment and service to get surfaces clean before painting or other aesthetic fixes.
 
Dealing with Gutters
 
In the gutter world, early intervention is a must. Most of these projects are not cosmetic – they're functional. Property owners usually only figure it out after water has been diverted!
 
So that's a different type of work where we recommend preemptive inspection and service. Gutter work should be done early, to prevent bigger problems down the road.
 
Being able to distinguish between different types of fixes, and apply a good triage philosophy, will save you thousands of dollars as a property owner! We want to help with that. When our customers have good partnerships and guidance, they don’t feel “nickel and dimed” into oblivion. They feel confident about their homes!
 
Take a look at the website for more about Boyd Construction and what we do in the Washington, D.C. area.

For most homeowners, nothing is worse than a leaking roof. Roofs are the first line of defense for our homes, and signs of leaks mean your defense system is compromised and in need of your attention. Leaky roofs can happen for several different reasons, which is why you must determine the root of the issue before significant damage to the roof or your home occurs.
 
While professional roofing contractors can quickly determine why your roof is leaking and what needs to be done to stop it, here are some of the most common causes of roof leaks so you can spot them early.
 
Missing Or Damaged Shingles
A common source of a leaking roof is missing or damaged shingles. Shingles can become brittle and break or dislodge over time due to exposure to extreme elements. Years of being in the direct path of the hot sun can cause shingles to curl up and crack, allowing water to find its way into your home. Also, high winds and storms can blow and knock shingles off of the roof, which leaves it bare and exposed to water.
 
Clogged Or Broken Gutter Systems
Gutter systems are designed to funnel and direct rainwater off your roof and away from your home. However, gutters also catch debris that quickly gets clogged causing water to be backed up and flow into parts of the roof, wreaking havoc. Over time, water dammed up or puddled on your roof begins to rot the wood and cause leaks in your home.
 
Improperly Installed Or Deteriorated Skylights
Skylights are popular ways to brighten up a home, but if they are old or improperly installed, skylights can let in more than sunlight. The problem with skylights is that they are tricky to install correctly, and often homeowners are unaware there is a problem until they experience leaks. The seals around skylights can also deteriorate over time, leaving gaps and cracks for the rain to seep into, creating leaks in your home.
 
Critters Cause Catastrophy For Roofs
Your roof may become home to unwelcomed guests, which cause damage to wood and roofing materials, leading to leaks and water damage. Ants, bees, termites, and rodents all cause damage to roofs every year. Any chewed or bored wood becomes compromised, leaving your roof open to water damage. If you see signs of pests in and around your roof, be sure to have them removed and have your roof and structure inspected.
 
Final Thoughts
The best way to prevent a leaky roof is to have it inspected annually by a professional roofing contractor. If you do see signs of water damage or active leaks in your home, the sooner you act, the better.

​The dawning of a New Year usually means big changes for most people. If you are looking to change your surroundings in 2022, then choosing the right improvement projects is essential. In the past year, American homeowners spent on average $4,000 on improvement projects. When done correctly, a home improvement project can add a lot of value to a property.
The key to getting great results from your upcoming projects is by hiring professionals to help you out. At Boyd Construction Co., you can get the help you need and the prices you can afford. Are you trying to change your home for the better in 2022? If so, check out the great suggestions below.
Change the Outside of Your Home with a Fresh Coat of PaintWhen people pass by your home for the first time, they will usually notice the condition of your exterior covering. If you currently have brick as your exterior covering, you may feel like changing the look it has is impossible. In reality, you can paint brick walls and change their color. However, if you want to avoid making mistakes during this improvement project, it is best to let professionals handle it.
Seasoned painting professionals will have the tools and the time to get the best results. Before choosing a new color for your brick home, consider the type of décor and color schemes you already have in place. By doing this, you can choose a color that won’t clash with what you already have in place. 
Invest in a New RoofOne of the main things you need to keep your home dry and damage-free is a functional roof. If you have been patching your old roof for far to long, then 2022 is the year you need to replace it. The longer you leave an old roof in place, the more damage you will ultimately have to deal with. A new roof will help you keep your home dry and will also add lots of appeal.
Adding a new roof is also a good way to increase the value of your home. Before professionals arrive to install your new roof, take some time to get prepared. Covering items in your attic with plastic sheets and moving your cars out of the driveway are just a few of the things you can do to make the roof installation process easier.
Get Your Home Power Washed By ProfessionalsIf you have vinyl siding on the outside of your home, you know how dirty it can get over time. If there is a thin layer of dirt coating your vinyl siding, having it removed is a good idea. The best way to accomplish this is by hiring professionals to power wash the siding. With their help, you can remove this dirt and restore the appeal your siding has lost.
While beautifying your home won’t be easy, it is definitely worth the time you invest. With the right professional help, you can get the projects covered in this article done the right way. 

Have you noticed the growing number of painted brick homes in your neighborhood and town? It’s a bit of a trend right now and one that may be right for your home.

Brick is a versatile material and allows your house to look both modern and traditional. However, how do you know if painting the brick on your home is a smart move?

When you have the brick on your home painted, you can hit the “refresh” button without making any serious renovations. Keep reading to learn the top benefits of painting the brick on your home.

Improves Curb Appeal

When you paint the brick on the exterior of your home, it’s an effective way to improve curb appeal and even increase your home’s value. It’s smart to use a darker color, such as grey or slate. Another popular option is classic white, which offers impressive visual appeal when painted properly.

Protection from the Elements

If the brick exterior of your home is updated properly with paint, it will serve as a sealant for your home. This will help protect the underlying materials from rain and other weather changes that occur throughout the year. Also, the right type of paint will help reduce the deterioration and fading of your home’s exterior.

Easy to Clean

Brick is porous. This means if you don’t paint it, then dirt, dust, and debris may become trapped in the material and almost impossible to remove. However, painted brick provides you with a smooth surface that is a lot easier to clean. In fact, the occasional power washing will be all you need to keep the exterior of your home looking great.

What to Consider When Painting Exterior Brick

While painting the exterior brick on your home offers plenty of benefits, there are also some important considerations to keep in mind. These include:

It’s Permanent

Once you paint a brick house, it’s impossible to go back to the original brick exterior. Any professional painter knows that after brick is painted, it will have to stay painted. The process of trying to remove paint from brick is expensive. While you can’t remove the paint, it is possible to change the color as much as you want.

Paint May Chip

Excess moisture can cause the paint to chip; however, this is true for many home exteriors. The problem is especially seen close to the ground. The best way to prevent this issue is by investing in regular repainting every seven to 10 years. This will also help to keep the paint looking new.

More Cleaning May Be Necessary

Even though painted brick is easier to clean, it may have to be cleaned more often. Remember, mildew and dirt are easier to see on painted surfaces.
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If you want to paint your exterior brick, be sure to hire professionals who know what to do and how to handle the job. They will ensure you get the desired results with the painted surface.