Category: Other Services

rusty broken gutter

Simple Gutter Cleaning Advice

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Gutters play an important role in redirecting rainwater from the roof to the drainage system. This helps to minimise unnecessary weight on the roof that can affect the roof’s integrity and longevity. The gutter system also prevents water puddles from accumulating on the roof, which may lead to rust, corrosion, warping, rot and more. Like other parts of the roof, the gutter needs proper maintenance. This is the only way it will deliver good service and last for a long time. The following tips will come handy when cleaning the gutter.

Ladder Safety:

Before attempting to clean the gutter, you should ensure you have a proper ladder. It should be firm and will not wobble during use. Additionally, it should comfortably handle your weight. The length of the ladder is influenced by the property design. A storeyed building requires a longer ladder in comparison to a single story property. It is advised to have someone holding it while you work as this improves the unit’s stability. The best ladders will have a slot for holding a bucket, brush and other things. This will save you from having to come down and go up too often.

Garden Scoop:

Ensure you use a good scoop that will not scratch the gutter. Doing so may create scratches, which may later develop into crevices, and cracks that allow water to penetrate through. It may also chip the protective layer on metal gutters and this encourages rust and corrosion. The scoop should fit nicely inside the gutter and have a curved design for maximum performance. You should also make certain it feels right in the hand and is also ergonomic for better comfort.

Garden Hose:

You also require a gardens hose to get rid of dust and other debris. Pick one that has the proper length for easy reach. It should also handle the water pressure but still give you easy control. The best options come with a spray nozzle that delivers high pressure while consuming little amount of water. It also features a piston-grip hand trigger for releasing and stopping the water flow.

Protective Eye Wear:

You shouldn’t clean the gutter without wearing goggles or eye glasses. They stop dirt, dust, insects, fluids and other things from getting into your eyes. Did you also know that gutters could harbor wasps, bees, rats and other creatures? The last imaginable thing is the insects getting into your eyes.

Wear Gloves:

The gutter and the roofing can have harmful substances. Bird droppings, animal excrement, tree sap, acid rain, rotting levees, bacteria, rust; chemicals are just but a few of the toxic compounds. It also may have rough or sharp edges that may injure your fingers. Wearing quality gloves is recommended. They help prevent cuts, scratches, and bruises and also make your hands comfy especially in the cold or hot days.

Avoid Power lines:

You should be extra careful when cleaning gutters that are near power lines. In fact, you are better off letting the professionals handle the task if the lines are too near your home. Wearing protective clothing, gloves, and safety boots will help in case you accidentally come into contact with the power lines.

Proper Shoes:

It’s paramount you wear proper shoes during the exercise. The goal is it has a firm footing to prevent slippage, and to stay comfortable in any weather. Rubber shoes are known for the nice grip they provide. They are less likely to slip whereas canvas type is lightweight and also feel comfortable.

Unclog Downspouts: You should not forget to clean the downspouts during the cleaning exercise. Yes, you may have a clean gutter. However, a clogged downspout will hinder the flow of rainwater. Pouring water through the pipe lets you know whether there is a clog or not.

Final Thoughts

The above tips will not only prevent blockage or poor flow of rainwater but also extend the lifespan of the accessory. It also prevents damage since water or snow will leave the roof fast. While it may look easy, failure to follow the correct cleaning procedure may lead to damaging the gutter. It is also likely that you may slip and fall off the ladder leading to injuries.

A better and safer approach is letting the professionals handle the cleaning exercise. Birmingham Roofers prides on being a leader when it comes to roofing. The firm undertakes new installation, repairs as well as maintenance. By depending on skilled and devoted employees, the licensed roofer will eliminate all the dirt, dust, gunk and other debris that may be blocking the gutter. You can get more information about the firm and the gutter cleaning service by calling them at 01214 050961. You can also visit their website at http://bmroofers.co.uk/ where you also get a free quote on the service.

Post Install

The Different Types of Roof and Loft Insulation Explained

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Ensuring your home is properly insulated will help to keep your heating costs to a minimum. With the ever rising fuel costs, the right insulation can make a lot of difference. Heat rises and as a result, most of the heat is lost through the roof of your home. Insulation can be used to block the heat from escaping.

There are a few different types of roof and loft insulation that need to be considered. Take a look at this guide to learn the benefits of each type of insulation.

Depending on your house type and the use of the loft space, different insulation materials may be preferred. Whichever type of insulation you choose though, it is essential that the roof itself is in good condition. Any loose or damaged tiles could allow water into your home and also help heat to escape.

Fibre Glass

Glass fibre is one of the most commonly used materials to insulate your home. It is available in a roll which can be cut easily to shape. It is very lightweight, easy to install and will help to keep the heat inside your home. Glass fibre is ideal to place up in your loft. It will be one of the easiest and cheapest ways to insulate your loft. It’s best used when you’re not actually using the loft space as living space, although it is possible to cut it to size and place between joists, then board over the top. The only real disadvantage of glass fibre is that it can be irritating to touch, you should wear gloves and consider wearing a mask when installing the insulation.

Installing glass fibre insulation is such an easy job that you can do it yourself. There’s normally no need to hire a specialist. Glass fibre matting is readily available from any DIY store.

Sheet Insulation

If you want to use the loft space as a living space, then you would be better using sheet insulation. These board can be cut to size to fit between the rafters of the roof. This will allow heat to warm up the loft and make it a comfortable space.

Installing sheet insulation Is also relatively straight forward. Most of the materials can be cut using either a sharp knife, or a saw. The only thing that is more difficult will be buying and transporting the sheets since they are a lot larger. This may mean you will need to hire a van.

Blown Insulation (Spray Foam)

Another common type of insulation used to insulate a loft or roof cavity is blown insulation. This is similar to expanding foam you use around the home. This requires some specialist equipment since the insulation material is actually blown into the cavity. As a result blown insulation will be more expensive to have fitted. It’s ideal though if the loft is very small or inaccessible.

Blown insulation can be installed to either the ceiling cavity, or the roof joists. This means it is suitable whether you want to turn the loft into living space or not.

Loose Fill

Another slightly less common type of loft insulation is loose fill. In recent years though this has become more popular since it is an environmentally friendly form of insulation. Loose fill insulation involves filling the ceiling cavity with a loose material. This can be anything, although it is typically something like shredded cork, newspaper or even some types of volcanic rock.

Installing loose fill insulation between ceiling joists is very easy. However, you must first check there are no cracks in the plasterboard of the ceiling and that it will be able to support the insulation. Loose fill insulation materials are all light weight which means they can be supported by the plasterboard itself.
Floor boards can the be placed over the top of the insulation to enable you to use the space for storage, however this will block most of the heat coming through the floor of the room below.

It’s certainly worth time researching and insulating your home properly. Effective insulation will reduce heating costs and keep your home warmer all year round. Insulation will also make it easier to sell your house since it will be rated as being more efficient.

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solar panel on roof

Will a Solar Panel Installation Damage Your Roof?

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“Will a Solar Panel Installation Damage Your Roof?” the answer to this question is NO if its done right – but YES if it isnt!.

With the rising cost of power and the desire to go green, more and more people are turning to solar panels. They provide pure and clean energy without the hefty monthly bills. They also have don’t pollute the environment or damage the ozone since they produce no emission.

The rising popularity, growing competition and improving technology has made them more effective, efficient, durable and affordable. Today’s pieces are much lighter but generate more power. They also last for a long time with many manufacturers offering a warranty for as many as 30 years.

The Solar Panel Installation Won’t Damage the Roof

No, the solar panel installation will not damage the roof if it is done properly. Before installation, the contractor will first analyse the integrity and strength of the roof. This allows him/her to know if the framework can handle the extra weight. The examination also alerts the installer on any weak points on the roof and the best positioning. For instance, if the roof has a remaining lifespan of about 10 years yet the solar panels will last for 30 years, the better approach is to fast replace the roof.

The contractor will also check to see that the roofing materials can cope up with the increased temperature and also use a design that doesn’t obstruct any airflow. To prevent leakage, they will drill minimal holes for the rack and will incorporate a flashing the stops water from seeping through.

A popular option to prevent damage is to use panels that do not need drilling holes. And if there are many panels that need mounting, the contractor may opt to place them on a rack the ground rather than on the roof.

The Best way forward

If you plan it install solar panels on your roof, it is advisable to first talk to a roofer. The professional will assess the roof’s integrity to see if it can put up with the additional weight. And because they are familiar with the different types on the market, they can help you pick a lighter but more efficient unit.

So, How Can a Solar Panel Installation Damage Your Roof?

Add Extra Weight

Although modern solar panels are lighter than the early ones, they still add some extra weight to the roof. The more the panels the more pressure the roof has to bear. And as you know, the truss or framework is designed to support the roofing only. Without any reinforcement, the structure may not be able to cope with the added weight.

Affect the Integrity of the Roof

When designing and installing the roof, most contractors won’t account for additional weight. They will leave a margin for dust, dirt, snow or ice, and this is minimal. By mounting solar panels on the roof, the structural integrity of the roof will be affected. In due course, it may begin to sag, some parts may come of, or the tiles may develop gaps or even break.

Encourage Leaks

Usually, holes need to be drilled on the roof to support the frame or deck for the solar panels. This means that the tiles, iron sheets, and other covering materials will have holes, which were initially not their. Some materials tend to expand over time leading to wider holes. A good example is iron sheets. Others like tiles may crack because the hole creates a weak spot. These things will make the roof more prone to leaks.

Increase the Temperature

Good roofs can handle low and high temperatures quite well. Nevertheless, you should not exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations. Too cold or too hot and it will crack, warp, break or discolor. Solar panels tend to be heat absorbent and the area above and below the piece will have high temperatures. This will over the years has negative effects on the roofing.

Affect Airflow

For the roof to last a decent period, it is necessary to ensure the airflow is good. This allows quick dissipation of heat. However, improper installation of solar panels may interfere with the ventilation and this will create hot spots that will affect the area below and around the solar panel

Birmingham Roofers is one of the roofers that help consumers to get the best solar installation. The company has been in the scene for years and boast of experienced, knowledgeable, and dedicated employees. It is reachable via phone (01214 050961), email (bmroofers@gmail.com), website (http://bmroofers.co.uk/) or social media (Facebook, Twitter, Google plus) and will walk with you through the entire installation process.

picture of roof rotting

How to treat Rotting Roof Structures

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While the best roofs are designed to last for a long time, they are still prone to be damaged. One of the commonest problems is rot, which will affect certain sections of the roof. It may be the fascia, gutter, truss, or any other places. As you probably know, the rot will weaken the roof and making it prone to sagging or even caving in. Sadly, many people seem to overlook the rot and it’s only after a catastrophe that they seek the necessary repair. This should never be the case since you are putting your life and that of others at risk.

Steps to Dealing with Rotting Roof Structures

1. Examination

The first step to treating a rotting roof structure is assessing the damage. How bad is it? Which areas have been affected? What sections are the most badly hit? These are some of the questions that should guide you in the examination. The damage usually isn’t uniform since some areas are more exposed. For instance, the areas that are near a water source or are in the path of water such as the downspouts or gutters are more affected.

The assessment also helps to estimate for how long this has been happening. Poor checking may fail to unearth some hidden zones, which in future will become worse. You don’t want this to happen after a repair.

2. Root Cause Analysis

Generally, for the rot to take place, three things are necessary: warmth, moisture, and a suitable material such as wood. Poor ventilation is also a contributor. Wood is the most prone to rot in comparison to other materials like tiles. Fascias or zones near the downspout or beams next to a water storage tanks are more exposed.

While symptoms such as flaking paint, discoloration, warping and split wood or soft timber help in the assessment, it’s more critical to know the source of the problem. Is it a leaking water tank, gaps and cracks in the roofing that are letting in rainwater, or water splashing from the gutter to the fascias? This will help to not only deal with the problem but also prevent it from occurring in the near future.

worn out rotting tiles

3. Corrective Measures

The next step is coming up with the best plan of action. How you deal with a rotting fascia or soffit may not necessarily be the same as fixing a rot in the roof truss. In the former case, it’s much easier to remove parts of the fascia or soffit. You probably will not need to remove the roofing cover. In the latter case, however, it may mean removing the tiles, slates, or iron sheets to have a better understanding.

If the rot affects a small section, then you may need to only replace the area. This means removing a few planks, boards, or tiles. However, if a large section of the roof is damaged, it makes it likely that the entire roof can collapse due to the weakened structure. In such a situation, you are probably looking at overhauling the entire roof.

4. Preventing Future Rot

After dealing with both the symptoms and root causes, you now need to prevent the rot from happening again. To do this, you need to fully eradicate the causes and then come up with preventive measures. For instance, if the fascias or soffit was rotting because of rainwater splashing from the gutter, you may need to overhaul the gutter system. If the leak was occurring because of leaking water pipes or tank inside the roof, you need to fix this and put a waterproof insulation in the surrounding area.

For an attic or loft that has rotting beams, improving the air circulation helps to easily dissipate the humidity. Installing waterproof or moisture absorbent materials is also a worthy move.

NB: It is helpful to have the roof inspected at least once a year by a professional roofer. This should happen whether there is rot or not. By arresting the problem early, you will be able it stop it from spreading and will keep the cost of repair low.

Conclusion

You shouldn’t take roof rot lightly. It doesn’t matter if it only affects a small section. While repairing the roof may seem an economic approach, there are high chances of making a mistake or even getting injured in the process. You may step on a rotten section and fall through; inhale toxic fumes that come from the rot, or are infected by the bacteria or mold.

The best approach is talking to a reputable roofer like Birmingham Roofers. Such a company will first evaluate the situation to ascertain the extent of the damage. Thereafter they will draft the best solution to the problem. To learn more about how to treat rotting roof structures and other roofing services visit http://bmroofers.co.uk or call via 01214 050961. Talking to a reputable roofer will help you deal with any rot on the roof.

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Common Roofing Vocabulary Explained

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Roofing jargon Buster

If you thought you are the only one who gets really confused when your roofing expert starts mentioning some roofing vocabulary you don’t understand, think again. Like a lot of people out there, you may have found yourself trying to figure out what the roofing guy meant when they asked you to pass the Nailer. Or maybe you are not exactly sure which one is the asphalt, bitumen, tiles, or shingles. If you are one of those people, today’s your lucky day because we have taken our sweet time to compile one a very detailed Jargon Buster explaining what some of the most commonly used and confused roofing terms. After going through it, you should be able to know what most terminologies used in our roofing industry mean and be considered  an expert

Loft Extensions

These are extensions from the main house that are constructed to maximize the available space. In the past, homeowners would need to build new structures to add some space. However, with challenges such as limited space and insufficient funds to construct new structures, people are turning to loft extensions because they provide a cheaper, more convenient option. Also, you don’t have to worry about permits when building aloft extension as is the case when building a separate structure in most places.

Nailer

Also referred to as a nail gun, a nailer is one of the most useful tools for any roofer. I bet most roofers will rank it in the top three of their favorite tools. A nailer is used to drive all kinds of nails into frames, shingles, truss, plywood, bituminous felt, underlayment, and other materials used in roofing. In the past, roofing was a hard job since you had to use hammers which were extremely slow and tedious to work with. With nailers, you can work continuously without getting tired and do what used to take weeks in just a few days.

Fascia

This is a horizontal plank fixed on the roof’s end. A fascia runs on the edges attaching to the rafter. Fascias are normally made from plastic, wood, PVC and other materials. Their job is to protect the roof from dust, heat, creatures, and moisture that may destroy the truss, sheathing, underlayment, tiles, rafters, and batten. They also improve the roof’s structural integrity and general aesthetic appeal.

Soffits

This is the part between the wall and the fascia. If you stand beneath the roof while outside, you will be able to see it clearly. Soffits are used primarily for improving the beauty of the roof and house in general. They conceal the sheathing, batten, underlayment, and rafters. Soffits also boost air circulation which prevents dampening and protects shingles from underneath.

Flashing

If you take a look at that section of the roof where the wall meets the tiles, you will notice a small, metallic piece or strip. It connects both pieces together while simultaneously stopping the penetration of moisture, water, dirt, dust, and other things. This sealing piece is made of rust and corrosion-resistant materials like zinc.

Dormer Roof

A dormer roof is a kind of loft extension found within the roof of a pitched, gambrel or Maynard roof. It usually entails adding another structure with windows to create an additional room or rooms. Dormer roofs have gained a lot of popularity in the UK as a result of mortgages getting more expensive. It also takes less time and is cheaper.

Green Roof

In the day and age of environmental sustainability, Green Roof’ has become a common term in the modern roofing industry. However, it has some diverse definitions. To some people, a green roof is one that includes real plants on a roof to create a green natural environment. To other people, a green roof is an environmentally friendly roof free from contaminants, harmful artificial compounds, and pollutants.

Ridge

A ridge is the highest point of a sloped or pitched room that joins to different sections. Under the ridge there is the head of the common rafters or spars. Special iron sheets, shingles, ridge tiles, and other special materials are used to cover this section so as to prevent dust, water, animals, moisture, and other things from getting through.

Hot air seam welding

This basically means joining together some pieces of roof covering such as PVC, TPO, PVC alloys, and other plastic materials using a hot air gun. The tool also comes in handy for rubber membranes and offers an airtight seal for extra protection. The technique is best for use in single ply membranes and is known to be safer than other options as it doesn’t produce open flames.

Single Ply Roofing

SPR is a roofing technique that uses a single sheet membrane as the covering material. The covering material is made up of flexible sheets that fall under either Rubber Polymer Thermoset membranes or thermoplastic membranes. They are lightweight and flexible making installation a piece of cake.

Valley

This section is much lower than the other sections of the roof. It is the low point where two sections join. It usually has a channel for directing water flow to the designated area.

Pitch

This defines how the roof slopes and is indicated by angles or degrees. The more acute the angle the higher the pitch and the quicker the water will flow.

Roof Covering

This is a material used to stop the penetration of rain, dirt, creatures, among other things. It comes with different materials and is supported by the framework or truss.

a picture of tiles installed by Birmingham Roofing

Other common terms include Flaunching, Eaves, Hips, Parapet, Gable, Abutment, and Verge.

Final Thoughts

This article should help you learn what most common roofing terms mean. Most of these terms are commonly used by roofers and other professionals in the industry. As much as learning the terms is important, you also need to ensure you hire a competent contractor for your roofing needs.

Birmingham Roofers is your go-to roofing contractor if you are interested in reliable and quality roofing services. The company has grown over the years to become one of the most established and trusted roofing companies in Birmingham. The company is run by a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals who use modern methods to build you a proper roof. In addition to installation, Birmingham Roofers also does roof repairs and maintenance. Stop over at their website bmroofers.co.uk for more information on their services and industry jargon. You can also reach out to their team of friendly customer service staff and even ask for a free quote if needed.

Portrait Of Construction Worker On Building Site

A Building Industry Overview: The Changes and Procedures

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Being a proprietor of a building organisation, I know the first and real point to business progression. It is consumer loyalty. If there is chance that clients are fulfilled and cheerful, my organisation would develop, if they are disappointed….see you later.

Construction business is a beneficial trade to be in as well as having its own particular arrangement of difficulties. When the opportunity comes to changing over an unused bit of land to an appropriately built building, I need to deal with numerous exercises straight from mining to quarrying to construction to fabrication and supply of items, to upkeep and to conclusive conveyance of the building and foundation to the clients.

There are three primary parts to any building and construction industry – Infrastructure, Residential and Commercial or social. In United Kingdom, this industry gives 10% of the aggregate business and adds to seven percent to Gross Domestic Product. In spite of the fact that this construction industry is high-hazard and a long haul action, the profits it gives are high and is a lift to the economy.

We should see How the Building Industry in the UK Has Changed.

There are numerous administration offices incorporated into the endorsement of these undertakings. The Construction Leadership Council was defined to care for the undertaking of Construction until 2025: This is labelled as the mechanical methodology for construction. This gathering is aggregately headed by Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills and an industry agent.

Different divisions that are engaged with the basic leadership procedure of this industry include, to give some examples, British Waterways Board, Civil Aviation Authority, Port of London Authority, Environment Agency and some more, Chartered Institute of Building, Institution of Structural designers, Royal Institute of British Architects, Royal Town Planning Institute and some more.

UK construction industry faces numerous difficulties in the advanced circumstances. Above all else, urbanisation. The greater part of the general population presently need to live in urban communities and appreciate a cutting edge and rich way of life. This forces weight on the accessible and constrained utilities and provisions set up for these areas.

These non-inexhaustible assets will need be supplanted with sustainable ones so it can maintain the developing populace soon. This has brought forth the idea of brilliant urban communities, that are more arranged, can bolster thickly populated territories, and can be spotless and contamination free.

The other test confronted is Climate change and manageability. Green house gases force a genuine risk to the earth and furthermore to the wellbeing of individuals. They are additionally capable of the further weakening of the earth by causing nursery impact, ozone layer consumption, and expanding contamination. The UK governments focuses to diminish the greenhouse gases by 50% by 2025 and by just about 80% before the finish of 2050.

To make this powerful, it forces certain standards and controls on the stock that can be utilised by organisations so as to assemble these foundation and buildings. The stock ought to be productive, ought to emanate less ozone depleting substances and ought to be designed in accordance to the local landscape and feel of the community.

The third greatest difficulties when performing construction projects is the difference between what is designed, the desire of the consumer, to what is the final finished project.

If these are miles apart, then there is a huge problem that the building director has to over come with the customers.

Take a recent roofing project that we were responsible for. The communication we received from our project manager was that the job and roof was to be laid with delabole slate tiles. This was the preferred choice of the customer but our PM had not explained sufficiently that the cost of doing this compared with standard slates was double. So when the end invoice was sent in the home owner had not budgeted for this and felt he was not responsible for paying the extra cost as he was not told.

Our business had to take the hit. This is where liability and management of production costs have to be closely looked after. I have heard of many building and roofing companies fall foul of not doing this and end up with projects that make no profit as the margins have been swallowed up by eventualities that were not factored in.

What is normal from the building in its outline stages, shifts a considerable measure from what is conveyed when the construction of these buildings and framework finishes. This is named as an execution hole, variety amongst expected and genuine execution.

There is an organisation called Post Occupancy Review of Buildings and their Engineering (PROBE) which completes a study about the post – inhabitance aftereffects of these built buildings. Its expresses that the vitality utilisation of the building spans to twice more than initially anticipated. This is madly high as it puts a considerable measure of weight of the non-sustainable assets accessible and packed them quick. Carbon Trust has few projects in particular Low Carbon Buildings Accelerator and Low Carbon Buildings program that states vitality utilisation can reach up to 5 times higher than consistence really permits.

The UK construction industry is confronting steady reactions nowadays ideal from being inefficient in stock to consistent clashes and resistances inside the gatherings and between the gatherings. As a result of issues, loads of split-ups are found in the agreements which again requests renewals and rearrangements that tends to expand the courses of events of the undertaking. Single-party masteries impact the efficiency of the laborers.

It is likewise observed that individuals need to keep running on age-old standards instead of attempting to be imaginative and embedding new strategies. Be that as it may, even after every one of these deficiencies and independent of various reports in the market, government is attempting to think of better plans to enhance this industry. It is concentrating more on practical desires that can meet the objectives and proposals that can be legitimately actualised.

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velux window

The Process of Adding Velux Windows to your Roof

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Most Velux windows are to fit specific pitches. It’s, therefore, necessary to confirm that the target window will suit the slope of the pitch. You need to measure the angle then go for the right product.

Determine the location

You should choose the best location for maximum efficiency and improved operation. You may want to install it at a certain location, but you later discover there is a strong beam or rafter beneath. This calls for changing the location.

Measure the size

Just like the slope, it’s also important to know the dimension that will be covered by the window. The larger the window the larger the space should be. This entails using a ruler to measure the length and width.

Pick the right window

Velux windows come in many designs and each has its unique pros and cons. Some types are perfect for tiles, others for corrugated iron sheets, and some are fit for slates. You may pick a window based on the intended cut or cut the opening as per the window.

Mark the location

Mark the point where the window will go using chalk or any other identifier. And as the old adage states, measure twice cut once. After reconfirming then location, you now need to remove the tiles, slates, iron sheets, sheeting, insulation, and other covering materials. Leave a margin of about 18cm (7 inches) around.

Cut an opening

Cut an opening where the window will be placed. It should be between rafters so as to prevent structural damage and to allow in maximum lighting. You need to be extra careful while cutting to avoid interfering with plumbing or wiring.

NB: It’s advised to cut from the inside especially if the space between the ceiling and the roof is wide. Also, having an assistant to help you to hold the cutout helps.

Insert the Skylight

Insert the window in the opening and make sure it is aligned perfectly. Some types come with a built-in frame while others are attached to a curb. You should ensure there is minimal space around the edges.

Firmly secure the window to the support and if it’s the opening type, ensure it is operating perfectly.

Tip: Have an assistant to help you support and align the window during installation.

Waterproofing

Although the window is now firmly secured to the curb or frame, it still has openings that may allow water, moisture, dirt and other things to pass through. Placing a waterproof felt helps to stop these compounds. Staple it nicely all around. Some types may require an additional membrane for further water and windproofing.

Replace the tiles

The edges around the Velux window will be missing the covering. Replace the tiles, slate or corrugated iron sheet and make sure they flush properly. They now will be lying on the membrane.

Adding Velux windows to your roof will help improve the lighting in the loft conversation, enhance the beauty, and also add worth to your property. But, if done poorly, not only will it ruin the appeal and value but may mean you spending more time and cost carrying out the necessary repairs. You can save yourself the trouble by working with reputable and experienced roofers.

Birmingham Roofers is a well-known firm that specialises in the addition of Velux windows on the roof. It can fit different types of products on any type of roof whether sloping (pitched), hip, mansard, gambrel, or gable. The company uses the best technologies to ensure the installation is perfect and that there are no leaks, operating it is easy, and it improves the beauty and value of the property.

You can get in touch us Birmingham Roofers by visiting our website at bmroofers.co.uk, sending an email, or giving them a call. And if  you happen to be in Birmingham, you can always stop by their offices.

an interior view of a house attic under construction

Converting Your Loft and Roof

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Are you thinking or planning to convert your loft? Lately, the number of people undertaking loft conversions has been rising. Some do it to increase the living spaces by taking advantage of the space beneath a pitched roof whereas others do it to create extra storage space.

Whichever the reason for the conversion, it is important to ensure you do it right the first time. You don’t want to ruin your home’s appeal or functionality, or undermine its integrity. Additionally, a poorly done job may affect the roof framework and may lead to leaks. The following questions will help in choosing the best loft conversion:

1. Is the loft convertible?

Not every loft can be converted. Some will have limited space that won’t create a nice living space and the best it will serve as a storage point. The existing framing may not be able to support too much weight and the cost of reinforcing it may be too high. Also, the roof design and pitch may not provide the best design or lighting.

Talking to an expert before the conversion will help to ascertain the viability of the project. You don’t want to spend so much money and time only to never use the space. Also, you don’t want to ruin the appeal and value of the property.

Ivory vaulted ceiling nursery room with two cribs rocking chair and armchair. Room has two velux windows

2. What type of roof do you have?

Loft conversions can be undertaken on different types of roofs. These include mansard, gable, pitched and more. Nevertheless, the roof design and pitch will greatly determine the loft conversion. By looking at the framing (rafters or trusses), an experienced roofer will determine the most suitable. Rafters are much easier to work with courtesy of the triangular space they leave beneath the roof. Trusses can also be converted but will require extra reinforcements due to the design.

3. How much floor space do you have?

Many people focus more on the space beneath the roof and not so much on the floor space. However, as we know, you will need to build a staircase leading to the loft and this can take a considerable space. You also don’t want to undermine the functionality of the floor space by placing the staircase in a bad position. (Imagine a staircase right in the middle of the room?).

A competent roofer will design the best staircase that won’t interfere with the available space, functionality, movement or the aesthetic appeal. A common method is using a retractable staircase that is usually placed on the side of the room.

4. Which loft conversion do you want?

There are many kinds of loft conversions and these include roof light, hip-to-gable, dormer, and mansard. Each type has its key strengths and weaknesses and is also influenced by the roof design, house design, age of the structure and the budget.

Roof light conversions are easy to construct and don’t require lots of modification. However, you need to have lots of space already available. A dormer loft conversion is also among the affordable options and will work in most types of pitched roofs. Hip-to-gable and Mansard conversions are more expensive but add more space and value to a property.

Loft bedroom covered in hardwood floors with pictures, seat cushions and other decorations with slanted windows above. 3d Rendering.

5. Are planning permissions needed?

Generally, you can carry out a loft conversion without seeking any permission since they are already catered for by the permitted development rights. Nevertheless, if your house has a unique design or is located in a designated land, then you may require additional permission. A good roofing contractor should guide you to ensure you don’t violate any regulations.

6. Whats your budget

When planning to convert a loft, you need to have a predetermined budget. Usually, many people discover that they underestimated the budget simply because they compared it to other similar roofs or relied on incomplete information. And due to this, they are forced to look for more money or use shortcuts to finish the project.

The cost of converting a loft with trusses is usually higher than that with rafters. This is because extra support is needed to strengthen the framing. And unless you know the differences between the framing, you may use a wrong approach.

The above steps will make loft conversion not only easier but also time efficient. Nevertheless, it’s always advised to let the experts handle the job from start to finish. They will determine the available space, the best design, create something that suits your needs, use the best materials and techniques, and also ensure your needs and desires are not only met but exceeded.

Birmingham Roofers undertakes loft conversions and related roof services. Our company can handle any kind of task without a problem thanks to our many years of experience. We boast of a skilled workforce who takes extra precautions to ensure you get the best service. For more information on the service, you can call the company, visit our website at bmroofers.co.uk or send an email. Did you know that we offer a free quote on the service?

Converting your loft shouldn’t be a challenge. You also don’t need to rely on guesswork. Talk to Birmingham Roofers and enjoy the best service.

building house on blueprints with worker - construction project

An Overview of the Construction Industry

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The construction industry plays a vital role in the UK economy and is slowly returning to normalcy after some years of recession. According to the latest statistics from the Government Construction Strategy, the sector rakes in more them £110 billion annually and accounts for 7% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

It is very versatile and compromises of many trades including quarrying, mining, infrastructure, forestry, manufacturing of raw products, supplying of building materials, maintenance, disposal, transportation, and operation.

The private sector is the leading contributor accounting for 75% while the public sector takes the remaining 25%.

Data from the Government Construction Strategy indicates that Commercial and Social sector contribute 45%, Residential 40%, and Infrastructure 15%. New buildings contribute approximately 60% while maintenance and refurbishment account for 40%.

The industry had been on a downward slump following the recession a few years ago. This situation was put in jeopardy following BREXIT. However, the figures to date look quite promising although still low. This is according to the most current IHS Market/CIPS PMI.

As of October 2017, the PMI has risen to 50.8 from 48.1 in September. A number above 50 indicates growth and experts forecast this to continue.

According to Tim Moore, the associate director at IHS Market, greater house construction was the most vibrant while commercial activity and civil engineering experienced a decline.

Although commercial office construction declined and major infrastructure projects came to completion, homebuilding that was supported by the help-to-buy equity loan initiative from the government spurred growth.

The construction sector creates about 3 million jobs, accounting for 10% of employment in the UK. Data from the Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) shows that contracting creates 2,030,000 jobs and 234,000 businesses, Services 580,000 jobs and 30,000 businesses, while product accounts for 310,000 jobs and 18,000 businesses.

Portrait Of Construction Worker On Building Site

Construction, which is considered a high risk and high-cost venture, is a long-term activity and it’s among the good indicators of economic performance. The growth of the industry spurs growth while a decline has roller effect on the economy.

Different leadership and governance arms play a role in the industry with the most notable being Department of Business, Innovation, and Skills, Department of Communities and Local Government, Government Contraction Board, Environmental Agency, Highways England, Ministry of Cabinet Office, Design Council CABE, Construction Industry Council (CIC), British Waterways and Health and Safety Executive. The sectors are charged with creating regulation and planning.

Although the sector is looking up, some player’s criticize it for being slow to act, adversarial, wasteful and slow in raising awareness and dissemination knowledge. This leads to slow decision making, poor implementation, duplication of effort, and lack of clear guidelines. They believe that if these issues were dealt with, the sector would be more vibrant.

Like any other sectors, the construction industry is faced with many challenges. Firstly, more and more people are heading to the cities and this creates a strain in the infrastructure, housing, and other related sectors.

Secondly, fast depletion of non-renewable resources puts pressure on the raw materials that are a key requirement in the processes. Industry players need to look for alternative sources which unfortunately are more costly.

Thirdly, the effect of climatic changes can’t be ignored. The government together with other partners in adopting methods that will reduce pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and also increase the uptake of clean energy such as solar and wind power.

Even though the industry is showing improvement, a lot still needs to be done to meet the market demands and expectation. Data shows there is a Performance Gap where the buildings don’t perform as expected. This is seen in the design, efficiency, reliability and other factors.

a picture of a roofer in birmingham

A study from Post Occupancy Review of Buildings and their Engineering (PROBE) showed that consumers were consuming twice the energy.

The UK government spending on construction was among the lowest in the rich countries accounting for 2.4% of the national income. The private sector also fared badly, spending 14.3% of the GDP whereas the average for rich countries was 18.3%.

Both the government and private sector need to work together and put in more effort and resources to experience growth and long-term sustainability.

Conclusion

Birmingham Roofers is a major player in the construction industry and engages in the construction of new roofs, overhauling entire roofs, refurbishment and repair, loft conversion and much more. The company serves residents of Birmingham and caters for residential, industrial, as well as commercial customers.

Thanks to its team of expert contractors, the firm delivers topnotch and timely services and also provide a guarantee on the products and services. It’s always researching on new methods and techniques so as to satisfy the customer and keep abreast with the advancement in the sector.

For more information about the roofer, the services it provides, or the construction sector you can visit bmroofers.co.uk. Birmingham Roofers gives a free service quote on the services and all you need is send them an email, call, or simply drop by their office.

What Are Gutters, Fascias and Soffitts?

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Do you know the important parts of a roof?

You may have a vague idea, you might know nothing!

picture of roof soffitts

But one certain this is that without a proper roof, your property (home, office, warehouse, workshop…) would be inhabitable. It would allow water and rain to leak through, it may allow the heat to escape during cold weather, or have bad air circulation in the hot weather. A bad roof also undermines the value of your property and may also be a health hazard since the parts may fail and it may cave in and injure the occupants. It’s therefore important to make certain you invest in the best roof and also maintain it on a regular basis. The following are some of the key parts of roofing.

Gutters

The gutter collects the water draining from the roof and channels it to the downspouts. It is attached to long planks of wood or plastic known as fascias. The accessory comes with a half-round flat-bottom design and may be continuous (seamless) or comes in sections. It’s made of materials like plastic, galvanized steel, copper, zinc, vinyl and more. Due to age, accumulation of dirt and debris( grass clippings, dust, animal droppings, nests, leaves, twigs, mud, pebbles…)poor use, or accidents, it may start sagging, rust, corrode or get misaligned and this may lead to leakage, some water splashing top the fascia or wall, or faded tiles. When this happens, it’s necessary to have the accessory repaired or replaced.

Fascia

Fascia is the long wooden plank that runs horizontally on the edge of the roof. It is nailed to rafters/beams that support the roofing materials (tiles, iron sheets) and supports the gutter. Without it, it would be hard to attach the gutter. Additionally, it improves the appearance of the roof since you won’t see the rafters when viewing it from an angle. Wood is the common material of construction in the UK, although plastic is becoming popular. Over time or because of an accident, it may crack, break, start rotting, warp, or the paint may start flaking. These problems are corrected by replacing the bad section or gutter or repainting it after solving the problem.

Soffits

a picture of a corner of roof section

The region between the fascia and the wall is known as the soffit. It is both functional and aesthetical. It is nailed/ attached to the rafters and hides the rafters, underlayment, battens, sheathing, and other roof sections. Soffits also improve the aesthetic appeal of the property as well as the value. Signs of failing or worn out soffit include flaking pint, sags, rot, mold, moss, leaking, and crookedness. A competent roofer in Birmingham is able to assess the extent of the damage and also offer the correct solution.

If you would like to have your gutters, fascias, soffits and other parts of your roof to be inspected, repairs, or replaced, then you need to talk to a qualified and competent firm. As Birmingham Roofers, we take provide on being a leading roofing expert in the region and beyond. We can handle any type of roofing needs whether new installation, evaluation, replacement, repairs and more. To learn more about our services, visit our website, send an email, or give us a call. And if you are within the Birmingham area, you can also drop by our offices. And did you know we give a free quote on all our service?