How to Spot Ice Dams Look for these warning signs: Icicles hanging from your gutters – While small icicles aren’t always a problem, large ones could indicate poor drainage. Ice buildup along the roof’s edge – A thick ridge of ice near the eaves is a telltale sign of an ice dam. Water stains on ceilings or walls – If you notice stains or peeling paint inside your home, trapped water may be leaking through your roof. Sagging or damaged gutters – Excessive ice can weigh down and damage your gutters. How to Fix Ice Dams If you already have ice dams, here’s what you can do: Use a Roof Rake – Carefully remove excess snow with a roof rake to prevent further melting and refreezing. Melt the Ice – Fill a nylon stocking with calcium chloride and place it perpendicular to the dam to help it melt away. Check for Leaks – Inspect your attic for moisture buildup and seal any affected areas. Call a Professional – If the ice dam is large or causing damage, a roofing expert can safely remove it and assess any issues. How to Prevent Ice Dams The best way to deal with ice dams is to stop them before they form. Here’s how: Improve Attic Insulation – A well-insulated attic prevents heat from escaping and melting the snow on your roof. Ventilate Your Roof – Proper ventilation keeps your roof’s temperature consistent, reducing the risk of uneven melting. Clear Gutters Before Winter – Clean gutters allow proper drainage and prevent water from backing up. Check out our blog for good practices when clearing your gutters. Stay Ahead of Winter Roof Damage Ice dams are a serious winter roofing issue, but with the right precautions, you can keep your home safe and dry. If you suspect ice dams are forming or need expert help, Lighthouse Roofing & Exteriors is here to assist!  Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your roof in top shape this winter!

How to Choose a Trustworthy Roofing Contractor Your roof is one of the most important investments in your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. When it's time for a repair or replacement, choosing the right roofing contractor is crucial. A reputable contractor ensures quality work, fair pricing, and long-term reliability, while the wrong choice can lead to costly mistakes and frustration. Here’s how to find a trustworthy roofing contractor who will get the job done right. Verify Licensing and Insurance A professional roofing contractor should be fully licensed and insured to operate in your area. This protects both you and the contractor in case of accidents or damage during the project. What to check for: A valid business license in your state. Liability insurance to cover property damage. Worker’s compensation insurance to protect workers on your property. Pro Tip: Ask for proof of insurance and verify it with the provider. A reputable contractor will have no problem supplying these documents. Look for Local Experience A contractor with local experience understands the specific weather conditions and roofing needs of your area. They will also be familiar with local building codes and regulations. Why choose a local roofer? Faster response times for emergencies. Knowledge of the best materials for your climate. A reputation you can verify with local references. Pro Tip: Avoid "storm chasers"—contractors who show up after major weather events, do subpar work, and disappear before warranty issues arise. Check Online Reviews and References Customer feedback is a powerful tool for evaluating a roofing contractor. Look for consistent positive reviews and a strong reputation in the community. Where to check reviews: Google My Business Better Business Bureau (BBB) Yelp, Facebook, or Angi Pro Tip: Ask the contractor for 3–5 references from recent jobs. Call these homeowners and ask about their experience, quality of work, and whether they would hire the contractor again. Get a Detailed, Written Estimate A trustworthy roofing contractor will provide a clear, itemized estimate before work begins. This prevents unexpected costs and ensures transparency. What your estimate should include: Cost of materials and labor. Project timeline and completion date. Payment terms and schedule. Warranty details on materials and workmanship. Pro Tip: Be wary of contractors who demand full payment upfront or offer unusually low estimates—it could be a sign of low-quality work or a scam. Understand the Warranty Coverage A solid roofing contractor should stand behind their work with a written warranty . Types of warranties to look for: Manufacturer’s Warranty – Covers defects in roofing materials. Workmanship Warranty – Covers installation errors and labor. Pro Tip: Ask how long the contractor has been in business. A 25-year warranty won’t mean much if the company disappears in five years. Ask About Communication and Project Management Clear communication is key to a smooth roofing project. Your contractor should be responsive, answer questions, and provide regular updates. Questions to ask: Who will be my main point of contact? How will you handle unexpected issues or changes? What is your process for cleanup after the project? Pro Tip: A professional contractor will walk you through the process, keep you informed, and ensure your property is clean when the job is done. Watch for Red Flags Avoid contractors who exhibit the following warning signs: 🚩 High-pressure sales tactics. 🚩 No physical business address. 🚩 Unclear or vague contracts. 🚩 Lack of references or verifiable reviews. 🚩 Unwillingness to provide proof of insurance or licensing. Pro Tip: Trust your instincts. If something feels off, get a second opinion before committing. Choosing a trustworthy roofing contractor doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps, you can confidently hire a professional who will protect your home with quality workmanship. At Lighthouse Roofing and Exteriors , we are proud to serve Middle Tennessee with honesty, integrity, and expert craftsmanship . We are licensed, insured, and backed by years of experience in roofing and exterior services. Need a free roof inspection? Contact us today and let’s get started! 🏡🔨 Would you like an infographic or social media caption to go along with this blog post? Let me know!

The Role of Flashing in Keeping Your Roof Leak-Free When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, your roof plays the starring role. But behind the scenes, one unsung hero works tirelessly to ensure your roof stays leak-free: flashing . While it might not be as visible or well-known as shingles or gutters, flashing is a critical component in your roof’s defense system. Here’s what you need to know about flashing, why it’s essential, and how to ensure it remains in top shape. What Is Roof Flashing? Roof flashing is a thin, weather-resistant material—typically made of aluminum, steel, or copper—that is installed at vulnerable areas of your roof to redirect water away from key structures. Flashing is strategically placed around: Chimneys Skylights Vents and pipes Roof valleys Edges and corners Its primary job? To create a watertight seal and prevent water from seeping into your roof’s underlayment, where it can cause leaks and long-term damage. Why Is Flashing So Important? Prevents Water Damage Without proper flashing, water can find its way into the smallest cracks and gaps, leading to leaks, mold, and wood rot. Over time, this can weaken your home’s structural integrity and result in costly repairs. Protects Roof Valleys Roof valleys are particularly vulnerable because they handle large volumes of water runoff. Flashing ensures that water flows smoothly off your roof instead of pooling or penetrating the surface. Extends Roof Lifespan By keeping water out of critical areas, flashing helps preserve the overall health of your roof, extending its lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs. Enhances Energy Efficiency Leaky roofs allow moisture to enter your attic, potentially leading to insulation damage. Proper flashing helps maintain a sealed environment, which improves energy efficiency and lowers heating and cooling costs. Types of Roof Flashing Different types of flashing are used for various parts of the roof. Here’s a quick breakdown: Step Flashing : Installed in roof valleys and along roof-to-wall intersections. Counter Flashing : Works in tandem with step flashing to seal areas around chimneys and walls. Drip Edge Flashing : Placed along the roof’s edges to guide water into the gutters. Vent Pipe Flashing : Encircles roof penetrations like plumbing vents and pipes. Skylight Flashing : Seals the edges of skylights to prevent leaks around the opening. Signs Your Flashing Needs Attention Flashing is designed to last, but like any roofing component, it can deteriorate over time. Watch out for these warning signs: Rust or corrosion : Metal flashing can rust when exposed to the elements for extended periods. Cracks or gaps : Damage to the flashing can allow water to seep through. Loose or missing pieces : High winds, storms, or improper installation can dislodge flashing. Stains or leaks inside your home : Water stains on ceilings or walls are often a sign of flashing failure. How to Maintain and Repair Roof Flashing Regular Inspections Inspect your flashing at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—or after major storms. Pay close attention to areas around chimneys, skylights, and roof valleys. Seal Small Gaps If you notice small cracks or gaps, apply roofing caulk or sealant as a temporary fix. Replace Damaged Flashing For significant damage, it’s best to replace the flashing entirely. Professional roofers can ensure proper installation to avoid future issues. Ensure Proper Installation Poorly installed flashing is one of the leading causes of roof leaks. Always hire experienced roofing professionals to handle flashing installation and repairs.  Why Choose Lighthouse Roofing and Exteriors? At Lighthouse Roofing and Exteriors , we know that even the smallest details can make a big difference in keeping your roof leak-free. Our team specializes in identifying and repairing flashing issues, ensuring your roof stays strong and watertight. If you’re concerned about your roof’s flashing or have noticed signs of a potential leak, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. Contact us today for a comprehensive roof inspection and expert repair services.