It is possible to remove small areas of black mold yourself, if you are very careful.  Be sure to call in the professionals to remove larger areas of infestation.  Always wear adequate protective clothing, including gloves and face masks.  It is extremely dangerous to breathe in the mold spores.  Remember that in addition to removing the mold you can see, you will also have to locate its source and where it might be hidden.  Here are some tips for removing black mold.

Identify the damp areas – The first step is to locate the problem and where the moisture is coming from in the first place.  Anywhere moisture is allowed to accumulate is a perfect breeding ground for mold.

Preventing mold from spreading – As you are working, be sure to seal off the room, this prevents the mold from spreading.  In addition it is a good idea to keep dust levels down to prevent the dust from spreading.

Removing the black mold – Thoroughly clean the affected area with a solution that is specific for killing and cleaning black mold.  The mold may also be living in area where you can’t see it, so it important to clean all visible surfaces.

Once the area is clean it is important to dispose of the contaminated materials you used to clean.   Place the pieces in heavy duty plastic bags and keep them outside until they can be disposed of properly.

Source:  http://roofjack.co.cc/dryer-vent-pipe/toxic-black-mold-removal-doing-it-yourself

Ice dams are a common threat in the northern climates.  There are a few ways to deal with them.  However, one must understand how they are formed before they can be removed.

Ice dams form at the edge of the roof near the gutters.  In a situation where there is poor ventilation from the attic, warm air rises and melts the snow closest to the roof.  The water then travels to the bottom of the roof where it wants to run off, but cannot, either due to gutter blockage or excessive snow.   Eventually, the water turns to ice and the cycle continues.  The ice forces its way underneath the shingle.  If and when this ice melts, it will create a leak on the inside of the home

Try to keep as much snow off your roof as possible.  This obviously does not mean putting yourself in danger.  Research the various methods of removing snow from the roof, or call in the professionals.  If you do notice water damage in your home, it is best to have the roof or attic repaired in the spring, summer or fall months, to prevent the same problems from happening again.

Source:  http://ezinearticles.com/?Ice-Dams-That-Create-Home-Water-Damage&id=3371331

This winter seems to have blasted the cold and snow and many more people find themselves trying to deal with the build-up.  It is ideal to know the ins and outs of ice dams and snow build-up, in order to know what to look for and to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Ice dams are a blockage of ice in the gutters and on the roof.  Snow melts because of an unventilated attic and the water is unable to run off the roof, where it freezes and the cycle continues.  Unfortunately, the build-up of snow and ice can cause problems that are more serious; like roof damage or even damage inside your home.  Damage on the roof can include structural damage, damage to the shingles and water damage.  The same is true for the interior.  Water damage and structural damage are likely to occur.  Professionals recommend preventing the problem before it starts by properly insulating your attic and making sure that when the time comes, your roof will be able to defend itself.

Ice dams and snow build-up are detrimental to your home if you are not aware of the damage they can cause.  If you do find yourself with snow problems, the best advice is to remove it or have it removed before it can cause any damage.

Source:  http://www.channel3000.com/houseandhome/22102143/detail.html

Mold is a constant enemy because it is so difficult to remove.  Mold on the roof is caused by moisture and poor ventilation in the attic.  Mold is dangerous because it affects the structural integrity of the home and it is a serious health hazard.  Prevention is the key, but if you already have a mold problem, getting rid of it should be a high priority.

Bleach is a common cleaner for mold.  However, it is important to note that bleach merely discolours the mold, making it look as though it has vanished.  It does not reach the root of the problem and eventually the mold will return.  This is primarily because bleach has no anti-microbial properties.

The best types of products to use to remove mold from the roof or anywhere for that matter are biocides and anti-microbial cleaners.  There are green options available, which is advantageous because these products are not harmful and will not damage the landscape under the roof.  These cleaners will destroy the mold and any underlying slime that might remain.  It is best to speak to professionals to get the best possible product for your mold removal needs.

Source:  http://normipro.blogspot.com/2007/08/bleach-does-not-kill-mold-d.html

Although roof mold is not deadly, it can cause serious damage to your shingles.  In addition, the unsightly stains are unattractive from the street.  There are multiple ways this problem can be resolved, although they are dependent on your skill level and financial situation.

Some may use the opportunity to replace the roof tiles altogether.  This is an expensive option, but if the quality of the shingles are already depleting, it may be beneficial to have them replaced.  Alternatively, bringing in a professional to repair the problem is the optimal choice, because they will clean the mold and prevent it from recurring.  Professionals will complete the job effectively and minimize any further damage to the tiles or the roof.  However, be aware that this also can be quite expensive.  On the other hand, if you consider yourself handy, you can attempt to clean the roof and shingles yourself.  Spray the tiles with a mold killer and then rinse them with a hose.  Please refer to a guide for properly removing mold.

Prolong the life of your roof by being aware of any mold that could be developing.  The solution you choose of course is dependent on your own personal situation, but it is recommended to consult a roofing professional to make an educated decision.

Source:  http://blackmoldremovalguide.com/mold-on-roof-tips

Many factors in your home can contribute the life and longevity of your roof.  On the topic of ice dams, the stack effect has a major effect because it warms the temperature in the attic.  In addressing this issue, it is possible to eliminate the problem by treating the root of it.

The “stack effect” occurs in both the summer season and the winter season.  When warm air enters through the lower levels of the house, rises up and releases through the roof, you have a stack effect.  Essentially, as the warm air is escaping through the attic and roof space, more cool air is drawn in and the cycle continues.  The stack effect can be detrimental because when the warm air is released through your roof, it melts the snow on the roof, which in turn freezes and then backs up creating a dangerous ice dam.

It is important to address the problem of the stack effect in order to prevent any damage to your roof, not to mention the money you would save on wasted energy.  Consider conducting and efficiency test in your home to determine where the cool air is coming from, by sealing any leaks you can significantly decrease the amount of warm air rising.

Source:  http://www.basementsystems.com/crawl-space/stack-effect.html