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*Question & Answer Roof*

Dear Bob

My new roof is five years old, but now has developed leaks along the valley, where two sloping roofs meet to make a valley where the water gushes down quite hard. I may need a new roof, so how do I determine how to install the valley flashing and shingles?

Dear CC

You may not need a new roof if you can get the roofer to install the proper flashing. To do this, remove all shingles on each side of valley and the flashing, if any, under the shingles. Then install two-foot-wide roll roofing in the valley, then another strip of roll roofing three-feet wide right on top. Then install new shingles. In parts of New England and other parts of the country, the shingles are woven across the valley. This is the best way, and most likely not to leak.

Dear Bob

My neighbors and I both have moss growing on our roofs. Is there a chemical that I can spray on the roof to kill the Moss?

Dear Matt

I recommend a 3 step method to fix your problem. First, there is a product called "Moss Aside" that can be applied in the spring or fall with a garden sprayer. Try a small area first to make sure it is the proper strength for your situation.

After the moss is dead it can be washed off with a strong garden hose or if necessary a power washer.

When the roof is dry; install zinc strips at the peak and every few feet all the way down to the gutter. The strips will release zinc carbonate into the rainwater as it runs down the roof. The chemical is deposited on the shingle granules and inhibits future growth.

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