Category: Roofing

Different Types of Commercial Roofing

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Commercial Roofing involves many of the same concepts as Residential Roofing, but with more complicated requirements and standards. These unique specifications must be taken into account to ensure the roof’s construction and function.

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Commercial property owners must ensure their roofs are in good condition to avoid costly damages that lead to leaks and unappealing curb front appearances. This requires regular inspections, timely repairs and a robust maintenance schedule. Find Out More Here to learn more.

The most popular roofing material in North America, asphalt shingles offer the perfect blend of cost-effectiveness and aesthetics. Known as composition shingles, they are a composite product that is made from fiberglass or cellulose mat and coated with asphalt. These shingles are available in four different styles and colors, which work well with a wide range of home architectural designs. The combination of their affordability, easy installation, and weather resistance make them a great choice for homeowners.

While the popularity of asphalt shingles is no surprise, it may be surprising to learn that they are actually much older than you think. They evolved from a mid-19th century style of roof coating that used layers of felt saturated with coal tar. Those early shingles were a staple in residential roofing, but they did not hold up well to the rigors of commercial roofing applications.

Today, shingle manufacturers use a process that allows them to add extra strength and durability to their products. The basic components of a modern shingle are a durable, lightweight fiberglass mat that is embedded with a layer of hot asphalt and topped with a ceramic-coated mineral granule surface. The granules help protect the asphalt from damage and UV radiation. They also add color and enhance the appearance of the shingle, while protecting the fiberglass or cellulose core underneath.

The waterproof asphalt coating on top is what makes the shingles resistant to all types of weather conditions. They can withstand scorching heat, heavy rains, and snowfall. They are designed to shed water, preventing it from pooling and damaging the attic. In addition, their thickness and construction prevents air infiltration and moisture penetration, keeping the interior of the structure a comfortable temperature throughout the year.

For those seeking to upgrade the aesthetics of their roof, luxury shingles are an excellent option. They resemble other high-end roofing materials, such as slate and cedar shakes, and are available in multiple styles. They are thicker and heavier than 3-tab shingles, offering superior durability and longer warranties. Some of them even have a class 4 impact-resistant rating, which can reduce the homeowner’s insurance premium.

Metal

When it comes to commercial roofing, metal is an excellent option for a number of reasons. First, it’s very durable and long-lasting. In addition, it holds up to harsh weather conditions like high winds and heavy rains. Moreover, it can protect the interior of a building from leaks. Lastly, it can last for up to 70 years without needing replacement.

Another benefit of metal is that it’s fire-resistant. This is important because it prevents the spreading of a fire throughout the entire building and saves the lives of people inside. In contrast, a shingle roof can spread a fire to the interior of a building with ease and cause extensive damage.

In addition to being fire-resistant, metal is also very energy efficient. This is because it reflects the sun’s rays and can reduce the amount of heat that enters a building. As a result, it can save businesses money on their utility bills.

There are a variety of different types of metal roofing available. Some are designed to look like traditional shingles while others are more modern in appearance. For example, the DECRA metal shingle is an excellent choice for those looking to combine durability and aesthetics. It’s available in a range of colors and reflective properties, which means that you can choose the perfect style for your business.

Moreover, there are other types of metal roofing that offer more durability than asphalt shingles. For instance, steel roofing panels are an excellent option for those looking for a long-lasting solution that’s resistant to harsh weather conditions. Metal roofing is also more resistant to hail than shingle roofs. In fact, some metal roofs are even rated for impact resistance, which makes them a good choice for areas with frequent hail storms.

One disadvantage of a metal roof is that it can be more expensive than an asphalt shingle roof. However, the initial investment will pay off over time. A metal roof can also increase the value of a property, making it easier to sell when the time comes.

One of the most popular types of metal roofing is galvalume. This is an aluminum and zinc alloy that’s highly durable and can withstand extreme temperatures. It’s also able to resist the effects of salty air, which is an important factor if you live near water. Additionally, galvalume is available in a variety of panel profiles, which allows it to fit well with a number of different architectural styles.

EPDM Rubber

EPDM is a type of synthetic rubber that is commonly used in commercial roofing because of its energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. Its energy-efficient nature helps reduce your commercial property’s heating and cooling costs, while its durability and weather resistance make it a cost-effective option for long-term protection. The material also has low environmental impact and is compatible with many green building initiatives.

EPDM roofs are typically installed on flat or low-slope buildings. They are usually constructed of one large sheet, which reduces the number of seams and provides added strength to your roof. This membrane is highly durable and can withstand the elements for decades. It also resists UV radiation, ozone, and extreme temperatures, making it a strong choice for a commercial roofing solution.

Unlike other roofing materials, EPDM has minimal maintenance needs. A few inspections every 2 to 3 years are typically sufficient to catch small issues and repair them before they grow into major problems.

When a problem does occur, it is easy to repair EPDM with patch kits and adhesive sealants. These simple tools can make the repairs fast and convenient, keeping your business’s roofing system up to date and protecting your employees and inventory.

If you are interested in using EPDM for your commercial roof, be sure to hire an experienced roofing contractor. They can help you choose the right membrane to suit your roof, and they will inspect and prepare your existing structure to ensure a solid installation and long-lasting performance.

The process for installing EPDM on a flat or low-slope roof is relatively simple. The professional roofing team will inspect the roof to determine if it can support the new material, and they will clear away any debris or old roofing materials to prepare the surface for installation. They will also check for any damage or structural issues that may require additional attention to prevent further problems.

Once the roof has been properly inspected and prepared, the installers will begin laying the membrane. They will trim it to fit the shape of your roof, paying special attention to the seams to ensure they remain watertight and durable. Then, they will seal the seams with bonding adhesive or tape to prevent leaks.

Single-Ply Membranes

Single-ply membranes consist of a single layer of material applied over a commercial roof’s existing roof deck and insulation, mechanically attached or adhered, with heat-welded seams. They are available in a variety of thicknesses, color options and performance characteristics to meet the unique requirements for different roofing conditions and environmental factors.

Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) are two of the most popular single-ply membranes. These systems offer a range of cost-effective, energy efficient and durable protection for commercial buildings, including light-colored membranes that reflect sunlight to lower cooling costs. Other benefits include superior resistance to weathering and chemical exposure, as well as flexibility to accommodate a building’s expansion and contraction over time.

Both TPO and PVC offer outstanding puncture and impact resistance, as well as durability against harsh chemicals, fire, and ultraviolet radiation. They are also lightweight, which contributes to ease of installation and lower labor costs compared to traditional construction materials. Thermoplastic membranes also resist ozone, UV rays, and other weather conditions that negatively impact traditional bitumen-based roof coatings.

In addition to their durability and longevity, single-ply membranes are easy to maintain, with little or no downtime for repairs or replacement. These systems also have a low moisture content and require less frequent cleaning, which is ideal for facilities that house sensitive equipment or chemicals.

The membranes are factory-manufactured sheet membranes that are either thermoplastic or thermoset, and they may or may not contain reinforcement layers. Thermoplastic membranes soften when heated and harden when cooled, while thermoset membranes solidify, or set, irreversibly after heating. Some common reinforcements include polyester fabrics or scrim, glass fiber, and felt or fleece.

Most single-ply membranes can be installed in one of three ways: fully adhered, mechanically attached, or ballasted. Choosing the appropriate method for your facility and budget will ensure the best installation results.

Preparing Your Property for Roofing Installation

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Roof installation is a complex process. It requires careful planning and precision to ensure a durable, reliable roofing structure.

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The first step is to remove any existing shingles and repair any damaged areas of the decking. A water-resistant underlayment is then laid across the roof. For professional help, contact Arthur’s Roofing.

A specialized metal material is then installed around chimneys, vents and other spots to prevent leaks.

The roofing installation process involves a great deal of work, and it’s important to take the time to properly prepare your property for the job. This helps ensure that the project is completed in a timely manner and that your home is protected from debris and dust.

If you’re planning to install a new roof, it’s a good idea to speak with your contractor early on to discuss your expectations and establish an installation timeline. This will help to ensure that the project is completed within a reasonable timeframe and that you are happy with the results. It’s also a good idea to discuss potential problems that might arise during the construction process and develop contingency plans to address them.

It’s also important to be aware of the requirements and procedures for obtaining a permit if necessary for your roof installation project. This can vary from location to location, so it’s a good idea to contact your local building department for more information.

To make the installation process go smoothly, it’s a good idea to remove any items in your attic that could be damaged by vibrations during the roof replacement. You’ll want to cover any valuables with tarps or plastic sheets, and you should move any wall-mounted decorative elements like mirrors and artwork from upper levels of your house to prevent damage. You’ll also need to clear any areas where the roofers will be working and remove any vehicles from your driveway, as they will likely need to drive on the surface of the ground while the work is in progress.

It’s also a good idea to inform your neighbors about the work, as it can cause a lot of noise and may result in dirt or debris being tracked into their yards. If you have young children or elderly family members, you should consider arranging for them to stay with friends or relatives during the renovations to avoid unnecessary stress. You should also clear your yard of any outdoor furniture or grills, as they will probably get in the way of the roofers’ work and can easily be damaged by falling materials or debris.

Materials

A roofing project is not the simplest or cheapest of home improvement tasks, but for a committed do-it-yourselfer it can be rewarding and a valuable learning experience. To ensure that your roof installation goes as smoothly as possible, you will need a variety of materials, including:

Sheathing

Roof sheathing is the base layer upon which all other roof components are installed. It is a crucial element that provides support and insulation to the roof. It is also the primary barrier between the structure of the house and the elements, so the sheathing must be strong and durable. Sheathing is usually made of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB), which are engineered wood products that provide consistent strength for long-lasting durability.

Single-ply membranes are flexible sheets of compounded synthetic materials that are manufactured in a factory. They are available in a variety of thicknesses to suit the needs of each application.

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber) is a popular choice for low-sloped and flat roofs. It is very durable and energy efficient, and it is relatively easy to install. TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) is another popular single-ply membrane. It is very energy efficient and has a high solar reflectance to help keep your building cooler.

Built-up roofing (BUR) is a traditional system that has many advantages, especially on dead-level or very low-sloped roofs. It consists of plies of felt saturated in bitumen. The bitumen is typically derived from petroleum, but for very low-sloped roofs it can be coal tar. A vapor barrier and ballast are often installed over the bitumen to protect the underlying sheathing from water damage.

Asphalt shingles are the most common roof covering, but other types of shingle may be used in specific applications. Some are made of recycled material, which helps to conserve natural resources. Others have reflective granules embedded in them to help cut down on heat buildup in the building.

Using the right shingle type and color is important to the aesthetics of your building. You will also need underlayment, which is a waterproof sheet of paper-like material placed over the sheathing to seal it from rain and snow. You will also need flashing, which is metal or other material installed to help seal the joints of your roof where different components meet.

Installation

Once all preparatory work is complete, the roofing project can begin. First, the roofers will inspect the existing roof to determine the extent of any damage and how best to proceed. They will then remove the old shingles and underlayment and haul them away for disposal or recycling. Depending on the size of the job, this may require the use of heavy equipment like cranes or forklifts.

During this time, the roofers will also install a new ridge batten. This will help with the structural integrity of the roof. A breathable ridge membrane will then be fixed to the ridge batten with a ridge to ridge seal that offers a mechanical fix and extra strength.

Next, the roofers will add flashing to protect the eaves from water leaks and to prevent heat transfer from the roof. This step is also the ideal time to add vents for attic ventilation. In addition, some homeowners wish to have these areas insulated for energy efficiency.

When choosing a roofing contractor, ensure that they are licensed, insured and certified. This guarantees a high level of professionalism and expertise. A comprehensive installation plan should be developed, with a timeline and project milestones. A contingency plan is also advisable, as unexpected issues can occur. It is vital that the roofing contractors are familiar with local building codes and permit requirements. This will prevent delays and ensure compliance with regulations.

Maintenance

It’s critical for any roof to be properly maintained. This helps prevent small, easily repairable problems from escalating into large, costly ones, improves energy efficiency and extends the life of your roof. In addition, regular maintenance can help maintain curb appeal and avoid voiding the manufacturer’s or contractor’s warranties.

It takes special tools and equipment to perform maintenance on a roof. Standard roofing materials like hammers, nails, ladders and shingles are used, but more specialized tools such as shingle cutters, scrapers and brushes are needed to clean off debris from the surface of your roof and around the gutters and valleys.

Other tools used to maintain your roof include flashing, which is the narrow, galvanized steel material that’s installed on a roof to send water away from chimneys, vents, skylights and other features of your home’s structure. It’s important to regularly check flashing for leaks, rust or other damage and replace it as needed.

The Basics of Roofing

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The roof is an important part of a home. It protects the people and things inside the house from rain, snow, sunlight, extreme temperatures, and other elements.

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There are many different kinds of roofing materials. Each offers its own advantages, disadvantages, and costs. This article will cover the basics of Boston Roofing CO construction.

A roof can be made of a variety of materials, depending on what is available locally. For example, in tropical areas palm fronds may be used as roofing, and in Africa, mud or straw can be used to cover wattle-and-daub huts. In many homes and commercial buildings, wood shingles are still popular due to their availability and beauty. Concrete is another option for a roof, although it can be heavy and can be damaged by harsh climates.

One of the most durable roofing options is plywood, which is made from thin veneer layers (known as plies) of wood bonded together with adhesives. The plies are oriented perpendicular to each other, which gives the panel strength and durability. Another common type of wood-based substrate is Oriented Strand Board (OSB), which is similar to plywood but uses strands or chips instead of veneer layers.

Before the Industrial Revolution, the choice of roofing materials was limited to what was naturally available. Thatching, which used dried vegetation like reeds, straw or heather, was an early favorite because of its insulating properties and ease of installation. However, thatching was prone to fire and required constant maintenance.

Materials

A roofing job is not complete without the right materials and workmanship. The type of material to use will largely depend on your budget, as well as the climate in your area. The best way to ensure that your roof is long-lasting and attractive is to use high-quality materials. There are also certain roof materials that are not suitable for specific locations. Some of these include clay tiles, concrete, and shingles.

Corrugated galvanised iron (often called “Gal Iron”) is the most widely used roofing material in Australia. Its wavy corrugations allow it to resist lateral flexing and its exposed fasteners provide extra strength. It is an economical choice for sloped residential roofs and for utilitarian buildings like sheds. It is usually covered with a thick coating of mineral granules, and can be fixed either using a torch or by nailing it to the deck.

Slate is a popular option for roofing, but it’s not ideal in areas that experience frequent hailstorms. Slate can be prone to moss and mildew if it’s not well maintained. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent these problems.

Another alternative to slate is clay tile, which is made from molded and fired earthen clay. This material is long-lasting and durable, and it can withstand storms and extreme weather. However, it can be heavy, and installing it requires the help of professionals from a roofing services company.

Concrete is a versatile roofing material that can be formed into different shapes and sizes. It is commonly used for low-sloped roofs, and it can be textured to resemble other types of roofing materials. It is also resistant to fire, but it can be prone to cracking and leaks in some cases.

Rubber is a versatile, environmentally friendly roofing material that can be manufactured to look like other kinds of materials. It’s relatively inexpensive, and it can last up to 20 years. However, it isn’t as strong as some other types of roofing.

An ice and water shield is a specialized membrane that protects vulnerable parts of a roof from leaking or ice damage. It’s often installed in the valleys of a roof and around penetrations, and it’s required by building codes in cold-weather regions.

Installation

When installing a new roof, there are many different processes that need to be followed. First, the site must be prepared. This includes covering surrounding landscaping with tarps and positioning garbage cans to catch any debris that may fall from the roof. It is also important to ensure that the area is free of any objects that could interfere with the installation process.

Next, the roofing contractor must remove any existing shingles and underlayment from the roof. This can be a messy job and should be done carefully to avoid damaging the underlying structure. Once this is complete, the contractor must prepare the area for the new shingles. This includes covering any landscaping and placing tarps over open drains to prevent any clogs from debris.

Then, the actual roofing process begins. This is typically the most repetitive and physically demanding part of the job. The roofing team will unfurl layers of underlayment and then shingle them one at a time. They will overlap the shingles and nail them in a pattern that is closer together at the edges and further apart as they move towards the center of the roof. They will also add in any flashing that is necessary, such as around dormers or valleys.

Once the shingles are installed, the roofing contractor must check that proper ventilation and insulation are in place. They will also test for leaks and other issues that could arise in the future. In addition, the roofing contractor will need to handle a variety of business-related tasks, such as scheduling, managing inventory, and negotiating deals with suppliers.

Maintenance

Whether on commercial or residential properties, the life of roofing is extended through preventative maintenance procedures and repaired as needed. In the long run, it’s cheaper to keep up with routine maintenance than to deal with major repairs and energy losses that are often the result of roof deterioration.

A maintenance procedure should be developed that is tailored to each roof. It should also include a checklist to document the status of a building’s roof. Keeping these lists current allows for early problem detection. Ideally, the inspections should be performed on a biannual basis, but may need to be done more frequently in geographic locations that experience extreme weather events.

The checklist should cover all parts of the roof, including shingles and membranes. It should note any leaking spots, water damage in ceilings and walls, and mold or mildew. It should also inspect for holes or dents. In the summer, unwelcome critters looking for cool shelter might enter through these spaces.

In addition, the roof should be inspected for accumulated dirt and debris. This can clog drains and cause a roof to deteriorate prematurely. It is particularly important to check for accumulated organic matter such as moss, which can degrade the shingle membrane.

Other items to check for are abrasions, loose materials and signs of water damage. It is important to identify any areas of deterioration, because they can lead to leaks and other problems down the road. It is recommended to have a trained professional repair these areas as soon as possible.

During the inspection, it is also a good idea to check for physical damage to the structure of the roof, including the trusses and beams, for rust or other signs of stress. This is especially true for a roof that supports heavy equipment or has a large snow load.

Safety is always a concern for roofing professionals. The checklist should include inspections of stairs, crossovers and platforms to make sure they are safe for employees to use. It is also a good idea to inspect for any required safety signage. If electrical, harmful chemicals or hot equipment is present, these should be marked accordingly to protect staff members.

Identifying Roof Repair and Replacement Issues

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Roof damage is a common problem that requires prompt attention. If left untreated, it can lead to a domino effect that ultimately costs homeowners money and peace of mind.

Roof Repair

Start with a visual inspection of the area surrounding your home. Look for dents in plastic roof vents and broken seams in metal ones. Contact A. Parker Contracting for professional help.

That roof over your head can endure a lot of weather, but it can’t last forever. Over time, loose or sagging shingles, worn flashing and clogged gutters can lead to water damage that eats away at structural members, causing them to degrade. That’s why identifying and repairing roof issues early is important for your home’s safety and comfort.

Repairs are usually less expensive than replacement and often entail fixing components other than the shingles themselves. For example, a roof repair might include replacing or patching a hole in the venting system, attic insulation, or other parts of the roofing structure. The repair can also involve addressing problems with the chimney, skylights or other fixtures on the roof.

Leaks are the most common issue that leads to roof repair and replacement, especially if they occur in areas where protrusions or seams intersect with the rest of the roof, such as at dormers, chimneys and skylights. Cracks in the shingles, faulty caulking, improper ventilation and other factors can cause leaks around these points.

The type of climate where you live can also affect the kind of issues your roof experiences. For example, humid climates are susceptible to algae streaking on the roof surface, while snowy environments can experience ice damming. This occurs when a buildup of ice blocks the flow of melting snow and causes it to back up under shingles. The resulting weight can cause shingles to degrade or even tear off.

Other signs that your roof needs repair or replacement include moss growth, sagging or buckling of the decking and rotting in attic beams. You should also keep an eye out for shingle discoloration, especially if the colors change. This can indicate that the shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan or have been damaged by hail or other forces.

In addition to routine cleaning and inspection, it’s a good idea to have emergency repairs done after a major storm and at regular intervals throughout the year. This will ensure that problems are addressed as they arise, minimizing the likelihood of more costly repair and replacement work in the future.

Getting an Estimate

An estimate, also known as a roof quote, should detail all of the work that a contractor plans to do on your home’s roof. This includes the price of materials and the labor cost to install them. A good estimate will make it clear whether a roofing repair or a roof replacement project is in order.

It should also include a warranty for the materials. The length of this warranty can vary from company to company. It’s important to check with a couple of different contractors and ask them about the length of their warranties.

Before the contractor gives you a quote, they should go on top of your house and walk around the roof. They should look at the condition of the shingles and the flashings that connect them to the sheathing or decking. They should also inspect the ventilation and ridge vents. These components are crucial for preventing moisture buildup in the attic and lowering your energy bills.

If they find any problems, the estimate should include a list of repairs and their prices. These repairs should be addressed as soon as possible, because they can lead to bigger problems if not fixed immediately. Minor repairs, such as shingle replacement or fixing leaky areas, are usually the lowest in cost and don’t take very long to complete.

You should also ask your contractor about the flashings on your roof, as these are important for directing water flow away from certain parts of your home, like chimneys and walls, or into open valleys. If your existing flashings are in good shape, your contractor may be able to reuse them and cut down on costs. The estimate should also specify the type of metal the flashings will be made of and where they’ll be placed on your roof.

If your roof is in severe disrepair, it’s probably time to replace it. A new roof can protect your home from the elements and give you peace of mind. It can also add value to your property and lower your insurance rates.

Choosing a Roofing Contractor

Choosing the right roofing contractor for your roof repair or replacement project is critical to its long-term success. A roof is a complex building component composed of many separate components that must work together with total synchronicity. If even one of these parts is installed incorrectly, it will quickly fail.

To ensure that you hire a qualified and trustworthy roofing contractor, you must do some research and carefully evaluate multiple candidates. Ask potential contractors for references and read online reviews. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, invite them to your home to inspect the roofing system and scope out the work. During this inspection, ask the contractors to explain the roofing materials they use and how they will proceed with the work.

A reputable contractor will provide a written estimate after the inspection. This will include a complete breakdown of the cost of materials and labor, along with any additional expenses. This estimate will help you create an accurate budget for your roofing repair or replacement project and compare estimates from different contractors.

It is also important to check with the state licensing agency in your area to make sure that your roofer is properly licensed to do business in your community. Also, make sure that your contractor carries proper insurance coverage for both workers’ compensation and general liability. 

You should also check with your local building authority to see if a permit is required for reroofing. If a contractor recommends that you skip this step to save money, it is a red flag and should be a major factor in your decision-making process.

When it comes to hiring a roofing contractor, it is best to stick with a local professional as they will be better acquainted with the specific building codes and weather conditions of your area. This familiarity will make it easier for you to communicate with them during the project and ensure that the job is done correctly.

Getting Started

Your roof is an integral part of your home, protecting you and everything within from harsh weather conditions and falling debris. However, even the sturdiest roof can succumb to damage over time. When that happens, it is important to take the proper steps to address it quickly and effectively to preserve your property and prevent further damage.

While replacing your roof may be the best option in severe cases of damage, a repair is often a more cost-effective and less invasive solution. Roof repair focuses on fixing specific components of your roof that are leaking or having other minor issues, rather than removing and replacing the entire roof. Whether you need to repair your roof after a recent storm or because of aging, it is important to make the right decision to protect your investment.

If you decide to opt for a roof repair, there are some things that you can do to prepare. First, be sure to choose the right contractor for the job. Experienced roofing contractors bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table that can help ensure your project is a success. Additionally, choosing a contractor with a good track record can help reduce the risk of problems during and after the installation process.

It is also a good idea to get a complete inspection of your roof as soon as possible. Even small leaks can cause big problems if left unchecked for long periods of time. For example, a leaking flashing can lead to mold, rotted framing and sheathing, destroyed insulation and water-stained ceilings.

It is also a good idea to go up into the attic, crawl space or whatever room you have access to that’s closest to your roof. Get your smart phone out and start taking pictures, making sure they have a clear sequence and are focused on the areas that need to be repaired. Look for anything out of the ordinary, especially stains, drips or standing water. Don’t forget to check out your gutters, as these can be a source of leaks if they are clogged or rusting.

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