Your roof protects your home from moisture, mold, and other unwanted damage. Knowledgeable homeowners learn to look for specific signs their roof needs to be repaired or replaced. When a roof gets old, it deteriorates. If you spot a leak, your roof is not protecting your home like it should and it’s time to have it inspected. The professionals at Siding & Windows Group are ready to assist you by inspecting your roof and uncovering your home’s needs. Avoid the hassles of a faulty roof, and take the guesswork out of the equation by contacting the pros to take a look at your current roof.
Roof inspections should be done twice a year to prevent major damage
Avoid major problems with your roof by inspecting it every 6 months, and after any major storms in the Chicago area. Repairing small problems helps to extend the life of your roof. At times, a roof is beyond repair and needs to be replaced. When in doubt of your roofing needs, and for your safety, rather than climbing on your roof yourself, contact a reputable roofing contractor for a free estimate.
Save money by either repairing your faulty roof or replacing it as needed
Before deciding whether to repair or replace your current roof, take a look at these things:
1. How old is your current roof?
A roof typically lasts about 15-20 years depending on the type of shingles used and the workmanship of the roof installation. If your roof is at the end of its lifespan, it’s likely best to simply replace your current roofing system rather than repair it. Avoid major damage by proactively replacing your roof when your current roof shows signs of aging or is simply 15-20 years old.
2. Is your current roof sturdy, or does it bow in some way?
Roof rot causes your roof to sag and indicates you are in immediate need of a roof replacement.
3. How much damage has your roof incurred?
If your current roof has a damaged area and the damage can be repaired, you’ll save money by delaying a roof replacement. The smaller the area of damage, the less likely you are to need a full roof replacement.
How to know if your roof conditions are treatable without a roof replacement
Ask the following questions to uncover the possibility of the need for roof repair.
1. Are there dark streaks on your roof?
Dark streaks are caused by airborne algae and are common in the areas of your roof that are shaded. The algae can be cleaned off your roof.
Pro tip: If you only remove the dark streaks and don’t deal with the fact your roof is shaded, the streaks will reoccur. Remove the source of the shade, and these unsightly streaks will stop appearing on your roof.
2. Is there moss growing between your shingles?
Moss can be removed from your shingles so your roof looks great again.
Pro tip: Don’t leave moss growing on your shingles since it can trap moisture on your roof and lead to more serious problems.
How to know if you need a roof inspection and possibly a roof replacement
- Do you have missing shingles on your current roof? Are your shingles cracked, torn or faulty in any way?
- Do you notice any signs of moisture damage or mold? These indicate you need to act quickly because they can spread rapidly.
- Does the roof deck sag? This can be checked on the inside of your home.
- Do you see signs of water damage or any indication your roof is leaking?
- Are there dark spots on the ceiling of your rooms on the highest floor of your house?
- Does the light of day show through your roof into your home?
- Is there wear around your vents, pipes, or chimney? Has your flashing pulled away?
- Are there shingle granules in your gutters?
- Are roof replacements happening pretty regularly in your neighborhood? Homes in most neighborhoods are built within a few years of each other.
The benefits of roof replacement
A new roof gives you peace of mind that your home is well protected. Additionally, a new roof:
- Protects your home from Chicago’s extreme weather
- Shields your home from unwanted moisture damage
- Increases your home’s resale value
- Improves your home’s energy efficiency year-round
- Boosts your home’s overall curb appeal
Roofing products
- GAF/Timberline
- IKO
- Owen Corning
- Certainteed
- McElroy Metal Roofing
When you invest in a new roof—consider the condition of your attic ventilation and your home’s gutters as well.
The importance of attic ventilation
Attic ventilation contributes to the life of your roof. It lets your roof breathe so moisture doesn’t cause your roof to mold. A ridge vent at your rooftop can help prevent moisture from gathering in the attic. When the ridge vent removes excess heat and moisture, it prevents roof rot, limits the possibility of mold growth, and helps prevent ice damming.
The importance of gutters
Roofs are sloped so rain and snow move down them rather than sitting in one location on your roof. As moisture flows down your roof, it flows into your gutters. If gutters don’t do their job or don’t exist on your home, water from storms can pour into your home’s foundation and cause trouble. One important way to take good care of your home exterior, including the roof and the foundation, is to avoid clogged, faulty gutters.
Catching problems when they are small saves you time and money in the long run. Preventative maintenance is always a proactive way to keep your home in good working order. Regular roof inspections by a team of professionals can help you extend the life of your roof.
Looking for a roofing contractor?
A reputable roofing replacement contractor is vital to the performance of your next roof. Siding & Windows Group provides expert workmanship and exceptional products, giving you consistent quality you can trust. Schedule a free quote.
