The Anatomy of a Roofing Shingle

The Anatomy of a Roofing Shingle

When you need a new roof installed on your home, it’s essential to understand the different components you must select for the job to have the results you desire. One of the most important decisions you must make is the type of roofing shingles you want on your new roof. Roofing shingles are the most common choice of roofing material in the United States due to their relatively long lifespan of 20 to 25 years as well as their affordability.

If you want to make the most informed decision concerning your roofing shingles, it’s crucial to understand their construction and what makes a high-quality roofing shingle. Use the following information to help you narrow down your choices for roofing materials to the option that works best for your property.

Understand the types of roofing shingles 

While there are many types of shingles, asphalt shingles continue to be the most popular choice for residential roofing throughout the United States due to their economic viability, overall reliability, and ease of installation. However, there are countless varieties of asphalt shingles that you could select for your roof replacement. It can be difficult to navigate the different options, but your roofing team can help you select a roof shingle material that best suits your property. 

Remember, paying more for higher quality roofing shingles may not always yield the return on investment you expect. Some homeowners make the mistake of purchasing expensive roofing shingles that wind up clashing with their neighbors’ homes. This may make the home more unique, but if the homeowner decides to sell, it sticks out among the surrounding houses and may turn off potential buyers. 

Know the layers of an asphalt shingle

Asphalt shingles are multilayered materials meant to ensure protection against the elements. Asphalt shingles’ construction has evolved dramatically to provide property owners with better, longer-lasting protection over the years. 

Today, the standard asphalt shingle has five layers: 

The outermost layer, visible once the shingle is installed, is made of quarried and crushed stone granules. This layer protects the asphalt underneath from the ultraviolet light of the sun. Otherwise, the asphalt would melt and break down. These granules also provide fire resistance.
Under the top layer is a layer of asphalt. The asphalt layers of a roofing shingle provide cushioning from impact forces and help the shingles resist the force of hail and other debris landing on the roof.
The center layer is a mat core that provides flexibility and more durability. Most asphalt shingles contain fiberglass mat cores. This fiberglass layer is the first component used in the manufacturing of asphalt shingles. The fiberglass core becomes coated with asphalt that adheres to the fibers, creating a more stable surface for the granules on top and the sealant layer below. Beneath the central mat core layer is another layer of asphalt. When the fiberglass mat passes through molten asphalt, the asphalt essentially sandwiches the fiberglass inside it to keep the entire shingle together.
The lowest layer that rests against the roof bed’s surface is the sealant that keeps the asphalt shingle firmly in place once arranged with the rest of the shingles. While roofing shingles require nails to stay attached to the roof bed, the sealant layer allows the asphalt shingles to overlap seamlessly and prevent water from intruding beneath the shingle layer. 

It’s possible to find asphalt shingles with many other types of construction, but this five-layer model is the standard for most asphalt shingles. Most residential roofs use three-tab asphalt shingles that ensure quick and easy installation while making it easy to maintain visual appeal. Staggering these tabbed shingles means a significantly faster roof replacement job in most cases. 

cknowledge the value of asphalt shingles 

There are many different roofing materials available on the market today. While many homeowners invest in composite tile roofs and metal roofs, asphalt shingles continue to be the most popular choice for roofing materials in the United States, thanks to their fantastic overall quality and value. 

If you are planning a roof replacement in the near future and want to take advantage of the practical benefits of asphalt shingles, pay close attention to the types of shingles your roofer offers, and don’t be afraid to ask questions to determine which type of shingles would offer the most value for your home. Mr. Roof has years of experience providing professional asphalt shingle roof installations, replacements, and repairs. Contact us today for more information about the asphalt roofing shingle products we offer, and we will be happy to help you clarify your options. 

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All About Your Dormer Roof

All About Your Dormer Roof

Homes come in all shapes and sizes. Many families choose their homes based on the overall aesthetic rather than focusing on particular features. Though this is perfectly fine, it does reduce one’s ability to appreciate the finer details that go into a beautiful home. When it comes to roofing, it’s not uncommon to overlook design even further. When homeowners consider their roofs, it’s often in relation to their condition rather than their architectural design. This puts many people at a disadvantage when purchasing a new home or building a new construction. The architectural design of your roof can have a significant impact on the roof’s functionality and can be a benefit or a hindrance, depending on where you live. There are many distinct styles of roofs, but the dormer style is absolutely one of the most unique.

What is a dormer roof?

It’s probable that you’ve seen a dormer roof before but didn’t realize that it was a distinct style unto itself. These roofs are characterized by dormer windows, which are windows that stick out from vaulted roofs and have roofing that is separate from the rest of the home’s roof slope. This provides additional space into interior rooms that have vaulted ceilings and can create nooks that are great for beds and other uses. This style dates all the way back to the 1500s in Great Britain, but variations of this style were used as early as the 12th century. Throughout the centuries, this style has been used to bring additional space and light into attic areas that previously had very little. Now that electricity is the standard, they are generally added for additional natural light or to compliment the home’s overall shape and aesthetic.

Types of dormer roofs

The dormer genre has several subcategories that are each a little bit different but still classify as dormer roofs. Remember, these classifications refer to the dormer itself, not necessarily the overall roof. The dormer often has a different shape than the larger roof. Here are a few types of dormer roofs that you may find:

Gabled. This style involves a dormer that has two slopes and one peak on top.

Shed. The shed style is a simple, one-slope roof from the larger roof over the window. There is no roof slope on the sides. Despite the name, this style is often found on homes and not on garden sheds.

Arched. On these dormers, the roof over the window is curved. This style has a French history and has a distinctly European look.

Pedimented. The pedimented roofs have a similar shape to the gabled style but involve a crossbeam that creates a triangle at the top of the window. This detail may seem small, but its roots come from Greek architecture, and this small variation can have a big impact.

Wall. While most dormers exist entirely on the roof of a home, wall dormers exist at least partially on a wall of the home. These can be more aesthetically pleasing for homes that have relatively small roofs. A wall dormer’s roof can be altered, as this style is not defined by the roof shape.

There are several other styles of dormers that are possible for a home. However, these are the most commonly found styles and represent the basics of a dormer roof.

Dormer roof considerations

When looking at a home with a dormer roof, or if you are considering adding one to your home, there are several things you’ll want to think about. As with any home feature, the dormer roof has pros and cons that may sway you in one way or another.

dvantages:

Dormer roofs increase airflow. With the added window, you can get fresh air in attics or upstairs rooms that were previously blocked in by your roof.

Additional light. Dormer roofs create natural light in attics and upstairs spaces, which makes them more livable.

Added space. A dormer may seem like a small feature, but it can bring a significant amount of space into a room. Many people choose to put their bed or a reading area in the space a dormer roof provides.

Curb appeal. Dormer roofs are a desirable commodity for a home and add increased curb appeal to your property.

Disadvantages

Leak risks. Naturally, adding more roofing and window seams raises your chances of leaking. This risk can be mitigated by investing in a quality roofer to install and maintain your dormer roof.

Price. Dormer roofs can be expensive to install. Depending on the style, one window could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000.

You can’t do it alone. Even the most experienced DIYers won’t be able to install a dormer window by themselves and will need to call a professional.

Interior uses for dormer roofs

Dormer roofs don’t just make your home’s exterior look nice, but they add a significant amount of space and variation to inside rooms as well. There are several types of rooms that dormer roofs typically benefit from, and an endless amount of possibility for how to arrange and decorate each one.

Bathrooms. Attic bathrooms are a great way to turn the space from a living space into a master suite or private living quarters. Dormer roofs add enough headspace to move around comfortably and stand at a bathroom sink.

Bedrooms. Adding a window to your attic space can make it an official bedroom on the housing market and makes it more pleasant for you as well.

Living areas. You may choose to continue to use your attic space for a general living area. The natural light helps to make it a desirable place to read, play games, or sip coffee.

Of course, there are an infinite amount of possibilities of what you could do with your dormer roof space. With the additional light, you can customize your attic to function however you’d like.

Contact Mr. Roof

Whether you have an existing dormer or want to install one, the experts at Mr. Roof are here to help. For over 50 years, our professionals have been helping families create and maintain their dream homes. Whether you have a question or want a job done fast, we are always here for you.Contact us today for a free estimate. 

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How to Prepare Your Roof for Tornado Season

How to Prepare Your Roof for Tornado Season

Spring brings with it lots of happy events. The flowers start to bloom, the sun feels warmer, and the summer months are almost in reach. Though spring is generally a happy time of year, it is worth remembering that it also brings an increased risk of severe weather. Tornado season extends from March to June in most parts of the Midwest and plains areas. During this time, it’s important to be as prepared as possible in case an emergency does occur. Many people stock up on bottled water and flashlights in case of outages, and many families and schools make a plan in case a tornado strikes. As you are making these plans, it’s beneficial to remember to keep your home safe too. There are several things you can do to protect your home from a tornado and minimize the damage to your roof.

Have your trees trimmed

Maintaining your trees is a common task in the springtime for most homeowners, whether they live in a tornado-prone area or not. Trees that are especially old or tall fracture easily under the pressure of wind and flying debris. Have a landscaper inspect your tree and remove any dead branches or excess twigs that could easily fly off in a storm. By eliminating weak spots, you lower the chances of parts of your tree flying into your home. It’s best to inspect your trees in the spring, even if you had them pruned in the fall, as the weight of snow may have caused new damage to occur.

Secure outdoor furniture

It’s very important to have a plan for patio furniture. In the case of inclement weather or a storm in the forecast, secure your patio furniture or bring it inside. Though patio furniture is sturdier than indoor couches and chairs, it can still be swept up in tornado winds. If your patio furniture is projected into the air, it can crash into your home and cause damage to your walls and roof. The best course of action to avoid extra damage later is to put such items in a secure location.

Clean your gutters

Gutters are a natural gathering spot for debris in the springtime. As the snow melts, it brings every object from your roof down into your gutters. This debris can prevent water from effectively draining off of your roof, which becomes a problem in a storm. Without a clear gutter to direct it, the water can leak into your home, flood your yard or pool on your roof. All of these possibilities have expensive consequences. Clean gutters will direct the water away from your home and into the sewers where it belongs. While the gutters are being cleaned, make sure to secure any loose screws that are holding the metal to your roof. This small detail can prevent your gutters from being torn off by wind gusts.

Have your roof inspected

Tornado season is a perfect excuse to have your roof inspected. This should be done regularly anyway, and having it done in the springtime helps to ensure that your home is prepared for a storm. An expert will be able to tell you if there are any areas of concern or issues that make you particularly vulnerable to storm damages. Some examples of problems are:

Roof deterioration or rot. Excess moisture will eat away at your roofing materials. If left unchecked, these spots are extremely vulnerable to breakage during storms.

Loose nails. As with your gutters, securing all parts of your roof can help to ensure that nothing flies off during periods of strong wind.

Leaks. If there is a leak in your roof, there is the possibility of flooding and excess damage. Sealing leaks ensures that the inside of your home stays dry and protected.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible problems. A professional roofer will be able to thoroughly assess your roof and give you a detailed list of possible weak spots.

Contact Mr. Roof

In situations of extreme weather and potential damage, you need a roofing company you can trust. At Mr. Roof, we have over 50 years of experience in the roofing industry and understand the volatile nature of the Midwest tornado season. We have helped countless families avoid massive damage to their homes and have helped repair roofs for families who got hit especially hard. We give you as much peace of mind as possible during the spring storm season and do quality work on which you can rely. To begin your storm preparations, or for a free estimate on any other roofing or exterior home project,contact us today.

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All About Your Gable Roof

All About Your Gable Roof

Unbeknownst to many homeowners, the style of your roof can have a large impact on the functionality of your home. While aesthetics generally drive home purchases, it’s important to know how the details of your home may benefit or hinder your family’s wellbeing. When it comes to roofs, many people understand that having a well-made roof is essential to protecting the home as a whole and that replacing your roof is essential every 15 years or so. What some homeowners don’t realize is that the shape of the roof itself may affect how effective your roof is at protecting your family. Discovering the style of roof on your home allows you to look for common issues that crop up with that type of roof and may even affect what kinds of homes you look for in the future. A main category of roofing is the gable roof. You’ve undoubtedly seen this roof style before, though it’s common not to know much about it.

What is a gable roof?

Gable roofs are fairly basic. They consist of two roof slopes that meet at a single seam on the top of the house. This seam runs the length of the home, and there are no slopes on the other two sides of the house. If a child were to draw a simple picture of a house, they would likely draw one with a gable style roof, specifically a side gable. This style is common all over the world, with a particular presence in East Asian architecture. Many Gothic-style homes utilize gable roofs as part of their design as well. There are several subcategories of gable roofs that still fit the general description of a gable roof but with a different twist. These are some examples:

Front gable. In this style, rather than having the roof slopes cover the left and right sides of the home, the slopes come down the front and the back sides instead.

Crossed gable. In these homes, there are several gable roofs whose seams intersect. In the case of a crossed gable home with four peaks, the seams would make a cross shape from the top.

L-Shaped gable. On these homes, the roof comes down farther on one part of one side than it does anywhere else. The low part creates almost an A-Frame style, but only on one portion of the home. It is distinct, but it does happen.

Box gable. In this iteration of the gable roof, there is a crossbeam that goes from one of the eaves to the other. Essentially, this simply completes a triangle on the sides without eaves. It often indicates a distinct attic area rather than a full floor.

Gable roofs do not have to only involve straight edges, but many do. Some gable roofs have curved lines, and they can also have dormers of any kind.

Considerations about gable roofs

As with any home feature or style, gable roofing has some pros and cons. Depending on your family, lifestyle, and the climate in your area, a gable roof may not work. Before making any new home purchases, or before designing a new construction, consider these advantages and disadvantages of gable roofs:

dvantages:

They are effective at removing snow and rain. Because of the steep slope of most gable roofs, snow and rain easily run down the eaves and into the gutters. There is little risk of pooling or accumulation under normal weather circumstances.

They’re easy to make. Because of their basic design, gable roofs are fairly easy to build. This often makes them a less expensive option when building a new construction.

They’re affordable to maintain. For similar reasons, gable roofs are easy to maintain because they are so common. Most roofers will know how to work well with gable roofs.

Disadvantages:

They don’t stand up well to high winds. In weather events such as hurricanes or tornadoes, Gable roofs often don’t do well. In many cases, builders omit adding additional support to a gable roof to maximize living space. In the event of severe weather, a gable roof can easily collapse.

There is the potential for updraft damage. If there is a significant overhang on a gable roof, a strong gust of wind can catch under the lip of the roof and remove the roof from the rest of the home.

They aren’t always well made. Many DIY homeowners try to replace or install their own gable roofs. Because of the simplistic design, many amateur craftsmen believe that they can save money by doing the job themselves. However, this often leads to ill-fitting parts and unreliable support, only adding to the dangers. If you are buying a home with a gable roof, be sure to have it inspected by a professional to identify any homemade roof fixes.

For some people, the advantages of a gable roof far outweigh the disadvantages. For areas of the world that don’t receive hurricanes or lots of snow, gable roofs are an absolutely wonderful choice. For others, a different roofing option may be a better fit and provide more peace of mind.

Differences between a gable, mansard, and hip-style roof

The two other main categories of roofs that you will encounter are mansard and hip. The difference between these types is fairly simple to understand and can help you determine what style to look for. While a gable roof only has slopes on two sides of the home, a hip roof has slopes on all four sides. Other than the number of slopes, the possibilities for customization in hip and gable roofs are the same. A mansard roof is a little bit different. Mansard roofs have slopes on all four sides as well, but each side has two different slopes. The top slope of each side has a more gradual incline downwards, whereas the second portion of the slope is significantly steeper. This creates an angle on the sides of the home, giving it a distinct appearance.

Contact Mr. Roof

It’s never a good idea to attempt roofing projects without a professional to help. The experts at Mr. Roof have been serving American homeowners for over 50 years. We pride ourselves on creating quality, well-built roofs that are dependable and give our customers peace of mind. For any questions about roofing styles, to find a location near you, or to request a free estimate, contact Mr. Roof today.

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Benefits of Owens Corning Roofing Systems

Benefits of Owens Corning Roofing Systems

Whether you are building a new home, renovating, or replacing your home’s roof, it’s important to know your options regarding the roofing system you select because it provides the performance and reliability you expect to help protect your home.

Mr. Roof wants to be sure our customers have the information they need to make an informed decision. And a critical part of our roofing systems are shingles from Owens Corning® Roofing.  Owens Corning® is a leading brand among roofing manufacturers in the United States and offers a wide variety of shingle styles and colors to fit any home.

Owens Corning® Roofing Shingles

While a complete roofing system has many components working together to help protect your home, shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against the elements. In addition to the long-lasting protection they provide, they also offer curb appeal.

Versatile Design Options: exterior design considerations are important when making any major repairs or upgrades to your home. Owens Corning® architectural shingles have multiple granule colors blended together to add texture, in addition to shadow lines that give them depth and dimension on the roof. These ceramic-coated colored granules also help protect your shingle from UV degradation – damage caused by ultraviolet light from the sun.Superior Moisture Protection: One of your roof’s most important functions is protecting the inside of your home from water damage. A professionally installed roof should provide you the confidence that your home is protected. Owens Corning® shingles feature fiberglass mat at the core saturated with weathering-grade asphalt and are covered with colorful mineral granules to provide a water-shedding barrier to your home.  And Owens Corning® roofing shingles have a proprietary heat-activated sealant on each shingle that bonds the shingles together into a watertight unit.Patented Technology for Advanced Performance: Duration® Series shingles from Owens Corning® feature their patented technology called SureNail®^ , which is a fabric reinforcement in the nailing area to help protect against shingle blow offs.

Roofing System Options From Able Roof 

Every aspect of an Mr. Roof roofing system revolves around protecting your home from water damage and other elements. Mr. Roof offers three roofing system packages, which all include asphalt roofing shingles from Owens Corning®.

RoofGuard Roofing System:

Owens Corning® Oakridge® Shingles>Up to 2x better nail pull-resistance++Limited Lifetime warranty coverage*‡‡110 mph wind warranty coverage*Algae resistance coverage*Available in popular colors

RoofGuard+ Roofing System:

Owens Corning® Duration® Series Shingles>Up to 2.5x better nail-pull resistance++Patented SureNail® Technology^ for reinforcement in the nailing zoneLimited Lifetime warranty coverage*‡‡130 mph wind warranty coverage*Algae resistance coverage*TruDefinition® color platform in a wide variety of colors

ThunderGuard® Roofing System:

Owens Corning® Duration FLEX® Shingles>SBS modified asphalt that makes the shingles pliable and gives them greater flexibility and toughness42% better nail-pull resistance against the wind versus standard shinglesPatented SureNail® Technology^ for reinforcement in the nailing zoneLimited Lifetime warranty coverage*‡‡130 mph wind warranty coverage*Algae resistance coverage*TruDefinition® color platform in a wide variety of colors

Duration FLEX® shingles are the most durable and reliable shingles if you are concerned about having the best possible moisture protection in your roof.

Choose The Best Roofing System For Your Home 

A roof repair or replacement is a big investment for a homeowner. It’s essential to choose a reliable roofing system that offers the value and performance you expect for many years to come. Mr. Roof proudly offers Owens Corning® shingles as part of Mr. Roof roofing systems.  Together we offer you high-quality roofing products and installation of your new roofing system. Contact us today for more information.

*see actual Owens Corning warranty for details, requirements and limitations.

++Owens Corning testing against competing shingles with a wide single-layer nailing zone when following the manufacturer’s installation instructions and nailed through the middle of the allowable nail zone.

^For patent information, please visit www.owenscorning.com/patents. SureNail® Technology is available only on Owens Corning® Duration® Series Shingles. SureNail® Technology is not a guarantee of performance in all weather conditions.

‡‡ For single family residences. 40-Year Limited Warranty on all other projects

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How Freeze-Thaw Cycles Affect Your Roof

How Freeze-Thaw Cycles Affect Your Roof

Most of us understand basic science concepts whether we explicitly learned them in school or simply encounter them in day-to-day life. You don’t have to be an expert to understand most of these topics, and many times they are so integrated into our daily lives we barely notice how much we know about them. One of these topics is the concept of freezing water. Many of us have ice in our drinking water, use a freezer regularly, or live in an area where winter gets below freezing temperatures. In all of these situations, we have a basic understanding of the science behind water temperatures. As water freezes, it expands. This is why you can’t put cans of sparkling water or soda in the freezer — the expansion of the drink as it freezes will cause the can to explode. If you thaw an ice cube, it contracts and enters its liquid form — water. What many people don’t realize is that this very concept occurs outside naturally, and the effects of it can wreak havoc on your roof.

How freeze-thaw cycles can cause damage

Water and moisture are always in the air. That moisture finds its way into anything it can as a gas or a liquid in the atmosphere. Then, when temperatures drop, the water molecules start to expand. As the water expands, it puts pressure on the object it is inside of. In some cases, like basketballs or plastic buckets, the material that contains the moisture can stretch to accommodate the expansion. However, in things such as concrete or roofing tiles, there is no give in the material to allow it to expand. This means that the freezing water can cause cracks and breakages in the rigid object as it expands. This pressure is created multiple times per week as temperatures rise and fall above and below freezing levels. This cycle puts significant stress on your roof’s shingles and can cause lasting damage.

Signs of roofing freeze-thaw damage

Freeze-thaw cycles can create several problems for your roof, but they don’t all look the same. Here are some signs that your roof is taking a beating from freeze-thaw cycles:

Uneven or small space between shingles. Shingles should be evenly spaced. If they have moved or seem uneven, the expansion and contraction process has moved them loose.Ice Dams. Ice dams happen when the heating on your roof is not uniform or when the freeze-thaw cycle happens with greater frequency. In these instances, snow melts and runs down the roof as water. The water then gets stuck behind shingles and causes pressure beneath the shingles when it freezes again.Flashing is out of place. Roofs have metal flashing sheets that seal the cracks on the sides and seams of a roof. If the flashing on your eaves, peak, chimney, etc., has separated from an area, ice dams have likely created damage. These gaps can easily allow further moisture to enter your home and can even cause flooding if not addressed swiftly.

Though these situations can seem frightening, it’s possible to mitigate the damage they cause by addressing the issue early.

Long-term effects of the freeze-thaw cycle

There are other ways in which the freeze-thaw cycle can create long-term damage to your home, investment, and even your family’s health. Here are some long-term effects of the freeze-thaw cycle:

The freeze-thaw cycle brings moisture under your shingles and into your home. This moisture generally collects in the attic but can spread from there. The water that condenses inside is not clean and brings mold and bacteria with it. As these germs reach the warmth of your home, they are free to grow and spread, causing breathing problems, heightened allergies, and other serious health issues.The freeze-thaw cycle speeds up the damage process to your roof. Though all roofs go through wear and tear, if left untreated, the effects of the freeze-thaw cycle could leave you with repairs for which you were not prepared.Ice dams easily damage gutters or even remove them from the sides of the roof. When this happens, runoff cannot be directed to the gutters and often pools in your yard or basement.

How to protect your roof

The effects of the freeze-thaw cycle are extreme, and many people stress after discovering what it can do to their home. Fear not. There are steps you can take to protect your roof from significant damage. Follow these steps to protect your home this winter:

Remove the snow from your roof as soon as you can. Many people call a professional to handle this job safely. This process prevents ice dams.If an ice dam has already occurred, call a professional right away to have it removed. The longer you leave it, the more damage you can cause.The best thing you can do for your roof in the long term is to make sure that your attic is well ventilated. This airflow keeps the temperature of your roof even and keeps ice from forming.Schedule regular roofing inspections. It never hurts to have a professional inspect the state of your roof once or twice a year. If you catch roofing problems early, they are often far easier and less stressful to fix.

Hire a professional

Though technically you can remove ice dams and repair your roof on your own, we really don’t recommend doing so. It is easy to fall and injure yourself or even die when trying to work on a roof without proper equipment and experience. Even ground-based methods such as roof rakes don’t work well and often just create further damage to your shingles. It’s best to call a local, trusted roofer to help you maintain your roof and create a plan for dealing with any issues.

Contact Mr. Roof

For roofers who know all of the ins and outs of the freeze-thaw cycle,contact Mr. Roof. We have been battling ice dams and roofing problems for over 50 years, and there truly isn’t a situation we haven’t seen before. Our number one mission is to give you peace of mind with our craftsmanship and standout customer service. When you hire Mr. Roof, you know that the job will be done correctly and honestly and that the issue was fully resolved. Don’t wait on freeze-thaw cycle issues — call us today.

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Does My Roof Need Drip Edge?

Does My Roof Need Drip Edge?

Homeowners have a lot to think about. Though there are many enjoyable parts to homeownership, there are also many ways it is stressful. Keeping your roof in good condition may not be a glamorous or exciting part of owning a home, but it is necessary to ensure that your property remains in good condition and you protect your investment. Depending on the climate where you live, there are different ways to protect your home from natural weather patterns. However, for almost every home, a drip edge is necessary to keep a roof and home dry and intact.

What is a drip edge?

Before exploring the ins and outs of drip edges and why they are important, it is essential to understand the basics. A drip edge is a piece of plastic or metal that acts as a bridge between the edge of the roof and the gutter. This directs water into the gutter and prevents it from seeping under the shingles on the edges of your roof. It is a simple piece of machinery, but it is essential to protect your home from damage.

Why are drip edges important?

Though we may like to think that they’re impermeable, roofs are not seals. Most roofs function to protect us from the elements, but that doesn’t mean they are 100% successful. Shingle roofs leave a lot of room for damage, especially when moisture is involved. If water, ice, water vapor, or any other condensation makes its way underneath shingles, it will likely stay there as it goes through natural changes of form. For example, if it rains, the moisture from the sky can get underneath your shingles and become stuck. Then, let’s say that the temperatures drop in the evening. The water under your shingles will expand as it turns into ice, causing cracks and damage to the shingle as it moves. Drip edges ensure that runoff moisture does not make its way under the edges of your roof, and a major vulnerable point in your home’s roof is covered.

Homes that need drip edges

The reality is that drip edges are ideal for almost any home. Even if your roof is steeply sloped, water can pool or sit in small spaces that can end up causing damage. Moisture from the air and even water blown by wind can get underneath your roof’s edge and cause problems. There are many material options for drip edges, so there is a kind that can fit any home’s aesthetic. This small addition to your roof can protect your investment and ensure that your roof stays intact as long as possible. There is no home that would not benefit from installing a drip edge.

Contact Able Roof

For almost 30 years, the team at Able Roof has been helping install and maintain quality roofs. Our passion is protecting your home and investment from damage and helping you repair your roof when it gets damaged. We would be happy to install your drip edge for you and seal any other gaps or leaks your roof may have. Contact us today to get started.

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What to Expect When Replacing Your Skylight

What to Expect When Replacing Your Skylight

Skylights are a fantastic feature for many homes. Many homeowners love their skylight, and for good reason. Skylights bring in natural light, saving you money on electricity without compromising your privacy. These features are timeless and are a highlight of many homes around the globe. Despite their popularity, there is a lot about the installation and replacement processes that many people don’t understand. If you have a home with a skylight or are considering installing a skylight in your home, here are a few things you should know about the replacement process.

Replace with your roof

Whenever you can, it’s best to replace your skylight during a roof replacement. This is important for several reasons, including:

More reliable seal. It is extremely difficult to create a water-tight seal on your skylight without replacing the entire roof. A good seal is part of the roof as a whole, and separating the two only leaves more room for leaks.

It’s more cost-effective. Prices for skylight replacement go up if you are doing it separately from your roof replacement.

Both your roof and your skylight eventually need replacement. Neither of these features of a home lasts forever. If you replace your roof and not your skylight, you are simply offsetting the replacement times for each and creating unreliable overhead protection.

Mixing old and new materials causes leaks. It’s natural for wear and tear to occur over time. Generally, your skylight and your roof go through wear and tear together. Replacing your roof without your skylight creates an ill-fitting, old skylight, which can create damage to your new roof and cause leaks that could damage your home.

It preserves your investment. Replacing either your skylight or roof without the other one only opens you up to liability when the other one needs replacing. The replacement for one will likely damage the other, depreciating the quality of both.  Spend a little bit extra to ensure that your money is put toward quality work and that your investment is protected.

Understanding that a roof and a skylight should not be replaced independently of one another can feel intimidating. However, this is the best method for the overall health, safety, and longevity of your home.

Cost

If you decide to replace your skylight separately from your roof, it’s likely to cost you between $800 and $1500. This cost varies based on several factors, including the location of the skylight, condition of the skylight and roof, size of the skylight, and level of risk for the roofer. It can be frustrating not to know how much a project will cost, but accuracy is impossible without understanding all parts of your situation. A professional will be able to give you an accurate estimate for the job. Don’t forget to shop around to find the best prices and service, as you would with any other investment.

Process

The process of replacing a skylight will vary a bit depending on how you go about it. If you are doing it independently of a roof replacement, the process generally takes a few hours. Your roofing expert will remove the existing skylight and fit it in the new one. Once it’s in place, they will replace the seal or flashing around the window. They may need to also come inside to finish the installation and repair any small damages to your paint or trim done during the replacement.

Trust a professional

Though there are YouTube channels and DIY blogs that encourage you to tackle projects on your own, we don’t advise doing any sort of roofing project if you are not a professional. Though they seem otherwise, roofs are fairly delicate. One step in the wrong spot could permanently damage your roof and lead to injury. Amateur repairs can lead to further damage or leaks and could make a small repair into an expensive project. More importantly, it’s easy to fall or injure yourself while on your roof. In 2009,1/3 of all fatal falls occurred from roofs or ladders. Please do not take the risk with your home and your safety. Call a professional for all of your roofing needs.

Call Able Roof

For the best roofing and skylight repairs in the state of Ohio,contactthe experts at Able Roof. In our 30 years of business, we’ve replaced over 50,000 roofs and done over 10,000 exterior remodels. Our expertise allows us to give you the best quality service in the area and gives us a deep understanding of the ins and outs of roofing in a volatile climate such as the Midwest. We have family values and prioritize giving our customers great service, so you can rest assured that your roofing job will be done correctly when you call Able Roof. Don’t hesitate, call today.  

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All About Your Mansard Roof

All About Your Mansard Roof

Homes have a lot of details that easily go unnoticed. Styles, colors, and materials all play into the home’s overall aesthetic, and many people only focus on the overall home rather than the details. This is a perfectly normal way of approaching homes, and in general, there is no harm in it. However, if you are a homeowner or looking to build a custom home, it’s best if you understand a little bit about the details that go into a home’s overall construction. One important aspect of a home is its roof, which not only affects the security and temperature control, it also indicates a lot about the overall style of the home. One common roofing style is the mansard roof—a style that has been around for centuries. To properly care for your home and make educated decisions about future designs, here is some basic information to keep in mind about the mansard roof.

What is a Mansard roof?

The first thing to understand about the mansard roof is just what the term means. This roof style originated in France, and the first application was in the 1550 construction of the building that would later become the Louvre. However, it was not given its name until much later, for architect Francois Mansart in the 17th century. Now, it is common all over the world for both commercial buildings and homes alike. The style is characterized by two slopes instead of one. The topmost slope has less of an incline than the lower slope, which is steep. In some cases, the top slope cannot even be seen from the street, as the incline is almost flat in comparison with the very steep lower slope.

Mansard roofs vs. other common roofs

Other common roof types may seem similar to the mansard roof, but there are important distinctions to remember. With mansard roofs, there are two slopes on every side of the building, with the top slope being gentler and the bottom slope being steep and quite a bit of overhang. For gable-style roofs, you will see one slope on the front and back of the home, with no slope or overhang on the sides of the home. There is no variance in the slope of the two sides of the roof. In a hip-style roof, there is also one consistent slope of the roof, but it exists on all four sides of the home rather than only on two like the gable. Hip and gable style roofs are the most commonly seen roofing styles, with mansard roofs more of a specialty or rarity.

dvantages of mansard roofs

There are many considerations to take into account when deciding on a roof shape for your home. There are some major perks to mansard roofs, as well as some disadvantages, which we will discuss in the next section. Here are some ways that mansard roofs are advantageous to their homes:

They make your home customizable. Because the sides of a mansard roof are nearly vertical, it is easier to add additional floors to homes with mansard roofs.

Increased attic space. Where many homes have cramped or inaccessible attics to be used only for storage, mansard roofs allow a home significant extra space in the attic. Depending on the layout and state of the home, a mansard roof attic could easily be an additional living space.

They’re classic. Though everyone has a different style and opinion, mansard roofs tend to give homes a very classic, timeless look. They have been in use for a very long time and haven’t gone out of style yet. They are not just a trend.

They can lower heating costs. Unlike other styles of roofs, mansard roofs allow heat to be evenly distributed throughout the top of your home. The heat is not concentrated to a narrow top but rather spread out across the wider roof.

Disadvantages of mansard roofs

Though they are timeless and add space to a home, mansard roofs do come with a few disadvantages that are important to note too:

They do not function well in extreme weather. For areas with excessive precipitation, the mansard roof may not be a good choice. If there is a blizzard or downpour, the gentle decline of the roof cannot move the water off the roof quickly enough. This can cause flooding or other roofing damage that will be costly to repair.

Higher installation and repair costs. Mansard roofs, though they may seem common, are, in fact, more difficult to install. There is an incredible amount of precision and technique involved, and not all companies know how to properly repair them. This can result in increased costs.

Potential local roadblocks. Depending on where you live, there may be ordinances or restrictions about the type of roof your home can have. Your city or town may also take the attic into account when calculating square footage, which can lead to additional taxes and paperwork for you.

Hire a professional

When making any decisions about roofing styles, repairs, or installation, it is important to call a licensed expert. Roofing injuries aresignificantly more dangerousthan other home projects and home construction jobs and result in many more fatalities every year. If you try to tackle a roofing project alone, there is a significant chance that you will get injured. Additionally, roofs are deceptively delicate. There are certain places where it is okay to stand and work and other places that could cause significant damage to your home if asked to hold the weight of a human being. It is always best to hire a professional for all of your roofing needs. Your safety is a top priority.

Contact Able Roofing

At Able Roofing, we take roof installation and repairs very seriously. We know how essential roofs are to the integrity of a home and aim to give you lasting peace of mind with our expertise and craftsmanship. We are always available to answer questions or address concerns about your roof and can provide insight into what style of roof may be right for a new construction home. No matter your roofing project, at Able Roofing, we are here to help you every step of the way.Contact us today to get started.

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Addressing Roof Damage Caused By Freeze-thaw Cycles

Addressing Roof Damage Caused By Freeze-thaw Cycles

We all learned a lot of things in school that do not necessarily affect our daily lives. Calculus and literary theory come in handy for a select few, but much of our basic knowledge lives in our brains without ever really being used. One contradiction to this is a lesson you likely learned in early science classes about how water expands when it’s frozen and contracts when it’s heated. As a teenager, it isn’t likely that you knew how important that lesson would one day be for the safety and security of your family. It turns out that the application of this particular scientific theory is very important as a homeowner. As the seasons change, the moisture in or around your house begins to expand when it freezes. For many materials in your home, this is no big deal. However, it can be a death sentence for your roof. It’s important to understand how the yearly freeze-thaw cycles can affect your roof, what you should look for, and what you can do about it.

Freeze-thaw cycles can cause damage to your roof

To understand what happens to your roof, you need to understand what happens during the freeze-thaw cycle here in Ohio. Simply put, water and moisture are constantly present in our air. That moisture makes its way into the cracks and crevices of most materials. When the moisture enters an object, it’s in a liquid or gaseous state. However, as temperatures drop, the water molecules begin to expand. If the expanding moisture is inside of a rigid object, such as rocks, cement, or roofing shingles, the expansion begins to put pressure on the object. Because temperatures can fluctuate a significant amount between daytime and nighttime, especially in the intermediary seasons of spring and fall, this pressure is created multiple times per week, causing significant wear and tear on the objects it inhabits.

Three signs of freeze-thaw damage to your roof

Freeze-thaw cycles can create a variety of problems for your roof, and they don’t always manifest in the same way. However, there are a few common ways you can identify freeze-thaw damage on your roof:

Ice Dams. Ice dams can occur when the heating on your roof is uneven or when there is a lot of freezing and thawing occurring in the environment. In these instances, melted snow runs down the roof, stopping around the eaves. The water goes behind shingles and gets stuck there, causing significant upward pressure when it freezes.Flashing has come loose. All roofs have metal sheeting called flashing that seals the cracks between roofing materials and roof features. If the flashing surrounding your chimney, eaves, vents, etc., has separated from the area it’s protecting, ice dams are likely the culprit, even if you didn’t catch them when they occurred. These gaps can let in further moisture and can even cause flooding, so make sure to address the issue right away.Uneven or minimized space between shingles. Shingles should be evenly spaced. If you see that some shingles are not, or the space has become smaller, it’s likely that the expansion and contraction has done some damage.

All of these issues can permanently damage your roofing shingles and other roofing materials and can cause expensive home repairs.

The long-term effects of the freeze-thaw cycle

There are several ways in which the freeze-thaw cycle can damage your home in the long term. Damages can be expensive and may affect your family in unexpected ways. These are a few examples:

Mildew and mold can grow in your home. Ice dams and the freeze-thaw cycle allow moisture to make its way inside your home, as well as under your shingles. This water is not purified or even clean and carries bacteria and mold spores. As those germs reach inside, they can easily grow in the climate-controlled environment, leading to significant problems for your home and health.Your roof’s lifespan is shortened. The freeze-thaw cycle accelerates damage to your roof, meaning you will likely have to repair and replace your roof sooner than anticipated.Your gutters could be destroyed. Ice dams have the ability to remove gutters from the sides of the roof. If this happens, any melted water is not safely rerouted away from your home, meaning it will likely find its way into your basement, freeze, and cause further damage, or both.

How to protect your roof

The effects of the freeze-thaw cycle are certainly alarming, but luckily, there are steps you can take to protect your home. The most immediate option is to hire professionals to remove snow from your roof. This prevents ice dams from forming. If you already have an ice dam, make sure to have it removed right away before it has time to cause further damage. In the long-term, the best thing you can do for your roof is to have a well-ventilated attic. This ensures that temperature fluctuations don’t have as strong of an effect on your roof, as it is temperature regulated. Finally, have your roof inspected regularly. If you catch damage early, you can save a lot of time, money, and heartache.

Call a professional

Though there are many online DIY tips about how to remove ice dams or repair your roof, these methods are never recommended. Falling from a roof or ladder is often lethal, and without the right support equipment, you could be endangering your life. Even methods such as roof rakes are not recommended, as they can cause further damage to your shingles as they remove snow. Your best course of action is to contact a professional and create a short-term and a long-term action plan for your roof.

Contact Able Roofing

For roofers that truly understand Ohio’s fickle freeze-thaw cycle,contact Able Roofing. For over 30 years, we have been keeping the roofs and families of Ohio safe from roofing catastrophes and safety hazards. We are passionate about performing quality, expert work on your roof, so you can have peace of mind all season long. Our family-oriented, award-winning team provides exemplary customer service and results that you can feel confident about. Don’t wait — call us today to schedule a free estimate.

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