Uncategorized

The Layers of Roofing Materials on Your Roof

You’ll be surprised to learn that your roof consists of different layers working together to ensure your home stays dry and comfortable. Each layer performs a specific function without which  your roof may collapse requiring a full roof replacement. Let’s discuss these layers.

Roof Deck

Roof decking forms the innermost layer of the roof and works as the foundation from which other layers are stacked. It’s mostly made of oriented strand board or soft wood to provide warmth and general coziness. It is the primary structural support for the rest of the roof layers.

Underlayment

Underlayment is the second inner layer of the roof. It’s made from synthetic or waterproof materials to prevent water leakage from tiles or shingles. It’s a secret protector that helps keep the roof deck warm and from rotting.

Roofing Material

This is the outer layer that most people see and refer to as the roof. It can be made of shingles, metal, tiles, or a unique aesthetic material like a green living roof. It’s prudent to choose the best roofing material because the stronger this layer is, the more protection you get.

Roof Flashing

Flashing is a vital outer layer that prevents water leakage in places where the roof meets other structures like chimneys, vents, or skylights. It prevents water from seeping through inner layers. In case you may experience a problem with your flashing system, you can have a full roof replacement done by roofing and exterior experts in IL and Missouri.

Roof Vent

The ridge vent allows sufficient air circulation and is primarily the breathing system of your roof. It helps maintain and regulate moisture and temperature for a conducive environment. Mold and ice dams thrive in poorly ventilated roofs; hence, unrestricted airflow through your attic is imperative.

Its crucial to hire roofing experts like Shelby Roofing and Exteriors, with extensive knowledge about roofs to ensure you get the best roof that can withstand all extreme conditions. Understanding these layers of your roof may aid in helping you select the best roof for your home.

Recognizing Flashing Issues: What They Are and Why the Flashing Is Important

Roof installation is a complex task that involves various components working together as a cohesive system. Therefore, engaging professionals to execute the job for us is paramount. Proper roof installation ensures its durability and functionality in protecting you against elements.

One of the essential components of a roofing system is flashing. This article explores the importance of roof flashing and tips for identifying flashing issues.

What’s Roof Flashing?

Roof flashing is vital for shingle, metal, and low or flat-slope roofing systems. Flashing is installed around chimneys, gutters, eaves, and other spots joining two surfaces. This is a crucial component, stopping water from seeping through roof gaps and cracks. 

Unfortunately, a simple mistake during the installation or repair of flashing can cause severe damage to your entire roof. This can result in costly repairs or overall roof replacement. Below are different types of roof flashing:

Visible Damage

Your lead flashing can show visible signs of damage, including holes, cracks, or splits. These are caused by general aging, thermal expansion, contraction, or adverse weather conditions. If you notice a sign of slight damage, it indicates an underlying problem with your flashing system. Hence, you should have it immediately inspected and repaired by a professional roofer. 

Missing or Damaged Shingle

Damaged or missing shingles, especially around the chimney, can also lead to flashing problems. To increase the lifespan of your flashing, ensure proper alignment of your shingles and the flashing. The shingles should also be in good condition.   

Leaks and Dampness

Water leaks or dampness in the house during rainstorms is a significant sign of deteriorated lead flashing. To validate your concerns, inspect the presence of moisture in regions where the flashing has been positioned. 

Rust or Corrosion

You should inspect your flashing regularly for any signs of rust, especially if it’s metal. Rust weakens its integrity, particularly around joints and edges. 

With proper installation and regular maintenance, your flashing will last a long time, regardless of your chosen type. For professional and reliable results, contact Shelby Roofing and Exteriors.

Let Your Home Breathe With Better Roof Ventilation

You may discover ventilation problems with your roof if you inspect the attic. Many people first find out about roof ventilation problems when they assess their energy use. A roof that doesn’t ventilate properly will strain your heating and cooling systems. It may be difficult or impossible to heat or cool the building properly altogether. Your contractor may recommend adding certain types of vents to your building to fix the issue. Proper ventilation will keep your attic reasonably cool and keep the roof from wearing out early due to heat issues. 

Use Multiple Vent Types for Great Results

Your roofing contractor can help you assess the issue completely and develop a long-term strategy. Many buildings utilize a combination of ridge vents and soffit vents to get the best results. Some people add turbines or gable vents as well. Box vents are also a great solution for many buildings. Ridge vents are installed near the top of the roof and are considered some of the best vents for releasing heat. Soffit vents are installed near the bottom edge of the roof and help supply the attic with fresh air. Box vents and gable vents can be used alone or in combination to do the same job for other buildings. Box vents can be matched to your shingles and are placed near the roof. Gable vents will often include a mesh screen and are installed right under the roof gable. 

Shelby Roofing and Exteriors has provided quality contracting services for over 40 years. We help residential and commercial clients in the St. Louis, MO and Southern Illinois areas. Contact us today for help with your building. 

Gutters vs Roofs: Which One Should You Replace First?

Remodeling or designing the exterior of a new home can be overwhelming for homeowners in Pacific MO. Choosing which projects to tackle, such as siding, roofing, windows, or gutters, can be particularly challenging. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exterior remodeling, opting for a new roof is generally advisable.

Numerous compelling reasons exist to install a new roof before addressing your gutters. The primary reason is the need to uninstall the gutters before reinstallation, especially those attached to the roof. This prolongs the installation timeline and exposes your new gutter system to potential damage during the uninstallation and reinstallation phases. Additionally, repairing and repainting the gutters can be costly and bothersome.

Reasons to Replace Your Roof First

When you choose to have a new roof installed, it’s essential to consider the impact on your gutter system. The roofing company must typically remove the gutters before installing the new roof. However, this process can potentially cause damage to your gutters, especially if they are new. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid replacing the roof after installing new gutters.

If you are forced to replace the roof after a hail damage, there are a few things to consider. First, you may need to repaint and possibly repair your gutters following the roof replacement. This additional maintenance can be avoided if feasible by having the roof replacement and gutter installation done simultaneously.

Coordinating the roof replacement and gutter installation minimizes the risk of damage to the gutter system. This approach allows for a smoother transition between the two projects and reduces the need for additional repairs or maintenance.

When to Replace Your Gutter 

Don’t delay installing a new gutter system if you’re considering a roof replacement after a heavy hail damage effect. Removing and reinstalling new gutters during a roof replacement may not be ideal. However, leaving ineffective gutters on your home can result in expensive water damage to your foundation and landscaping. In the larger picture, it is wiser to promptly address the replacement of your gutters upon recognizing the need.

If you have any inquiries or require roof replacement or repair services in Pacific MO contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors! We are committed to helping you comprehend the situation, enabling you to make well-informed choices that suit your home.

Shingle Shuffle: How to Fix Missing Shingles and Safeguard Your Roof

Discovering missing shingles on your roof can be a cause for concern. Whether due to storm damage, age, or improper installation, addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your home. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you have missing shingles on your roof:

1. Conduct a Visual Inspection

Start by visually inspecting your roof from the ground or using a sturdy ladder. Look for any obvious signs of missing shingles, such as gaps or exposed areas on the roof’s surface. Take note of the location and extent of the damage, which will be helpful when discussing the issue with a roofing professional.

2. Check for Loose Shingles

In addition to missing shingles, check for any loose shingles that might be hanging or partially detached from the roof. These shingles are susceptible to further damage and can cause leaks if not secured promptly.

3. Secure the Area Temporarily

If you notice any loose shingles, use roofing cement or adhesive to temporarily secure them back in place. This will prevent them from flying off during storms and causing additional damage to your roof or surrounding property.

4. Look for Missing Shingle Replacements

Check your garage, attic, or storage area for leftover shingles from previous roof installations or repairs. If you have replacement shingles that match your existing roof, you can use them to fill in the missing areas.

5. Contact a Professional Roofer

For a more permanent and effective solution, contacting a professional roofer is best. They have the expertise and tools to assess the damage accurately and provide appropriate repairs. Avoid attempting major repairs yourself, as working on the roof can be dangerous and may cause further damage if not done correctly.

6. Schedule a Roof Inspection

A professional roofer will thoroughly inspect your roof to assess the extent of the damage and identify any underlying issues that might have caused the shingles to go missing. They will provide a detailed report and recommend the best action to restore your roof’s integrity.

7. Consider Roof Replacement

Depending on the age and condition of your roof, the roofer might recommend a partial or complete roof replacement if the damage is extensive. Roof replacement ensures that your entire roof is in optimal condition and can save you from recurring repair expenses.

8. Prioritize Regular Roof Maintenance

To prevent future shingle damage and prolong the lifespan of your roof, make roof maintenance a priority. Regular inspections, cleaning of debris, and addressing minor issues promptly can help you avoid more significant problems in the long run.

What Is the Effect of Strong Winds on My Roof?

Many assume that storms without rain, snow, or hail do not cause much trouble. However, strong winds cause significant damage, especially when they exceed the limit favorable for your roof. If your area experiences these episodes of extreme weather, it is crucial that you partner with our experts at Shelby Roofing & Exteriors. We have years of experience repairing and maintaining all roofing situations and thus possess the necessary expertise to help you. We can provide you with a detailed analysis to help you know the next step to take. No matter how minor the damage seems, our trained eyes can assist in correcting them to prevent any future problems.

Loose and Missing Shingles

Strong winds mostly affect the shingles and can cause them to become loose or detach from the structure. Therefore, you should inspect your top for missing shingles after the harsh weather dies down. It is also possible to hear the loose ones shake as the wind blows past them. We recommend contacting our expert roofers to help you replace the missing ones and tighten all the rest.

Flying Items

When there are powerful winds, it is possible to find things blown from one place to another. Such instances lead to items falling on the roof, which may lead to cracks or breakages of the tiles or shingles. Metal roofs may also get dents or holes depending on the weight of the items falling on the top. Therefore, if you find huge things cluttering your roof after stormy weather, don’t hesitate to get in touch with expert assistance in removing them and inspecting them for damages.

Gutter Damage

Since the gutter system is part of your roof, it also gets affected by strong winds. You may find the water passage loosely hanging from its attachment or blocked by debris. You can remove the blockage using a rake, but you must be careful lest you cause more harm to the system. Call our Shelby Roofing & Exteriors experts to help fix the hanging or detached gutters to allow the excess water to drain properly.

Apart from the obvious top part of the roof, you should ensure you thoroughly inspect the structure with the help of an experienced roofer. Even if the shingles receive minimal impact, they may be at risk of getting completely blown off if they don’t get the required attention. With the help of our experts, you can safeguard your family and avoid expensive roofing replacements due to negligence.

Don’t Compromise on Shingle Quality

Modern homeowners want their home’s exterior to look nice, and few modify their home’s exterior more than the roof. A roof’s exterior is more than just the shingles. Many homeowners don’t realize that their roofing needs depend on the grade and type of shingles used. Here’s why a roof needs great shingles:

1. Durability

Shakes are among the most durable roofing products available. Most shakes will last 50 years or more if properly installed. Many consumers choose a stain grade over a traditional shake coating because of its durability.

2. Permanence

An asphalt shingle roof is among the most durable roofing products available. It resists moisture, providing maximum durability and protection against leaks and damage. In addition, shakes form a rigid membrane that is nearly impervious. This allows them to last for decades, even with heavy traffic on the roof or in the weather, giving homeowners peace of mind in knowing their roofs will last for years.

3. Fire Resistance

Fire is the main reason why roofs are replaced today. To resist fire, the shake should be installed over plywood, which is fire resistant. In addition, the shake’s durability allows it to be more forgiving of human error during installation if proper procedures are not followed precisely. Improperly installed roofs will often leak and eventually cave, leading to damage and fire.

4. Soundproofing

The shake is a very silent material, so they perform well if noise is an issue. They also provide an additional layer of sound insulation in the attic to help prevent sound transmission between floors due to the heating and cooling systems in your home. In addition, the shake has thinner shingles than many asphalt shingle brands. This makes installing them easier and helps them blend into the roof’s texture.

5. Reduced Maintenance

The shake has only one layer of shingles, requiring less frequent stripping and cleaning than asphalt shingles. Shingles are also easy to install, requiring no more than two people per roof to get the job done right. The shake also requires fewer nails than asphalt shingles for a simple, secure installation. Homeowners can easily check the tightness of their installation by using a level to ensure all shingles are even.

The Bottom Line

The shake shingle is the best choice if you are looking for a roofing product that will last for years and require little upkeep. The durability of the shake is unmatched in residential roofing, and it is simple to install. The shake is perfect for homeowners who want a low-maintenance roof that will look great for years to come. Contact our roofing experts today for the best options on shake shingles.

5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Old Roof

As a homeowner, it’s important to keep your property in good condition to ensure it’s safe and comfortable for you and your family. One of the most significant investments in your home is your roof, which protects your home from the elements and keeps you warm and dry. However, over time, your roof will age and wear out, which can lead to leaks, poor energy efficiency, and even safety hazards. Here are five signs that it’s time to replace your old roof.

Age

The age of your roof is the most critical factor in determining when it needs to be replaced. Most roofs are designed to last between 20 to 25 years, so if your roof is approaching or exceeding this age range, it’s time to start thinking about a replacement. Even if your roof looks fine from the outside, its internal structure could be deteriorating, leading to leaks and other issues.

Wear and Tear

Over time, your roof will experience wear and tear from the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. This wear and tear can manifest in several ways, including cracked or missing shingles, granule loss, and curling or buckling shingles. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your roof.

Leaks

If you’re experiencing leaks or water damage inside your home, it’s a clear sign that your roof is compromised. Leaks can be caused by several factors, including damaged flashing, cracked shingles, and clogged gutters. If left unaddressed, leaks can lead to significant structural damage and mold growth.

Energy Efficiency

Your roof plays a critical role in your home’s energy efficiency. If you notice that your energy bills are higher than usual or your home feels drafty, it could be a sign that your roof is no longer doing its job. A new roof can improve your home’s insulation and ventilation, leading to significant energy savings over time.

Curb Appeal

Finally, your roof plays a significant role in your home’s curb appeal. If your roof looks worn out or outdated, it can detract from your home’s overall appearance and value. A new roof can give your home an instant facelift and boost its curb appeal.

In conclusion, if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider replacing your old roof. While a new roof is a significant investment, it’s worth it to ensure your home’s safety, energy efficiency, and value. Be sure to work with a reputable roofing contractor to ensure your new roof is installed correctly and will last for years to come.

Undetectable Problems That Could Ruin a Commercial Roof

Commercial roofs are especially expensive to replace. While people tend to keep a vigilant eye on their commercial roof, there are a few problems that you can miss even with a regular moderate-level inspection. Many people don’t know how important maintenance is for commercial roofs. They tend to plan on making repairs as needed, but even light maintenance will dramatically improve the durability of your roof. Don’t wait till you notice a problem to contact a commercial roofing professional. And make sure to schedule periodic high-level inspections. These problems can destroy your roof, and they are nearly impossible to spot. 

Hail Damage

Many people check the perimeter of their roof after hail storms for debris and obvious damage. But hail can leave nearly invisible damage, and it’s extremely important to have someone take a close look from on top of the roof after hail. The hail can cause tiny punctures that will seep water in undetected. It may thin shingles or nearly puncture your roof materials and cause a leak in the near future that will contribute to rot. It can also damage the membrane of the roof, especially in cases of prolonged or heavy hail. You won’t always spot holes or missing shingles right away, but a close-up inspection can reveal a roof that won’t function for much longer. 

Tree Damage

Trees are usually a welcome sight on business properties. However, you should be very attentive to tree debris that will make its way onto the roof and into the gutters. Animals love to travel over roofs from trees as well. It’s important to keep your roof free from nests, nuts, extra leaves,  pine needles, and sticks. The roof can acquire invisible rot and mold underneath organic matter, and you likely won’t notice until a roof replacement is your only option. 

Shelby Roofing and Exteriors provides repairs and installation for all kinds of commercial roofs. With over 35 years of experience from our headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, we have the knowledge and skills to keep your building in great condition. 

Common Roofing Problems and How to Handle Them Right Away

The Most Frequent Roofing Issues and How to Fix Them

Since snow, storms, cold, and other elements may enter a residence, it is crucial to the structure’s overall function to have a quality roof. With routine upkeep by Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, a quality roofing system should withstand environmental extremes. The roof will eventually develop problems just like the rest of the home. Roofing issues you ignore will only worsen and become more expensive to solve in the long run. Common roof problems include leaks, poor installation, clogged gutters, improper vents, and overcrowding trees.

Leaks

Cracks or missing shingles are the most common causes of roof leaks. Usually, the roof starts leaking around the point where a chimney, vent, or dormer makes a hole. The professionals at Shelby Roofing & Exterior can locate the source of the leak and fix the damaged shingles for you. You can detect leaks by inspecting the ceiling for stains or mildew.

Poor Installation

Hiring experts to put up your roof is crucial. Shelby Roofing & Exteriors is home to a team of skilled, certified roofers committed to providing excellent customer service and quality roofing installations. Leaks, mold, and a shortened lifetime are just a few long-term consequences of sloppy roofing construction. You may avoid this issue by thoroughly researching the roofing contractor you want to hire.

Clogged Gutters

When gutters are clogged, most people don’t think about the consequences for the roof. When the rainwater cannot drain properly from the roof, it pools and might lead to problems with root growth. The leaks and mildew might occur if the water starts seeping in. Maintaining clean gutters via regular inspections is an easy way to avoid this issue. Cleaning up the debris during routine maintenance visits is another way a professional roofer may assist in stopping a problem from getting out of hand.

Inadequate Ventilation in the Roof

Most cases of roof failure result from improper roofing air circulation. Sheathing and shingles are damaged by excessive heat due to a lack of ventilation. Inadequate ventilation also promotes moisture buildup, which raises inside temperatures and causes the shingles to crack and blister. If you want to solve this problem and avoid damage, a roofing professional should inspect your vents.

Overcrowding Trees

Trees are great for nature, but not if they shorten the life of your roof. It is essential to keep your trees pruned so that their branches don’t rub against your roofing system and diminish its lifespan. 

Conclusion

Roofing inspection and repair services are necessary when issues arise. At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we have a staff of roofing repair specialists that combine decades of expertise with the required skills to provide you with the best roof repair services.