Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

August 16, 2021 by The Roof Guy

Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement

Anyone can see that you have roofing problems. But should you call for roof repair or roof replacement?

On the one hand, roof replacement will completely solve all of your roofing issues. On the other hand, it’s a huge waste of money for any roof damage that can be easily and effectively repaired.

So what do you do? You’ll find out in the guide below.

This list covers all of the most common roof issues, including leaks, impact damage, and old age. And, point-by-point, we’ll tell you which service your particular problem requires. If you need professional help with your roofing in MN, read this guide first.

When to Get Roof Repair

As a general rule, you always want to repair your roof if possible. The only time this isn’t effective is when the damage is so extensive that repairs will not fully solve the problem. In any case, here are some examples of problems that can still be fixed.

Your Roof Is New

Typically, a new roof will last at least 15 years. If your roof is relatively new, replacement probably isn’t necessary.

However, this is another general rule. In rare cases of extreme damage, roof replacement may be required.

The Damage Is Small

If a tree branch falls and dents your roof, the damage can usually be repaired. When incidents like this happen, the damage usually affects only one small area of the roof. As long as the damage can be patched up without threatening the structural integrity of your house, there’s no sense in tearing out all the undamaged parts of your roof.

When to Get Roof Replacement

Now, here are some situations in which you’ll waste more money on repairs. In the following examples, roof replacement is the only cost-effective solution.

Very Large Areas of Damage

Now, let’s imagine that a fallen tree branch has caused half of your roof to cave in. In this situation, it’s likely that your roof needs extensive reconstruction, along with some of the walls.

Many Damaged Spots

In other situations, there may be damage in several spots all across your roof. This can be from pests or hailstorms, for instance. In very rainy areas, small leaks develop in not one but many different areas of your roof.

When there are just too many damaged spots, the overall integrity of your roof is compromised. Thus, roof replacement is the only way to save the rest of the house.

Your Roof Is Too Old

When the damage seems minor, it’s still a good idea to recall how old the roof is. There comes a time when the roof is simply too worn out to keep repairing.

Find out the life expectancy of your particular roof type. If it’s getting too old, replace it.

Keep This Roof Repair vs. Roof Replacement Guide

We hope this guide has helped you today. More importantly, you want to make sure you have this information available in the future.

Bookmark this post so that you can use it for reference if you experience roof problems in the future. And please, share this guide with any other homeowners you know.

If your roof has issues, The Roof Guys can help. Contact us here to get a free roof inspection and quote.

How Heat and Humidity Affect Your Roof

August 2, 2021 by The Roof Guy

corner of a house with the sun beating down on the roof

How Heat and Humidity Affect Your Roof

Your roof protects your house from the elements, from rain to heat. Yet, it sometimes takes a beating of its own while doing so. While most people are aware that they have to replace their roof every decade or two, you may not be aware of the toll heat and humidity can take on the materials covering your home.

Damage from Heat

Heat can cause damage to your roof in myriad ways, including through causing support beams, rafters and decking to stretch and expand. This can become an issue because this expansion can lead to cracks in the roof that can allow water to seep in. This, in turn, can cause mold and mildew to grow in the roof before you even know there is an issue.

Additionally, heat collecting under the roof in the attic can cause weak spots in the wood to form or nails to pop in the shingles.

Damage from Humidity

The biggest danger from humidity around the roof is the collection of moisture in the materials and within the structure of the roof. If moisture from too much humidity becomes trapped in the attic or crawl space or if condensation accumulates, this can also cause mold and mildew growth.

This may lead to wood rot and weaken the structure of the roof, which may eventually cause the plywood to cave in entirely.

Taking Care of your Roof

The best way to mitigate roof damage from heat and humidity is to properly care for it. To start, schedule a routine roof inspection at least once a year to ensure that everything is working as it should. While you can inspect it yourself, it is best to have a professional do it. They know will know exactly what to look for when it comes to potential issues with your roof.

If there are any potential problem areas, have them taken care of immediately instead of waiting. It is easy for small problems to grow out of control quickly when it comes to your roof given its exposure to heat, humidity and the elements. Look out for any shingles that might be loose or broken and have them repaired immediately, so that water does not leak into the attic or crawlspace.

Trim branches hanging over the roof and clean the gutters often to avoid any build-up. The more proactive you are about roof care, the better its condition will be despite the wear and tear from the heat and exposure. Roof repair and replacement can be complex, so taking care of your roof will save you from unexpected expenses down the road.

Learn more about how to properly take care of your roof and protect it as best you can from the rigors of heat, humidity and the elements.

The Basics of Roofing Replacement

May 13, 2021April 5, 2021 by The Roof Guy

The Basics of Roofing Replacement

Is it time? When your roof can no longer benefit from repairs to help protect your home, it’s probably time to replace it.
The idea of ripping off the current roofing system and putting new shingles and gutters back in place might make you nervous. A roof replacement is a big project, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming for homeowners. With the right roofing professionals, there’s nothing to worry about!

What can you expect when it’s time for a new roof? Here’s how it works!

Get Ready

You can help your roof repair experts complete the job more quickly with a few preparation tasks. When roofers have a clear area to work, they can work faster and safer.
Before the roofing crew arrives:

Move cars out of the driveway
Clear porches and patios
Unlock the gates
Mark landscaping that you want to protect
Take photos off of walls
Let the neighbors know

Ripping shingles from the roof and banging new decking and shingles into place can rattle walks within your home. Remove any fragile items that can fall from walls or shelves throughout the project.

Remember: replacing roof shingles and decking is loud work. Your neighbors will thank you for a heads up before work starts.

Materials and Workers Arrive

A clear driveway allows space for the truck to deliver new decking, shingles, and materials. Your roofing contractor might also deliver a large dumpster bin to collect materials as the crew removes the old roof.
Depending on how early your new roofing materials arrive, workers will arrive soon and begin working. Most new roof replacements can occur over one or two days, and crews start early to maximize daylight.

Existing Roof Removed

Before they can begin replacing roof shingles, the roofers must remove the existing roof. While it might seem chaotic, an experienced crew has a system to safely remove gutters, shingles, and decking to protect other structures on and around your home.
With a clean surface, it’s time to place the new materials!

New Roof Installed

Before installing new decking and shingles, professional roofers repair damaged areas that support the new roof’s structure. Remember, this is loud work! Expect noise from nailing, talking among crew members, and saws to trim and ensure each piece fits and seals correctly.

Do You Need to Leave?

It’s up to you! A professional roofing crew works around homeowners to get the job done.
After clearing the driveway of vehicles and other obstacles, you can leave for the day. If you can handle the noise and activity, you can also stay in your home. Make sure pets and kids stay out of the way so that workers can continue without interruption.

Choose the Best Professionals for Roof Replacement

The best professionals make a roof replacement a hassle-free experience. The Roof Guys work quickly, provide free estimates and a competitive roof replacement cost, and deliver high-quality roofing services for residential and commercial buildings.
Contact us for your free quote!

When Should I Replace My Roof?

May 13, 2021March 3, 2021 by The Roof Guy

When Should I Replace My Roof?

The roof over your home, depending on what material it’s made out of, will only last 25 to 30 years.
That isn’t counting on damage brought on by severe weather, climate events, or wind. When something does happen to your roof, roofing repair is often the best solution to the problem.

Having a solid and functional roof is essential to protecting your home and family. A damaged roof can let in water, which leads to rot or other structural damage. Failing to repair a roof can lead to expensive repairs or even the loss of a home. Don’t let this happen to you.

Roofing Repair

So how do you know when you need to repair or replace the roof on your home? The first and the best thing you can do is to check the rooftop after every major weather event, or even after periods of heavier than usual wind. Finding out quickly that you have storm damage is important. The sooner you know you have damage and can address it, the less likely it will spiral into catastrophic repair costs.

The most common type of damage to a roof is displaced or missing shingles. These can be blown away by the wind, cracked and shattered by hail, or knocked out of place. If you notice missing shingles on your roof, emergency roof repair is the best option for you.

If the damage is confined to a small area, and the rest of the shingles look good, this may be all that you have to do. However, if your roof is old, and you notice that such damage occurs frequently, it is probably time to consider getting an entirely new roof.

The Power of Nature

Another sign to look for when determining whether not you need repairs is moss. Moss often grows due to trapped moisture in the roof, which feeds it and allows the moss to grow. The more moss that you see, the more likely it is that you have a leaky roof that needs immediate attention.
Speaking of damage and attention, if a roof is leaking, make sure to get it taken care of right away. Damage caused by leaking roofs can be substantial. If you see water dripping, or gathering on the walls and ceiling, that means you need repairs now.

Your Roof, Your Home

In many ways, the quality of the roof will determine how nice your home is. Damage over time from moisture leaking or even loss of insulation and inflated costs are all symptoms of a damaged roof. If you notice any discoloration, missing shingles, or moss, get help as soon as possible.
For those of you who are in the twin cities area, The Roof Guys are here to help. We can make sure that your roof is installed the right way and functioning as you need. Whether it is a commercial, residential roof, or an emergency repair, The Roof Guys can make sure that you get the roofing repair service that you need.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today!