We know that roof repair and replacement is a major investment in what may be your biggest asset–your home.
That’s why we listen carefully to your concerns and provide quality service at budget-friendly prices.
We’re a family-owned business that’s small enough to listen and big enough to deliver!

​We provide a 24-month financing, same as cash option, as well as a limited lifetime warranty.

Simply fill out the form below or give us a call at (330) 922-3200 today and let us take the stress out of your home improvement project.

9 Roofing Facts Every Cleveland Homeowner Must Know About

The roof is one of the most important components of our homes. It protects your house from the elements and helps keep the residents at ease and dry. Although it is a durable structure, it is not indestructible. As time passes, it will suffer from wear and tear and may need to be replaced or repaired.

When it comes to roofing, there are various misconceptions and myths. This can make it difficult for homeowners to know what to do to maintain their roofs and when to call a roofing contractor. To help clear things up, here are 9 roofing facts every Cleveland homeowner should know.

Asphalt shingle roof with roofing contractor in Cleveland, Ohio

1. The average asphalt shingle roof will last between 20 and 30 years. 

Asphalt shingles are composed of asphalt, a mineral that is a water-resistant material. Certain kinds are more robust than others. Shingles of premium quality are more durable and resemble slate or wood shakes. Depending on your asphalt shingles, your roof could last anywhere from 20 to 30 years.

The life of an asphalt shingle roof depends on how much care is given to it. Three-tab asphalt shingles have a lifespan of about 20 years, while more expensive dimensional shingles can last up to 30 years. You should also consider a metal roof that lasts anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Some premium metals, such as copper, can last over 100 years.

Extreme temperatures can damage asphalt shingles. High temperatures can cause asphalt shingles to soften and break, leading to roof leaks. Moreover, intense sunlight can weaken the adhesion of asphalt shingles, so installing clay tiles in defined patterns is vital. They weigh up to 950 pounds per square foot, and you may need to ensure the roof structure is strong enough to support the weight of the tiles.

Proper ventilation is vital for an asphalt roof, as it prevents moisture from collecting on the roof and drying out faster. Regular inspections will also help you spot minor problems before they become larger ones. Another way to extend the life of an asphalt shingle roof is by painting it. However, this will require a lot of effort and cause other problems.

2. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years. 

The manufacturer of metal roofing products will often cite a third-party study that says the average lifetime of a properly installed metal roof is 80 to 100 years. Other types of roofing, such as asbestos-cement flat panels and concrete tile, lasted much shorter than metal roofs.

There are many types of metal roofing available. Some are called standing seam, while others are called screw-down panels. Either way, each panel is fastened with screws and washers. Standing seam metal roofs can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. In some cases, they can even last for a century, depending on the material.

There are many pros to metal roofing; you may want to consider one for your home. It can add up to 6% to the value of your home when you want to sell it. However, it would be best always to consider your house’s climate and style when choosing a metal roof.

The material you choose and how it is installed will affect the lifespan of your metal roof. Most metal roofs consist of panels and flashing to seal the openings between the roof and the house. You can take care of maintenance yourself or hire a contractor. Maintaining a metal roof is not difficult and can extend its lifespan. Generally, you should clean and inspect your roof twice a year.

3. Flat roofs have a shorter lifespan than pitched roofs and usually only last between 10 and 20 years. 

Flat roofs are not as durable as pitched roofs, which means they require more maintenance in the long run. Flat roofs usually only last from 10 to 15 years. However, the life of these roofs depends on several factors, including the quality of the building materials and original workmanship. They also do not offer as good drainage as pitched roofs, and sitting water can cause long-term problems.

The lifespan of flat roofs depends on the type of material used and the structural requirements of the commercial property. No matter what roof you have, it’s important to keep it in good shape. For example, it is important to avoid clogged drainage systems as this can lead to pooling water. It is also essential to have a flat roof inspected regularly.

Another benefit of pitched roofs is that it’s much easier to examine on the ground. You can walk around your house and check for cracked tiles, loose vents, and missing shingles. A flat roof is more challenging to inspect and can result in major problems that can be costly to repair. If you want to ensure that your roof looks its best, hire a qualified roofing contractor.

Because they are more straightforward and require less materials, flat roofs are cheaper to install. They can be installed in less time than pitched roofs.

4. Regular maintenance can extend the life of a roof by 5 to 10 years. 

Regular maintenance is critical to ensuring a roof’s longevity. The most efficient method is to clear debris off the roof. Debris on the roof can cause moisture to collect and affect the roofing material. Also, clean up trees that are close to the house to prevent excess moisture from accumulating.

Roof maintenance should also focus on maintaining roof vents. Improper venting can cause warm, humid air to build up and even lead to mold growth in the attic. Inspect the vents on a yearly basis to ensure they are functioning properly. If they aren’t working properly, you should contact a roofing expert.

Regular cleaning of the roof also extends its lifespan. Debris that has accumulated on the roof can lead to serious water damage. Tree limbs can also clog the drainage system. If you have a large tree on your property, consider pruning it to prevent water damage. Also, algae and moss can grow on virtually any roof. To remove these, use a bleach solution.

Regular roof maintenance can also include trimming trees that grow near it. Tree branches rubbing against a roof can cause damage to shingles and other roof materials. Tree branches can also damage skylights and chimneys. Keeping all trees surrounding your house pruned is important to prevent any damage.

5. Gutters play an essential role in protecting a roof by channeling water away from the foundation. 

Gutters play an essential role in protecting shingles and roofs by channeling water away from home. Without a proper gutter system, water can pool around the foundation of a house and cause severe damage. Over time, water can crack the foundation or damage the siding and framing of a house. Regardless of the cause, gutters must protect the home and prevent expensive damage.

Gutters prevent soil erosion around a home’s foundation. Without proper gutter system, rainwater can carry sediment and debris from the roof to the home’s foundation. The channels keep this area clear and minimize erosion. Gutters also protect the foundation of a home from damage caused by storms. Without gutters, sediment and debris can collect around the foundation of a house and can cause serious problems.

Gutters help keep your home free of roof mold and mildew. These undesirable plants thrive on water, which is why gutters are essential for protecting a roof. Moreover, gutters also keep rainwater from accumulating on the roof.

The primary role of gutters in protecting a roof is to keep water away from the home’s foundation. Water sitting around the foundation can cause significant cracks in the foundation and cause a lot of expensive repairs. Another important function of gutters is to prevent ice dams from forming on a roof. Ice dams can cause severe damage to roofing materials and can cause water infiltration and mold growth.

6. The most common type of roof damage is caused by windstorms.

Windstorms cause a variety of damages to roofs and buildings, and hurricanes and tornadoes cause the worst of them. High winds can tear shingles off the roof and even uproot trees. Even a small shingle that is missing could cause the development of structural damage and leaks.

Wind damage usually begins along the edge, where strong roofing materials can rip apart. Homeowners must ensure that all materials along the corner and edge of their roof are stable and secure. While wind damage may initially appear minor, it can increase over time, especially if strong winds continue for a long time.

Windstorms can also damage vents and chimneys. As a result, they can become rusted or cracked. In addition, they can damage exhaust piping, causing a leak in your home. Windstorm damage can also cause leaks and damage to your attic.

After a storm, take photos of the damages and check your gutters. Many things can go wrong with your roof, but it’s important to stay calm and hire a professional. While some homeowners can repair some wind damage themselves, it is best to contact a professional contractor to assess the damage. A professional roof inspector will have the experience and the right tools to repair any wind damage to your home.

Snow in roof top with roofing contractor in Cleveland, Ohio

7. Heavy snowfall can also cause damage to a roof if it is not properly shoveled or supported with snow braces. 

Heavy snowfall that remains on the roof will add to the weight and can lead to leaks. The same steps as with ice dams should be taken to fix this problem. It is essential to clear the snow from the downspouts, which should extend at least 4 feet from the house. Another step is to replace missing shingles and seal any gaps in the roof.

While it may be tempting to attempt to shovel your roof yourself during a winter storm, it is best to contact a roofer to do it for you. Removing the snow as soon as possible is crucial, as the weight of the snow can easily cause damage to the roof. The roof structure must be balanced to distribute the snow’s weight evenly.

Besides causing damage to the roof, heavy snowfall can also cause structural weaknesses, leading to the roof collapsing under the load. Using a snow shovel or roof rake can help mitigate these risks and reduce the likelihood of a roof collapse. A snow rake can be bought at most hardware stores and should be used for pitched roofs.

A snow shovel can also cause damage to a roof, as most snow shovels are made of metal. Metal blades are extremely dangerous for roofs, as they can easily break shingles and crack flashing. This can lead to rotting and mold, which can cause major structural problems. Additionally, a snow shovel can cause the shingles to lose granules, which can cause a leak in the roof.

8. Tree branches that hang over a house can scrape against the shingles and cause damage. 

Overgrown tree branches can damage the roof of a house by scraping against it. This can lead to peeling and deterioration of the shingles and gutters. Additionally, leaves from trees may accumulate on the roof and cause damage by building up on the shingles. When this happens, it can also lead to leaks and mold growth. Additionally, if the tree is diseased or dead, it may fall on the house and damage the roof.

If you suspect a tree has fallen on your roof, you may want to consult a professional roofing company about the damage before calling an insurance company. If there’s a water leak, don’t go near it! Tree branches can also damage plumbing and gas lines. If you notice any of these damages, call 911 or your utility company immediately. They will shut off service until the damage is fixed.

Trimming down trees that are too high to reach your roof is essential. Although trees provide shade in the summer, they can cause major damage. Storms and winter weather can cause branches to snap or rip. By trimming them back, you protect the structure of your house and prevent other issues from occurring.

Trees add life to the surroundings and can add curb appeal. However, it would be best never to let them grow too close to your home because they can cause safety problems. When branches scrape against your roof’s shingles, they can even strip away layers of asphalt. This could also result in mold and other problems with your roof.

9. At least once a year, you should have a qualified contractor look at your roof.

The inspector will search for signs of sagging shingles or structural damages are present. They will also examine the fascia and soffit and fireplaces, and vents. Search for cracks or crumbling grout and examine the inside of the home to ensure that there isn’t any moisture buildup.

Roofing inspections should be scheduled throughout the year, with appointments strategically scheduled before seasonal changes. This will ensure that your roof is properly prepared for climate change. For example, continuous rain, hail, and heavy snow can all cause damage to roofs. Even newly installed roofs should undergo periodic inspections after these types of harsh weather.

Inspecting a roof will help you identify any problems before they get out of control. This will stop the damage from getting more severe and can save you cash in the end. It is much less expensive to repair small issues than to fix a large, costly problem. A professional roofing contractor can identify and fix problems with your roof before they become a major issues.

After major weather events, it is essential to have your roof inspected by a professional. It can help prevent larger problems from developing and may even extend the lifespan of your roof. Apart from preventing larger issues from arising in the future, it is important to ensure adequate drainage and ventilation on your roof.

Conclusion:

These are a few important roofing facts every Cleveland homeowner should know. By being informed, homeowners can take steps to prevent avoidable damage and extend the life of their roofs. Regular inspections are also crucial for catching small problems before they become big, expensive repairs.

The Third Estimate is here to help you stay safe and protect your home. We have all the information that will be useful when it comes time for storms or other weather events, including FREE INSPECTION tips on how to avoid damage in advance! For more detailed guidance about what to do if faced with these problems after they happen.

THE THIRD ESTIMATE IS YOUR ROOFING CONTRACTOR IN CLEVELAND, OHIO

Third Estimate is the best roofing contractor in town! We specialize in routine preventive maintenance, so you can rest easy knowing your home will be dry and healthy. If there are signs of leakage, such as cracks or gaps on our list, then we’ll fix them before they get worse – FREE ESTIMATE.
Contact us today for more information about what types of material would work well based on the dimensions needed, plus any other considerations like price range.