Common Questions About Roofs in Newark, Heath, and Granville, Ohio

Ohio roofing companies are constantly questioned about roof replacement, roof maintenance, and roof materials among other things. Whether homeowners are investing in brand new roofs or require roof repairs, they're bound to need answers. Following are five frequently asked questions about Ohio roofs and their answers.

1. When do residential roofs need replaced?

Countless homeowners are unsure of the best time to have their Ohio roofs replaced. Fortunately, there are several tell-tale signs that roofing is nearing the end of its lifespan or has reached it. Among these are curled or bucking shingles. With bucked shingles, moisture from attic areas have forced shingle nails out of their positions. This leaves shingles loose, at greater risk of being torn off by rain, wind, or other outside elements, and far more likely to let outside moisture in. Bucked shingles are a common cause of roof leaks. Similarly, curled shingles increase the risk of moisture-related property damage. More importantly, this issue means that shingles have sustained the maximum amount of wear, and that the roof is ready to be replaced.

Homeowners with algae growing on their roofs should also start planning and preparing for roof replacement. These and other growths can eat through low-quality, limestone shingles and many other shingle types. As per the Department of Energy, algae is most likely to form on roofs that are exceptionally cool.

Another sure sign of a roof that's ready to be replaced is the development of dark spots due to missing shingle granules. When shingles lose their granules, they are always ready to be replaced. This change affects the moisture-blocking abilities of shingles and indicates excessive age. Homeowners can check for problems with lost shingle granules by looking for these tell-tale materials at the base of their downspouts or in their gutters.

Attic mold and missing shingles are also indications that roofs have reached the end of their lifespans. Attic mold means that moisture is finding its way into the topmost areas of the home, and that the roofing substrate has failed. Although roofs can lose one or two shingles during times of heavy wind and rain without needing replacement, roofs with multiple missing shingles are often well-advanced in age or in a serious state of disrepair.

2. Should missing shingles be replaced or should the home get a new roofing system?

Shingles are but one of many components that make up a roofing system. Replacing the entire system when significant damages have occurred is generally the best way to optimize the performance of this important, protective building structure. Installing a new roof will provide the benefit of fresh leak barrier protection. This will effectively block water from entering the roof valleys, areas around the chimneys, and many other vulnerable spaces. A new roof will also provide fresh, uncompromised deck protection. This synthetic covering at the roof decking offers an additional layer of protection against moisture damages and roof rot. With new starter strip shingles, roofs will have a significantly lower likelihood of losing shingles during extreme weather events. Moreover, when top-of-the line shingles are used, these materials can last a lifetime. This is certainly the case for high-quality asphalt roofs that can provide as much as a 65 percent return on investment.

Finally, replacing an entire roof rather than replacing missing shingles alone will allow for better ventilation. Good ventilation will extend the lifespan of a new roof and prevent a host of common roofing issues. It can also lead to lower energy bills and improved resident comfort.

3. Can roofs be replaced during the wintertime?

Wintertime roof replacements are certainly possible. However, the most common times for replacing roofs are during the months of late fall and spring. Seasoned roofers are capable of putting new roofs in at any time of the year, and without having their work become damaged or disrupted by cold temperatures or all-around inclement weather.

4. Can new roofing result in lower energy bills?

Old and inefficient roofs can contribute to significant increases in home energy bills. Replacing these systems is a great way to limit spending in this area. It's generally best to have attic temperatures remain close to the temperatures outdoors, but when attic spaces become excessively hot during the summer, this is often the result of poor ventilation. This is an issue that forces home HVAC system to overwork. By using sound materials and proper ventilation, Ohio roofing companies can prevent problems like water leaks and heavy drafts, and elevated energy bills.

5. Is roof replacement a solid investment?

Of all the home improvements that Ohio residents can invest in, installing quality roofing will provide some of the absolute best returns. With new roofing systems homeowners can get:

- Greater curb appeal by choosing from a range of aesthetically pleasing shingle designs and colors
- Increased home values with a more than 60 percent return on their investments
- Increased energy savings from improved attic ventilation and enhanced roof performance
- Solid prevention against the formation of detrimental ice dams during winter
- Fewer roof repair costs
- Incredibly long-lasting results

Best of all, roof installation doesn't always require massive, upfront payments. There are options in financing that make roof replacement services more accessible and easier to afford. The best way to get started is by requesting a quote and by learning about available financing options.

Buckeye Vinyl has been serving Licking, Knox, and Delaware Counties, Ohio for decades. We invite you to contact our friendly team today to discuss any roofing questions you may have and schedule your free estimate.