The most obvious and severe sign of a roof leak is the presence of wet spots on your ceilings, specifically on the top floor of your home. You can also identify a roof leak from your attic if you see sagging insulation or if you notice mold growth or water stains on the rafters or the underside of the roof deck. From the street, look for cracked or missing shingles, moss growth, and shingles that are curling upward, all of which can suggest a leak.
Gable vents are more common in older homes built before the 1970s. Homes built after this era use ridge vents or soffits, but you can sometimes find homes with both gable and ridge vents. Gable vents can have a purely aesthetic purpose, while ridge vents hide in the roof shingles so air can flow under the roof while keeping the attic dry.
Yes, an underlayment is required for metal roofs, especially when installed over an indoor residential living space. This underlayment acts as a protective barrier between the metal roofing and the roof deck. Common materials include tar, asphalt felt, or woven synthetic polymers. Depending on local building codes, existing shingles in good condition may also suffice. A quality underlayment is crucial as it provides protection against water intrusion, improves energy efficiency through insulation, helps absorb sound, and ultimately extends the lifespan of your roof.
Whether a metal or shingle roof is better for you depends on your preferences. Standing seam metal roofs require little to no maintenance, but if you install a screw-down metal roof where the fasteners are exposed, the gaskets on the fasteners will dry rot and need to be replaced. Generally, screw-down metal roofs need to be re-screwed every 15 to 20 years.
Metal roofs are energy-efficient and have extended warranties, while asphalt shingles are less durable than most. They tend to lose color and get damaged over time, and absorb heat from the sun.
The purchase price of 3-tab shingles is less than that of other material varieties, such as architectural shingles. However, 3-tab shingles generally last far fewer years than even the least expensive architectural ones. Other roofing types, such as metal or clay, also cost more than 3-tab shingles. However, if you plan to stay in your home for many years, the long-term cost of any of these options can compete with 3-tabs because of their longevity.
The Noble, IL homeowners’ guide to roofing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Thatched roofs add tons of old-world charm to your home and provide outstanding insulation. Learn about thatched roof costs and what affects your final price.
Roof sheathing is another name for the strong layer of wood boards that are attached to your roof’s framing. Learn how much roof sheathing costs in this guide.
A new metal roof can add a unique touch to your home’s curb appeal and help maximize efficiency. Learn about metal roof costs and what affects your total.