Best roofers near Shawneetown, IL

A roof's ability to handle snow depends on its strength and the snow's weight, as wet snow is much heavier than dry, fluffy snow. While designs in snowy regions often allow for 35 to 50 pounds per square foot, a general guideline is that a typical roof can withstand about four feet of fresh snow, two feet of packed snow, or just one inch of ice. Factors like the roof's age, slope, and support structure also affect its capacity; newer, sloped roofs generally hold more weight than older, flat ones. Ice and ice dams add significant, dangerous weight. Because capacity varies, it is best to contact a professional roofing contractor or the original builder to determine the maximum snow load for your specific home.

Yes, roofers can repair and replace roof trusses. In fact, because trusses are such an important part of your roof’s structure, it’s best to have a roofing contractor deal with a damaged truss. If you try to fix the problem without the right skills or knowledge, your roof could sustain further damage or even collapse.

While a few icicles on your roof are standard, a large accumulation can be a sign of a bigger problem, such as poor insulation. This is particularly true if you are also dealing with ice dams. If you have numerous large icicles, it is recommended to have a roofing contractor diagnose potential insulation issues and create a plan to solve them.

The proper specifications for furring strips can vary, so you should always consult the roofing manufacturer's guidelines or your roofer. However, general recommendations are as follows:

• Thickness: Furring strips are typically 1 to 1-1/2 inches thick, meaning standard 1-by or 2-by lumber works well. In areas with extreme winds, a thinner strip may be preferred to limit how much air can get under the roof and cause uplift. A thicker strip can add slightly more insulation but will also increase installation costs.

• Spacing: The recommended spacing for furring strips is between 12 and 24 inches apart on center. Proper spacing is crucial for ensuring good airflow, adequate drainage, noise reduction, and better energy efficiency. The ideal spacing can depend on the roof's pitch and the specific type of metal roofing being installed.