Top 5 Roofing Issues in Oshkosh Homes (and How to Fix Them)
The Wisconsin climate is notoriously cold in winter, with plenty of lake-effect snow created by our many bodies of water. But it’s not just the cold and snow that takes a toll on roofs; the see-saw weather that swings from hot to cold and wet to dry, can beat up typical asphalt shingles.
If your house has an aging roof, you’ll want to replace it before leaks become obvious. A roofing professional can examine your home’s top layer to evaluate necessary repairs and estimate the amount of time you have before replacing your roof becomes urgent.
Monitor and Maintain: Extending the Lifespan of Your Roof
The lifespan of any roof depends on the materials used, the quality of the installation, and the wear and tear it experiences. Homeowners can expect an asphalt shingle roof to last 20 years and a metal roof to last 40 or more years. Roofing materials with the longest lifespan are slate or tile, but even those require monitoring and maintenance. For those with the most common roof materials, here are some issues and their fixes:
- Ice dams: these are layers of ice that form on the edge of the roof and can push up under shingles to leak through your ceilings. They’re created by attic heat melting the snow on the roof. To temporarily remove ice dams, use special long-handled rakes to remove snow from the roof (always standing on the ground, not on a ladder). In dry months, improve the insulation of your attic and the air circulation under the eaves of the house (soffits) as well as increasing the depth of the waterproof barrier under your shingles. Some people also install a heating wire that melts snow on the edge of the roof to prevent ice buildup.
- Storm damage. Strong winds and hail can damage your roofing material, puncturing or lifting shingles. Have your roof inspected by a professional who can document the storm damage for an insurance claim. Have the damaged portion repaired immediately.
- Leaks due to flashing failure. Flashing is the material under your shingles in valleys where two sections of the house come together and around windows or the chimney. It should prevent water from leaking through the roof but is prone to wearing out. To repair, have a professional peel back layers of shingles and replace the flashing, sealing it in, to make the area water-tight again.
- Condensation. Managing moisture in and around your house is an important job. However attics that permit water intrusion or are inadequately ventilated may develop condensation. This happens when moist air meets cold surfaces. Condensation can create mold growth that damages the structure. Repairing this issue requires replacing any damp material in the attic (such as insulation) and improving the air flow there with improved venting and soffits.
- Aging shingles. Traditional asphalt shingles wear out over time due to exposure to extreme temperatures, storms, moss growth, and ultraviolet rays. Sometimes a roof can wear unevenly due to different amounts of sun exposure, moss growth, or storm damage. Extending the life of an aging roof includes cleaning moss off shingles and replacing missing or worn out areas. These steps should buy enough time to save up for a new roof, perhaps with higher quality components.
Get Professional Advice Before Investing in a New Roof
A roof is one of the largest household investments you’re likely to make, so it’s important to find a trustworthy roofing company like Ripon Area Roofing and Siding LLC. We will discuss your options and explain the components and workmanship that will make your next roof last. Better yet, you benefit from Ripon Area Roofing’s 30 years of experience, local roots, and their commitment that they will not subcontract your project. Call Ripon Roofing for a consultation today.