Do I Need a New Roof? #7 – Masonry and Counterflashing

The breakdown of chimneys and other masonry walls are an indication of roof replacement. If water is coming in along the chimney wall or masonry wall it is either because the counterflashing is failing or the masonry itself is absorbing water. This picture shows that the caulking has deteriorated to the point that it is [...]

Do I Need a New Roof? – #6 Storm and Animal Damage

Storms may cause the roof to be replaced before the normal life of the roof is reached. High winds can blow shingles completely off the roof or hail storms can damage the toughest of shingles.  Hail loosens the granules on the shingles creating dark spots on these shingles. The result is a shortened life span [...]

Do I Need a New Roof? – #5 Exhaust Vents

Exhaust Vents Most homes have at least one type of exhaust fan that exits into the attic. The most popular is the bathroom fan, but others include kitchen exhaust and dryer vents. If the fan exit through the attic it is important that it also is vented to the outside of the roof. If not this hot [...]

Do I Need a New Roof? – #4 Ventilation

Poor Ventilation! Another major factor that determines how long your roof will last is ventilation. If there is inadequate ventilation, problems like condensation in the winter and excessive heat inthe summer will shorten the life of the roof system and cause major damage to the wood deck. Attics need to ‘breathe’. This picture shows what happens to the plywood [...]

Do I Need a New Roof? – #3 Granule Loss

Granule Loss When a roof reaches the end of its life the granules on the shingles come off more readily as the asphalt that holds them in place begins to deteriorate.  Watch for granules in your gutters washing out onto your lawn, or the roof turn dark as the asphalt is exposed. Shingles may begin [...]