An average roof in Chicago or anywhere else lasts between 15-20 years based upon the type of roofing system installed and its maintenance and upkeep. The roof sustains a lot of weathering on account of high winds, torrential rains and fierce snowstorms. Asphalt shingles are supposed to be in a good condition for about 15 years with proper maintenance; wood shake roofs have a life expectancy of 30 tears. Tiles have a lifespan of anywhere between 40-50 years and metal roofing are the longest lasting. They last for more than 50 years.

The constant exposures of the roof to external weather elements cause its aging. The UV rays from the sun beating down on the roof wear it out. The snowfall and ice dams cause weathering of the roof which may cause water leakage. Heavy incessant rains cause seepage of moisture too. It also causes the growth of moss which weakens the roof. All of this accumulated moisture breaks into the walls damaging them. Strong winds remove the roofing materials sometimes and accumulate dirt on the roof.

You must either inspect the roof yourself or contact a roofer to conduct a thorough check. If you are examining the roof yourself then look for damaged or worn out shingles, accumulation of granules and other debris in the drains of the gutter and signs of moisture seepage on the walls of the house. This moisture causes the growth of moss and mildew.

Do your research before calling a roofing expert to inspect the roof. Look for reputed established and trustworthy roofing contractor in Chicago and at other places who would give you a fair estimate for the repair job. He will explain to you in detail all the repair and restoration work that needs to be done. This involves the repair of the leaks and replacing the damaged and worn out roofing material. Experts are trained professionals to spot defective areas and suggest measures to correct them.

A professional roofer should be contacted for roof renovation. They have the necessary expertise to repair flashing and spot the worn out granules from the shingles. Ask about installation of a new sheath or protective covering over the damaged areas or on the entire roof. Usually re-roofing is not done over an already present roof as the damage of the old roof may spread to the newly installed one. It is recommended that old roof be completely removed before putting up a new roof. Complete roof replacement is the most trusted and reliable way to prolong the roof life.

Before putting up a new roof on a house in Chicago or for that matter at any other place, several factors have to be considered. Whether to install different roofing materials, how the new roof would fare in those climactic conditions, the drainage system and the existing gutters and the overall structure of the house. Consider installing sheet metal roof if you want to get rid of your roofing concerns for a long time. Metal roofs have no danger of rotting, breaking, curling or blowing up in the gales. They can withstand the roughest of weathers. They are immune to snow, continuous rains and hail. They are much lighter than regular roofing materials and are easy to fit. You can get your roof customized to your taste and needs. They are available in galvanized iron and steel, copper, aluminum, zinc and lead. They give a contemporary look to your house. Being energy efficient, they reduce your electricity bills considerably. These roofs require a painting job once in a while and an inspection of the seams. Since they are metal, corrosion and rusting does occur during rains and snowfall but not frequently. This shows their being extremely low maintenance. They are much longer lasting than their more conventional counterparts. They also raise the value of your house significantly.

Inquire from your contractor how your roof can be best repaired at less cost.

Flat roofed houses are more prone to water leakage and flashing damage. Waterproof rubber membranes are fitted over the existing structure. The slumped or drooping areas are lifted and leveled with firm insulation material just below the roof. The holes and cracks are also covered with tar and a reflective layer of paint so that it doesn’t absorb all of the sun’s rays.

Author Bio: Article by Mark Carey of ChicagoRoofingExperts.com, a website with the best roofing in Chicago and green roofing Chicago information on the web.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: Chicago roofing contractor, roof in Chicago