roofing

Now that summer is almost here, you need to check your roof to make sure it is ready to face the upcoming season. This can be an easy time for homeowners to forget their roofs. No leaves accumulating in the gutters, less rain … the roof is under less stress. Right? Wrong. Keep reading to discover exactly how summer affects your roof.

How Summer Affects Your Roof: 3 Major Ways

1. Wear & Tear

Increased exposure to direct sunlight can damage the roof. Especially if it has been getting on in years. Most asphalt roofing systems are built to last. They usually have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, but even those have their limits.

Once the heat is too much to bear, the shingles can curl and dry up, making them brittle and prone to cracking. If your roof has significant damage and is nearing the end of its life, consider having it replaced before the onset of summer season.

2. High Humidity Levels

Humidity is an uncomfortable reality of living in Tennessee, where the rise in temperature during summer will result in extremely humid conditions. During this time, moisture and condensation can settle in between the shingles and the underlayment, resulting in water leaks. Once the moisture collects, it also gives room for mold spores to grow and endanger your family’s health.

3. Thermal Shock

During the summer, the roof reaches extremely high temperatures during the day and quickly cools off once the sun sets. This causes the roofing system to expand and contract. It’s one of the biggest ways how summer affects your roof.

The constant variation in temperature causes tension in the roofing material and leads to thermal shock, which ultimately weakens the structural integrity of the roof and ages the shingles.

Contact Us Today

Most of these roofing problems happen over time, meaning your roof won’t crumble to dust after just a couple of days of warm weather. But if your roof is old and damaged, then you need to keep an eye out for these issues and address them promptly before they worsen.

While you can’t keep the sun from shining down on your roof, there are a couple of things you can do to lessen the damage of summer heat. You can have a professional roofing inspection done to spot problems early on and have them fixed.

Now that you know how summer affects your roof, take action! Simply call the Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 888-0258 for roof inspections and general maintenance. We’ll catch problems early and do repairs if needed.

Storms are a way of life here in Chattanooga. You’ve probably experienced first-hand how storms can wreak havoc. Protecting your home and your loved ones should be a priority once a storm comes rolling in. Keep reading to discover how to make your roof stormproof – as much as possible. You may be able to do some of these tasks yourself. However, you may wish to call a professional roofer for repairs.

How to Make Your Roof Stormproof

1. Check for Leaks

Small leaks that have gone unnoticed or ignored can become larger holes in the middle of a storm. They can cause damage to the underlayment. They can also compromise your roof’s structural integrity in the long run.

2. Check the Shingles

If you see a couple of shingles that are loose or starting to fall apart, you need to call a professional roofing company. They’ll reinforce the old shingles with newer ones.

3. Trim the Trees

If you have trees with long branches that hang over your home, you need to have them cut down before the storm. These can be easily blown off in the middle of strong winds and heavy rain. As a result, they could damage your roof in the process.

4. Clear Gutter and Downspouts

Check to make sure your gutter system is clear from debris. The gutter system ensures that rainwater flows steadily from the roof to the ground. However, if it gets clogged, it will cause water buildup that could enter the soffit and fascia of the roofing system. In addition, it could cause erosion around your foundation.

5. Keep Up with Insurance & Warranties

During storm season, study your home insurance’s policy coverage. Also, make sure that your insurance documentation and any “before” photos are safe. This way, you can make a strong case when you file for a claim.

6. Contact a Roofing Professional

Ask a roofing company to evaluate the current condition of your roof. They’ll be able to identify roofing issues you may have missed during your own inspection. You can also request regular roof maintenance so that you can catch any issues and have them fixed before they get worse.

Chattanooga Roofing Company can check the integrity of your roof and conduct repairs to ensure it will hold up during the storm. Just give us a call at (423) 799-2173 to book an appointment.

Ever wondered what makes good roofs go bad? Anyone who has a roof has worried about possible problems at least a few times. However, materials are better now than ever before. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material used to build roofs all over the country. These shingles are durable and also relatively inexpensive to install.

An asphalt roof is known to last for 15 to 40 years, depending on the quality of materials used. However, if the shingles loosen up prematurely or if the roof gets easily damaged during a storm, these could be due to a number of reasons. Here’s …

What Makes Good Roofs Go Bad

Let’s start with what they’re made of, and then we’ll move on to how they’re built.

1. Low Quality Materials

Some manufacturers use a cheaper grade of asphalt to cut down on costs and offer a low price to contractors. They even make use of powdered stone fillers during the manufacturing process, resulting to loose shingle granules.

Chattanooga Roofing makes use of the highest quality roofing material to ensure that your roof is stable for the long term and is able to withstand extreme weather disturbances. In addition, we have access to roofing materials at wholesale costs that do not compromise on quality.

2. Lack of Ventilation

A poorly ventilated roofing system will not be able to expel moisture, causing the wood under the shingles to suffer.

The lack of ventilation can also lead to thermal shock and cracking. What you can do to increase ventilation is to hire a roofing contractor to install ridge vents or turbine vents on your roof.

3. Improper Installation

We can’t recall the number of times we’ve been called in to fix botched roofing jobs. Make sure to hire somebody who knows what they are doing.

Chattanooga Roofing has been in the industry since 2009. We hire only the best professionals who have the knowledge to get the job done right. We’ve been in this industry long enough to tackle any roofing job, no matter how big or small.

4. Lack of Maintenance

Your roof warranty may give you a false sense of security, but note that it will not completely protect you. Many of these warranties will be voided if your roof is not maintained.

Roof maintenance is important because it helps catch problems in the early stage. On the other hand, if you don’t fix minor problems right away, you may need to replace your roof sooner than expected.

Your roof is an important part of your home. If you want to avoid what makes good roofs go bad most commonly, it’s time to get involved. To make your asphalt roof last, give us a call at (423) 443-4174. Whether your roof needs maintenance or is starting to deteriorate, Chattanooga Roofing can deliver outstanding results.

Roofing comes in a variety of materials. If you are a homeowner building your first home, or simply replacing an old one, choosing which roofing material to use can be a confusing and overwhelming experience. So, what is the most cost effective roofing material? Because there are plenty of options out there, let’s consider a few of them.

If you are looking for inexpensive yet durable roofing systems, here are the roofing types to look into.

What is the Most Cost Effective Roofing Material?

1. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are very popular these days. That’s for good reason. Asphalt is the cheapest of all roofing materials in the market and will last you between 15 to 30 years. This is the best option for homeowners facing budgetary constraints.

It is also widely available and comes in a variety of colors. Maintenance-wise, you may be required to replace worn-out asphalt shingles that loosen up over the passage of time.

2. Wood Shingles & Shakes

If you are aiming for a more natural look and want an aesthetic appeal to complement the rest of your home, wood shingles are the way to go. Wood is more expensive than asphalt and will typically last for about 20 years.

Wooden shingles and shakes are typically high maintenance. Since wood naturally expands and contracts, they are prone to moss and mold growth. They need to be regularly cleaned and pressure-washed to allow the wood to breathe.

3. Metal Roofing

If you live in a very windy area, then you may need to spring for a metal roof. Metal roofing can withstand heavy rains, strong winds, and extreme storms. Although metal is more expensive than its asphalt counterpart, it is more durable and will perform better during inclement weather. Metal roofing will last you for about 30 to 50 years.

Since metal roofing is extremely durable, it requires little to no maintenance. It may even last you a lifetime, which means you’ll never have to go through another roofing project again.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

So, now you may know what is the most cost effective roofing material. Once you have determined the type of roofing material your home needs, the next step is choosing the right roofing company to work with. Hire a company that has your best interest at heart and is not out to make a quick buck.

Chattanooga Roofing Company provides you with the best roofing options according to your budget. As an experienced roofer with a customer-focused mindset, we take note of your requirements, budget, and timeframe and strive to meet them. Call us today at (423) 888-0258 or fill out the contact form for immediate assistance!

Quick – name the parts of your roof. Let’s see: shingles, trusses, decking, flashing, ridge vent…. Stop right there. What is a ridge vent? And why is the ridge vent important for your roof?

A ridge vent is an essential part of your roofing system because it helps to properly ventilate your attic space and roof. The vent is installed at the peak of the roof, where the ends of the two sloped sides meet. It is usually capped with a material that blends in with the rest of the roof, making it almost invisible to the untrained eye.

Why is the Ridge Vent Important for Your Roof?

There are plenty of benefits that you can get by having a ridge vent installed in your roof. Let’s give them a look.

• Balances the temperature of the home. No matter how strong your air conditioner is, the attic and upstairs will always be hotter during the summer months. The ridge vent allows the heat to escape out of the attic, so that your air conditioner will not have to work too hard.
• Protects the shingles from excessive heat during the summer. The heat coming from the attic can bake the shingles and cause them to wrinkle and prematurely age, but the vent can help prevent this from happening.
• Improves energy efficiency of the home. This type of ventilation does not consume electricity and will work well on its own, requiring little to no maintenance. It also reduces the workload on your HVAC system and lessens your energy costs.
• Prolongs the lifespan of your roofing system. By keeping the attic cool and dry at all times, the ridge vent helps to prevent mold and mildew. In addition, it helps maintain the roof’s good condition.

Need Professional Help?

Installing a ridge vent on your roof is a simple yet effective way to cool your attic and the rest of your home. However, the installation will require the right skills and equipment, which is why this will be better left in the hands of a roofing professional.

You can hire Chattanooga Roofing to help you determine if a ridge vent will make for a great investment in your home. We can also deal with other repairs that need to be done on your roof. Call us at (423) 888-0258 or fill out our contact form today to book a service appointment.

As a homeowner, you need to know the components of your roof. To that end, it’ll help you to learn the most important parts of a roofing system. Doing so will help you understand how your roof works. And, it should help you determine if a roofing issue can be resolved on your own or needs to be looked at by a professional.

Remember: in order to have a roof that will last you for a very long time, it needs to be installed properly as a complete system.

Here Are the 6 Most Important Parts of a Roofing System

1. Underlayment

A felt-like barrier installed on the roof’s decking. It provides an extra layer of protection in case water seeps beneath a broken or torn shingle.

2. Flashing

A thin strip of aluminum or galvanized steel. It helps cover the gap between a roof and a chimney, vent pipe, or any other vertical surface that intersects with the roof.

3. Shingles

Flat, rectangular pieces made of asphalt, slate, wood, or flagstone. They overlap to make up the outer surface of the roof.

4. Starter Strips

A type of shingle installed along the eaves and rakes of the roof to prevent wind damage. This is done after the installation of the underlayment and before the installation of the regular shingles.

5. Ridge Cap Shingle

Another type of shingle that covers the ridge areas of the roof, which are high-stress areas that need more protection. It also adds character and depth to the roof. This performs the dual service of making it look better while protecting your home.

6. Gutters and Downspouts

The drainage system that channels rainwater from the roof to the ground. Proper gutters are essential to a home’s long-term structural integrity.

How to Achieve a Great Roofing System for Your Home

Installing a new roof or replacing an old one is a major investment in your home. You need to ensure that the entire roofing system is properly installed. For that reason, working with the best roofing company in Chattanooga is the best way to make sure everything is right.

Now that you know the most important parts of a roofing system, you know how much you need good installers. If you’re looking for a roofing contractor you can depend on, look no further than Chattanooga Roofing. Our team of roofing specialists will ensure that every part of the roof – from the shingles down to the gutters – will last longer and perform better. We will get only the best roofing accessories and shingles to increase the life span and function of your new roof.

With our help, you can have a roofing system that is properly installed along with its necessary components. Contact us today at (423) 308-ROOF or fill out our online form to get your free consultation with a roofing professional.

Summer’s end is near! Of course, we’re looking forward to cooler weather. As we finish enjoying our fun in the sun, it’s time to think about getting a seasonal roof inspection. But why is an end of summer roof inspection so important? There are a number of reasons we want to think about roof maintenance, not the least of which is that temperatures will start dropping soon, and rainfall will increase.

But there’s more to consider. Keep reading for some of the key reasons why you should consider performing a roof inspection at the end of every summer.

Why is an End of Summer Roof Inspection So Important?

1. To Check for Heat Damage

Summers in the South can be brutal. The intense sun and heat can not only be harmful to your skin but also to your roof. Yes, your roof might be designed to withstand high temperatures, but there is only so much that normal roofing can take. With time, the shingles can even degrade, buckle, or crack. For this reason, you should always perform a roof inspection at the end of the summer season.

2. To Remove Algae Growth

Why is an end of summer roof inspection so important? This reason may surprise you.

During summer, the night tends to be a bit humid. Therefore, your roof can be susceptible to algae, mold, and moss growth. Notably, this tends to happen on roofs that lack proper drainage. When water pools on your roof, it can end up soaking into your roofing materials. What’s more, if your house is under a tree, your roof might not dry out quickly. For that reason, you need to make sure water is draining properly from your roof.

3. To Extend the Life of Your Roof

Summers can also bring intense thunderstorms as hot and cool air clash in the atmosphere. The strong winds can pose devastating effects to property. After every storm, it is recommended that you perform a thorough inspection of your roof. Wind can damage your roof by blowing debris. And rainwater can worm its way beneath old, cracked, or lifted shingles.

Make sure to perform repairs as needed to avoid having to replace your roof. The main goal is to extend the life of your roof. This will serve to protect your home or business, save money on repairs, and save worry.

Based on the above reasons, without a doubt, performing an end of summer roof inspection is essential. Get ready for Autumn’s rainy weather now. You won’t regret it.

For professional assistance with roof inspections, repairs, or replacement, call Chattanooga Roofing today at (423) 308-ROOF.

A rotting roof can cause major structural issues. For that reason alone, roof rot can be a detriment to your family’s safety. But even aside from structural problems, rotten roof boards may introduce the risk of mold, water damage, and rodent infestation. But what are the signs of a rotting roof? After all, you need to know what to look for. Your roof requires proper maintenance and care for it to last long and function well. However, roof wear and tear is inevitable. And even the most well-cared-for roofs wear out at the end of their lifespan.

So, if left unattended, rot damage will cost you a bundle. How do you spot the signs of a rotting roof?

Here are 5 Signs to Look Out for a Rotting Roof

1. Moss and Mold Growth

Your shingles may force themselves apart if your roof has moss and mold, forming a gap which lets water into the attic. From there, it’ll quickly move to your walls and ceilings. So, how do you spot it? During inspections, you will see algae and green moss growing on your shingles. Even a small amount can be harmful. It usually starts where water is allowed to stand—like leaf dams in the valleys and the edges of the roof if gutters are allowed to overflow.

Regularly inspect your roof to check for any signs of:

• Mold
• Algae
• Moss
• Soft spots that could indicate rotten wood underneath

Extensive damage may make full roof replacement necessary.

2. Deteriorated Shingles

Damaged shingles do not mean the whole roof is going bad. That gives you a bit of time to spot any decayed shingles. However, you should inspect your roof each season to make sure you don’t miss any damage. Look out for curling, cracking, blistering, splitting, peeling, and chipping. Replace any of the affected shingles as soon as you spot any of these signs.

3. Sunken Roof Deck

An uneven or sunken roof deck is one of the biggest signs of a rotting roof. You should have your roofer inspect the situation as soon as you spot these signs. In addition, when you’re in the attic, you may also see that parts of the roof deck are bowed in. This condition calls for urgent action. That’s because it can allow water to collect, making the situation worse. In extreme cases, the roof may even cave in. Ideally, you’ll spot other smaller signs of damage before your roof gets to this point.

4. Debris In Gutters

Sand-like granules “glued” onto asphalt shingles are your roof’s first line of defense. If you find yourself cleaning many of them out of your gutters, that means your roof is aging. The protective layer of the roof wears off due to long term usage, exposure to moisture, and atmospheric changes. For that reason, watch for bare spots. Shingles without granules covering them are more vulnerable to to the elements. In addition, keep your roof clear of tree debris.

5. Damaged Flashing

Flashing helps to protect your roof by keeping water away from seams in areas where water runoff is high. However, sealant deterioration due to oxidation or adverse weather conditions may damage your flashing. Loose flashing invites water to leak through to your ceiling and walls.

Does your roof feature any of these signs of a rotting roof? In that case, give Chattanooga Roofing a call. We’ll come out and give your roof a free inspection. For best results and longer roof lifespan, always hire a professional roofer for repairs or replacement. Simply call (423) 799-2173 today and we’ll help you out.

Asphalt shingles have been the most popular roofing material since they were invented. There are 3 main types of asphalt roofing shingles to choose from. They’re the first option for most homeowners. That’s because of their attractive design, affordability, versatility, reliability, and durability. To get value for your investment, you need to choose high-quality asphalt roof shingles. Then, have them professionally installed by a knowledgeable and skilled roofer.

Can’t make up your mind about which type of asphalt roofing shingles to buy?

3 Main Types of Asphalt Roofing Shingles to Choose From

1. 3-tab Asphalt Shingles

This type of asphalt roofing shingles is made from highly durable fiberglass granules coated on a base mat. They’re colorful, affordable, and reliable. As the lower-end model, 3-tab asphalt shingles are lightweight and designed for cost-effective production. What’s more, they offer an accessible, weatherproof solution with professional installation. Planning to replace your roof on a budget? In that case, 3-tab asphalt shingles may be the right choice.

2. Dimensional Asphalt Shingles

Dimensional Asphalt shingles are the most popular asphalt shingles in the market. These multi-layered shingles have a reputation for their impressive durability and versatility. For that reason, most homeowners will never have second thoughts about their choice. Many brands come with a 30-year warranty (ask your roofer to make sure). Nevertheless, how long they last depends on which shingles you choose. In addition, installation method plays a part. They can be quite beautiful thanks to their wide range of colors.

As expected, good things come at a price. Therefore, it’s worth knowing that you will pay 20% more than 3-tab shingles to have dimensional shingles on your roof. The good news is simple: dimensional shingles are worth every dime you spend on them.

3. Luxury/Premium Asphalt Shingles

Luxury shingles are without a doubt the highest-quality laminated asphalt shingles on the market. They are designed to withstand all kinds of harsh weather thanks to their heavyweight and functionality. In addition, they’re easily available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and dimensions depending on your needs. Their stunning beauty, versatility, reliability, and durability make them ideal for homeowners who have no problem spending top dollar for the best roofing shingles.

Roofing is one of the best ways to set your home apart. The type of roofing you invest in says a lot about your personality and priorities. For that reason, make sure to choose the right asphalt roofing shingles for your home. And leave the installation to professionals. For a free estimate, call Chattanooga Roofing Company at (423) 799-ROOF today or schedule your estimate online.

Leaks occurring in a roof are a big problem and they can be costly if left alone. Finding the exact location where the leaks are coming from can be tricky. In fact, you may need to play detective or hire a professional to spot them. That being said, here are 5 common places where your roof can leak.

5 Common Places Where Your Roof Can Leak

1. Valleys

The area where two roofing planes intersect is referred to as a valley. Roofers may use metal flashing, rolled roofing, or lace the roof shingles together. If the shingles aren’t trimmed correctly, the valleys can present a big problem, often causing leaks.

2. Wide Shingle Areas

In older roofs, leaks can occur beneath the wide surfaces of the roof. When you walk on the roof, you may cause cracks. To help spot damage, look for missing granules or nails that have backed themselves out of the roofing shingles.

3. Chimneys

The flashing around chimneys can be a prime location for roof leaks. The counter-flashing going into the joints of the brick mortar needs to be just right. If a hairline crack forms above the flashing, it can let in water that runs behind the flashing. A roofer should look at the soldered corners to see if they’re broken or have developed holes.

4. Head Wall Flashing

On a roof that stops at a vertical wall, a strip of metal flashing is installed to help direct the water that streams down the wall. Roofers insert the flashing behind wood siding or within the front part of a brick wall. When fitting the flashing, it needs to extend over the roof shingles about three inches. For a masonry or brick wall, the flashing should bend and extend about an inch into the mortar joint.

5. Furnace and Type B Gas Vent Flashing

Like plumbing vent flashing, poorly installed or deteriorated B-vent or furnace flashing can lead to leaks. Your B-vent has a metal storm collar fitting tightly around a vertical pipe exiting the roof. When the storm collar is loose, the resulting space can allow water to leak into your attic.

These are some common places where your roof can leak. If you feel uncomfortable on your roof, or if you want to lean on a professional’s experience, call us! Consider hiring a qualified roofer to check your roof, identify the source of the leaks, and repair them.

Sometimes, a roof replacement may be required to address the leaks. If that’s the case, you’ll be glad you called a licensed, trained roofer in Chattanooga Roofing Company. We’ll give you all the information you need to decide whether to repair or replace – and then take care of the work quickly to restore your confidence that your home is a secure structure. Call us for your free estimate today.