Chicago Asphalt Shingles Roofing Installation
A wide variety of roofing materials are now available on the market, and asphalt shingles have long been one of the most popular. Homeowners in Chicagoland often choose this material because of its durability, affordability, and aesthetics. However, when it comes to installation, you may have a lot of questions. For example, can asphalt shingles be installed in winter? So, here we have collected the basic asphalt shingles installation instructions for you. Read on and learn how to install roof shingles.
Why Asphalt Shingles Installation is the Best Choice for Chicago Homes?
Before moving on to the asphalt shingles installation details, let’s look at the value of this material for Chicago.
Key advantages of this material:
- Reliably protects the house from leaks.
- Helps to keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Reduces noise from rain and hail.
- Quick and easy installation.
- Attractive appearance.
Firstly, this city is known for sharp temperature changes, and asphalt shingles are adapted to such conditions and reliably protect the house from any weather surprises. They have a good performance during freezing winters because they do not crack and during hot summers they do not deform because they reflect heat. They also resist cyclone-force winds and hail.
Secondly, compared to other materials, asphalt shingles are a more economical option. Thirdly, there is a large selection of colors and textures, so you can choose the perfect roof for your home.
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Professional Asphalt Shingles Installation Process – How We Perform It?
We, as the best roofing contractor in the Chicago area, have vast expertise in asphalt shingles low slope installation and want to share the details of this process with you:
Drip Edge, and Other Roofing Materials and Tools
First of all, we use the following materials:
- Shingles
- Roofing film
- Eaves strips
- Waterproofing tape
- Fixing nails
- Metal parts for aisles (metal flashing)
- Ridge element
In addition, we have modern tools in our arsenal:
- Fastening gun
- Hammer
- Metal scissors
- Tape measure
- Marker
- Knife to cut the shingles
- Winch for lifting materials to the roof
- Protective equipment (especially for work with the lower edge of the roof): helmet, gloves, goggles, respirator, safety belt
Full Process: Asphalt Shingles Installation Guide
#1 Roof Inspection
First, we remove old materials, inspect the roof for damage, and repair it if necessary. At this stage, we also need to clean the roof deck from debris to ensure a smooth surface for installation.
#2 Installation of Asphalt Shingles Underlayment
We start laying the underlayment from the bottom of the roof to ensure an overlap of 2 inches. Next, we need to install the ice and water protectors on the eaves and valleys. At this stage, we also attach drip roof edges on the eaves with an overlap of 2 inches to direct the water effectively.
#3 Installation of the Starter Shingles
Now we begin cutting the starter shingles, which will serve as the first course of shingles along the eaves with a slight overhang. It’s important to nail the shingles every 6-8 inches to ensure accurate alignment.
#4 Laying the Main Shingles
Finally, we start laying the new shingles from the bottom corner of the roof to create the first row of shingles. This process ensures we achieve the correct overlap to prevent leaks. During this stage, we nail each shingle according to the manufacturer’s instructions and trim the shingles around pipes and chimneys for a snug fit.
#5 Installation of Flashing and Slate Tiles
When the entire job is complete, we install flashing around the chimneys and walls using cement to seal them. Furthermore, our roofers will install the ridge cap shingles on top of the roof, ensuring secure nailing and head sealing for added protection.
Additional Considerations About How to Install a Asphalt Shingle Roof
Let’s take a look at the answers to the 2 most popular questions about installing shingles on your roof:
Can Asphalt Shingles be Installed in Cold Weather?
How Many Layers of Asphalt Shingles Are Allowed?
In Chicago and the surrounding area, local building codes allow a maximum of two layers of asphalt shingles per roof. Therefore, it is not advisable to install the shingles on your asphalt roofing in more than 2 layers. This rule is aimed at ensuring the structural strength of buildings, as excessive weight can lead to roof damage or collapse.
This is why it is important to comply with these building codes:
- Safety – A roof that is too heavy can pose a threat to the people in the building.
- Durability – A large number of shingles can lead to premature roof failure.
- Cost – Repairing or replacing a roof with too many layers will cost more.
- Aesthetics – A multi-layered roof can have an unaesthetic appearance.
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Maintenance and Inspection Services When Shingle a Roof
Unfortunately, many homeowners in Chicago neglect to conduct regular inspections. But, let’s take a look at why it’s so important and how it can help you:
- Detect hidden damage. Storms, hail, and high winds can damage a roof, but these damages are not always immediately apparent. Regular inspections will help identify cracks, missing shingles, and other issues that can lead to leaks and mold.
- Prevent further damage. Finding and fixing minor issues quickly can help prevent more serious damage and preserve the integrity of your roof.
- Maintain warranty validity. Many roofing manufacturers require regular inspections to maintain the warranty.
- Receive insurance claims. After a storm or other natural disaster, a detailed roof inspection can help confirm the extent of the damage and facilitate a quick and fair claim.
FAQ
Can asphalt shingles withstand Chicago's winter storms and harsh weather?
Yes, shingles, if properly installed, can withstand the harsh winters of Chicago. The materials of today and the technologies rolled into them enable us to make roofs that can bear all kinds of weather conditions such as strong winds, accumulated snow, and low temperatures thus you need not worry about it. Nevertheless, one needs to select the right high-quality materials to install new shingles and hire a professional roofing contractor.
How long does an asphalt shingle roof installation typically take?
To estimate the approximate time it will take to install a roof on your home, roofers need to know the size of the roof, its complexity, weather conditions, and the number of workers. On average, installation can take from several days to several weeks.
What type of underlayment is used in your installations, and why is it important?
We use different types of roofing materials because we work with different roofs. Most often, it is a bituminous substrate or synthetic membrane. We select an appropriate solution that will prevent the penetration of moisture, enhance thermal insulation, and also act as a second barrier to dust.
What’s the best time of year to install roof shingles in Chicago?
The best time to install shingles in Chicago is in the spring or fall when the air temperature is warm enough but not too hot. During this period, the bitumen adhesive on the shingles adheres better, and roofers can work comfortably. However, if a special adhesive for cold temperatures is used, installation can be carried out in winter.
How do you ensure my roof remains leak-free, especially around chimneys and vents?
We use special materials and technologies to ensure the complete airtightness of the roof. Around chimneys and ventilation openings, we install flashings – metal elements that protect these places from moisture penetration. In addition, we carefully seal all joints and seams with high-quality sealant.