Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement: How Often Is Roof Replacement Required In Chicago?
The roof is the first defense against the weather, which is why its condition is important for the strength of the entire structure. An old or damaged roof can lead to leaks that will eventually destroy the wooden elements and supporting beams of the house. Unfortunately, under the influence of the harsh climate in Chicago, even premium shingles fail sooner or later. However, how do you replace shingles on a roof? It all depends on the condition of the roof because if you have only a few lost shingles, you can replace only those. But if the entire roof has significant damage, you will need a complete roof replacement.
Initial Roof Assessment Before You Replace Damage Shingles
Before you learn how to replace roof shingles that blew off, let’s look at the main signs that you need to do so.
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Signs You Need to Replace Missing Shingles
Should I replace my asphalt shingles? The answer is definitely “yes” if your roof has these signs:
- Leaks and water damage – Persistent leaks, stains on the ceiling, mold, and blistering paint may indicate that your roof needs to be replaced.
- Bent, cracked, or missing shingles – Damaged shingles can lead to leaks and further damage.
- Loss of granules and signs of wear – Loss of granules reduces the protective properties of the shingles.
- Vegetation due to moisture – Moss or algae on shingles indicates moisture retention, which can lead to damage.
- Storm and wind damage – High winds and hail can damage shingles.
Assessing the Extent of the Roof Damage
Now, let’s take a look at the answers to the most popular questions from homeowners in Chicagoland.
First, can you replace individual shingles? Not only can you do this, but it is recommended because timely repairs will help prevent more serious damage.
Secondly, how often should you replace an asphalt shingle roof? An asphalt roof lasts about 20-30 years, but in regions with harsh weather conditions, more frequent replacement may be necessary. Therefore, pay attention to signs of aging – curled, worn shingles, or loss of granules indicate the need for replacement.
How to Replace a Few Asphalt Shingles – 3 Main Steps
First, prepare all the necessary tools and materials:
- Leader, protective equipment (belts, boots).
- A trowel and hammer to remove old shingles and nails.
- Nail gun or hammer, nails, knife for cutting tiles.
- New shingles, roofing adhesive, or cement.
Further, the whole process can be divided into 3 main stages:
- Preparation – Use a pry bar to lift the edges of the damaged shingle and neighboring shingles to access the nails. Carefully remove the nails and the damaged tile without damaging the others.
- Install new shingles – Place the new row of shingles in place and nail them in place. Then apply roofing adhesive to the edges for a secure fit and seal.
- Protection against leaks – At critical points (near chimneys, vents), install metal flashing and apply additional asphalt sealant for surrounding shingles. Also, make sure all nails are covered with roofing adhesive to prevent leaks.
Full Asphalt Shingle Roof Replacement Process
Now we will tell you all the details of the professional and correct replacement of three-tab shingles:
Step 1: Roof Tear-Off
First, we remove all old roof tiles and damaged materials. We start at the top of the roof, then gradually move down, and collect and dispose of the debris. Then we remove or hammer in nails, and check the roof base for damage.
Step 2: Roof Decking Inspection and Repairs
In the second stage, our specialists inspect the wooden boards that support the roof for cracks, moisture, mold, or weaknesses. If necessary, they replace damaged parts to ensure the roof’s strength.
Step 3: Installing Drip Edge and Underlayment
Next, we install a drip edge around the edges to drain water. A moisture barrier liner is placed over the roof edge for additional protection, especially in areas where there is a risk of ice build-up.
Step 4: Waterproofing Roof Valleys and Installing Flashing
In the valleys where the two roof planes meet, roofers install protective tapes and metal strips to keep water out. Then they lay the 3 tab shingles in such a way that the water is drained efficiently.
Step 5: New Shingle Roof Installation
At the penultimate stage, roofers begin by laying the starting strips of the first layer of shingles along the edges, then laying the main roofing tiles. Ridge tiles are also installed at the top of the roof to protect the joints.
Step 6: Final Clean-Up and Inspection
Finally, our specialists remove debris, collect nail remnants with magnets, and clean the gutters when the roof is installed. We perform a final roof inspection and review with the owner, after which we provide all documents and guarantees for the work performed.
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Best Practices: How to Replace Broken Asphalt Shingles in Chicago
We’ve put together the following tips for choosing roofing materials for a new roof in the Chicago area:
- Choose shingles that are highly resistant to wind, snow, and rain.
- Pay attention to the impact resistance class.
- Choose shingles with good waterproofing.
- Consider energy-efficient shingle options.
Also, pay attention to the design of ventilation:
- Ensure a balance between supply and exhaust ventilation.
- Check ventilation openings regularly.
- Balance ventilation with insulation.
- Avoid excessive ventilation.
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Conclusion
To summarize, keep in mind the size and compatibility of the shingles, wear and tear and weather damage, the brand of your shingles when partially roof replaced, the importance of choosing a professional contractor, and of course, your budget. We hope that our tips helped you and now you can easily cope with the replacement of a damaged asphalt roof! Remember that timely repairs are a guarantee of your safety.
FAQ
How often should an asphalt shingle roof be replaced in Chicago?
Typically, an asphalt roof lasts 15 to 30 years. However, due to the harsh weather in Chicago, the roof may need to be replaced sooner.
Can individual shingles be replaced without affecting the rest of the roof?
Yes, you can replace individual damaged shingles, but this should be done by an experienced roofer. Replacing individual elements can be a temporary solution, but if there is a lot of damage, it is better to replace the entire roof to ensure reliability.
Are there any special considerations for replacing shingles in winter or during extreme weather?
Yes, it is. Replacing the roof in winter or during rain, snow, or strong winds can be dangerous and complicate the work. It is better to plan roof replacement in the warm season when the weather is stable. If replacement is forced, you need to use special equipment and follow all safety measures.
What is the expected lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof in Chicago's climate?
As mentioned earlier, the service life of an asphalt roof in Chicago can vary from 15 to 30 years. This period is influenced by factors such as the quality of materials, proper installation, regular maintenance, and weather conditions.
Can I replace my roof in sections over time, or does it need to be done all at once?
Replacing the roof in parts is possible, but it is not always the best solution. Partial replacement can lead to uneven wear and tear on the roof and make subsequent repairs more difficult.