If you’re like most homeowners, then you may not know where to begin when it comes to roofing. We answered some of your roofing questions in a previous post, and in today’s post, we’ll continue to answer some of the most common questions our roofing contractors have received from our clients.
If you would like to learn more about any of the information we cover in today’s post, then please get in touch with us by calling 816-228-5225 or by filling out the contact form at the bottom of this page!
How Can I Tell If My Roof Is Damaged?
It can sometimes be difficult to tell if your roof is damaged or if it’s simply growing older. Look for the following signs when trying to determine if your roof is damaged:
- Age: As we noted in our previous post, a roof will typically last between 20 and 30 years, depending on the weather conditions in your area.
- Shingle health: Your shingles are your home’s first line of defense against the elements, and therefore it’s incredibly important that they remain in good condition. If you notice bald spots, curling shingles, or lost granules, then you should consider investing in a new roof. You don’t have to climb onto your roof to check for missing granules — simply check your gutters and downspouts for buildup.
- Flashing health: Flashing is the material that connects your roof to your windows, chimney, and vents. You should check your flashing every 10 years (and after heavy storms) to ensure that it hasn’t chipped or cracked, as broken flashing can allow water to enter and damage your home.
If you still aren’t sure about the state of your roof, then please get in touch with one of our local roofers to schedule a free estimate for your home.
My Roof Is Leaking — Do I Need a Roof Replacement?
The answer to this question will depend on the cause and size of the leak. The exact location of a leak can be difficult to determine, as water will often travel throughout your home before dripping through the ceiling. If the leak is due to a few improperly installed shingles, then you may be able to fix the problem by simply repairing the affected area. However, if your roof is more than 20 years old and is allowing water to enter through multiple areas, then you should strongly consider replacing your roof.
How Can I Get Rid of Algae?
While algae is more of an aesthetic problem, it can still be unsightly and embarrassing to have a mossy or discolored roof. You can treat algae growth on your roof by creating a diluted mixture of chlorine bleach, water, and trisodium phosphate, which can be found at most hardware stores. You can make as much or as little of this solution as you need, but a 1:3 bleach-to-water ratio with a cup of trisodium phosphate will deliver the best results. Spray the solution on the affected areas and scrub lightly if necessary. Be cautious, however, as scrubbing your shingles too aggressively can remove the granules and cause further damage to your roof.
As always, exercise extreme caution when you’re on your roof, and don’t hesitate to contact a professional if you’re uncomfortable taking on the job by yourself.
How Long Does a Roof Replacement Take?
Every roof is different, but you should expect it to take at least several days to install a new roof. Your roofing contractor will provide you with a timeline for your specific circumstances before beginning the project.
Do You Offer Financing and Warranties?
Yes, and yes! At Blue Springs Siding and Windows, we know that it’s not always feasible to pay for an investment in your home with cash. We proudly offer affordable financing options that can help you get the roof replacement you need, all you have to do is apply for one of our convenient financing packages!
As far as warranties are concerned, you won’t find a commitment to quality like ours anywhere else in Kansas City or the nearby areas. We believe that our customers deserve the absolute best products and customer service, so we start by purchasing top-of-the-line products and hiring the best local roofers in the area. We’ll provide you with a warranty on all products and services involved in your project — just like your roof, we have you covered for life!
We hope that this series has answered more of your roofing questions. Stay tuned for future posts in which we’ll answer questions about roofing, windows, siding, and more! We’re committed to providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your home — get in touch with a member of our staff today to request a free, no-obligation estimate for your home!