10 Best Roof Repair in Northfield, IL

What are common roofing issues?

Wear and tear eventually takes a toll on your roof. You can get ahead of serious repairs through proactive inspections and maintenance.

During your visual inspection, look out for the following common problems.

Damaged shingles

One of the most common roofing problems you may encounter is shingle damage or wear and tear. The average life span of asphalt shingles is 20–30 years. However, harsh weather, wind, rain and ultraviolet radiation over time can lead to erosion and cracking or lifting. Damaged or missing shingles let in moisture, potentially resulting in structural decay, mold and leaks.

Flashing failures

Flashing—the metal sheets around a roof’s dormers, vents and joints—redirects snowmelt and runoff away from vulnerable seams and transition points. Flashing failure is when water leaks through your roof because of deterioration or improper installation. Signs of flashing failure include peeling paint, drips from ceilings that align with flashing seams, moisture stains, leaks coming from joints or sagging areas.

Leaks

Roof leaks develop when sealed joints, such as seams and flashing, shift and open gaps for water to seep in. Early identification and repair stop mold growth and decay from happening.

Poor insulation

Attics with insufficient insulation result in uncomfortable temperatures in your home. This causes issues such as ice dams, damaged rafters, mold, leaks and high energy bills. Proper insulation is more energy efficient and can yield substantial energy savings.

Standing water

Pooling water usually happens when your roof’s decking has low spots and debris buildup. This can result in standing water after storms, which can cause damage. If present for more than 48 hours, moisture can saturate and rot your roof components. It also adds major weight stress on your roof. Standing water can point to a need to replace the roof surface due to a slope or bad drainage. Getting rid of debris regularly and ensuring proper drainage helps prevent these issues.

What are signs you need roof repair?

Contact a roof repair contractor if you spot the following signs:

• Water in your attic: Water in your attic means there may be gaps in your roof. If you live in an icy climate, check the eaves for ice dams. This indicates improper insulation and heat loss through your roof deck.
• Damaged shingles: Broken, missing or curled shingles let moisture into the roof, which can cause the rafters and decking to rot.
• Discoloration: If you see dark stains on the undersides of your decking or rafters, you likely have a leak and need repairs.
• Mildew or mold Powdery mildew and mold on your roof can lead to health issues and structural damage. These can signal roof leaks, which need to be repaired as soon as possible.
• Rust: Rust streaks from flashing or fasteners indicate deterioration, and rust and corrosion undermine weatherproofing and the integrity of your home.
• Visible sagging: Roof rafters, sheathing and joists can sag due to overwhelmed drainage, mechanical equipment, excess insulation, dense clay tiles or concrete pavers. Visible sagging is a warning sign of potential collapse, so get a roof inspection promptly to figure out the issue.

How long are roofs supposed to last?

A roof’s life span depends on climate, maintenance, installation quality and roof material, with proper installation being one of the most important factors.

Asphalt shingles last 20–30 years on average, but the kind of shingle will impact the life span. Architectural shingles can last up to 25–30 years, while traditional three-tab shingles generally last 15–20 years. Well-maintained wood shingles or shake roofs last around 20–25 years, but they can be susceptible to rot, mold and insects.

A metal roof’s life span is 40–70 years or more. Concrete roofs last around 50 years, but sometimes last over a century with proper maintenance. Slate roofs can last for more than a century.

How can you save money on a Northfield roof repair?

Getting your roof repaired is very expensive. Here are some ways you can reduce on the cost.

• Check your homeowners insurance: Your homeowners insurance may help pay for roof repairs, depending on the source of the damage. Damage from fires, fallen trees, storms, and certain other hazards may be included, depending on your coverage details.
• Compare quotes from multiple sources: Compare the prices and services offered by multiple roofing contractors in Northfield. This allows you to make an informed decision.
• Conduct routine roof maintenance: Once your roof repairs are finished, focus on regular inspections and maintenance. This will allow you to identify and prevent future issues. Missing a minor issue can worsen into larger, more expensive damage.
• Invest in preventive measures: Consider investing in preventive measures such as putting in extra insulation or improving ventilation to reduce future repair needs and energy bills.
• Schedule repair services during good weather if possible: Roofers may offer discounts or be more willing to negotiate prices during off-season periods. Avoid booking repairs during the rainy season as inclement weather may raise the cost.

Our methodology for selecting roof repair companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.