Homeowners often struggle with leaks around chimneys or vents, which typically stem from faulty flashing—a metal piece that seals the joint between the structure and roof. The repair process varies: brick chimneys may require new step flashing and caulk for sealing, stucco chimneys might need lifting of roof material and re-stuccoing after flashing repair, and wooden chimneys usually just need lower flashing repairs with added adhesive. For roof accessories like vents, the approach involves replacing defective parts such as the vent boot or flashing, with additional sealing measures like ice and water shield up north, and plastic cement in Florida to prevent water infiltration.
Ensuring your home has an ice and water shield, which should be located beneath the roof's shingles, is essential for adequate roof protection but difficult to verify without damaging the seal by lifting shingles. Building codes, particularly in northern states since around 2012, may provide hints; older roofs likely lack this feature, while newer ones probably include it. The presence of ice and water shield in the past may have been influenced by its higher cost compared to traditional underlayment, which could lead some builders to omit it. A rule of thumb is that roofs built in the last 20 years are more likely to have this protection.
When deciding to install a new roof over an existing one or do a complete replacement, consider both local building codes and the condition of your current roof. In some places like Florida, adding a new layer of roofing is often prohibited, and even where it's allowed, overlaying can shorten the new roof's lifespan due to reduced ventilation. While overlaying can be cost-effective and quick, especially for selling a property, a total tear-off and replacement is generally recommended for a durable and well-ventilated roofing solution.
Proper attic ventilation is crucial for home health and energy efficiency, with recommended vent ratios of 1 square foot per 300 square feet of attic space, and even 1 to 150 in certain climates; consulting shingle manufacturers for regional specifications is advised. Different regions favor different ventilation methods: gable vents are prevalent in the north due to less concern for wind-driven rain, while in the south, off-ridge vents, solar attic fans, power turbine vents, and ridge vents that use the Venturi effect are more common. Maintaining a cooler attic and efficient airflow requires keeping vent pathways clear, balancing air entry through soffit or gable vents, and ensuring exit through ridge or turbine vents, with regular checks to prevent blockages by insulation or other obstructions.
Homeowners often find algae and moss on shingle roofs unappealing, but these growths usually don't harm the roof's structural integrity, with algae sometimes appearing as green patches or black streaks. While moss can firmly adhere to shingles and should not be removed forcefully to avoid damage, there are treatments and preventative measures such as roof cleaners and metal strips to maintain a clean appearance. Ultimately, managing algae and moss is a matter of personal preference, as they have little impact on the roof's primary function of protection.
When evaluating the complexity of a roofing project, contractors investigate the number of material layers on the roof, as this affects the effort and resources needed for removal. Roofing jobs with multiple layers generally require more labor for detachment, increased debris disposal, and careful planning, especially when various materials are involved. A contractor's examination of the roof's edge, at the eave or rake, reveals the layering and informs the preparation, predicting the need for additional dumpsters and labor, and helping to manage the project's scope and timeline.
