Q&A / 

Asphalt shingles are very common in the Midwest. What happens when they fail? Problems can be caused through the location of nails, the sealing compound beneath the shingles, installing shingles in the cold and not using felt paper.

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Cedar shake roofs are popular for many reasons. They create such a distinct look that asphalt shingles and metal roof manufactures have entire product lines that try to mimic wood. But wood roofs need maintenance and the help of chemicals to keep them healthy.

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Slate is excellent for roofs. It is fireproof, resists hail damage and has a long service life. When it starts to crack or becoming brittle, you may need to do some slate roof repair. The causes of its stress could be loose nails or nature.

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Roofs depend on gravity to keep water from entering underneath shingles and other roofing materials. In the winter, ice dams can form. The best way to prevent leaks caused by ice dams is to install ice dam membranes under the finished roofing material.

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Roof leaks can be found where roofs end and other materials start, such as chimneys, valleys, walls or plumbing vents. Cracks or slits in asphalt shingles or missing granules can also be the cause of leaks. Repair your shingles in cool weather when you find trouble spots.

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While the cost of metal roofs is expensive, they make a great roof for a residential home. Metal roof material is fireproof, attractive and wind resistant. You can create a flat or shingled look. Make sure your roofer follows the metal roof installation instructions exactly.

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Roofs require maintenance, like any other part of your house. An annual inspection should suffice for most asphalt shingle roofs. Check the roof flashings and shingles for nail pops. Other roofing materials like slate, metal and tile require less upkeep.

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Aluminum gutters can prevent long-term damage like efflorescence, wood rot and peeling exterior surfaces on your house. The flashing should drop into the gutter, directing water into the drain pipes that all the gutters are slanted toward. These gutters hold onto the fascia board through fasteners.

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