Ultimate Guide to Flat Roof Maintenance

If you’re a property owner in Chicago with a flat roof, you’re well aware of the unique challenges these structures can present if not properly maintained. In order to prevent potential issues or costly repairs in the future, it’s crucial that your roof is cared for on a regular basis. This comprehensive guide offers valuable tips to keep your flat roof in top-notch condition.

Tree Pruning

One essential aspect of flat roof maintenance is ensuring that trees near your roof are regularly pruned. This helps prevent branches from potentially scratching or puncturing your roof, and it also reduces the chance of leaves and twigs clogging up your gutters and drains. Overhanging branches often contribute to moss growth on roofs, so trimming these back can help avoid both time-consuming and costly moss removal treatments.

Install and Monitor an Effective Drainage System

If you observe water accumulating on your roof, it’s a clear indication that your drainage system may be inadequate. Flat roofs, unfortunately, often fall short when it comes to drainage systems, especially when compared to their sloped counterparts. However, with the installation of an effective system such as EPDM or PVC, your property will be well-protected against leaks and other common problems associated with poor drainage.

Flat roofs are designed with a slight slope to guide even stubborn rainfall off the surface. If you’re noticing large amounts of water pooling, it may be time for a professional check-up on your roof’s drainage system. Regular inspections can identify and rectify these issues promptly, saving you time, money, and potential headaches down the road.

Keep the Roof Clean of Debris

Flat roofs are engineered for effective water runoff but aren’t as efficient at naturally shedding dirt, leaves, and other debris like sloped roofs. If not regularly cleaned, this debris can form a dam, trapping water and potentially causing damage to your roof. Engage a professional with the requisite experience to safely remove this debris and ensure water can flow freely off your roof.

In the aftermath of extreme weather events, such as powerful storms or heavy snowfall, always inspect your roof for potential damage. Strong winds can exert significant pressure on the roof’s surface, causing tears that should be quickly repaired. After heavy rain, inspect for water pooling that could lead to leaks. Clearing snow off your roof is equally important – accumulated ice and snow can weigh more than the structure is designed to withstand.

Watch Out for Blistering

When moisture becomes trapped between the roof and its protective membrane, this can lead to blisters, cracks, and even water infiltration if left unchecked. Fortunately, this issue can usually be easily identified by an experienced contractor. Even if blisters don’t appear severe, it’s always best to contact a professional as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Ensuring your building is protected from moisture exposure is key to its longevity.

Promptly Contact a Flat Roof Repair Service for Leaks

A flat roof requires diligent care, so if you suspect a crack or leak, the most sensible course of action is to call a professional. Postponing could lead to extensive, avoidable repairs. Remember that leaks often occur around flashing and in seams – a skilled professional can accurately identify the leak’s source and repair it efficiently. Quick action can save both time and money in the long term.

How Often Should I Have My Flat Roof Inspected by a Professional?

If you own a flat roof, you know the importance of routine inspections. While the general recommendation is at least two inspections per year, factors such as the material’s age and Chicago’s climate may necessitate more frequent inspections. During an inspection, a professional will thoroughly assess the roof’s condition and identify potential problems, ultimately ensuring your flat roof is safe and sound.

Trust Third Coast Exteriors for Flat Roof Repair and Maintenance Checkups

At Third Coast Exteriors, we understand the importance of your commercial property and the investment it represents. Our expert team is committed to providing you with top-tier roofing services. From roof replacement and emergency repairs to routine maintenance services and regular inspections, we’re here for all your roofing needs. Our dedicated team of roofers has been providing exceptional service throughout the Chicago area for over four decades.

We offer a comprehensive range of services:

  • Commercial Roofing Solutions
  • Flat Roof Replacement Services
  • Flat Roof Installation Services

At Third Coast Exteriors, we’re committed to helping you preserve the integrity of your property and ensuring a solid roof over your head.

Five Indications That Your Commercial Roof Needs Replacing

As anyone who owns a commercial building in Chicago will attest, the roof is an integral part of the structure. Not only does it shield your property from harsh weather, but it also plays a pivotal role in temperature control and moisture management. However, over time, wear and tear take their toll, and it becomes crucial to identify signs that your commercial roof may require replacement. Here are five signs that suggest your commercial roof might be due for a replacement.

1. Evidence of Leaks

Leaks are a major red flag indicating that your commercial roof might need replacing. Should you discover water damage, it’s vital to address it immediately. A roof with leaks can lead to a host of issues, including the growth of mold and mildew, rotting wood, and structural damage. Ignoring these signs and delaying roof replacement could result in severe complications.

2. Presence of Bubbles or Blistering

If you see bubbles or blisters on your commercial roof, it’s likely a replacement is in order. Bubbles result from trapped air or water pockets beneath the roof surface, causing the roofing material to swell and form a bubble-like appearance. Blistering, however, occurs when the roofing material starts to deteriorate, forming small pockets filled with air or water. Both these issues can compromise the roof’s integrity and lead to leaks. If your commercial roof exhibits either of these symptoms, it’s recommended to have a roofing professional assess the damage and determine if a replacement is required.

3. Loose Roofing Materials

Loose roofing materials on your commercial property suggest that a roof replacement may be necessary. These can result from various causes, such as extreme weather, incorrect installation, or natural aging. Regardless of the cause, loose materials pose a serious problem and need immediate attention. If left unaddressed, they can lead to water damage, leaks, and other threats to your property’s integrity.

4. Spike in Energy Costs

The roof of your commercial property is more than a barrier against the elements; it also assists in maintaining internal temperatures and optimizing energy use. However, as even the best-maintained roofs degrade over time, you might notice a significant increase in your energy bills. This increase indicates that your compromised roof is no longer effective at temperature regulation, forcing your HVAC system to work harder than necessary. A sudden surge in your energy expenditure could be a sign that your roof needs replacing. A new commercial roof investment can help decrease your energy bills and facilitate smooth business operations.

5. Advanced Age

A crucial sign that a commercial roof may need replacing is simply its age. The average commercial roof has a lifespan of around 20 years. If your roof is nearing or has exceeded this age, it may be time to contemplate a replacement. Other factors, like the type of roofing materials and local climate, can also affect a roof’s longevity. However, age is usually a reliable predictor of when a commercial roof needs replacing. If your roof shows signs of wear and tear, or has started to leak, you should consider a replacement before complete failure occurs.

Trust Third Coast Exteriors for Your Commercial Roofing Needs

Commercial Roofing Replacement Chicago, IL

Established in 1979, Third Coast Exteriors is dedicated to providing the finest quality commercial and industrial roofing services. We strongly believe that forging a robust relationship forms the cornerstone of any successful project, and we strive to cultivate trust with our clients from the get-go. Our team of seasoned engineers delivers expert recommendations to assist you in making informed decisions about your roof. Our unwavering commitment to customer service ensures we’ll be with you at every stage, from the initial consultation to the final inspection. When you opt for Third Coast Exteriors, you can trust you’re partnering with a commercial roofing team devoted to your success.

We provide a wide array of services including, but not limited to:

  • Repair of Flat Roofs
  • Replacement of Flat Roofs
  • Installation of Commercial Flat Roofs
  • Installation of Commercial Roofing
  • Roof Coatings
  • Commercial Roof Maintenance
  • Commercial Roofing Repairs
  • Metal Roofing Services
  • Solar Roofing Solutions

The Power of Polyisocyanurate Insulation for Commercial Roofs in Chicago

With rising energy prices and a worldwide emphasis on energy conservation, optimizing your heating system and minimizing structural heat loss is more crucial than ever. Insulation is one of the most effective ways to achieve this, and one of the most economical insulation solutions for the structure you’re constructing or designing is a polyisocyanurate (polyiso) roof installation.

Demystifying Polyisocyanurate

Polyisocyanurate, affectionately known as “polyiso,” is one of the globe’s most prevalent construction materials, representing more than 75% of insulation utilized in North American commercial building construction.

Polyiso is typically used as continuous insulation for roofs or as a shielding roof cover board. It’s a closed-cell, firm foam board linked to facers on both sides, primarily consisting of organic substances, including polyol, a blowing agent, and polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI).

This composition, in conjunction with its use with diverse facers, offers several advantages:

  • Compatibility with numerous roofing systems
  • Certified long-term thermal performance
  • Low global warming potential (GWP) blowing agents
  • Industry-wide Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)

These factors make polyiso the preferred product for low-slope commercial roofing.

Polyiso essentially matches gypsum, a common alternative, in aspects like moisture resistance, fire resistance, and uplift properties. However, polyiso’s benefits are clear: it is lighter, easier to transport, and simpler to handle on a roof. Polyiso cover boards even protect the underlying insulation from roof traffic and facilitate the use of renewable energy systems, like rooftop solar power.

The high R-value, indicating the material’s insulation effectiveness, of polyiso is another advantage. High R-values signify better performance, an inherent attribute of polyiso cover boards. With current energy codes setting minimum insulation standards, polyiso is a superb choice to meet and even surpass these requirements.

Easy Installation and Environmentally Friendly

Mounting polyiso insulation on any roof enhances the building’s overall thermal efficiency, increases fire resistance, and helps reduce energy expenditures. The GWP of the blowing agents used in manufacturing polyiso insulation is crucial in assessing its environmental impact.

GWP evaluates gases to establish their impact on global warming, specifically the energy absorbed by the emission of one ton of a gas compared to one ton of carbon dioxide over a given period.

Manufacturers in North America utilize pentane, a hydrocarbon with zero ozone depletion potential (ODP), and low-GWP blends, known as pentane, to produce polyiso insulation products. Pentane’s GWP value of less than ten ensures polyiso insulation products align with climate regulations limiting the manufacture or installation of products with higher GWPs.

This means contractors, such as the team at Third Coast Exteriors, can recommend polyiso insulation products with confidence, knowing they comply with any regulations. By forming effective air barriers on top floors, isolating a building from external elements, and reducing the need for large heating and air conditioning units, polyiso contributes to energy conservation in more ways than one.

The unique structure of polyiso grants it excellent fire-resistant properties. Isocyanurate chemical bonds allow a high-temperature resistance of nearly 390 degrees Fahrenheit, more than double that of most insulation foams. This makes polyiso less prone to surface burning and can help inhibit the spread of fire. With rigorous code standards regarding fire performance in commercial buildings, contractors have significantly more flexibility when insulating roofs with polyiso.

Polyiso insulation has always been a top choice for commercial roofs in Chicago, and recent technological advancements in its formulation continue to make it more cost-effective and eco-friendly.

Third Coast Exteriors recommends considering polyiso insulation for your roofing projects this winter. This insulation option will not only help you save on energy costs but will also keep you cozy during the chilly Chicago winter months

Navigating the vast landscape of Commercial Roofing can be a daunting task for any commercial property owner. With options ranging from Flat Roofs to Torch Down Flat Roofs and a multitude of other solutions, it’s crucial to understand the advantages, drawbacks, and applications of each system. The purpose of this comprehensive guide is to delve deep into the intricacies of Commercial Roofing in Chicago. We will dissect the spectrum of roofing products available and highlight the expertise of Third Coast Exteriors, a certified Chicago Roofing Contractor. Third Coast Exteriors stands out with its specialty in all commercial roof systems, providing high-quality installation, maintenance, and repair services.

The Cornerstone of Commercial Structures: Commercial Roofing

The role of Commercial Roofing extends far beyond merely providing a shelter over a commercial edifice. It encompasses the specialized materials and techniques used to create a robust, weatherproof seal atop commercial structures. Unlike the steep slopes typical in residential roofing, Commercial Roofing primarily deals with flat or low-slope roofs, necessitating unique products for effective weatherproofing. Regular upkeep in the form of Roofing Repairs or Flat Roof Repairs is pivotal in maintaining the roof’s longevity and its optimal functioning.

The Spectrum of Commercial Roofing Products: A Detailed Look

The selection of roofing products can considerably influence a roof’s durability, energy efficiency, and lifespan. In this segment, we’ll explore in detail the diverse range of Commercial Roofing products available in the Chicago market.

1. Built-Up Roofing (BUR): The BUR system, one of the most venerable and reliable commercial roofing methods, owes its toughness to its layered structure. Comprising multiple layers of bitumen and reinforcing fabrics, a BUR system forms a hardened finished membrane, resistant to various weather conditions. The application of BUR systems involves the use of hot asphalt, cold-applied adhesives, or coal tar pitch. The system’s top surface can be a mineral cap sheet, a gravel layer, or a weather-resistant coating, providing additional durability and protection.

2. Modified Bitumen Roofing: Modified bitumen represents a robust, weather-resistant type of flat roofing, born from the evolution of asphalt roofing. The addition of modifiers to asphalt lends it plastic or rubber-like properties, enhancing its resilience and flexibility. The installation of Modified Bitumen Roofing often entails using a torch to heat the material, ensuring a firm, waterproof bond with the underlying roofing layer, hence the term ‘Torch Down’ roofing. Modified Bitumen can also be installed using ‘cold process’ adhesives or self-adhering sheets, offering versatility in its application.

3. Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) Roofing: TPO Roofing systems merge the sturdiness of EPDM rubber with the seam performance akin to hot-air weldable systems. Engineered to resist tears, impacts, and punctures, TPO roofing is a viable choice for a variety of commercial applications. The installation of TPO roofing involves mechanically fastening the material to the roof deck, followed by heat-welding the seams to form a reliable, waterproof bond.

4. Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Roofing: EPDM, a popular type of rubber roofing, is renowned for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to UV rays. EPDM roofing is typically installed in broad sheets, adhered to the roof deck using a specially formulated adhesive or mechanically fastened. The seams are then meticulously sealed using a specially-designed tape or adhesive to ensure an impermeable finish.

5. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Roofing: PVC Roofing, a single-ply roofing solution predominantly used on commercial or industrial roofs, stands out with its resistance to chemical damage and its robust, flexible nature. In a process similar to TPO, PVC membranes are mechanically fastened, and then the seams are meticulously heat-welded together to form an impermeable layer.

6. Metal Roofing: Commercial Metal Roofing systems often employ corrugated galvanized steel, though more premium options like aluminum or copper are also used. The installation process involves overlapping the metal sheets and fastening them securely to the roof deck with screws. The seams and fasteners are then meticulously sealed with a special coating to stave off potential leaks.

These diverse roofing systems, each boasting its unique set of advantages, effectively cater to a broad spectrum of commercial roofing needs. The optimal roofing system for your specific project hinges on several key factors. These include the slope of your roof, the type of building, your allocated budget, and your long-term performance expectations.

Roofing Repairs and Flat Roof Repairs: An Essential Aspect of Commercial Roofing Maintenance

In the varied and often harsh climate of Chicago, maintaining the structural integrity of your commercial roof requires regular Roofing Repairs and Flat Roof Repairs. Proactive and professional repairs can help circumvent more significant issues down the line, such as leaks, energy inefficiency, and structural damage, protecting your commercial investment over time.

The Third Coast Exteriors Difference: Your Trusted Commercial Roofing Contractor in Chicago

Standing tall in the city of Chicago is Third Coast Exteriors, a premier Commercial Roofing Contractor known for its specialty in all commercial roof systems. With certifications from numerous manufacturers, we are in a unique position to offer extended warranties that most other roofing companies cannot match.

Our team of seasoned experts are adept at installing, maintaining, and repairing a vast range of commercial roofing types. These include but are not limited to Flat Roofs, Torch Down Flat Roofs, BUR, Modified Bitumen, TPO, EPDM, PVC, and Metal Roofing. Our blend of deep experience, state-of-the-art tools, and premium-grade materials ensure that we deliver a roof that not only meets but exceeds your business needs.

At Third Coast Exteriors, we believe in continual learning and improvement, staying on the cutting edge of the ever-evolving roofing industry. This commitment to excellence enables us to provide top-notch Roofing Repairs and Flat Roof Repairs. When you partner with us, you can rest assured that your commercial roofing investment is well-protected and maintained.

Conclusion

When contemplating Commercial Roofing in Chicago, making an informed decision that aligns with your building requirements and budget is paramount. Understanding the wide array of options—from Built-Up Roofing to Modified Bitumen, TPO, EPDM, PVC, and Metal Roofing—enables you to make the best choice for your commercial edifice.

Choosing Third Coast Exteriors means you are partnering with more than just a Commercial Roofing Contractor. We will be with you at every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the installation and routine maintenance. We are here to ensure that your roof performs at its peak, providing you the peace of mind knowing that your business is well-protected.

For Commercial Roofing, Chicago trusts Third Coast Exteriors. Reach out to us today to discuss your commercial roofing needs and discover how we can add exceptional value to your project.

Designed to stand the test of time, this all-masonry wall system pairs a concrete block structure with brick for a beautiful, durable, and maintenance-free façade.

Cavity Wall: Brick Veneer/Reinforced Concrete Block
Coping and bond beam Flashing at base of wall Wall ties and insulation Truss attachment to bulb 'T'

RECOMMENDED BUILDING TYPES

  • Schools, commercial and institutional buildings
  • Buildings requiring a high fire rating
  • Noisy environments
  • Areas with frequent rainfall
  • Buildings with a long expected life span. The concrete block structural backup will not burn, rot, rust, mold or be eaten by termites.
  • Buildings in climates with high humidity. Concrete block is not a food source for mold.
  • Choosing the Right Masonry System for your Budget

BENEFITS

  • Tough, beautiful brick exterior over a structural concrete block backup system
  • Extremely durable, long lasting wall system
  • Minimal long-term maintenance
  • Great design flexibility – use different colors, bond patterns, brick sizes, and surface textures to spice up your design
  • Concrete block backup acts as the structure, with vertical and horizontal reinforcement grouted into place
  • Cavity system inherently weatherproof – great for moist environments
  • Excellent insulating value and heat capacity
  • Fire proof with gs up to 4 hours
  • Great for noisy environments – naturally absorbs sound
  • One trade erects both the structural and skin layers of the wall

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Lower life cycle cost offsets higher initial investment
  • This substantial wall system may require larger foundation

DEFINITION AND ASSUMPTIONS

Backup: Lightweight plain gray concrete block (CMU), 8″ x 8″ x 16″ (nom.)

Reinforcement: #6 vertical reinforcement @ 32″ on center. 9-gaugejoint reinforcement/wall ties at 16″ o.c. (every other course)

Veneer: Modular clay brick 4″ x 2-1/3″ x 8″(nom.)

Cavity: 3″ air space

Insulation: 2″ rigid expanded polystyrene in drainage cavity

Flashing: Base flashing and weeps

Veneer ties: Adjustable pintle and eye veneer ties

Mortar: Type N, Portland cement/lime, plain gray

Joints: concave tooled

REGIONAL VARIATIONS

  • When masonry veneer is used in areas of high seismic risk, veneer ties are required to attach to the wire reinforcement embedded in mortar bed joints in the veneer. Check your local requirements – and save money by using normal veneer ties in areas of low seismic risk.
  • Many areas of the western U.S. have good local sources for lightweight aggregate, and the use of lightweight concrete block (CMU) is the norm. In other parts of the country, medium weight and normal weight block are more common.
  • Structural masonry walls in areas of high seismic risk are required to have additional horizontal bond beams to resist seismic loads. Check with your structural engineer to determine what is required in your region.
  • The use of reinforced bond beams can replace the necessity forjoint reinforcement in concrete masonry walls. Understand that some form of horizontal reinforcement is required in all concrete masonry construction, including veneer applications.

FIRE RATING (HOURS)

Ungrouted Assembly: 4 hrs

Fully grouted Assembly: 4 hrs

SOUND TRANSMISSION CLASS (DB)

Ungrouted: 55.5

Grouted 32″: 57.2

Fully grouted: 61.9

STC=(weight of wall)0.223x21.5

WALL WEIGHT (LB/SQ. FT.)

Ungrouted: 70 lb/sq. ft

Grouted 32″: 81 lb/sq. ft

Fully grouted: 114 lb/sq. ft

ENERGY RATING

R-value: 11.71 using 2″ expanded polystyrene insulation (see note below)

Calculation:

Outside Air =0.17
Brick =0.44
Air Gap =0.97
2 inch Polystyrene =8.00
8 inch CMU 105 pcf, grouted at 32″ o.c. =1.45
Interior Air =0.68
Total =11.71

R-value: 13.71 using 2″ extruded polystyrene insulation (see note below)

Calculation:

Outside Air =0.17
Brick =0.44
Air Gap =0.97
2 inch Polystyrene =10.00
8 inch CMU 105 pcf, grouted at 32″ o.c. =1.45
Interior Air =0.68
Total =13.71

Note: The type of rigid insulation you install affects the wall’s insulating capacity (the R-value). Polyisocyanurate insulation gives you 8.0 R per inch (12.0 R for 1.5″ or R16 for 2″). Expanded polystyrene insulation is worth 4.0 R per inch (6.0 R for 1.5″ or 8 R for 2″). Extruded polystyrene yields 5.0 R per inch (7.5 R for 1.5″ or 10 R for 2″). Use either thicker insulation or more expensive polyisocyanurate to achieve a higher energy rating.

GREEN/LEED RATING

DESIGN TIPS

  • Place rigid-board insulation in the drainage cavity to maximize interior usable space, and take advantage of the huge thermal mass provided by the masonry backup system.
  • Our sample design uses 2” insulation in the cavity, but many designers choose to use 1” insulation. The reason? If you use 1.5” insulation, coupled with a 1” air gap (required by Code), the entire wall can fit on a standard 14” wide foundation if you cantilever the brick a modest 1/8” over the edge of the foundation.
  • You can improve the R-value of this wall by substituting 3” foil-faced polyisocyanurate for 2” expanded polystyrene insulation in the cavity. This raises the R-Value of the wall from 11.7 to 21.5. It is important to note that this rigid insulation is continuous. It is penetrated only by thin 9-gauge wire ties to anchor the veneer.
  • Brick veneer expands as it ages, whereas concrete block shrinks. Don’t forget to detail expansion jointsin the brick veneer and control joints in the concrete block backup.
  • Shelf angles may not be required for veneer support at every floor line. Cut down on the number of shelf angles to save money and simplify your construction. If your veneer is shorter than 30 feet above the top of the foundation wall, you may not need relieving angles at all.

CONSTRUCTION TIPS

  • Back bevel mortar joints to prevent excess mortar from falling into the drainage cavity. The cavity needs to be open enough to permit water to drain down onto flashing below (ASHRAE 90.1).
  • Simplify construction by requesting to use the same mortar type on the veneer as the backup. Type N is usually fine for both, except in high seismic zones where Type S is required.

Stages of Asphalt Shingle Deterioration

Introduction

The lifespan of asphalt shingles depends on the type you choose, the manufacturer, and where you live. Some shingles last longer than others; for example, those made with a higher percentage of granules tend to last longer than those made with fewer granules. The first thing to do when trying to determine whether your roof has reached its end-of-life is take a look at it yourself or hire someone who knows how to inspect roofs professionally. If you’re not sure what signs of wear and tear mean that it’s time for replacement—or if your roofer isn’t telling you—then read on!

Aging

As asphalt shingles age, the effects of weather can become more pronounced. The shingles will become discolored and may develop cracks or ripples. The granules that comprise your roof’s surface may also begin to separate from the asphalt backing as they come apart over time.

The lifespan of a typical residential asphalt shingle is about 20 years, but this is dependent on many factors: where you live, how heavily it rains in your area and what kind of environment you have around your house (e.g., trees, other buildings). Shingles typically deteriorate faster in areas with heavy rainfall due to their exposure to moisture and sunlight—especially if they’re not covered by other structures like roofs or eaves.

Loss of mineral granules

Asphalt shingles are covered with a layer of mineral granules that give them their color. These tiny rocks are made of natural resources like quartz or feldspar, and can be washed away by rainwater or sun rays. When this happens, the shingles lose their appearance and color, leaving only the asphalt underneath.

Cracking and cupping

When asphalt shingles crack and cup, it’s an indication of their age. Cracking is normal, but if the cracks are too large or have spidered out to cover a large portion of the roof, it needs to be fixed before water can get in. Cupping is caused by uneven exposure to weather, which can result in problems like mold growth or algae growth.

Some roofers believe that cracking and cupping are not an immediate threat to your roof; others believe that they are causes for concern because they allow moisture into the attic space where it could damage other components of your home (such as insulation).

Blistering and splitting

Asphalt shingles are prone to splitting and blistering, both caused by different factors. Blistering occurs when water gets trapped under the shingle during installation or precipitation events. Splitting is caused by temperature changes that cause the asphalt in your roof to expand and contract, which causes it to crack.

The best way to prevent these issues is by making sure you apply enough granular material at the time of installation and by choosing a high-quality brand of asphalt shingle that has been properly designed for your climate zone. If you’ve already discovered this problem on one section of your roof, then calling a professional contractor can help fix it before it spreads across other areas as well

Curling and buckling

Buckling shingles can occur when the shingle is exposed to heat. This can be caused by improper ventilation, improper installation or poor quality asphalt.

Incorrect ventilation causes buckling by locking moisture in between the shingles and preventing it from drying out properly. If your roof does not have proper ventilation, this may cause buckling to occur sooner than expected.

Algae growth

Algae growth is also a common problem, especially in coastal areas. While algae can be removed by scrubbing the shingles with a stiff brush and bleach, preventing algae growth will save you time and money in the long run. One way to prevent algae from growing is by keeping your roof clean. You should clean your roof every three months with a pressure washer.

Older shingles are more susceptible to damage than newer ones.

The age of your roof is a factor in whether or not you will experience damage. Shingles are made from asphalt and mineral granules, which are bound together by resins. Asphalt gets brittle with age, while the minerals break down. This aging process is accelerated in high heat and humidity, so if your house has been sitting in the sun for years on end, it’s likely that its shingles need to be replaced before they become dangerous to walk on.

Conclusion

Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofs, and they can last a long time if they’re properly installed and maintained. But as weather conditions change, so do the needs of your roof. If you have older asphalt shingles that need replacing or repairing, don’t hesitate to call us at 773-251-9422 for an estimate.

Quincy Sizemore

Third Coast Exteriors

Owner

CertainTeed Asphalt Shingles

Introduction

CertainTeed shingles are some of the most popular roofing materials on the market today. We offer a wide range of CertainTeed shingles to fit any homeowner’s needs.

CertainTeed Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are made from asphalt and are available in a range of styles, including:

  • Architectural shingles
  • Architectural slate
  • Decorative cedar shakes

CertainTeed shingles also come with a limited lifetime warranty. This means that if you’re not satisfied with your roof, CertainTeed will pay for the cost of replacing it—no questions asked.

Dimensional (Architectural) Shingles

Dimensional (architectural) shingles are a popular choice for roofing because they’re available in many styles, colors and textures.

Dimensional shingles come in several different styles:

  • Smooth
  • Tabbed
  • Weathered Wood® Shingle (wood shakes)

Designer Shingles

Designer shingles are the most popular type of asphalt shingle on the market. They come in a wide range of colors and styles, from traditional wood-look to exotic finishes like slate or stone. Plus, they have a textured finish that looks like natural wood shake siding so they’re less likely to blow off during high winds. Designer shingles are available in a variety of sizes (see chart below) and all the materials used in their production meet CertainTeed’s stringent quality standards.

  • Shingle Style: Wood Look (6″ and 8″)
  • Shingle Color: Charcoal Gray
  • Shingle Size: 6″ x 24″; 8″ x 36″

3-Tab Shingles and High-Performance 3-Tab Shingles

If you’re looking for good quality and durability in an asphalt shingle, then CertainTeed’s 3-Tab shingles are a great option. The company has been producing these shingles since their inception in the 1930s and they have proven themselves to be durable and reliable throughout the years. They still remain one of the most popular types of shingle on today’s market.

High-Performance 3-Tab Shingles are a newer version of standard 3-Tab shingles that provide enhanced performance with higher levels of reflectivity to help keep your home cooler by reflecting sunlight off your roof instead of absorbing it like traditional asphalt shingles. These high quality products are backed by CertainTeed’s Lifetime limited warranty against cracking, peeling, splitting or curling; free from defects caused by manufacturing errors; free from defects caused by poor installation practices; free from manufacturing defects which cause premature failure within 30 years (when installed properly); protection against wind uplift at 130 mph sustained winds (at 60 pounds per square foot); 100% waterproof under all conditions including freezing temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (-28 degrees Celsius).

We offer a range of CertainTeed shingles for your home.

CertainTeed’s recycled asphalt shingles are available in a wide range of styles, colors and sizes. CertainTeed’s three-tab shingles come in black, grey, tan and mocha. CertainTeed’s architectural shingles come in single-color or dual color selections that include black, grey and tan. All CertainTeed shingles are made from 100% virgin material with no added fillers or binders to provide you with more durability and energy efficiency for your home.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a new roof, we have the shingles for you. Our team of experts can help determine which type of shingle is right for your home and provide installation services as well. With all the different styles and types available from CertainTeed, there’s sure to be something that fits your needs perfectly!

Quincy Sizemore

Third Coast Exteriors

Owner

Roofing Contractor 

Introduction

We at Third Coast Exteriors take pride in being a full-service roofing contractor and will be happy to help with any residential and commercial roofing projects you may have. We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide material & labor warranties on all roofing services. Our roofers are professionals and know your roof is an integral part of the structure of your home or business, therefore we believe a well-constructed, long-lasting roof is worth investing in because it will save you money in the long run.
We pride ourselves in being a full-service roofing contractor and will be happy to help with any residential and commercial roofing projects you may have.
From a small repair to a complete roof replacement, our expert staff will be happy to help with any residential or commercial roofing projects you may have.
Roofing is an integral part of the structure of your home or business. A well constructed roof will save money in the long run by protecting your investment from weather damage and extend its life significantly.
We pride ourselves on being a full service roofing contractor and can complete your project quickly and efficiently – call us today!
We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide a material and labor warranties on all roofing services.
We are so confident in our workmanship that we provide material and labor on all roofing services. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser of the service. It does not cover damage caused by storms or other natural disasters.
Third Coast Exteriors is a trusted Chicago roofing contractor helping homeowners and property managers with their residential & commercial roofing needs including replacement, maintenance, repairs, and more.
We have been in business for over 2 years and are a full service roofing contractor. We provide complete roofing services for residential and commercial properties. With our extensive experience, we understand that it is important to offer the highest quality products backed by warranties for each of your projects. We also keep up with all of the latest technologies in order to make sure you receive the best possible value at every step of your project.
We are licensed, bonded, insured and member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Whether you are looking for a new roof to be installed or have suffered weather damage from one of Chicago’s notorious storms, we can complete your project quickly and efficiently.
Whether you are looking for a new roof to be installed or have suffered weather damage from one of Chicago’s notorious storms, we can complete your project quickly and efficiently. We are a full-service roofing contractor that offers both residential and commercial roofing services. Our team is well versed in new construction and repairs. Our goal is to provide our customers with high quality workmanship at reasonable rates so that they receive the best value for their money.
One of the most important things about having anything done on your home or business is trusting the people who are doing it; whether it’s painting, installing new windows, or having someone fix your plumbing issue; if you trust them then they will do a good job because they want you as their customer again! At Third Coast Exteriors we pride ourselves on our professionalism and integrity so call us today!
Third Coast Exteriors offers a wide range of roofing services including residential and commercial roofing installation and repair. We are licensed, bonded and insured in the state of Illinois. Our team has an average of 15 years experience in the roofing industry.
We are dedicated to providing our customers with the best possible service and quality workmanship at reasonable rates. One of the most important things about having anything done on your home or business is trusting the people who are doing it; whether it’s painting, installing new windows, or having someone fix your plumbing issue; if you trust them then they will do a good job because they want you as their customer again! At Third Coast Exteriors we pride ourselves on our professionalism and integrity so call us today!
Our mission is to deliver top quality workmanship at fair prices for all our clients and we stand by our workmanship 100%.
Our mission is to deliver top quality workmanship at fair prices for all our clients and we stand by our workmanship 100%. We have been in business for over 2 years, and have a strong history of providing quality workmanship.
We are committed to the goal of having satisfied customers who will recommend us to their friends or family members. Our professional tradesmen are dedicated to providing you with the best possible service at all times.
Call us today if you need an honest Chicago Roofing Contractor!
For the best Chicago roofing contractor, call us today. We are a full-service roofing contractor and offer a ten-year labor warranty on all of our services. Our prices are competitive and we provide excellent customer service. If you need an honest Chicago Roofing Contractor, call us today!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning about our services, and we look forward to talking with you soon. End the search for roofing near me! To get started on your next project, call us today.