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Everything You Need to Know About Roof Decking

A close up of a roof with shingles on it undergoing roof replacement.

Despite common misconceptions about roofing being simple, it involves various components and materials requiring knowledge. Given the roofs’ essential role in safeguarding your home, it is only natural to desire a comprehensive understanding of its components. The roof decking is a perfect example of an aspect that is sometimes disregarded despite its critical importance in guaranteeing a roof’s long-term resilience and longevity.

If your priority is a roof that combines longevity with visual appeal, you’re in the right place. Stay tuned as we delve into important information which will help you achieve your roof decking goals.

What Is Roof Decking?

Roof decking is the foundation of your roof, securely attached to the rafters or trusses, providing stability and support for the layers of roofing materials. Even though it’s an essential part of your home’s structure, it remains concealed beneath the outer roofing layers.

It’s crucial to note that roofers never cut roof decking since it plays a major part in maintaining the overall stability and lifespan of the roof structure. Cutting edges can weaken its structural integrity and pose significant dangers, including the risk of roof collapse or compromised support for the roofing materials above.

What Is Roof Sheathing?

If you have broadly investigated roof decking, you may have undergone some confusion between the terms “roof decking” and “sheathing.” It’s understandable, given that these phrases are indeed synonymous, highlighting that they denote the same concept. This understanding is paramount to retain for future reference, as it assures clarity and understanding when discussing or researching roof-related topics.

What Is Roof Decking Made Of?

Roof deck materials encompass a variety of options, with the most prevalent types being:

  • Plywood Roof Decking,
  • Oriented strand board (OSB),
  • Wood planks,
  • Tongue-and-groove boards,
  • Metal.

Before deciding which roof decking to choose, you should assess each material’s strength, durability, moisture resistance, and compatibility with the roofing materials you’ve selected. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed choice for the perfect roof decking solution. If you give these things some thought, you should be able to choose roof decking that will serve as a sturdy base for your roof and give you years of reliable protection.

How Can I Tell if the Decking on My Roof Has Been Damaged?

Homeowners may check for decking problems by calling professional roofers that will inspect their roofs every few months or after severe weather. Here are some indicators that may suggest damage to the decking:

  • Leaks,
  • Sagging or uneven areas,
  • Rot or mold,
  • Visible holes.

If you notice some of these signs, the best course of action would be to instantly contact a local roofing crew to prevent further deterioration.

When Would Be the Best Time to Replace the Roof Decking?

It is essential to bear in mind that the decking functions as the fundamental support for the entire roofing structure. Because of this reason, it is essential to replace decking if it has been harmed by dampness, has rotted, has holes or splits in it, has shrunk, has warped, or has any other type of decking irregularity.

Experience Unmatched Craftsmanship with Revived Exteriors’ Premium Roof Decking Services

Our team’s ample experience of over 30 years enables us to conduct inspections efficiently and effectively, positioning us as industry leaders. We have built a solid reputation thanks to our thorough but speedy inspections, as we know how valuable your time is. Furthermore, our commitment to excellence earned us an A on Angie’s List, further validating our exceptional service.

When it comes to roofing services in Chicago, IL, choose the best roofing contractors, choose Revived Exteriors.

Call us today and request a free quote!

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Everything You Need to Know About Ridge Vents

A roofing contractor is using a drill to install a shingle on a roof.

Roof ventilation is one of the essential things if you want a healthy and long-lasting roof. Not only it helps regulate temperature and humidity levels in the attic, but it also prevents the reproduction of mold, rot, or any other structural damage. If you think about it, it’s logical that without proper ventilation, heat and moisture might build up, leading to many problems (such as total roof replacement) you could have avoided if you had reacted promptly. Thus, we cannot emphasize the importance of proper ventilation enough!

You’re reading our blog with a mission, so let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

What Is a Ridge Vent?

One method of providing air circulation is through a ridge vent – a ventilation system installed at the peak of a sloped roof. It is a continuous vent that runs along the length of the roof ridge and allows hot air and moisture to escape from the attic space. Ridge vents create a natural convection effect, where warm air rises and exits through the vent while cool air is drawn in through soffit vents at the roof’s eaves. This continuous flow of air helps regulate temperature and humidity levels in the attic, preventing issues like mold, rot, and damage to the roofing system. For additional safety and a neat, finished look of the roof, ridge cap shingles are installed over the ridge vents for protection, but metal ridge vents often do not need ridge cap shingles to be installed.

Combined with continuous soffit vents, they can create the most effective ventilation system. Furthermore, one continuous ridge vent is way quicker and easier to install than other types of vents.

Types of Ridge Vents

There are two primary types of ridge vents – active and passive roof ones. Active ventilation refers to the process of bringing in air from the outdoors and pushing indoor air out. In contrast, passive ventilation in attics uses wind and other forms of natural ventilation to keep the air circulating.

Active Roof Vents

A ridge vent with a baffle (a set of chutes that creates a channel for air circulation) is used as a part of an active ventilation system. It draws fresh air from the outdoors and ejects stale air from the indoors. Baffled ridge vents are one sort of active roof vent, but there are also turbine, power, and solar-powered vents.

Turbine Vents

When there is no wind, the air in your attic can be circulated with the help of turbine vents (or whirlybirds) by creating a drawing effect by convection (heat rising).

Power Vents

Power vents are circular-shaped vents that use electricity to eject hot air from the attic.

Solar Powered Vents

This type of roof vent is just like any other power vent, but as the power source, they use the sun.

Passive Roof Vents

Passive roof vents are another type of ventilation system that works without the use of mechanical devices such as fans or turbines. Instead, they rely on natural airflow and convection currents to circulate air through a property.

Static Vents

A passive ventilation system that allows air to circulate freely inside a building is called a static roof vent (or louver vent). It is used to ventilate an architecture by creating a pressure difference between its interior and exterior. Static vents are also called turtle or box vents.

Ridge Vents Without a Baffle

Another passive roof vent is the ridge vent without a baffle installed along the roof’s peak. Unlike ridge vents with a baffle, they do not have a physical barrier that separates the incoming and outgoing air streams, which can cause the vent to function less efficiently.

Gable and Vents

Instead of vertical airflow, gable vents for attics employ horizontal or cross ventilation. Typically, air enters the attic on one side and leaves on the other. Therefore, these vents can be installed on the side of a house.

Ridge Vents vs. Box Vents

Passive roof vents, such as ridge vents and box vents, are installed to increase airflow inside a structure. While box vents are seated on the roof surface, ridge vents are put along the roof’s peak. Furthermore, box vents are often installed in groups and need more roof space than ridge vents. Better shielding from the storms and the fact that they are less noticeable from the ground are two advantages of ridge vents. On the other hand, box vents are less expensive and simpler to install, but each homeowner should decide which option will fit best on their roof.

Call Revived Exteriors if You Need a Proper Roof Ventilation System in Chicago, IL

With a mission to be recognized as a leader in exterior construction, we provide our customers with high-quality materials and worry-free customer service. In addition, we have been in the industry for over 30 years, gained experience, and polished our craftsmanship.

Furthermore, all the employees of Revived Exteriors are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, so you won’t have to worry about anything. Our work and dedication speak for themselves; we have had many satisfied clients throughout the years that can confirm our professionalism.

Don’t waste more time finding the right roofing company because Revived Exteriors has been providing roofing services for decades.

Therefore, if you need a roofing contractor with many years of experience, contact Revived Exteriors, a roofing company in Chicago, IL!

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Should You Repair Your Roof Before Selling or Not?

A roofing contractor is replacing the roof of a house.

Having your own house is a dream for most of us, and after we reach that dream, we eventually start dreaming and planning to purchase another more suitable place. However, since most of us aren’t multimillionaires, before buying our new dream house, we must sell the old one, and the question that starts popping is whether or not to repair the roof of your old house before selling your property.

Let’s get something straight; repairing your roof is optional before putting your old house on the market. However, if the roof is in good shape, you should expect a higher selling price, which will come in handy, don’t you agree?

Therefore, when determining whether or not to invest in roof repairs before listing your property for sale, it’s important to keep the following things in mind.

Getting Roof Repair

Roof repair can be a costly undertaking. However, if your roof is in poor shape, it may prevent you from selling the house at all. If you want to sell your home quickly and for a reasonable price, fixing any problems with the roof is a must.

Also, a property with a damaged roof may be challenging to sell if your ideal buyers are picky about every detail and refuse to pay for any repairs after closing.

Likewise, if your roof was damaged by a storm not too long ago and your homeowner’s insurance covered the damage, you should get it fixed since you already have insurance, and it won’t cost you a single dime.

What’s the state of your roof like?

Before deciding whether or not you should repair the roof on your existing house, you should check its state and see how functional it is. That’s where a roof inspection can be handy, especially if it is conducted by a professional who is going to check the state of asphalt shingles, the condition of your attic, sidings, and other roofing materials. After the inspection, you’ll have in-depth knowledge about your roof’s condition.

Then, if you want to sell your home quickly and know that your roof is in poor condition, a roof repair must be conducted. The reason is obvious. Many purchasers, especially first-time buyers, are hesitant to shell out more funds for substantial renovations.

In the end, though, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to reduce your asking price and sell the house in its current condition.

Are You Willing to Repair Your Roof?

Getting a decent, well-working roof is essential if you want to sell your home for a higher price. A major roof repair might cost you some money, depending on the damage and how extensive the damage is.

Getting your roof repaired also takes time. The length of the process is determined by how quickly you can compare the roofing company quotes and estimates, get a great deal with the roofing company, and finally have the start-to-finish work. You might want to consider bad weather, as it can be the reason for delay when working on your roof project.

However, with minor repairs, all damage can be repaired at a lower price in a shorter amount of time.

Why Should I Repair It?

Possessing a roof that is in reasonably good shape might help you sell your home more quickly. It will reassure the buyer that they won’t have to spend more money on repairs just to make your property habitable.

You can also pay for a roofing specialist to provide maintenance and repair services and give a roof certification for an additional three to five years. The buyer’s concerns will be alleviated, and, as a result, their confidence in purchasing your house will increase.

So, Should I or Shouldn’t I?

When it comes to selling a home, you want to make sure you get the best deal. If you have some damage on your roof, you can get your roof repaired or get a roof replacement.

If you still need clarification about whether you should repair your roof before selling your home after reading this blog, you can call Revived Exteriors, your local roofing company in Arlington Heights, IL.

We will help you provide the information you need by performing a roof inspection to determine your roof’s condition. Then, our experienced roofers will repair any roof damage that you have and guarantee to serve you with high-quality results.

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FAQ About Residential Roofing in Arlington Heights Area

A man is installing a shingle on a residential roofing.

Being in the roofing business for more than ten years and serving homeowners in the Arlington Heights area, we have noticed that several questions regarding residential roofing are popping out frequently. Hence, we have created a list of frequently asked questions and corresponding answers.

Therefore, if you are a homeowner from Arlington Heights searching for answers about residential roofing, this blog post is for you.

What Are the Most Common Roof Problems?

Several common roof problems trouble homeowners in this part of Illinois, like damaged shingles, clogged gutters, flashing issues, pooled water, storm damage, and, the most frequent one, leakage issues.

Which Roof Is Best for High Winds and Storms?

Wind-proven shingles and metal roofs are the best for high winds and storms. Wind-proven shingles have long-lasting wind warranties with no maximum wind speed limitation, and metal roofs are a well-known solution for areas hit by high winds due to their durability and strength.

How Many Years Should a Roof Last?

The average lifespan of a roof is somewhere between 15 and 20 years. However, when the roof is adequately maintained and the entire roofing system, including insulation, intake, and exhaust, is addressed, the roof can last 30-plus years. Nonetheless, the roof’s life expectancy also depends on the quality of the roof’s installation; therefore, when replacing a roof, look for a reliable and experienced roofer that’s been around for at least ten years and is not a roofing novice.

What Causes Roofs to Fail?

Water damage is the leading cause of roof failures. Neglected problems with water in the roof’s wooden structure are leading to the deterioration of structural components, resulting in the roof’s collapse. That’s why it is crucial to act if you notice any problem with water on your roof, whether it is pooling water or a leakage issue.

What Are Areas of the Roof Most Likely to Leak?

The most prone roof areas to leakage are around skylights and chimneys if the flashing is damaged. Also, if your roof misses shingles, those places will most likely leak when the rain starts.

How Do I Know When to Replace My Roof?

If your roof is in its 20s and has a lot of missing and damaged shingles, it’s time to start planning a roof replacement. Also, if there is severe water damage on your roof, and your attic is full of mold, plus your energy bills are high, don’t postpone roof replacement since your roof has telltale signs it needs to be replaced.

What Maintenance Should Be Done on a Roof?

As for maintenance, if you want to be on the safe side, you should schedule a roof inspection at least twice a year, once before fall, and the second time, after winter. The inspection should consist of addressing any exposed nails, flashing, loose shingles or any any other clear observations.

Who to Call for a Roof Inspection in Arlington Heights Area?

If you are looking for a reliable and trustworthy roofing contractor in the Arlington Heights area to conduct a roof inspection, Revived Exteriors is your answer.

We are a locally owned and operated roofing company from Arlington Heights, serving the surroundings like Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Des Plains, Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Aurora, Barrington, Chicago, Evanston, Villa Park, and other Illinois areas.

During the inspection, we are going to inspect your roof thoroughly and check for any shingle issues, damaged flashing, moss presence, attic inspection, hail damage, and other roof parts that require examination.

After the inspection, we are going to provide you with a detailed report and the required steps to restore your roof to its original condition.

Therefore, if your roof in Arlington Heights needs to be inspected, don’t hesitate to contact Revived Exteriors, a fully licensed, insured, and bonded roofing contractor from Arlington Heights.

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How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter: 5 Essential Tips for Homeowners

A man is engaged in residential roofing, either in roof replacement or roof installation, as he works on the roof of a house.

Every season brings its pros and cons to homeowners. Winter is beautiful because it lets you indulge in the warmth of your home with your family. But unless your roof is in perfect shape, your home budget will feel the consequences even if you don’t.

And if you know that every gust or raindrop can ruin your winter because you can’t remember the last time you checked your roof, you can’t expect to have a relaxing winter.

To avoid that scenario, read (and use) 7 winter roofing tips for homeowners.

Flashings Before Anything Else

Nothing ruins Christmas more than a leaking roof, especially if the leak is there for a while and reaches its final form just before you start unwrapping your presents. By final form, we mean you’ll notice water dripping in your living area.

To prevent that, take care of your roof. Inspect it regularly and pay close attention to flashings. Most leaks happen because of them. Water can find a way to your underlayment if your flashings are too old or damaged. Then it’s only a matter of time before your decking starts rotting.

And even though there are many DIY flashing replacement tutorials, we advise you to leave flashing installation to your contractor. It’s easy to make tiny mistakes, so the flashing seems waterproof but doesn’t serve its purpose.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters are there to save your home and property from turning into a swamp every time it rains. Water will start pouring down your wall into the basement if your gutters get clogged. We don’t have to tell you how much damage that can cause.

So it’s a no-brainer to clean your gutter before winter. There are numerous DIY gutter cleaning techniques (and we’re sure you already have your favorite). However, we don’t recommend walking on the roof.

And if you decide to clean your gutters while standing on the ladder, don’t do it alone. Use that to spend some quality time with someone from your family. Cleaning gutters might not become anyone’s favorite memory, but visiting you at the hospital would leave some scars, so remember – better safe than sorry.

Take Care Of Your Plants

We’ve seen numerous roofs destroyed by plants, so we advise homeowners to trim their trees strategically. Smaller plants aren’t that dangerous, but a big tree with heavy branches can give you a skylight you never asked for.

Dead branches are especially tricky because lighter winds can tear them apart and drop them on your roof. But sometimes, the whole trees are pulled out of the ground, so you must be clever while trimming them.

Trees use their branches to keep balance, so removing a big branch might shift the tree’s center of gravity. We know that sounds tricky, so if you don’t have experience with plants, don’t be too proud to seek help from someone who does. Because if your tree decides to check your attic, you’ll need a roof replacement. And that reminded me of something you must do if you want to have a pleasant winter.

Check Your Attic and Roof Vent

Attic and roof vents play a role in determining the amount you see on your energy bills. During winter, the insulation is supposed to keep the hot air in, and the vent should let the attic breathe.

If the vent isn’t working (it can’t balance the outside temperature with the temperature of your attic), your attic will become moist. And who loves humid environments? Mold! And mold spreads quickly, so if you haven’t checked your attic in months and there are small black spots on your walls or ceiling, you have an uninvited guest in your home.

Book A Professional Roof Inspection

But the golden rule of roofing is always the same – better safe than sorry. That’s why roof inspections are vital for the overall condition of your property. We tell all our clients to do at least one DIY roof inspection a year.

However, to be extra safe, it’s always best to let the pros do their magic. At least one professional inspection every year is a must. And if you want someone experienced to check your roof, get in touch with the roofing contractor in Aurora, IL, who offers free consultations.

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Watch Out for These 5 Most Common Summer Roofing Issues

Watch Out for These 5 Most Common Summer Roofing Issues

In Evanston, summers aren’t extreme, but temperatures still make us sweat – and test our roofs. We don’t have to describe to you how humid summers here get. Plus, July and August are the months with the most rain. 

Any of those climate conditions are a threat to your roof. And when they come in a package, you can expect some of the common summer roofing issues we’ll describe below. 

But don’t stress. It’s still not too late to protect yourself from unpleasant surprises. Read on and learn what to expect so that you can stay prepared.

Sun (Heat and UV) Damages Shingles

Sun-related problems cause a lot of pain to homeowners around the country. Luckily, temperatures and UV levels in Evanston, IL, aren’t extreme. However, that doesn’t mean your roof will avoid sun damage if you don’t take care of it. It may be wise to add a new layer of coating (if you haven’t done that in the last five years).

The more sun your shingles take, the faster they degranulate, bend, and crack. Once they start cracking, shingles start falling out. And a couple of them can cause an avalanche. So it’s good to check your roof for missing shingles every two months. Or after every storm.

Humidity Can Evolve Into Leaks

We live in a very humid area, and summers are especially dangerous considering the percentage of water in the air. High temperatures outside and lower inside (because of the AC) turn your roof into a tampon zone.

When the hot, humid air touches a cool roof, condensation occurs. That means your roof gets full of water even if it’s not raining. And the temperature difference doesn’t have to be massive for that to happen. It’s impossible to eliminate condensation, but it’s possible to prevent leaks that water may cause. Inspect your valleys and flashings for small cracks. Water loves those.

Wet Summers in Evanston Bring Rust

Everyone knows that rain and humidity make metal parts of the roof rust. When flashings and nails endure water for months, they lose the battle if they aren’t in perfect condition.

A pair of rusty dots on a flashing may not seem like a big deal. Yet once rust starts biting, it develops quickly. The worst thing is that microcracks may already be there, and you can’t see them. As mentioned, water loves cracks, and your roof hates water. If water reaches your decking, expect leaks (and expenses).

Clogged Gutters Can Cause Basement Flooding

Many homeowners hate cleaning gutters, so they don’t do it regularly. That’s a huge mistake, even in dry areas. In Evanston, IL, that’s one of the biggest roofing mistakes people make. Clogged gutters could turn your house into a waterfall.

All that water can make your walls crack. It can ruin foundations (and everyone knows how expensive that can be). And in case of severe rain, water can cause basement flooding.

Roof Ventilation Problems May Drain Your Money

We’ve already mentioned the problems condensation can cause during summer. We said it’s impossible to prevent it. But that doesn’t mean you should just let it go. Roof ventilation is your ally in that situation.

It reduces the temperature difference between the attic and the air outside. But it also lets you save some money on air conditioning because it cools your home. The same as damaged ventilation makes your bills higher.

Here to Keep You Calm No Matter What Happens

Brace yourself… Summer is already here. And in our area, that means high temperatures, humidity, and rain. Those three riders of the apocalypse could make your life difficult if your roof isn’t in perfect condition. To ensure you can stay calm no matter what starts falling from the sky – call your best, reliable local Evanston roofers to check your roof!

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Need a New Roof? Here’s Why This Spring Is the Perfect Time for a Roof Replacement

roof restoration in Arlington Heights, IL

The weather is warming up, and if you’ve been thinking about replacing your damaged or dated roof for a while now, there’s no better time to do it than right now!

Not only will you be protecting your home from the dangers and damages that the rain and snow might have left, but you’ll also be increasing its value in case you ever decide to sell.

So, if you’re on the fence and still deciding whether or not a new roof is a good idea, take a look at these four compelling reasons, and you’ll be convinced that it is. Read on!

1. You’ll Be Protecting Your Home

 

As we’ve stated earlier, one of the best things about replacing your roof in the springtime is that the weather is finally starting to warm up.

And after a long and harsh winter, your roof has likely taken a beating from all the snow, sleet, and ice. So, it’s only natural that you would want to get it replaced to protect your home from any further damage and before more bad weather hits.

If you wait too long to replace a damaged or leaky roof, you run the risk of water damage to your home’s interior – which can be costly and time-consuming.

2. You’ll Be Ready for Severe Weather Season

Another great reason to get a new roof this spring is so you can be prepared for the severe weather season.

If you live in an area that’s prone to tornadoes, hurricanes, or any other type of severe weather, it’s important to make sure your home is as protected as possible.

A new roof will help ensure that your home can withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way.

3. Your Home Will Be More Energy Efficient

If you’re looking for ways to make your home more energy-efficient, a new roof is a great place to start.

Old and damaged roofs can often lead to heat and cool air escaping from your home, which means your HVAC system has to work overtime to keep your home comfortable.

A new roof will help seal up your home and prevent all that precious air from escaping, which will not only make your home more comfortable but also save you money on your energy bills.

4. You’ll Increase the Value of Your Home

Finally, another great reason to replace your roof this spring is that you’ll be increasing the value of your home.

Whether you’re planning on selling in the near future or not, a new roof is always a great investment.

It will make your home more attractive to buyers and increase its overall curb appeal, as well as its resale value.

There’s No Time Like Springtime for a New Roof – Give Us a Call!

Replacing your roof is a big job, but it’s one that can be well worth the effort. If you’re thinking about doing it this spring, make sure to get started soon so you can take advantage of the warm weather. And don’t forget to contact Revived Exteriors if you need help getting started!

Our Elk Grove roof replacement team will be more than happy to answer all of your questions, assist you in any way, and come out for a detailed roof inspection. Your satisfaction is our number one priority and we’ll make sure you get the roofing experience and quality that you deserve.

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Roofing Contractor Explains: What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

Roofing Contractor Explains What Happens During a Roof Inspection
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