Between heavy snow, ice dams, and extreme freeze-thaw cycles, and troublesome ice dams, Upper Peninsula weather takes a toll on even the toughest roofs. But repairing–or replacing–your roof is a big deal, and homeowners need to know the basics before making a decision. Whether you live in Escanaba, Rock, Gladstone, or anywhere else in the Upper Peninsula, here’s how to know when your roof is truly at the end of its life.
The weather in the Upper Peninsula can damage your roof over time. Heavy sow loads can stress the structure of your roof. Ice dams can build up at the edges of your roof in the winter, preventing snow from falling off the roof. High speed winds from lake-effect storms can tear off your shingles, while expansion from the freeze-thaw cycle can crack them.
Roofs in the Upper Peninsula region may wear down faster than the national average thanks to exposure to extreme weather. You may need a roof replacement several years earlier than someone living in a more temperate climate.
Every so often, go out and inspect your shingles. No need to climb up a ladder–just stay at ground level and take a walk around your house. If the edges of your shingles are lifting up (this is called curling), or if your shingles are cracking, that’s a good sign your roof needs to be replaced. Also, if large patches of shingles are missing, you may need a roof replacement.
One of your roof’s most important jobs is to keep moisture out of your home. When your roof starts leaking, it’s no longer doing what it was intended to do. Obvious signs of leaks include puddles of water on your floor and water spots on your ceiling. Check your attic for signs of moisture, too, including frost in the winters.
Shingles are made from asphalt, and asphalt eventually breaks down. When it breaks down, it often falls into your roof gutters. If dark clumps and granules start showing up in your gutters, it likely means your shingles are starting to fail.
Most shingle roofs start to fail after 15-20 years. Metal roofs can last longer–premium metal roofs in ideal conditions can last up to 75 years.
You might see dips along the surface or ridge of your roof. You might also see sagging gutters, or your roof might look misaligned.
Sometimes, it’s hard to tell whether you need a repair or a full-on replacement. While it’s always a good idea to talk to a professional if you have any questions, here are a few simple rules of thumb to determine whether you’re looking at a repair or replacement.
Not sure if you have a roof issue? Consider calling in the pros. A local roofing company can perform a comprehensive roof inspection to tell you if–and where–you have a problem. Here’s what a roofing professional will do:
As with any other home repair or renovation, roof replacement isn’t one-size-fits-all. The price of a roof replacement depends on several factors. Here are a few things that impact pricing:
Even if you expect your roof replacement to be on the costlier side, it’ll still save you money in the long run. Delaying a roof replacement can lead to:
All of these issues can impact other parts of your home beyond just the roof. If you wait too long, you could end up paying to fix more problems than you need to.
The two most popular roofing materials in the United States are asphalt shingles and metal.
Beyond shingles or metal, you’ll also need an ice and water shield. These shields are installed under the roofing material to prevent leaks from ice dams, melting snow, and rain storms. They’re critical for Michigan winters.
When it comes to identifying problems with your roof, there are a few warning signs you should never ignore. Call a professional if you see any of these signs:
When it’s time to fix your roof, local expertise matters. Local building suppliers and roofing contractors know the unique conditions of the Upper Peninsula better than anyone else. They know the right materials and installation procedures for these challenging conditions.
If you have questions about your roof or you need roofing materials near you, visit Astro UP in Rock, Michigan! We can put you in touch with local contractors, work with you to find the best roofing materials for your house, and, of course, we offer the nation’s premier brands of both asphalt shingles and metal roofing. We’re here to answer your roofing questions and provide roofing materials if you live in:
We hope you’ll pay us a visit at Astro UP. We’re worth the drive!
Roofs in the Upper Peninsula typically have a shorter lifespan than roofs in more temperate climates. However, with proper care and close attention, you may be able to extend your roof’s lifespan.
It depends. Older roofs and roofs with widespread damage will likely need full replacement. But newer roofs, and roofs with less noticeable damage, might be able to be repaired. If you have any questions, it’s best to call the professionals.
Metal roofing is the most durable–it can stand up to ice and heavy loads of snow. However, high quality asphalt shingles can also stand up to harsh northern winters. No matter which material you choose, you’ll certainly need an ice shield.
Signs of damage from ice dams include interior leaks, ceiling stains, and moisture in the attic.
Harsh weather conditions and everyday wear-and-tear eventually take a toll on northern Michigan roofs. Newer roofs and roofs with minor damage can often be repaired. But older roofs and roofs with widespread damage may need to be replaced. Major warning signs include interior leaks, sagging, and missing shingles. While replacing your roof can be costly up front, it can save you lots of money on repairs in the long run. If you need new roofing materials in the Delta County area, visit Astro UP in Rock, MI.
