Snow weighs heavily on roofs, minds of homeowners
As reports grew of buildings collapsing Tuesday, Terry Czerniejewski stood by his garage in Belmont Cragin holding two poles strung together with a 12-inch long wooden plank attached to the end of one of them.
The makeshift tool was necessary after yet another snowstorm blanketed the area, forcing residents to get creative to protect their property.
“There is probably a couple thousand pounds of weight sitting on it right now,†Czerniejewski said of his roof. “It’s a lot of weight and I don’t want it to cave in.â€
That already was the fate of a handful of buildings in the Chicago area, including a vacant building near 75th Street and Ridgeland Avenue, which collapsed Tuesday evening. Earlier in the day in Brainerd on the South Side, a man watched as an abandoned building in the 700 block of West 91st Street caved in.
How-To Tips For Keeping Your Roof In Perfect Shape
Keeping a roof in good shape can be difficult. It takes time and energy to get the job done. You shouldn't neglect it. The roof protects your home from the elements so be sure to care for it properly. This article can teach you how.
Think about your own safety first. You should always assess the situation thoroughly before you begin any roofing repair job. This is because rushing up to fix your roof as soon as you notice a problem could result in a serious accident. For instance, you should never try to fix a roof when it is raining or extremely windy outside for obvious reasons.
Whenever you're working on your roof, you must take steps to secure yourself safely. If you aren't secure, you are in danger of losing your balance and falling, which injures and kills thousands each year.
Climate should play a key role in your roofing decisions. You can aid in the coolness of your home by installing a clay roof if you live in a dry climate. But, clay shouldn't be used in an area that gets a lot of rain. Clay deteriorates quicker then. Always ask an expert's opinion on the best types of roofs for your home.
Don't choose a roofing company based on only the price. Price isn't a reliable indicator of what company is best for your roofing needs. There are times when you might be offered some rebates and discounts that could lower the price. Try taking the time to make calls, read over contracts and written estimates, and ask questions that you have before making your final decision.
If you have a leaky roof, make sure that your gutters are clear. If there is no way for water to drain, then the gutters can accumulate rainwater and cause leaks in the roof. Install ridge and soffit vents so you can prevent any dry rot from developing on your roof.
The style and age of your home can influence the type and color of roofing material that will look best on your home. If you own a Victorian style home, roofing material that imitates wood shingles are a good choice. Many home builders are using various styles of metal roofing on their model homes.
If you want to replace your roof, think about using a green alternative for material. Recycled roofing material, composed of used rubber and plastic, not only saves money but serves the environment. Solar panels are another option, as they can also reduce energy costs. They can also create a tax credit for homeowners.
If you want to replace your roof, think about using a green alternative for material. Recycled roofing material, composed of used rubber and plastic, not only saves money but serves the environment. Solar panels are another option, as they can also reduce energy costs. They can also create a tax credit for homeowners.
Do not hire the first roofer that you talk to. The only way to get the best deal is to talk to several different people and see what your options are. In general, five bids is a good number. Any less than that, and you are probably selling yourself short.
Slate roofs can offer you something that a shingle roof cannot, this is an aged and sophisticated look. Slate roofs have been used more info for hundreds of years, as tar shingles have not been produced for as long as people have needed roofs. Some of the most famous buildings have slate roofs, all having a sophisticated and timely look.
When it comes to hiring a roofing contractor, it is extremely important to familiarize yourself with the warranties and guarantees said company offers. This goes both for the materials they use and the work they provide. It is important that you have certain assurances with any work that will be done on your roof so that you are protected.
There's a lot to learn about roofing, but that's okay! You don't have to learn everything at once. Tackle these tips little by little, and you'll be in great shape. You have all the knowledge you need to maintain a roof. All you have to do is put it into practice.