The roof of your home has protected you through another winter, but its job is continuous and always requires its best effort. Maybe you have noticed some aging, leaking, or other damage and are considering a replacement. Shingles and metal are two of the most common materials used to cover homes today. Learn more as we examine these suitable roofing options for a cold climate like Minnesota.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are made up of a combination of fiberglass for reinforcement, asphalt to provide water resistance, and stone granules to add color and help reflect heat from the sun. They are one of the most widely used roofing materials in the country. Designed for substantial protection with little upkeep, asphalt shingles are popular for many reasons.

• Durability. Asphalt shingles shield your home from seasonal temperature shifts and all types of weather, including snow and heavy rain.
• Environmentally friendly. They can be recycled and converted into roadway pavement.
• Long lasting. A well-maintained shingled roof can last 20 to 30 years.
• Visually appealing. Shingles are available in a vast assortment of colors and styles, which allows you to enhance the aesthetic look of your home.
• Affordability. In comparison to other materials, shingles are universally less expensive. They are also easier to install, cutting down on time and labor costs.

Metal roofing

While initially more expensive than traditional options, metal roofing proves its worth over time with many advantages.

• Longer lifespan. A metal roof can last from 50 to 100 years with little-to-no maintenance
• Sturdy. This type of roofing is highly resistant to hail, wind damage, and even fire.
• Watertight. Metal roofing protects your home from snow and rain penetration thanks to the way it’s manufactured and assembled. Furthermore, metal roofs are not susceptible to snow or ice buildup, as any frozen precipitation slides right off.
• Year-round installation. Because they don’t require sealing or curing, metal roofs can be installed any time of year, even in cold climates.
• Stylish. With many styles, colors, and types from which to choose, metal roofing is fully customizable to any look.

Whether you choose traditional shingle or opt for metal, either of these roofing options for a cold climate will add value to and protect your home. The Twin Cities home exteriors professionals from Spotless & Seamless are ready to assist with all your roofing and siding needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

Most homeowners dread replacing their roof, but when the time comes for new shingles, there’s no avoiding the investment. We’ve put together some tips for when to consider a new roof and the key season for roof installation.

When

A typical asphalt roof lasts between 20 and 25 years. Metal roofs can last for 50 years or more. Once you make the decision to replace your roof or upgrade, you’ll need to schedule installation. Which season is best?

In the winter, roof sealant won’t adhere as easily, and some shingles can’t be installed in cold weather. Fall is often the busiest time for roofers, so consider scheduling a new roof installation between July and September to get ahead of the game. A roof protects a home from wind and rain, so the best time to rip off the shingles and lay new ones is in dry weather.

Why

When the need is immediate, the decision is easy. Most homeowners opt for a new roof after a storm that results in wind, hail, or structural damage. Other signs of aging may surface over time and warrant a replacement. You can replace a shingle here and there, but it may be wiser to install a whole new roof depending on its age and the extent of wear. Look out for the following red flags:

• Cupped or clawed shingles (when the edges and tabs are curled upward or downward).
• Cracks, tears, and bald spots where granules have fallen off the shingles.
• Beams of light coming through the boards in the attic.
• Moisture in the insulation.
• Stains and streaks on the ceiling.
• Drooping or sagging, which could be signs of rotten boards and trapped moisture.
• Roofing granules on the ground or accumulating near the downspout.

How

Look to Spotless & Seamless, your Twin Cities roofing contractor, the next time you need a replacement. Whether you prefer asphalt shingles or durable metal roofing, we’ve got you covered. We also provide seamless siding, windows and doors, and clog-free gutters.

If you’re not sure when to replace your roof, count on our professional team for an evaluation and an estimate. We’re a Maple Grove roofing contractor offering special financing, a referral program, and roofing repair in addition to installation. For metal roofing that Minneapolis and St. Paul homeowners trust to protect their homes, contact Spotless & Seamless Exteriors.

When a hail storm slams your neighborhood, the damage to your roof can vary greatly. Knowing how to identify damage can save you hassle and money down the line.

Damage Variables

Wind speed and direction can change the severity and location of hail impacts. Larger hail creates more damage and most hailstones are not perfectly round, making different impacts to the surface. Trees, buildings, or other neighboring structures act as natural barriers from hail. They can cause more damage in dangerous storms, such as when a tree falls on your house.

Materials absorb hail differently. Hail can dent asphalt roofing, gutters, and aluminum siding.  If you are hit with softball sized hail, the density can be strong enough to puncture a roof. Vinyl or wood shakes can crack, while metal roofing is tough and highly resistant to hail damage. Contact the Minneapolis roofing specialists at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to learn more about the different kinds of roofing materials.

Age or Hail Damage?

Wear and tear can be mistaken as hail damage. Exposure to sun and weather over time can make asphalt shingles brittle and aged in appearance. Blistering, cracking, flaking, and algae are also signs of age. However, hail damage can be unmistakable if there are black, shiny, or soft spots on asphalt shingles. Wood shingles will have random damage with cracks that are orange/brown in color, sharp, and have no deterioration. Lastly, checking if your vents, gutters, siding, or air conditioner have dents too can signify claimable damage.

If you believe that your house has been damaged by hail, contact Spotless & Seamless Exteriors, Twin Cities roofing contractor, for a free roof inspection. You can make a claim with your insurance rep or agent as soon as you know there is hail damage. Any neglected damage from earlier storms or aging is noticeable and not covered by insurance. Over time, damaged shingles can deteriorate from the sun and rain. Shingle debris can get caught in your gutters and exposed areas are susceptible to leaks, wind damage, and mold.

It’s a large investment to replace or repair a roof but protecting the value of your home is important.  If your roof shows signs of serious aging or hail damage, we can help.

You can count on our experts at Spotless & Seamless Exteriors to provide fast, high quality, and personalized service to complete your Minnesota roofing repair on time.