Roofing questions from central Ohio

Heat escaping into the attic melts snow on the upper roof. The water runs down and refreezes at the cold eaves, forming a ridge that backs water up under the shingles. Better insulation and ventilation address the cause; ice barrier protects the edge.

Emergency repairs, yes. Shingles seal poorly in deep cold, so full replacements are best on milder days, but we can cover and patch leaks all winter and finish the permanent work when temperatures allow.

A roof rake from the ground can relieve the eaves after heavy snow. Do not climb up or chip at ice, which damages shingles and is dangerous. If ice dams return every year, the attic needs attention.

Look for missing shingles, pieces in the yard, dented vents and gutters, and granules at the downspouts. Bruises on shingles are hard to see from the ground, so a close inspection with photos is the reliable way to know.

We document damage with dated photos and can meet your adjuster on site. Your policy and what it covers are between you and your insurer, but we make sure the damage is clearly shown.

Keep clear of the damaged area, photograph it from the ground and call us. We can tarp the opening and remove what is on the roof once it is safe, then assess the decking and framing.

Columbus and many suburbs require one for a reroof, and rules differ by city. We check what applies to your address and arrange it, along with any inspection the city wants.

Yes. Standing seam sheds snow, resists wind and lasts for decades. It needs proper snow guards above entries and walkways, and good underlayment and ventilation like any other roof.

EPDM rubber and TPO are the common choices for low slopes, and modified bitumen also works well. Shingles should not go on very low slopes because water does not run off quickly enough.

We repair older roofs, including slate sections and steep pitches found in neighbourhoods such as German Village. Historic districts can require review of materials, so we check before work is scheduled.

Freeze-thaw cycles, summer heat and attic ventilation all affect it. Well-installed architectural shingles over a properly vented attic last far longer than the same shingles on a hot, poorly vented roof.