Is your roof ready for the rigors of winter?
By Patricia Nugent
Like squirrels gathering nuts or birds migrating south, like it or not, we’re in the throes of preparing for winter. But before you dive under a blanket with a good book, have you thought about your roof’s readiness to weather the season? Have you taken a walk around your home to look for missing shingles or discoloration?
There are two significant flaws with that notion: First, you’re not a professional. Second, you cannot see everything from the ground’s perspective. This is a job best handled by a professional roof inspector. For the past 40 years, Clevelanders have put their trust in local and family-run Barbera Home Improvement. John Barbera has built his operation on strong relationships and devotion to craftsmanship.
Timing is Everything
According to BHI Vice President of Sales John Sotka, as long as the temperature remains at 40 degrees or above, they can replace or repair your roof.
“In 2022, the average daily temperature in December was 40 degrees,” he says. “For Cleveland, it was a mild winter outside of one winter storm. If the weather holds this month or next, all we need is a day or two above 40 and we can take care of a job.”
Preventing Mold and Ice Dams
“One of the biggest issues our technicians check for is proper ventilation,” John explains. “Ice dams stop air from going in or out of an attic. Sometimes we see homeowners trying to DIY those swirly heated cables to melt icy areas, but those are damaging to the shingles and also void the warranty. We can pinpoint and fix contact points such as soil stacks, skylights and vents that create conditions for ice dams and icicles, where snow can melt then refreeze.”
He also notes that if you see streaking or discoloration on your roof, it’s probably algae caused by moisture, which can degrade the shingles.
“We work with many companies that supply us shingles,” he says. “One of the best quality, all-weather brands is Atlas, for which we are a diamond-certified dealer, the largest installer in Ohio. This ultra-durable product is Scotchgarded to resist moisture and wear and tear.”
The Ultimate in Storm Resistance
John reports that one particular style within the lines of Atlas shingles is called StormMaster Shake.
“This is an ideal choice for our often-extreme weather,” says John. “A Class 4 material, it can easily withstand up to 150-mph winds. Selection is important to homeowners, too, and this architectural shingle comes in a variety of colors to complement any style home.”
If you’re in better-safe-than-sorry mode, installing a new roof is often the best way to ensure your home is protected this winter.
“After an inspection, we let homeowners know what’s in their best interest,” he says. “Whether it’s time to repair or replace, since we have many crews of different sizes, we’re able to accommodate folks when they call to get on our schedule. The majority of residential roofing jobs can be finished in one day.”
And when the time comes, a helpful tech from BHI can also interface with the insurance company adjustors to make sure claims are accepted and you get what you deserve.
Headquartered at 5376 Ridge Road in Parma, Barbera Home Improvement will go to homes and businesses throughout Cuyahoga, Medina, Lorain, Summit, Lake and Geauga counties. In addition to roof replacement and repair, the company offers vinyl siding installation, window replacement and gutter guards for homes and businesses. Call 440-843-8987 or visit BHIRoof.com.