The winter season can be particularly challenging. The city’s cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and freezing rain can take a toll on your flat roof’s integrity. At Anchor Point Roofing, we understand the unique challenges posed by Chicago’s winter weather and offer top-notch flat roof repair and roofing repair services to keep your property protected. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of Chicago’s snow and ice on flat roofs and provide valuable insights into addressing common roofing issues.

THE CHICAGO WINTER CHALLENGE ⛄

Chicago winters are notorious for their frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall. The combination of freezing temperatures and substantial snow accumulation can lead to several problems for flat roofs:



• Snow Load: ❄️ The weight of accumulated snow can exert significant pressure on your flat roof, potentially causing structural damage or leaks. It’s essential to regularly remove excess snow from your roof to prevent these issues.

• Ice Dams: When snow on your roof melts due to fluctuating temperatures and refreezes at the roof’s edge, it forms ice dams. Ice dams can trap water on your roof, leading to leaks and water damage inside your property.

• Freezing Rain: 🌨️ Freezing rain can create a layer of ice on your flat roof, making it slippery and hazardous. It can also lead to ice accumulation, which may damage your roof’s membrane over time.

FLAT ROOF INSPECTIONS 🧐

Regular inspections by our skilled professionals can identify potential issues before they escalate. We specialize in flat roof repair in Chicago, ensuring that any problems are addressed promptly.

SNOW REMOVAL 🧹

Removing excess snow from your flat roof is essential to prevent structural damage. Our team can safely and efficiently clear your roof, reducing the risk of overloading.

EPDM material is another popular choice for flat roof owners. It stands for ethylene propylene diene monomer and is similar to TPO in the sense that it is also a single-ply material and known for its flexibility.

EPDM or rubber roofing material tends to stand out from the crowd aesthetically. Unlike other flat roof materials, EPDM comes in a wide variety of colors to help your building look as seamless and beautiful as it is functional.

A properly maintained EPDM roof is also a great investment in terms of longevity. The standard roof will last around 40 years.

MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOFING

Modified bitumen was invented in the 1960s and quickly took over as a popular form of flat roofing material. It is a particularly durable type of flat roof, that also has the benefit of being low maintenance.

Compared to the more standard BUR roofs, modified bitumen is a really affordable option, which makes many owners gravitate toward it.

BUR ROOFING

When it comes to flat roof options, you won’t find anything more classic than BUR roofing material. Built up roof is a combination of gravel and tar that is placed on your roof and makes an effective shield against water and other environmental damages.

This is one of the oldest forms of flat roofing and has stayed popular for a good reason. It can stand up to a variety of weather conditions and require very little care. That being said, it only lasts for about fifteen years and is particularly susceptible to impact damage from things like hail.

COST OF A NEW FLAT ROOF

If you are anything like us, one of your biggest concerns is likely the cost of your new flat roof.

A flat roof replacement cost changes greatly, depending on the size of your roof and the material you choose. Prices typically land somewhere between $3-$10 per square foot.

HOW TO INSTALL A FLAT ROOF IN 5 STEPS

Address any damage to the roof membrane promptly by patching or replacing affected areas. Properly sealed seams and joints are crucial to prevent water infiltration.

1) REACH OUT TO A ROOFING CONTRACTOR

The first step in the installation process starts before anyone even touches your roof. It’s up to you to do the research and find a qualified roofing contractor in your area. If you have an idea what kind of flat roof you want or have, you can search for someone who specializes in that type of material.

2) REMOVE EXISTING ROOF

Once you have hired your contractor, they will come to your building and start removing the existing roof surface. This may involve removing things, such as gutters, in order to ensure that all of the old material is gone.

3) REPAIR DAMAGE

Once your roof is bare, your roofing contractor will assess for damages. Typically this comes in the form of water-damaged areas. This may look like standing water, damp sections, or rotted wood. If they find damaged spots on your roof, they will do repairs and replace the damaged sections.

Be aware, though. Lots of damage could make your overall flat roof cost go up. This is why it is best to contact a contractor as soon as you notice something is wrong with your roof.

4) INSTALL THE FLAT ROOF

Now it’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for. Installation time!

The actual installation process will vary, depending on the material that you’ve chosen for your new roof. Luckily, most flat roof installations can be completed in a matter of days.

5) FINISHING TOUCHES

For a finishing touch, contractors will reinstall your gutter systems and double-check that your roof is well-sealed against water.

HOW CAN I ENSURE PROPER ATTIC VENTILATION, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT IN PREVENTING ROOF LEAKS IN CHICAGO?

While some maintenance tasks like cleaning gutters and inspecting for visible damage can be done by property owners, it’s highly recommended to hire professionals for flat roof maintenance, snow removal, and ice dam prevention. Professionals have the necessary equipment, training, and experience to perform these tasks safely and effectively, reducing the risk of damage to your roof and injury to yourself.

CONCLUSION

Chicago’s winter weather can be harsh, but with the right precautions and timely maintenance, you can protect your flat roof from snow and ice-related damage. At Anchor Point Roofing, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch flat roof repair and roofing repair services in Chicago. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a costly problem – reach out to us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your flat roof is ready to withstand the winter season.

Contact us for all your flat roof repair Chicago needs, and trust Anchor Point Roofing to keep your property safe and secure year-round.