Suburban homes built in waves
Stow's housing is mostly single-family homes on suburban lots. You will find ranches, colonials, and split-levels, with newer subdivisions added over the years.
When a whole neighborhood is built at once, the roofs age together. If your neighbors are replacing roofs, yours may be close behind. Asphalt shingles in our climate often last somewhere around 18 to 25 years.
What to check on a Stow roof
Two-story colonials have tall walls that catch the wind. Shingles along the rakes and ridge take the brunt of summer gusts. If you find shingle pieces in the yard after a storm, check those edges first.
Attached garages often have their own roof plane tied into the house. Valleys between the two carry a lot of water and are a common leak point as the roof ages.
Many homes from this era also have bath fans and dryer vents that end in the attic instead of outside. That moisture can rot the roof deck from below. A roofer can spot this during an attic check.
Weather in Stow
Stow sits a bit closer to the lake-effect snow areas than southern Summit County. Heavy snow loads and long cold spells give ice dams more time to build.
Freeze-thaw swings in late winter and early spring are hard on aging shingles. Spring hail and summer storms add more wear. An inspection each spring helps you plan ahead instead of reacting to a leak.
Planning a roof replacement in Stow
Because so many Stow homes share similar ages, roofing crews are busy here in peak season. Booking in early spring gives you more choice of dates.
Use your replacement as a chance to fix ventilation. Many homes from the 1960s and 1970s have too little intake at the soffits. Adding it, along with a ridge vent, helps the new shingles last.
If your home has an attached garage with a separate roof plane, make sure it is included in your estimate. Leaving it on an older roof means another project in a few years.
Ask for photos of any decking that needs replacing before it gets covered up. That way you can see exactly what you paid for.
Roofing services in Stow
- Roof Replacement in Stow
- Roof Repair in Stow
- Storm and Hail Damage in Stow
- Emergency Roof Tarping in Stow
- Roof Inspection in Stow
- Gutter Installation in Stow
Stow service guides
Map of Stow, OH
Roofing questions in Stow
Should I replace my Stow roof when my neighbors do?
Not just because they are. But if your homes were built at the same time with similar roofs, it is smart to get yours inspected so you know where it stands.
Why is there frost in my attic in winter?
Warm, moist air from the house is reaching the cold roof deck. Look for bath fans venting into the attic and gaps around lights. Better sealing and ventilation help.
What is the most common leak spot on a colonial?
Chimney flashing, plumbing vent boots, and valleys where an attached garage meets the house are the usual suspects.