Feel Like Everyone is Getting a New Roof?

Have you noticed your neighbors getting new roofs lately and wondering if yours might be next? It's natural to feel a bit concerned, especially when you see others taking action to maintain their homes. 

Let's explore some additional signs that it might be time for your roof to be replaced.

Spotting the Signs:

Sagging Roof: A sagging roof is a severe issue that usually indicates structural damage. It could be due 
to problems with your roof decking or even the foundation. If you notice any sagging or drooping, it’s essential to call a professional immediately to assess the situation.

Leaks and Water Damage: Have you noticed water stains on your ceilings or walls? This could be a sign that your roof is no longer watertight. Leaks not only damage the interior of your home but can also lead to mold growth, which poses health risks to you and your family.

Increased Energy Bills: Have you noticed a spike in your energy bills? A deteriorating roof can cause your home’s insulation to falter, making it harder to regulate indoor temperatures. This means your HVAC system has to work harder, driving up your energy costs. A new roof can improve your home’s energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

Moss and Algae Growth: While a bit of moss or algae on your roof may seem harmless, excessive growth can be problematic. These organisms can trap moisture against your roof, accelerating wear and causing shingles to deteriorate. If moss or algae cover a large portion of /your roof, it might be time to consider a replacement.

Taking the Next Steps

Recognizing these signs early on can help you address potential issues before they become significant problems. If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, it’s always best to consult with a professional roofing contractor. They can provide a thorough inspection and help you determine the best course of action.

Learn more about the pressing signs it’s time for a roof replacement in our latest article. 

Is It Time for a Roof Replacement in Ann Arbor? 

Remember, your roof is an essential part of your home’s structure and your family's safety. Taking proactive steps to maintain and replace it when necessary ensures that your home /remains a safe and comfortable haven for years to come.

If you're seeing any of these warning signs, don't wait. Contact our team to schedule a roof replacement in Ann Arbor and ensure your home remains protected and efficient.

Understanding Roof Ventilation

Does it feel like your AC runs for hours to cool your home? 

Is the upper level of your home notably hotter than the rest?

One crucial yet often overlooked aspect of our homes is roof ventilation. Proper roof ventilation plays a big role in maintaining your home's energy efficiency and reducing your cooling and heating costs. Here's how it works and why it's essential for your home.

What is Roof Ventilation? Roof ventilation allows air to circulate through your attic using intake vents (located at the eaves) and exhaust vents (placed near the roof ridge). This flow of air helps regulate temperature and moisture levels in the attic.

How Roof Ventilation Improves Energy Efficiency

1. 
   Regulates Indoor Temperature: During hot months, heat accumulates in your attic, causing your home’s temperature to rise. Proper roof ventilation allows hot air to escape, easing the load 
   on your cooling system.
2. Prevents Moisture Build-up: In winter, warm air from living spaces can rise and condense in the attic, leading to moisture build-up. Effective ventilation expels moist air, protecting your home and insulation.
3. Extends Roof Lifespan: Excessive heat and moisture can deteriorate roofing materials. Proper ventilation reduces this risk, prolonging your roof’s lifespan and saving on repairs or replacements.
4. Reduces Energy Bills: By regulating attic temperature, roof ventilation reduces the strain on your HVAC system, lowering energy consumption and bills over time.

Learn about the signs of poor ventilation in our latest article! 

Work with a Roofing Company in Ann Arbor to Improve Your Home

Searching for a roofing company in Ann Arbor? 

Investing in proper roof ventilation leads to a more comfortable, efficient, and cost-effective home. Consider an assessment to ensure your roof is well-ventilated and your home is running efficiently. 

Contact us today to improve your roof ventilation! 

Signs of Poor Roof Ventilation in Your Home

Does the upper level of your home feel hotter than the rest?

When you go into your attic, is the heat overwhelming? 

Often overlooked, the ventilation of your roof is a key component in regulating the temperature inside your home and reducing your heating and cooling costs.

Signs of Poor Roof Ventilation

Understanding the signs of poor roof ventilation can help you take action before it affects your home's 
energy efficiency. Look out for:

• Uneven Temperature Distribution: If certain rooms are significantly hotter or colder than others, it might be due to poor attic ventilation.
• Excessive Attic Heat: In the summer, if your attic is excessively hot, it indicates inadequate ventilation.
• Moisture and Mold: Dampness, mold, or a musty odor in your attic are clear signs of poor ventilation.

Learn more about how healthy ventilation improves your home’s energy efficiency, here! 

Looking for a Roofing Company in Ann Arbor to Investigate Your Roof’s Ventilation? 

As a trusted roofing company in Ann Arbor, we’re here to help you ensure your home is comfortable and energy-efficient. Contact us today to schedule an assessment with our team and take the first step towards a better-ventilated, more efficient home!

The Vital Role of Your Roof

Are you pulling out your holiday decorations? 

Excited to spend more time with your family as the temperatures cool? 

While you may be excited and prepared for the holiday season, is your roof? 

Your roof is more than just a protective barrier; it's your main line of defense against the harsh elements of winter. A sturdy and well-maintained roof keeps your home warm, dry, and safe. 

Here are a couple of reasons why your roof deserves special attention as winter approaches:

1. Heavy snow load on your roof can add pressure, putting it more at risk for damage.

2. Ice dams can form on your roof when the snow melts and refreezes, accumulating at the edge and trapping in moisture.

3. An efficient roof maintains a consistent indoor temperature, saving you money on the cost of heating

Read our latest article to learn more about the importance of your roof! 

Wilderness Construction Prepares Your Roofing in Ann Arbor 

The best way to guarantee your roof is prepared for the next season is to schedule an inspection. A professional roofing company in Ann Arbor will be able to see things that the untrained eye may miss. Don’t risk missing the early warning signs of damage! 

Contact our team today at (734)429-0616 to schedule your inspection!

The Importance of Roof Inspections Before Winter

Have you noticed a sudden spike in your energy bills? 

Can you remember the last time your roof was inspected?

Your roof is more than just a protective barrier; it's your main line of defense against the harsh elements of winter. A sturdy and well-maintained roof keeps your home warm, dry, and safe. 

The Importance of Scheduling an Inspection Before Winter

By scheduling a roof inspection before winter arrives, you ensure that your roof is in peak condition, and ready to handle the challenges of the season. Don't overlook the significance of a winter-ready roof in safeguarding your home and ensuring a comfortable and worry-free holiday season.

Learn more about the vital role your roof plays in winter, here! 

Get Your Ann Arbor Roofing Inspection Scheduled Before Winter Hits! 

If you can’t remember the last time your roof was inspected, it’s been too long!

Contact our team at (734)429-0616 to schedule your inspection and take care of your Ann Arbor roofing needs before the first winter storm hits! 

Signs of Inadequate Attic Insulation

Is your second floor warmer than the rest of your home? 

Have you noticed drafts or cold patches throughout your house? 

Thinking about ways to beef up your insulation?

To determine whether your attic insulation is sufficient, you need to recognize the signs of inadequate
insulation. 

• High energy bills: An increase in heating bills, especially during the winter season, can indicates that your home is losing heat due to insufficient insulation.
• Ice dams: The formation of ice dams along the eaves of your roof is a clear indication of poor attic insulation. Ice dams occur when heat escaping from the attic melts snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves, potentially causing damage.
• Drafts and cold spots: If you feel drafts or encounter cold spots in your home, especially near the ceiling or walls, it's a sign that warm air is escaping through gaps in your attic insulation.

Learn more about how to determine if your attic’s insulation is adequate, here!  

Roofing Company in Ann Arbor Can Help You Prepare for Colder Weather

Is your home prepared for the harsh Michigan winter? 

While it may still be fall, it’s important to be prepared for early, unexpected cold fronts or snow. When you work with a roofing company in Ann Arbor, you’ll know for sure that your home will be well prepared for the cold Michigan winter.

To schedule an inspection, contact our team today at (734)429-0616.

The Risks of Damaged Flashing

Do you have water getting in through your roof?

Is the source near your chimney, skylights, or roof intersections? 

If you have water getting into your home in these areas, chances are your flashing has been compromised.

The Risks of Damaged Flashing

 It’s important to address damages to your roof as soon as possible. Regular inspection and maintenance can help catch issues before they escalate to larger problems like:

• Leaks
  
• Structural Damage 
• Mold/Mildew Growth
• Pest Infestation

To learn more about the importance of healthy flashing, click here! 

Repair Roofers in Ann Arbor Maintain Flashing 

Don’t wait until it’s too late, call the professionals. 

Flashing keeps water outside of your home, protecting you from leaks and water damage. If you’re worried your flashing has been compromised, contact our team of repair roofers in Ann Arbor at (734)429-0616.

Why Asphalt Shingles are so Popular

Is it time to update your roof? 

When searching for the ideal roofing material for your home, you’re likely to see asphalt shingles at the top of the list.

What makes asphalt shingles so popular?

Asphalt shingles are the most widely used roofing material. These shingles are composed of a fiberglass mat embedded in asphalt and coated with granules. They are durable, affordable, and available in a variety of styles and colors, making them suitable for various architectural designs.

Durability: Asphalt shingles are known for their durability. Most have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years.
They offer excellent resistance to wind, fire, and impact, making them ideal for Michigan's storms and harsh winters.

Energy Efficiency: While asphalt shingles may not be the most energy-efficient option, newer models with reflective coatings can help reduce heat absorption and lower cooling costs during hot summers. Keep in mind that proper insulation and ventilation can enhance energy efficiency regardless of the roofing material.

To explore other popular roofing materials and their benefits, click here!  

Update Your Home with Wilderness Construction Roofing in Ann Arbor 

Unsure if asphalt shingles are right for you? 

There are plenty of material options for you to explore. When you work with Wilderness Construction Roofing in Ann Arbor, you’ll be guided through your options to help make the best choice for your home. 

Contact our team at (734)429-0616 for your home improvement needs today!

Three Most Popular Roofing Materials in Michigan

Is it time to replace your roof? 

Do you know what shingles you want to use? 

Choosing the right roofing material for your home is a crucial aspect of both curb appeal and shielding your home from the elements.

Here are the three popular choices for Michigan residents: 

1. Asphalt Shingles: The most widely used roofing material. These shingles are composed of a fiberglass mat embedded in asphalt and coated with granules. They are durable, affordable, and available in a variety of styles and colors, making them suitable for various architectural designs.
   
2. Metal Roofs: They have gained popularity in recent years due to their longevity, energy efficiency, and contemporary appearance. These roofs are typically made from steel, aluminum, or copper, offering both durability and weather resistance.
3. Tile Roofs: Known for their timeless look, durability, and exceptional resistance to the elements. They’re typically made from clay or concrete, adding a touch of elegance to any home.

To learn more about the benefits of each roofing type, click here!

Explore Your Material Options with Wilderness Construction Roofing in Ann Arbor 

Overwhelmed by the options? Consulting with a professional roofing company in Ann Arbor provides valuable insights and helps to ensure a wise investment that will protect your home for years to come.

 Contact Wilderness Construction for expert advising at (734)429-0616

Issues with Poor Attic Ventilation

Did you know that poor attic ventilation can damage your roof?

When we think of roof damage, we usually conjure up images of heavy snow, hail, ice, and wind—things that cause damage from the outside. But did you know that poor attic ventilation can wreak havoc from the inside? 

Without proper ventilation, your attic can collect excess moisture. Excess moisture can come from
buildups of rain, ice, and snow. This can cause the structural parts of your attic to rust or rot, which creates leaks. Leaks weaken the structure of your attic and your roof. Moisture buildup also causes mold to grow, which can not only affect and deteriorates the structure of your roof, it can make the air in your home unhealthy.

Click here to learn more about how attic health affects your roof! 

Get Help from Roofing Companies in Ann Arbor

Is it time to inspect your roof and attic?

Wilderness Construction is one of the most outstanding, locally-owned roofing companies in Ann Arbor. If you are looking for a complete, comprehensive roof inspection, call (734) 429-0616 or submit a contact form.

The Importance of Roof Inspections

Have you been putting off a roof repair? 

Is your roof ten years or older, and its age is starting to show? 

Roof inspections are an important maintenance task required to ensure your roof is in good health and capable of protecting your home.

The Importance of Roof Inspections 

Roof inspections can help prevent significant damage to your home. In Michigan, the harsh winters and frequent storms can take a toll on your roof, causing damage like missing or broken shingles. Without routine inspections, damage can go unnoticed, risking the structural integrity of your roof.

Regular inspections can also extend the life of your roof. By catching and repairing minor issues early, you can avoid more extensive repairs. A well-maintained roof improves the energy efficiency of your home, reducing your heating and cooling costs.

To learn more about when you should schedule a roof inspection, click here! 

Protect Your Home with an Insured Roofing Company in Ann Arbor

Do you think your roof is overdue for an inspection? 

Inspections are essential in ensuring your roof is fit to protect your family’s home. If you’re unsure about the quality of your roof, consider working with a local roofing company in Ann Arbor, like Wilderness Construction, for your inspection and repair needs.

Contact our team at (734)429-0616 to schedule your inspection! 

Is it Time to Call for Professional Help?

 Has your roof developed new, dark patches? 

Do you hear animals scratching in your attic at night? 

Can you remember the last time you got routine maintenance done on your roof?

Here are a few signs you need to call a Professional:

 

1. Cracked caulking or rust spots 
2. Missing shingles 
3. Moss or lichen growth
4. Signs of a leak like dark spots on ceilings

For a look at roofing maintenance you can do, click here! 

Get the Help You Need from a Local Roofing Company in Ann Arbor 

If you’re unsure about the age of the roof or the last time it was serviced, it’s time to get help from a local roofing company in Ann Arbor. Contact us at 734-429-0616 for your roofing and siding needs. 

Ways to Maintain Your Roof

 Do you know the age of your roof? 

Can you remember the last time your attic was professionally inspected? 

Knowing this can help you make decisions that impact the health of your roof. 

Here are a few things you can do to maintain a healthy roof:

1. Keep your gutters cleared 
2. Regularly inspect your roof
3. Schedule routine professional maintenance 
4. Trim overhanging branches

For a more in-depth look at how you can maintain a healthy roof, click here! 

Keep Your Roof Healthy with a Local Roofing Company in Ann Arbor 

Are you concerned about the health of your roof? Working with a local roofing company in Ann Arbor will keep your roof good as new. Contact us at 734-429-0616 for your routine roofing maintenance! 

Advantages of Metal Roofs, Benefits, Trends, Pros, Cons, a guide

Once used largely for industrial and outbuildings, metal roofs are coming back in style…

Indeed, metal roofing has currently become one of the most popular alternatives to the previously used asphalt shingles. Typically made of steel, aluminum or copper sheets, metal roofing provides ultimate protection for your home and has a number of advantages.

Here’s a quick list of the benefits of metal roofing, then we’ll get into more details…

What are the advantages of metal roofing? Metal roofing is light, durable, easy and quick to install, energy-efficient in solar and heat defense which reduces air conditioning costs. Metal roofs are low maintenance, they look pleasing to the eye, last a long time and are made largely from sustainable sources so it’s eco friendly.

That’s the quick rundown, but there’s more to it than that, for starters, here’s the list of 9 benefits to installing metal roofing.

9 Benefits of Metal Roofing

Listed below are some of the major benefits offered by metal roofing.

1.   Low weight & portability

Metal roofs weigh about one-fourth the weight of a tile roof, and about half the weight of asphalt shingles. It’s generally more cost-effective and means it’s less weight to truck into an area or to hoist onto your roof.

2.   Easy to install

Requiring few materials to construct, and with the ability to cover large areas and to easily secure down connecting pieces quickly make metal roofing much quicker to install (generally) than most other materials.

3.   Durability

Metal roofs are highly resistant to damage from wind and hail storms. They’re also fire-resistant and have an average lifespan of nearly three times that of an asphalt shingle roof.

4.   Low maintenance

Most of the metal roofing products need very little to no maintenance.

5.   Energy-efficient

Metal roofs are one of the most energy-efficient roofing types currently available. They reflect a larger proportion of sun rays and, depending upon the coating applied to the metal surface, can help you save up to 20-30 percent on heating and air conditioning costs.

6.   Aesthetically pleasing

Amongst all the types of roofing materials, metal roofs are available in a wide variety of styles, colors, and textures, thereby giving you plenty of ways in which to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your home.

Copper roofing, especially, is a very popular option due to its tendency to change its color with time and thus adding a vintage beauty and character to the building.

7.   Longevity

According to a study conducted by the Metal Construction Association (MCA), the average life expectancy of unpainted, low-slope 55% Al-Zn alloy coated, typically referred to as Galvalume®, steel standing seam metal roofing (SSR) system is about 60 years.

Since the service life of a typical commercial building is also 60 years, thus a Galvalume metal roof does not require replacement. This is beneficial fo both the building owners as well as the environment as it significantly lowers the demand to manufacture replacement roofing systems.

8.   Extreme Durability

Along with having a long service life, metal is known to be a highly resilient raw material making it the best match for harsh weather conditions.

Reputable companies like ours offer metal roofing systems and wall panels that are fire and wind resistant, preventing water and air leakage. With the ability to withstand winds up to 140 mph, metal panels serve as durable, strong, weathertight building shields – and we know how to fit them to withstand a lot of extreme weather too!

9.   Sustainability

Made up of 25-35% recyclable raw material and practically 100% recyclable at the end of its life cycle, metal roofing panels installed by us and other reputable companies are energy efficient throughout and even beyond their composition.

Their surface is coated with infrared reflective finishes. This coating reflects most of the infrared radiation of the sun thus keeping the surface temperature of the roof lower as compared to traditional or uncoated roofing materials. This saves air conditioning costs and conserves energy.

Metal panels serve as durable hosts for other energy-efficient, and energy-producing building materials. Good quality metal panels can be used with any sort of insulation system and can even support very thick layers of insulation, thus optimizing a building’s performance.

In addition to this, metal roofs are perfect surfaces for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. PV systems can be fixed on a metal roof without penetrating the surface, which results in quality performance with the lowest possible risk of damage or leaking.

All of these advantages make metal roofing the most suitable choice for commercial, agricultural and residential building applications.

Metal roof vs wood or asphalt roofs

Wood and asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials available in the market, however, they pale in comparison to the advantages that a metal roof can offer. Unparalleled in durability, longevity and cost efficiency, metal roofs are also gaining popularity for their wide range of environment-friendly benefits as well.

Some Misconceptions Regarding Metal Roofing

A number of common misconceptions also exist when it comes to metal roofing.

Homeowners are concerned that hail will dent their metal roof. However, most reputable metal roofing materials are manufactured with a guarantee against denting.

Another common concern is that metal roofs might attract lightning during a thunderstorm, thereby making it a huge safety hazard. However, this concern has also been proven to be baseless.

Some think metal roofs are noisy, but this is usually taken care of with some low-cost insulation.

There is a belief that you cannot match the color for repaired areas, more often than not you can, and if you can’t, then hey no problem, just get a new and up-to-date paint finish on the entire roof instead!

There is a belief that metal is more expensive, but when you take it over the lifetime of the product it is actually more cost-effective. You just need to weigh up if you’re going to be in the property and benefit from it for the long term.

Water can accumulate in some areas and cause damage, well, this only occurs where metals roofs have been poorly installed.

Roofing Trends in Ann Arbor Michigan

When it comes to metal roofing systems in Ann Arbor Michigan, following two types of metal panels are most commonly employed:

1. Sheet Metal Roofing

It has emerged as one of the trendier options. It protects your home from extreme weather elements. In addition to this, sheet metal roofing is light-weight, fire-resistant, and non-combustible.

2. Steel Roofing

Steel roofs are a popular choice among farm and commercial structures. Their long service periods keep them looking aesthetically pleasing for more than forty years. Also, their textured panels protect the building from hail indentions.

Reasons to Consider Metal Roofing for Your Ann Arbor Home

Here are some ways you can benefit from installing a metal roof.

Recycled Installation

Metal is the most environment-friendly roofing material available in the market for a variety of reasons. This is because metal roofs are manufactured from recycled material, and they can be again recycled at the end of their life cycle.

Also, they can be set up over your already existing roof, which minimizes both wastes as well as installation time.

Moreover, fewer pollutant emissions are released in the environment during the manufacturing of metal roofing, and because of its lighter weight, lesser emissions are released during the transport process as well.

Heat deflection

Most importantly, metal roofs have up to 95% solar reflexivity, which allows them to dissipate heat from the sun with greater efficiency, particularly in contrast to the 5% reflexivity of asphalt shingles.

This would prevent your home, especially your attic, from over-absorbing solar heat and become too warm, especially in the summer season. This would enable you to save a significant amount of money on your energy bills since you could easily cut back on your air conditioning costs.

Low Maintenance

Not only does metal roofing has a long service time, but the maintenance is also minimal. Touching up paint, clearing debris, replacing old washers, and keeping the gutters clean are the few major things that you would have to worry about.

Under normal circumstances, rust or corrosion wouldn’t be a problem since metal roofs are designed to be impermeable to air and water and dry out really quickly. However, if you have a lot of garbage on your roof and if your gutters are choked, then it can cause water to pool up and cause significant damage with the passage of time.

So finally,

Just that one fact alone of lasting nearly three times as long as current alternative methods, it’s no wonder that many people are turning to metal roofs over traditional forms of roofing.

We hope this guide has been useful if you’re looking to upgrade or replace your old roof and considering a metal roof, you came to the right place. Why not get in touch, and we’ll be happy to discuss all the aspects of metal roofs with our unbiased experience!

Roofing: The Effects of Storm Damage & How to Fight Back

As a resident of Washtenaw County, you know Michigan summers can be unpredictable. While many homeowners anticipate the arrival of sunny days and backyard barbeques with family & friends, it’s easy to overlook the baggage this season can bring along: storm damage. Throughout summer, residents of the Ann Arbor Metro area are likely to see a variety of natural phenomena that can quickly plague weekend plans and wreak havoc on your home – especially your roofing. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), approximately 1,800 thunderstorms are occurring at any given time, resulting in about 16-million thunderstorms each year across the United States. This means extreme winds, torrential rains, and hail storms are all likely to happen at some point throughout our favorite season, leaving us with costly roof repairs. In fact, the NOAA says hail alone causes approximately $1 billion in building damage each year. How have you prepared for potential storm damage?

Preventing Roof Damage Caused By Summer Storms

Like most homeowners, you do everything in your power to make sure your home is adequately equipped to protect your family from disaster. When it comes to preventing building damage caused by storms, one of the best places to start is with your home’s roof. The roof forms the first line of protection against wind & hail damage. So where do you start? Our team of roofing experts has developed some helpful tips to help your roof make it through the summer in one piece:

Get A Roof Inspection

Have a reliable roofing contractor come to your home to provide a thorough roof inspection. As we all know, water will find its way through the smallest leak or gap in your home’s exterior. These gaps can be difficult to spot, especially from the ground! A professional roofing expert will be able to spot subtle signs that your roof may be susceptible to storm damage. While small gaps or leaks may not be huge issues on their own, they can become much larger issues if the right storm passes through. Other issues your roof inspector should address include:

​

• Damaged Shingles
• Worn connectors on roof decking that connects the roof with exterior walls
• Weak spots on the roof’s surface
• Proper bracing of gables
• Properly enforced sheathing (you’ll need to get in the attic for this!)

Maintain Overhanging Foliage

Take the time to inspect any overhanging limbs – more than likely these should be trimmed back. Most local storm damage repairs are the result of limbs falling onto the home. While large trees can give your home character, limbs protruding over the roof could have catastrophic repercussions if they were to come down during a storm.

Clean Out Your Gutters

Most homeowners don’t truly understand the importance of properly functioning gutters. While gutters can serve as a decoration piece, their true purpose is direct rain water off the roof and away from the home’s foundation. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on top of the roof and eventually find its way beneath the shingles, causing severe structural roof damage. Standing water on the roof can also add a lot of extra weight that it’s not used to supporting, which will also cause issues over time.

Install The Proper Roofing Materials

Having the right type of shingles will greatly increase protection against severe roof damage caused by a storm. Studies have shown that impact-resistant asphalt roofing shingles can remain unharmed, even after 1.5” diameter hail. It’s also important to also ask your roofing contractor about secondary moisture barriers that protect against water damage to the roof that can affect sheathing.

Home Maintenance After A Storm

After a severe summer storm, it is always a good idea to set up a roof inspection with a local roofing contractor. Even if you don’t see any storm damage, a post-storm roof inspection will alert you of any minor home repairs that should be made before the next inevitable storm.

Wilderness Construction, Inc. is a trusted storm damage repair company offering roof inspections and evaluations in the Ann Arbor area. To schedule a roof inspection, contact us by phone, email, or through our website and one of our roofing experts will follow up with you shortly. If you’re concerned about the integrity of your home’s roof, we have the knowledge and experience to keep your family protected – we will even work with your insurance provider to help file storm damage insurance claim. It is never too late to invest safety.

How To Spot Termite Damage In Your Roof

As a homeowner, you probably get stressed out even hearing the phrase “termite damage”.

Did you know that your roof is just as vulnerable as the other parts of your home to termite damage?

Like any other wooden structure in your home, your roof can be vulnerable to termite damage in the ceiling of your home.

If you haven’t had your home assessed for termite damage or even just minor leaks, get it done soon! Places where leaks have occurred are like magnets for termites.

What Would Cause Termites In My Roof?

Drywood termites, one of the most common types of termite, live and feed inside wood. They build colonies inside rafters, roof beams, eaves and other wood structures in your home. They can even establish colonies underneath the wood shingles on your roof!

Subterranean termites are another type of termite that could damage your roof. These termites typically build their colonies in the soil, but they’ll also build anywhere they have access to wood, making your roof prime real estate.

Dampness in the roof also provides a better environment for them, making a leaky roof especially susceptible to this type of infestation. Drywall, wallpaper, rotting wood and shingles are all accessible to subterranean termites.

Warning Signs of Termite Damage

You should have your roof inspected at least once a year, if not more. If you do it yourself, be on the lookout for possible warning signs such as:

• Any bubbling or discoloration similar to what you’d see with water damage on your ceiling.
• Mounds of what look like tiny wood pellets in your attic/underneath your rafters
• Termite tunnels running up vertical structures outside your home, especially the chimney
• Wood that appears to have been eaten away or sounds hollow when tapped

If you think you have termite damage or want to take preventive measures to keep them away, call the trusted roofing contractor in Ann Arbor today for an inspection! Our friendly team of professionals is standing by to help you!

What Are Architectural Shingles?

Are you looking to buy new shingles for your home?

Are you considering a bold choice, or something that makes a statement?

Architectural shingles provide a classic look and give your home a polished finish that will make it stand out in your neighborhood.

What’s The Difference Between Regular and Architectural Shingles?

Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, architectural roofing shingles are among the highest quality roofing products made. They are made with a heavy fiberglass base, and ceramic-coated minerals that are tightly embedded in water-resistant asphalt, making them a sturdy choice for your roof.

You can also get architectural shingles made to look like other roofing materials, such as synthetic slate architectural shingles. Another unique architectural shingle design imitates the look of slate without the weight issues that normally accompany those materials. These architectural roofing shingles do not require any additional roof support as slate would.

With many colors and styles to choose from, architectural shingles can give your home a unique look.

Which Roofing Companies in Ann Arbor Offer Architectural Shingles?

If you want to change up the look of your home, you need to hire a roofing company that you can trust! Wilderness Construction Inc. has been one of the most trusted roofing companies in Ann Arbor since 1999 and wants to help you with your next renovation!

Give us a call today for a free no-obligation inspection and see how we can help you!

New Roof Installation in Ann Arbor

The Pittsfield Township building was missing shingles due to recent storms in the area that produced high winds and lots of rain.

Our experienced salesman noticed the problem, and went inside to talk to the Director of Building Services to see if they could help secure the roof and make the building safer for their employees.



After removing a layer of rotted shingles and plywood, the Wilderness roofing crew installed 30-year Tamko shingles.

Are You Looking For A Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor?

Does your business need a new roof?

Are you concerned about how it can hold up during a bad storm?

Our team of reliable and knowledgeable sales staff has the training and the know-how to get you the best roofing job for the best price.

Michigan weather can be unpredictable so don’t delay! Call Wilderness Construction Inc. to find out why we’re the most reliable roofing contractor in Ann Arbor!

How Algae Can Harm Your Roof

Have you had your roof inspected yet this summer?

Have you noticed peeling or cracking shingles on your roof?

Are you experiencing leaks in your home coming from the roof?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it’s time for you to get your roof inspected! In the summer months, it’s important to make sure your roof is in the best shape it can be, so it can stand up to storms, and damage.

Aside from looking ugly on your roof, algae and other growth on your roof can be damaging not only to your roof, but to your health.

• Algae – This plant likes dampness and shade, which makes wood and asphalt shingles particularly vulnerable. Algae can retain water, which will deteriorate your shingles over time. In addition, the spores have proven to be harmful when breathed in over a long period of time.
• Moss – Moss also likes moisture, and grows on a lot of wood roofs, causing the roof to rot. This can go unnoticed to the untrained professional, and can be very damaging to the overall structure of your home.
• Mold – You already know that mold (especially black mold) is toxic and can cause many respiratory problems and illnesses if it is found in your home. Mold spreads quickly, and can weaken the entire structure of your home.
• Mildew – Mildew is a type of algae that shows up as a powdery consistency, and likes warm, humid environments. If your roof has poor drainage, or trees hang over your roof, there’s a chance you have a fast-spreading mildew growing on your shingles.

Proper care and maintenance is important to keep the different types of algae away from your roof! If you need an inspection, trust Wilderness Construction to be your roofing contractor in Ann Arbor and make sure that your home is safe for your family!

Wilderness Construction Inc. is The Premier Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor!

Call us today to set up an inspection time and we’ll send out one of our friendly and experienced roofing technicians.

How To Pick Out The Right Color Shingles For Your Home

Are you trying to spruce up your home this spring?

Are you completing a roofing project and want to make your home stand out in the neighborhood?

Are you considering new shingles as part of a total roof replacement project?

To finish off your new roof, shingles are like the icing on a cake – they can set your home apart from the others in your neighborhood, and give your home a polished, even decorative look.

At Wilderness Construction Inc., we’ve been the experts on roof replacement in Ann Arbor for over twenty years. We want to help you make an informed decision before you invest in a new roof and new shingles.

Should I Pick Dark or Light Colors For My Roof?

This question normally comes up when homeowners get concerned about the kind of heat that their roof is retaining. A study done by the United States Department of Agriculture found that while a roof with black shingles left the plywood underneath a full 10 degrees warmer than the plywood under a roof with white shingles, the study found less difference between roofs with shades of grays and browns.

If you’re concerned about heat retention, staying away from black is probably a good idea. However, remember that you’re going to be living with the color of your roof for a long time, and should ultimately pick a color that is pleasing to your eyes.

Should I Match My Shingles To My Siding?

Not necessarily. Remember: you can always change the paint color and the siding color on your home relatively easily, but it’s harder to change the brick color. If you want to match the color of your shingles to an element on the exterior of your home, try to match the shingles to the brick color.

Looking For More?

For more information about roof replacement in Ann Arbor and how to pick out the right color shingles for your home, visit our website, and view our other blog posts! We want to help you make the best decision for your family and home. Call Wilderness Construction today for your free quote and estimate!