Are inspections necessary?
You should have your roof checked by a professional at least once a year. Properly installed roofing helps to keep moisture, rodents, insects, and other threats out of your home while helping to reduce heat transfer and keep cooled air inside. These factors play a huge role in your home’s comfort and utility savings. During an inspection, roofing professionals will check your shingles carefully for damage and will examine your flashing, gutters, and drainage closely. Regular roof inspections are key to staying ahead of potential problems.
What is the difference between repairs, re-roofing, and roof replacement?
Roofing repair is all about minor issues, such as missing or warped shingles or small areas that have been damaged. Re-roofing refers to a whole new roof being applied over the old one. This can be an affordable solution when your roof has weakened, but the supports and decking on your home have remained strong. If your entire roofing system is weakened, you may need a complete roof replacement. During your yearly inspection, a roofing contractor will determine which option is right for you.
Which type of roofing should I choose?
Numerous roofing options are available, each with pros and cons. Shingles are affordable and long-lasting, and they even come with waterproof and UV-reflective coatings. Metal roofs are more durable and can cost less than other roof types. They’re also fire-resistant and excellent at reducing heat transfer. Slate, wood shake, and ceramic tile are the most elegant options, but they come with a higher price. Slate can last over a century, but because it’s a lot heavier than other materials, it may require reinforced decking.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a new roof installation?
When you’ve decided to re-roof your home, you can make the process a little easier by completing a couple of tasks ahead of time. First, remove loose items from your walls and shelves, including paintings, framed pictures, wobbly sculptures, vases, etc. Next, clearing your driveway and the area around your house helps to ensure that contractors will have plenty of space to move around and place their equipment. These small steps can help the overall process go a little more smoothly.
How can a homeowner recognize problems with a roof system?
Most of the time, roof system problems are discovered after leaks or other serious damage occurs. Yearly inspections can uncover cracked, warped, or missing shingles; loose seams; deteriorated flashing, and excessive surface granules in gutters or downspouts. When indoors, look for cracked paint, discolored plasterboard, or peeling wallpaper.
Can I do the work myself?
When it comes to roofing, doing the work yourself isn’t the answer. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can potentially damage your roof by using the wrong techniques, and you could seriously injure yourself by falling off or through the roof. The safest option is to leave the roofing to the experts.
When do I need a new roof?
Many roofs have a limited lifespan that may require replacement at the end. However, a roof may need to be replaced before the end of its usual lifespan due to faulty installation or extreme weather. Either way, keep an eye out for wet spots in the plaster of your ceiling, attic, or crawl spaces. Watch for cracked, curled, missing, or broken shingles. If the texture of your roof is spongy, it can indicate rot. These are all signs that it may be time for a new roof.
How long can I expect my roof system to last?
Most new roof systems are designed to function for about 20 years. Some roof systems such as slate, clay, and metal can last longer. A roof system’s lifespan can be affected by several factors, such as local climate conditions and roof construction and design. Proper installation and maintenance can help to extend the life of your roof.
