Your roof is the main source of protection that keeps you and your family safe from the elements, so it’s vital it lasts a long time and it’s up to the job. This is because putting on a new roof is a messy, expensive endeavor.
If you’re looking to replace your roof, you want it to last as long as possible, and in this article, we will look at what factors ensure that your roof holds up for the long haul.
Materials
The first, and most important, factor to consider when talking about the longevity of your roof is the material used in its construction. When thinking about putting on a new roof, what material do you want to use? If you’re looking for something, that’s durable, steer clear of standard asphalt shingles and opt for metal or tile. While some materials are more expensive than others, what you get in terms of longevity may be well worth the price.
The Elements
The weather and the elements also play a role in how long your roof will last. If you live in a climate with harsh storms, high winds and hail, your roof will need repairs more often than if you lived in a dry climate. Again, while certain material stand up to harsh weather better than others, there’s only so much a roof can take before it breaks down.
The Roof Slope
Few people take the slope of the roof into consideration, but the fact is it plays an important role in your roof’s wellbeing too. The slope assists your roof with eliminating the accumulation of water, rain, and snow. If you’re putting in a new roof, ask your roofing company to recommend the right slope based on where you live.
Heat
Although it’s considered one element we mentioned earlier, heat deserves its own category because of the damage it inflicts on a roof. Constant, high heat increases the wear and tear on your roof, which is made worse if you have dark shingles, because dark colors attract and absorb the heat. Also, intense UV radiation speeds up the decay of certain roofing materials, which makes your home vulnerable to water leaks and moisture invasion. Ask your roofing contractor what roofing material they recommend for a hot, mostly sunny climate.
Ventilation
Lack of adequate ventilation in your attic also shortens the lifespan of your roof because it heats up the roofing materials from the inside causing them to break down more quickly. Also, you need to have sufficient insulation to keep the temperature regular to avoid moisture buildup.
Bad Installation
If your roof was installed improperly, it will cause it to break down much more quickly than if you had it done by a reputable installer.
Poor Maintenance
To keep your roof in tip-top shape, it’s essential you perform routine maintenance and fix those little problems before they become big ones down the road. Regular maintenance is a sure way to extend your roof’s life for many years.
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