Residential Roofing - Keep Your Home Free of Leaks

Sep 1
17:15

2011

Aloysius Aucoin

Aloysius Aucoin

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Although most residential roofing is designed to last for at least 30 years, extreme weather conditions can quickly cause the roofing material to deteriorate.

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There are many advantages and disadvantages when it comes to choosing a particular roofing material. In fact,Residential Roofing - Keep Your Home Free of Leaks Articles there are many residential roofing materials to choose from including, metal, wood, slate, and ceramic. Shingle roofing made from asphalt is one of the most popular options but, there are a few important things to remember when deciding on which material will be right for your home. While it is true that asphalt shingles can last for up to 30 years, and many manufacturers will offer a lifetime warranty, this is only possible in ideal climates. 

The material in asphalt shingles is prone to faster deterioration under extremely warm temperatures. The extreme expose to heat and sunlight causes the underlying asphalt to soften. Therefore, when it rains, the bonding materials are washed away, causing shrinkage and exposed nail heads. This will eventually cause water seepage into the home, which can damage and rot the wood on the inside of the home, especially in the attic. Metal roofing is more ideal for these extremely warm environments. 

Furthermore, many homeowners have found more advantages in this material than in other types. For instance, metal is more energy efficient, fire retardant, and long lasting. However, this material is the most expensive of the residential roofing materials. 

The best way to extend the life of your roof and prevent damage to the inside of the home, is to have routine maintenance. This is especially true if you live in a climate with extreme weather. Heavy snow and extreme heat are two of the biggest factors that cause roofing materials to deteriorate. Snow accumulation can cause certain materials to buckle and warp. Furthermore, heavy snow adds too much weight, which can eventually cause the roof to collapse. Therefore, it is best to get a maintenance check after a heavy snow to catch any compromises in the roofing. This is also true for extremely hot climates that can cause the material to soften or melt. 

A home's roofing seems to be the last thing most homeowners think about when it comes to maintaining the home. Yet, it is vital to the overall structural integrity. Although all materials can last for at least 30 years, this doesn't always mean that extreme weather has not left the home vulnerable to possible damage on the roof.