A Roofing Primer

Admit it. Most of us don’t give our roofs much thought until a leak or other problem presents itself and we have to act. As a homeowner it is advisable to have the basic knowledge about the systems and components of your home – including your roof. Consider this entry a ‘primer’ on roofing.

There are a variety of roofing materials that are used. Many are tried and true and designed to withstand the climate and weather conditions in which you reside. The most common type of shingle used in the United States is asphalt as it stands up well to the breadth of environmental factors that can be found across the country. They also have a shelf-life of up to twenty years – giving an excellent return on your money. Other roofing materials include slate, concrete tiles, stone-coated steel and solar tiles.

An increasingly popular roofing option is the green roof. These are environmentally-conscious roofs that are covered in greenery and plants. They help to balance carbon emissions and enhance the air quality.

Not only do shingles and roofing tiles come in different materials, they are also available in a variety of colors to further accent the uniqueness of your home.

If you hire a roofer be sure that all expectations are spelled out clearly in the contract.

Four suggestions for extending the life of your roof include regular inspections, repair of minor problems before they become major issues, replace flashing, ridge caps or vents as soon as they become problematic and keeping records of the work you have done on the roof and the inspections that are made.

Familiarize yourself with roofing vocabulary. That allows you to better understand what a roofing inspector is saying when they report back on their findings.

If you decide to replace your roof you may want to be creative. Ask your roofing professional to present you with the options that may enhance the overall look of your home.

Finally, take the time to research several companies and get multiple quotes before deciding on the organization that will best suit your needs. We suggest you contact the professionals at Macbeth Exteriors – our expertise and craftsmanship are impeccable.