Are metal roofs better than asphalt shingle roofs?
Most of the claims made about metal roofing being a better solution than asphalt shingles can’t be substantiated. The truth is, some metal roofs delaminate. Some require paint after a few years. Some start to rust. Some can damage easily by a person walking on the roof to perform simple maintenance. Some can be permanently damaged by large hail. So, being able to substantiate the claims is key and that will be very hard to do without more time. The other major consideration is the cost. Metal roofs can cost up to 60% more than a shingled roof. Today, some asphalt shingle roofing products are made to last fifty years and beyond. The warranty on a shingled roof is typically stronger and better than a metal roof and for a longer duration. Don’t believe the hype, do your research before you blindly accept the claim that metal is better than shingles. Because in some cases, it’s not.
How do I know if my roof is leaking?
If you have attic access, one of the best ways to see if you have a leak is to go up with a flashlight and look. Sometimes you may want to stand on the ladder itself and brace yourself as you look around. Don’t walk in the attic unless you know for sure where you are stepping so you don’t step through a drywall ceiling and hurt yourself in the process. If you do have a leak, you should be able to smell it. That is always a great sign there is an issue. Properly vented roofing systems circulate fresh air constantly. If there is a leak, there may be a musty smell. Also, water stains or discoloration around penetrations in the roof is a great indicator. Leaks typically happen around penetrations like vents or chimneys. That is usually because proper flashing wasn’t installed when the roof was put on. Check the wood framing for signs of moisture that will appear as dark spots or rot. Inspect the insulation to see if it is matted, damp, or eroding. During and after major rainstorms, you can also walk through your home and look at the ceilings and walls for signs of staining, bulging, or drips. Should you see any of these, call us.
Should I get a new roof before I sell my home?
There is no question that a new roof helps sell your home. Especially if the new roof comes with a transferable warranty for your buyer. Roofing is one of the single biggest expenses a homeowner will have. Roofing is very expensive and there is no indication that it will ever be less. Plus, some mortgage companies will not offer a mortgage on a home with an old worn-out roof. More and more insurance companies won’t insure a home that has a worn-out roof at all. This is happening more and more as insurance companies evaluate their losses and have determined that roofing is a major cost to their business. If you can’t afford a new roof, you can always negotiate with a buyer so that they can put one on once they take possession. You can also finance a new roof and then pay it off when the house sells. There are options.
Do steep slope roofs last longer than low slope or flat roofs?
Steep slope roofs that are exposed to the sun and are not vented properly will wear out the fastest. Flat or low slope roofing products are made of rubber or another synthetic material. There are many variables to consider when trying to determine which roof will last the longest. The variables include climate in the region, exposure to direct sunlight, proximity to trees and other vegetation, ventilation, materials used, and installation techniques used.
What is an Ice & Water Shield and why is it important?
Ice and water shield is a thick membrane with an adhesive back that is typically installed at the eaves and around penetrations on a roof. Its sole purpose is to provide an extra layer of protection from moisture getting on the deck. Take for example the area closest to the gutters. If the gutters are full of ice and then there is a thaw, then there is ice again, this can push ice up under the shingles. When it gets warmer, that ice turns to water and you can have a problem. When this happens many people that don’t have ice and water shield installed incorrectly believe that their roof is failing. Ice and water shield are a requirement by most building codes today. That’s because without it you’re exposing yourself to unnecessary risks.
