Maintaining Your Roofing

A roof (also rooftop) is the upper covering of a building that protects it from rain, snow, sunlight, extremes of temperature and wind. The construction and materials of a roof define its shape and structural properties, and determine the design, cost and functionality of the building beneath it.

There are many different kinds of roofing. Some are more durable than others, and some are easier to maintain than others. The pitch of a roof, the degree to which it slopes, affects water shedding and heating. Steeply-pitched roofs are common in colder climates and high rainfall areas, while flat or low-pitched roofs are more common in warmer or drier climates.

The roof of a house is usually constructed https://www.aceroofingandbuilding.co.uk from several materials including wood, asphalt shingles and metal. Metal is becoming more popular because it is relatively lightweight, outperforms other roofing materials in wind and hail and is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. It can be installed over existing shingles or as an entirely new roof system, and can be fitted with solar panels to help offset energy costs.

Regardless of the type of roofing, a roof is subject to a variety of forces that cause it to wear out over time. Heat, cold, sun exposure, moisture and precipitation all cause damage and shorten the life expectancy of a roof. Roofing should be regularly maintained to reduce wear and tear, prevent leaks and extend its life expectancy.

One of the most important aspects of roof maintenance is proper ventilation, which is critical to preventing moisture build up and rot in rafters and sheathing. Insufficient ventilation can also lead to shingle deterioration and a breakdown of the sealants and coatings that keep water, insects and other pests out.

Regularly inspecting your roof, ceilings and attic for water intrusion points is also important to extending the life of a roof. If problems are discovered early, they are often easy and inexpensive to fix.

Homeowners should be aware that roofing is a competitive industry and it is wise to get bids from more than one contractor, especially for larger homes or complex roofs. When getting bids, homeowners should be sure that all the options are included and ask contractors for local references. Also, homeowners should visit buildings that have been roofed with the proposed roofing system to see what it looks like in person.

If there are a lot of trees around the house, it is a good idea to have them regularly trimmed to prevent branches from damaging the roof. In addition, it is a good idea to take pictures of the roof before and during roofing to have as evidence in case something goes wrong. Finally, it is a good idea to keep all your roof paperwork in a safe place and review it from time to time. This may include warranties, invoices and documents detailing the materials used on your roof. Also, be sure to check your homeowner’s insurance policy as it may provide coverage for a roofing project.