Introduction

You rarely think about it, but it’s above you every day. A roof is an essential part of a home. It protects you from the elements of weather. It acts as a barrier between the interior of your home and the exterior environment. Poor maintenance of a roof can bring about problems, including leaks, moss, mold, and mildew. It’s hard to construct a steady and robust roof by yourself, so finding a good roofing and siding contractor is of utmost importance.

Installation of a roof

Apart from protection, a well-structured roof enhances the value and the beauty of a house. Since it is the highest part of a house, a roof must be strong enough to protect the interior of the house from hazards. So, which kind of roofing system will suit you? Before browsing through different roofing systems, several factors need to be taken into account before a roof is installed.

Material – The type of material you choose for this purpose will affect the physical appearance, longevity, and durability of the roof.

Budget –  This is very obvious. The budget can have a significant influence on the type of roofing system chosen. Working with the right roofing contractor can help you choose a system that suits your budget.

Architecture – The model of your house will influence the roofing system you choose. Most houses use asphalt shingles; Roofing experts recommend using materials that complement the specific architectural style of your house.

Color – This is extremely important when choosing a roofing system. Darker colors absorb more heat, while lighter colors stay cooler.

With the advancement of science and technology, a variety of roofing systems have been introduced to the market.

Here are the most common…

Asphalt shingles:

The most common roofing system in North America uses asphalt shingles. They are very cheap and can be easily fixed by the owner, but an expert should monitor the process to ensure the job is done correctly.

Clay tile roof:

This is an old roofing system that has been around for centuries. An adequately installed clay tile roof is known to last for about a century; If it’s improperly installed, though, this system can start to fall apart in no time. So, you must hire an expert to do the job.

Flat roof installation:

Flat roofs are suitable for self-installation. There are four main types of flat roofing:

  • Tar and gravel
  • Modified bitumen
  • PVC
  • Rubber

Metal roof installation:

Metal roofing has increased in its popularity due to its durability, safety, and ease of installation. It’s easily fixable.

Repairing roofs:

No matter how much attention you put into an installation of a roof, it is essential to know the basics when it comes to repairing it. The most common problem is a leaking roof. It can be hard to locate the exact damaged spot. These two tips make it easier to detect a leak:

1. Look for stains or mold on the tile.

2. Pour water onto the area where you think the leak appears to start. It is the easiest way to find the exact spot of the leak.

Fixing a leak depends upon the type of roofing system you have.

Maintenance:

The foremost cause of roof problems is a poorly maintained roof. This is one of the largest and most vulnerable parts of a house. So, it requires regular inspection and maintenance. Regular maintenance can improve the lifespan of your roof and save you money in the long run.

Here are some tasks you can do by yourself to properly maintain your roof…

(Note: It is always recommended to perform these tasks on a sunny day and with the help of another person.)

1.  Debris removal

Remove any dirt, leaves, or small twigs collected on your roof. This should be done carefully with the use of an extended ladder.

2.  Moss and mold removal

A specific moss and mold remover can be used for this purpose. It is always recommended to follow the cleaner’s instructions before use. After applying, a soft brush with a full handle should be used to wipe off the debris. Usage of a pressure gun or hard brush can cause damage to the surface.

3.  General inspection

If you can reach your attic, check the interior of the ceiling for stains or mold. The presence of such spots indicates seeping of water into your house. Then look for missing or loose shingles on the roof. Additionally, check the roof for missing nails, flashings, and metal roof bolts. Curling and peeling of shingles found in more than one area of the roof indicate that it has come to its end of usability.

Roof maintenance may seem like a lot of hard work, but major roof repairs due to improper maintenance can cost a fortune.