The roofing industry has changed quite a lot over the years. These days, homeowners are rarely opting for the standard, 3-tab shingles that were so popular a few decades ago. Instead, they are going with architectural shingles, and in some cases, with even more eco-friendly options like green roofing or slate. Whether you're shopping around for a new roof or are thinking of having repairs made to your current roof, it pays to be educated. Learn the basics on this blog, where we discuss roofing in the modern world. We explore various roofing materials, roofing techniques, and how to find the right roofer.
A new roof installation can include a lot more than just shingles. There are certain accessories on your roof that may also require replacing or upgrading. The following are five improvements you should consider adding to your new roof.
1. Increased Ventilation
Better ventilation prolongs the life of a roof and it improves the energy efficiency inside your home. A well-ventilated roof is less prone to ice dams and condensation buildup, which cuts down on the chances of water damage inside your home. Ventilation also helps hot air in the attic move out through the ridge vent so that it doesn't collect in your home and make it harder to keep cool.
2. Energy Efficient Shingles
Not all shingles are created equal. Opt for shingles that are lighter in color so that they reflect the sun's heat if you live in a hot climate, or go for darker shingles that absorb heat if you live in a cold climate. There are also shingles available that are treated with UV blockers that will further help to prevent the sun from warming up the roof and causing higher energy bills.
3. Improved Drip Edge
Many roof issues, particularly in winter, occur right along the drip edge of the roof. This is the location where ice dams are most likely to form due to buildup of ice or water in a clogged or frozen gutter. Eave flashings are installed beneath the shingles along the drip edge, or perimeter, of the roof. These flashings form a waterproof barrier that prevents the water from breaching the underlayment and decking if water gets beneath the shingles or if an ice dam forms.
4. Low-Maintenance Gutters
Gutters are an integral part of your roof, and a good time to replace your old ones is when you have your new roof installed. Poorly functioning gutters can overflow, which leads to water flowing beneath the shingles. Opt for seamless gutters as they are less likely to leak. Also, make sure the gutters are both deep and wide enough to handle the amount of rain that runs off your roof in an average storm. Adding leaf guards to the gutters will also help prevent problems.
5. Quality Vent Caps
Vent caps are placed on top of chimneys and rooftop vents to keep birds, squirrels, and rain out of these fixtures. Upgrade your caps to quality ones that are firmly affixed in place so they won't blow off in the event of a storm.
Contact a residential roof replacement service to start planning your new roof.