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.
You may not know when to replace your roof until it's too late. However, you can watch for signs such as a leaky roof, damaged shingles, peeled paint near your roofline, sagged rafters, granules in the gutter, sunlight rays penetrating through your roof, and an increase in your energy bills.
Re-roofing can transform your home and help you achieve the following benefits.
Avoid Repair Costs
While some roof damages may only require repair, the costs can gradually escalate out of proportion. If you have to repair your roof every few months, you are better off replacing the entire roof. A new quality roof requires less maintenance. The roof will also serve you for many years before it starts to trouble you.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Re-roofing can boost your home's energy efficiency in different ways. A new roof has better ventilation than an older roof. Proper roof ventilation is essential as it allows efficient airflow between the attic and your home's outdoors. When hot air gets trapped inside the attic, it will increase the temperatures in your home.
Hence, your air conditioner will struggle to eliminate the hot air and keep your home cool. This problem will cause your AC system to consume more energy to compensate for the deficiency.
Re-roofing allows you to install a new roof with a better energy star rating. The energy star rating refers to the measure of a roof's energy efficiency. For instance, shingles with a higher energy star rating are better at reflecting away solar energy, which helps cool your home.
Protection From Water Damage
Water damage can be devastating to your home. A leaky roof can cause a build-up of moisture in your home, triggering mold and mildew growth. The spores from the mold and mildew will spread to your home's indoor space through the air conditioner. Inhaling the contaminated air can lead to allergic reactions and worsen symptoms in asthma patients.
If water gets to your electrical equipment, it can lead to short-circuiting. This malfunction can trigger a fire that can burn down your home. Water damage can severely damage your attic and ceiling. Small leaks can lead to a build-up of water pools in your attic or ceiling. Your entire ceiling might get drenched with water and start to sag.
Water damage can cause your home's wood structures to rot. With time, the wood structures in your roof or attic will weaken and compromise your home's structural integrity. The damage can get out of hand and cause your roof to collapse.
For more information, contact a local residential roofing company.