Clearing Up Some Common Misconceptions About Your Home’s Roof
Your home's roof is very important; it helps to insulate your home and reduce the amount of money and energy you use for air conditioning and heating throughout the year, and of course it protects your home's framework from potential water damage. This is why it's important to have your roof fixed when needed; however, many homeowners put off having this work done, or they may not know the best type of roof to choose for a replacement. Note a few common misconceptions homeowners often have about a home's roof so you can know what to discuss with a roofer when your home's roof is in need of repair or replacement.
Replacing one shingle
If you notice that just one or two shingles are missing from your roof, don't assume that it's okay to leave the roof in that condition. Each shingle is important in protecting the paper under the shingles from potential damage. Each shingle is also needed for water to run off the roof completely. Even one or two missing shingles can result in water damage to the home, as well as allowing heat and cool air to escape, thereby increasing your utility bills. Have any roof repairs done as soon as needed, even if they seem relatively minor.
Metal roofs
It's a common misconception that metal roofs are noisy, warm in summertime, and cold in wintertime. However, a metal roof on a home will include layers of insulating materials under it; a residential home won't have a bare and plain sheet of metal for a roof, like you might see with an old shed. This insulating layer will keep the roof quiet and also keep out heat and cold. A metal roof can also reflect sunlight away from the home, making it extra cool for those who live in very warm, sunny areas.
Roof replacement
Don't assume that you should wait until your roof looks worn or has sagging and discoloured areas before you replace it. Once a roof reaches a certain age and has suffered a certain amount of exposure to the sun and elements, it will get thin and worn and won't work as well to insulate your home. This can also lead to water getting into the home and causing damage. Consider that the cost of cleaning up mould and of replacing damaged framing materials, as well as the higher utility costs, can be much steeper than the cost of a new roof.
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