Roofs have been an essential part of human survival for ages. Ever since the days when people used anything they could find to withstand the changing weather to today, where we have an overwhelming choice of models and styles, roofing has always carried out a quiet but steady job of protecting us and our homes. However, many homeowners tend to take their roof for granted and do not maintain it properly, taking it easy, unless and until some of the shingles get damaged or the roof starts to leak. In the end, they will have to repair the roof, which certainly isn’t a cheap or easy task for any homeowner.
When it comes to repairing or replacing your roof, you have a lot of tough and expensive choices to make, all of which can have a great impact on the structural integrity of your house. Therefore, Delran Township roofing and siding contractors suggest that you consider the many options available to you with the utmost diligence, compare the choices, and then make a decision. The following are some tips and advice from roofing and siding experts in Delran Township:
Installing New Roofing
Delran Township roofing and siding contractors state that most homeowners tend to make the mistake of adding multiple layers of shingles over their existing roofing when it comes to repair or reinstallation. Professional roofing and siding contractors imply that this is in no way a better option, and also that the top layers do not last as long as the bottom, old layer. As you add new layers on top of old ones, the new topmost layer will remain hot because your original roofing will start to act as a heat sink. As the roof keeps getting hotter, oils from the shingle material start to evaporate, causing them to break down, and resulting in a reduced overall lifespan of the roofing.
Yes, it would be expensive to strip all the existing shingles before adding a new layer. Delran Township roofing and siding experts suggest that before you decide on stripping the existing shingles, think about the number of years or months you are planning to spend in the house. If this will be your primary residence and you are looking to spend several years or even decades in the same house, the investment you make will be completely worth it. However, if your stay is going to be merely a couple of years, or you have a job that requires you to relocate every few years, it wouldn’t be a wise investment.
Weather Protection is Crucial
No matter what type of roofing material you choose for the redo, understand that proper weather protection is crucial. The most annoying and damaging factor for any roofing is moisture; it can drastically bring down the life of a roof, which could have otherwise lasted for several years. To prevent this problem and increase the life of your roofing, be sure to ask your Delran Township roofing and siding contractor to install self-adhered roof underlayments, which are designed to protect your roof from ice dams, snow, and rain, thus preventing possible leaks.
If you happen to live in an area where the chances of storms or hurricanes are high, you can go directly for roofing materials that are specifically designed to withstand winds of up to 100 miles per hour and heavy rains. If you need help choosing the right material with enough withstanding power, you can always contact a professional Delran Township roofing and siding contractor.
Flashing is another weatherproofing or weather-resistant barrier (WRB) material that you should consider installing on your roof. Flashings are usually installed around dormers, chimneys, and skylights, and these materials are capable of forming an air- and weather-resistant seal on the outside while keeping you comfortable and protected inside.
As a homeowner, your main goal is to build roofing that is durable and can last for several years without costing you too much in terms of maintenance and repair. Follow this advice from professional Delran Township roofing and siding contractors precisely, and the problems you face pertaining to your house’s roofing structure will be significantly reduced.