Your choice of roofing material is one factor that’ll determine how long your roof will last. Different materials, after all, have different capacities for weathering the elements and resisting the formation of physical damage. Let’s see how the following materials fare:

Asphalt shingles. Among the most popular materials in the country, asphalt shingles are expected to last anywhere between 15 to 30 years. In hot climates, the material may only last from 12 to 14 years as heat speeds up the evaporation of the chemical compounds known as volatiles. In areas where it is almost always cold, however, asphalt shingles may last up to 30 years.

Fiberglass. Fiberglass is considered one of the most durable roofing materials available today, as it is resistant to most forms of physical damage. It also readily adapts to the elements, so there is less chance of cracking or splitting. A fiberglass roof may last for up to three decades.

Wood. Like the first two roofing materials, wood has a life span of about thirty years. But its longevity depends highly on the quality of maintenance it gets. Wood’s natural aesthetics can enhance the curb appeal of any home, but the material is also susceptible to rotting, warping, and splitting.

PART ONE: MATERIALS

Metal. As a roofing material, metal can withstand fire, insects, and rot – and it requires minimal maintenance. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, metal roofing has a lifespan of around 40 to 80 years. It has to be repainted with rust-resistant paint every so often, though, to keep it functional.

Slate. Also favored for its natural beauty, slate roofs have lifespans of 45 to 75 years. But there are certain slate varieties that can last for almost two hundred years.

Tile. Beautiful tile roofs can last for more than a century, as long they have the added support necessary to hold their weight. Also, care should be taken when conducting maintenance, as tile can be fragile.

Are you all set now, then? Not quite. There are more factors that can affect a roof’s longevity, in addition to material choice. We’ll talk about installation in the second part of our e-book.

PART ONE: MATERIALS

We learned about the projected life spans of different roofing materials in the first part of our e-book. Today, take a look at how installation plays a role in a roof’s longevity, too.

A roof’s material composition is important to its longevity, and so is the way the components are put together. Proper installation goes hand-in-hand with the type of material you have chosen to invest in for roofing.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Not every roofing system is installed the same way. Installation practices are contingent upon the material, the slope of the roof, and your area’s building codes – among other factors. Therefore, it is necessary to follow these specifications down to the letter.

Tile roofs, for instance, are often installed on mortar bed systems, which make them susceptible to slippage. To counter the possible resulting issue, proper drainage must be installed under the mortar layer to ensure the water will not freeze and affect the tiles. Slate roofs, on the other hand, typically have failed fasteners and nails after some time so installation should focus on ensuring a watertight protective barrier.

PART TWO: INSTALLATION

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONSHow your roof is designed also plays a huge role in its functionality and, by extension, durability. There are several factors that should be considered prior to designing your roof. The type and slope of your roof deck, for example, will influence the types of materials you will install on it. Climate conditions are also important.

HIRING A PROFESSIONALWith all the considerations you will need to keep in mind, we recommend hiring a professional to help you with the process. When choosing, look for:

•A wide portfolio. Experience is a key element in a determining a contractor’s skills. Hire someone who has worked on various roofing systems, and not just someone who has worked in the industry for a long time. This will help in case you have a need to customize solutions for your specific roofing needs.

•Competitive pricing. A good roof does not have to be one that breaks the bank. Make sure your contractor offers his or her services at prices that are fair to you. Also, get a breakdown of the costs involved in the entire project so you can see where your money will go.

What else does your roof need for it to be functional and durable for a long time? We’ll see in the final installment of our e-book.

PART TWO: INSTALLATION

We learned about how material choices and installation dictate the longevity of our roofs in the first two parts of our series. Now, let’s find out how we can help further ensure the integrity of our investment with maintenance.

Industry experts believe that for every dollar spent on maintenance, five dollars is saved on possible repair costs. And while these estimates are mostly used within the context of commercial roofing, homeowners can still benefit from the same philosophy. In addition to material choice and installation, how you take care of your roof throughout its life cycle matters in determining how long your roof will last.

INSPECTIONS

Inspections should be conducted at least twice a year – before and after the start of the worst weather. Check for:

• Blistering, buckling, or curling shingles• Cracked caulk• Rust spots on flashing• Missing or broken tabs• Worn boots around vent pipes• Moss and lichen growth

Certain parts of the roof are more prone to damage than others. Areas that feature a change in plane and areas around penetrations are especially vulnerable. In addition to the roof surface, also inspect your walls and siding for signs of leaking. And check the drainage system.

PART THREE: MAINTENANCE

PREVENTIVE AND REACTIVE MAINTENANCE

Preventive maintenance is taking care of issues well before they crop up. This includes re-coating metal roofs with rust-resistant paint, or cleaning the roof surface before the start of expected inclement weather. Reactive maintenance, on the other hand, is taking care of issues as soon as they crop up. It is important to note that some roofing problems can worsen if they are allowed to fester. These signs, in particular, should be dealt with immediately:

• Damaged flashing• Missing or curling tabs• Leakage in the attic• Peeling paint or stains• Increased energy bills

Delegate the repairs to a professional and, while you’re at it, delegate the inspection and maintenance to him as well. A comprehensive maintenance program is one of the most useful tools you can use to protect the integrity of your roofing system. In addition, you can take advantage of the contractor’s warranty.

PART THREE: MAINTENANCE

ALL AMERICAN HOME SERVICES

3075 PS Business Center Dr Woodbridge, VA 22192

703-492-5815

AllAmericanRoofs.com