The Life Of Your Roofing: From Installation To Replacement
Have you ever thought about the function and lifespan of your roofing from the perspective of your roof itself?
Doing so can really bring home to you what your roof is actually going through over the years and why it is so important to rely on top-tier roofing contractors, practice good roof maintenance, and replace your roofing promptly when the time comes.
The Beginning: Installation Day
The life of your roofing on your roof begins on installation day. Old shingles are torn off and disposed of; new ones are fastened down firmly in their place.
Because you chose a reputable, local contractor, proper preparation is made for the shingle-shield. Quality felt underlayment is rolled out over the roof decking – after any weak or damaged plywood has been replaced. Flashing covers the roof valleys and wraps its way around chimneys, vents, and eaves.
By selecting high-quality asphalt shingles, you gain numerous advantages and set your roof up for a long, low-maintenance life under a 25-year (or so) manufacturer’s warranty.
Sun, Wind & Rain Put Your New Roofing To The Test
Immediately after installation, the long trial begins. Weather works on your shingles and puts them through a severe test. First of all, the hot Florida sun bakes their upper surface daily, while heat from the attic can rise to heat their underside. Luckily, you have a well insulated and ventilated attic and a radiant barrier that minimizes these effects.
Because you used shingles with high wind resistance and your contractor used ideal roof nails and placed them correctly, ordinary wind has little effect on your roof. When wind storms arise, the wind tries its best but can’t normally get under the shingles with enough force to rip them off or loosen them. However, in severe storms, this may happen – and then it’s time for a roof inspection and repair.
Due to properly placed shingles that interlock like a shield of scales or armor, rain and moisture has a hard time getting below a single shingle. Flashing and roof cement guards all the key points, and valleys shed water rapidly without a problem. Still, water eventually will start to erode shingle granules and throw them into your gutters. A small amount of moisture may get under some shingles, but the underlayment absorbs it and protects your roof deck and your home’s interior.
Inspections, Repairs, & Eventual Roof Replacement
Even the best shingles can take minor damage under severe weather conditions or over many years. Since you get a roof inspection once a year and make all necessary repairs then and there, small problems never have a chance to grow into big ones.
After 10 years of faithful service, a leak appears in your home following a major downpour. You quickly call a skilled contractor in to address it. One year, a few shingles blow off in a major tropical storm – you waste no time in getting your roof repaired. Quick repairs extend the life of your roof and save you money.
Finally, however, your shingles start to show signs of wear after 27 years of use. It’s time to list your home anyway – so perfect timing to replace the roof to increase resale value. Now your roof has come full circle back to the installation phase.
This should give you a good idea of what your roof goes through and how to get the most out of it for as long as possible. For more roof advice, contact Sheegog Contracting today!
