Residential Roofing Tips
Monday, November 17th, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed
Residential roofing might sound like a boring topic. Except for roofing contractors or other residential roofing specialists, who would want to talk about residential roofing? Home owners should. One of the most important elements of a home is the roof. So it’s essential for homeowners to be up to date on the subject of residential roofing at least as far as it pertains to their own residence.
One of the most important points to consider when discussing residential roofing is the area where the residence is located. Needs for roofs vary by region and include such considerations as need to withstand tree limbs, wind resistance, fire resistance, ability to withstand or to allow snow to slide off, and even color when it comes to a good looking roof for the area. Residential roofing needs are quite different in New Hampshire than they would be in Los Angeles. For home buyers it’s important to be familiar with the features and maintenance needs of the roof. For those who build homes, particularly if they serve as their own general contractor, choosing the right roofing material for the region is a key.
Since it’s more common for a homeowner to purchase a home complete with a pre-installed residential roofing system, let’s examine some maintenance practices that ensure best performance and longest life from the roof. First amongst these issues is timing. Proper maintenance should begin the second the roofing system is finished. Such maintenance will save money in the long run. Immediate maintenance includes inspecting the work and checking the contractor’s license, insurance, and whether all elements of the roofing system were installed to manufacturer’s specifications or to local government guidelines.
After the first year inspect the roof for debris, such as tree limbs and aluminum cans, so they can be removed. This should be repeated at least once a year. Also make sure the gutters are cleaned at least once a year to ensure proper drainage. If the residential roof can’t drain, it will develop leaks. Some of the issues associated with leaks are damaged property and even a ruined home due to mold.
After only a few years the material at the bottom of vent and other roof protrusions, called pipe boot, may need to be replaced. This is particularly true in states like Oklahoma that don’t require pipe jacks to be made out of long lasting lead.
Many roofers convince home owners that the entire roof needs replacing even when there’s only a tiny leak. That’s nonsense. And the best way to avoid the scam is to have the roof inspected twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. An easy way to remember to have the residential roofing inspected is to do it when the clocks spring forward and fall back.
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