When the elements are beating down on you heavily, the saying “having a roof over your head” can make all the difference in the world. Make sure that your roof is sturdy and able to protect you and your family from the rain, snow, hail, and lightning. For that reason, it is very important that your roof has been installed correctly the first time. Some things to keep in mind that go into a properly installed roof:
If you do not install proper ventilation there could be detrimental problems in the future. Without ventilation, moisture can form and cause the wood to warp or rot on a hot day. Similarly, too much ventilation is a problem and can make the air conditioning and heating units work overtime and inefficiently.
Materials
Choosing the right material is also a big factor to the dependability of your roof. Asphalt shingles is the most popular option among many homeowners. They are easy to install, inexpensive, and pretty durable. It comes in many different colors, pricing, and longevity options. Although they are the cheapest material for your roof, they have terrible reputation for not being environmentally-friendly. Wood shingles are more costly and come in cedar, redwood, southern pine, cedar, and many other types. They have a rougher look and can come fire-resistant for an additional fee. A good alternative to wood is synthetic, made from a mixture of plastic or rubber and recycled wood. These shingles last longer, lightweight, UV-resistant, and fire-resistant. Clay tiles are very heavy yet extremely durable. They come in lighter colors, which is more energy efficient. Concrete tiles come in a wide variety of styles, shapes, and textures.
Slate material often come in dark colors and are uniquely beautiful. A slate roof will last for a very long time with easy repairs.
Metal roofing comes in copper, aluminum, and stainless steel. This type of material is a great insulator and lasts longer than wood or asphalt. They are also much lighter than most roofing materials and are very resistant to most weather conditions.
Fiber-cement roofing comes in many different colors and textures, is very durable, and fireproof as well. This type of roofing is made from a combination of concrete, clay, and wood fibers. They are not as heavy and can last for a very long time so long as they are not stepped on or installed in places where the climate is extremely cold, because they crack easily.
In addition to finding the perfect material to cater to your needs, it is important that you think of the style of your roof as well. There are many different roofing styles such as mansard, saltbox, gambrel, pyramid, bonnet, and flat roof. Each style has their own pros and cons. It is best to pick the one that is best suited for you and your family.
