Way Up on the Roof

Your roof and the protection it provides to your home and family is invaluable and should not be an area you skimp on or cut corners. When it is time to replace or repair your roof, completing the work properly and in consideration of your climate and weather conditions is of the highest importance. Here are some ideas to consider when you are in the market to replace your home's roof.

Look at Wind Damage Potential

At your next home roof replacement, you have the option to upgrade your roofing structure to protect your home against any additional weather conditions that you should consider. For example, if you live in an area of the country that has a potential for heavy wind storms, your roofing shingles are at risk of coming loose in this type of weather. Ask your roofer for shingles and attachments that can withstand high winds, such as found with hurricanes, derechos, and tornadoes. Shingles attached with additional adhesive and extra roofing nails can make the difference in your home losing part of its roof or withstanding the heavy winds.

Update Your Roof's Energy Efficiency

Another consideration to look at when you need to replace your roof is the need to make your roof more energy efficient. If you live in an area of the country that has high summer temperatures, you can opt to install shingles that reflect the sun's radiation away from your home. If your home has a rubber-coated roof, you can apply a reflective rubber coating to reflect the sun in a similar manner. This activity will keep your roof cooler and the inside of your home more comfortable and energy efficient.

Complete the Replacement Properly

When you have your roof replaced, you should also make sure to address any moisture damage or structural damage that may already exist in your roof. When your roof ages, its potential to get a moisture leak increases, which can result in the underlayers of your roof, including the roofing deck, support rafters, and attic insulation to become damaged. Dry rot can also be a problem if your attic is not ventilated sufficiently. For these reasons, you should remove your old shingles before installing the new.

Some homeowners try to save money on their roof replacement by not removing the old shingles first. This practice is accepted in many areas of the country but can put excess pressure on your home's roof structure. The excess weight of another layer of shingles is not ideal and can mask any existing damage and allow it to become worse. Your professional roofer will be happy to strip off the old layer of roofing materials to inspect and replace any moisture damage in your roof.

Talk to a roofing replacement service to learn more about the right roof for your house.