Your home is a very important investment, perhaps the most important investment you will ever make. Protecting your beloved home should be on the top of your priority list, starting with the condition of your roof, proper maintenance of doors and windows, up to fence installation. Protecting your beloved home should be on the top of your priority list, starting with the condition of your roof. But how can you ensure that the roof over your head is clean, stable, and safe? What information is good to know? 

Here are 8 facts that you should know about roofing.

1. Roofing Systems Have Many Parts

Although shingles and wood may be all you see, there are many layers of equally-important parts to a roof. Roofs are a complex system with several components that each perform a specific function. The roof decking is what supports the weight of the structure, then you have an insulator barrier to protect against rain and snow. Other components include drip edge, flashing, ridge caps and the shingles themselves. If any of these parts are compromised, repairs are needed to prevent leaks and further damage.

2. DIY Roofing is a No-Go

Taking on DIY projects around the house can be empowering, efficient, and saves you money. But, roofing is NOT one of these projects. As discussed, the roof is a very complex system, and if not properly trained, you could cause some real damage to your home. Not to mention it is a dangerous feat! Roofing installation requires the precision and knowledge of a seasoned roofer in Plymouth to ensure everything is up to code and structurally sound.

3. Your Location Determines What Type of Roof You Should Have

You may have observed that different areas of the country, or the world for that matter, have different types of roofs. Sure, this is partly due to trending styles, but largely due to the particular climate in that area. Your roof should be made to withstand, deflect, and resist the most common weather conditions in your specific location, whether that’s intense desert heat or cold and wet climates. Different styles and materials of roofs function better in certain locations, and it is important to choose the right type for your home.

4. Shingles Have a Limited Lifespan

A brand new roof that has been well maintained, has a lifespan averaging 20-30 years. Sometimes, depending on the materials, your residential roof can even last 50 years or more! However, shingles typically require repair or replacement after 20-25 years. Pay attention to the condition of your shingles, and do not push off roof replacement for too long and risk expensive leaks or other deterioration.

5. A Bad Roof Can Break a Home Sale

It is simple: broken roofs are an issue when selling a home. If you are trying to sell your house with a faulty roof, potential buyers are likely to be scared off. This can decrease your resale value significantly, and be a real deal-breaker for people who do not want to spend extra time and money on roof repairs or a replacement. Would you buy a house with a faulty roof? Get your roof inspected and serviced before putting it on the market!

6. Roof Leaks are Not Always Obvious

Unfortunately, roof leaks are not always obvious and in your face. Your roof could be leaking down into a wall or your attic space without any visible signs in the home. A roof leak entry point can even be yards away from where the visible drip comes down inside your home. Be on the lookout for water stains, smell of mildew, missing shingles, damaged flashing, and other possible signs of damage. If you are unsure about a leak, call a roofing contractor to perform an inspection and take care of any repairs.

7. Roofs Breathe