Simple Maintenance Tips for Roofs

Posted on: 16 May 2023

A well-maintained and attractive home is a source of pride for many homeowners. One essential aspect of a home's curb appeal is its roof, which serves as a protective barrier and adds character and style to the house. Asphalt shingles are popular roofing materials for their affordability, versatility, and durability. However, not all asphalt shingle roofs are created equal. 

Tip: Choose The Right Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles come in two main types. Three-tab shingles have a uniform size and shape with three distinct tabs. This design makes them lighter and less expensive, but they are less durable than architectural shingles. On the other hand, architectural shingles are thicker, with more layers of material fused together. This provides better durability against weather damage.

When selecting which type of asphalt shingle is ideal for your home, consider local climate conditions and budget constraints. Architectural laminated are best suited in areas prone to high winds or extreme temperature changes due to their enhanced durability, while three-tab may be sufficient if you live in a mild climate region or require an economical option.

Tip: Make Sure Flashing Is Installed Correctly

Flashing refers to strips of metal used around specific areas where water could seep through joints causing leaks within the house and ultimately leading to structural damage or mold growth over time.

To ensure the flashing is installed correctly, examine the areas where it has been placed. Properly installed flashing should be securely attached to your roof and not have any visible gaps or cracks, which may cause water to seep through. If you are having difficulties assessing the condition of your flashing, consider hiring a professional roofer to assess its installation and make any necessary repairs.

Tip: Use High-Quality Underlayment

Underlayment serves as an added layer of protection between your roof deck and asphalt shingles. This protective barrier helps prevent water damage by acting as a secondary waterproof membrane in case shingles get damaged or worn out over time.

Investing in high-quality underlayment provides several advantages in terms of durability, energy efficiency, and overall performance improvement compared to cheaper alternatives.

Tip: Consider A Cool Roof

A cool roof is a system designed with materials that reflect more sunlight than traditional roofs while absorbing less sun's heat. These materials can include specially engineered asphalt shingles featuring reflective granules or coatings applied directly onto their surface area.

Installing a cool roof can provide numerous advantages for homeowners, such as improved energy efficiency due to lower indoor temperatures during summer and reduced dependence on air conditioning units. The reduced cooling costs make these more expensive shingles an attractive and effective option.

Reach out to a local roofer to learn more about shingle roofs.