Roofs are frightening to a lot of homeowners. Aside from what they can see, many do not fully grasp how their roofing system operates. This can cause a lot of anxiety when it comes to knowing how to take care of your roof.
Additionally, there is a lot of incomplete data out there so learning from this article will ensure that you will be more empowered and ultimately more satisfied with your roofing.
Let's take a look at some of the most common roofing myths...
Myth #1: My Roof Will Last Forever
Average lifespans for numerous roofing materials are:
- Asphalt shingles – 20 years
- Cedar shake or shingles – 30 years
- Foam roofs – 50 years with proper maintenance (periodic re-coats)
- Metal roofs – 40+ years
- Tiles – 50-100 years with the tile underlayment lasting 15-20 years
Over time, materials wear out and degrade. While replacing the particular broken or missing shingle isn't a big deal, there will come a time when replacement is your best option. Our intention is to help you get the most out of your roofing system. As your roof approaches the end of its lifespan, you should consult with a reliable, trained roofing expert. They can help you determine when replacement is appropriate.
Myth #2: Mild Winters Mean My Roof Is Fine
In Arizona, we enjoy very mild winters. The temperature rarely drops below freezing, and we don't get much rain. However, this does not mean you can ignore your roof. Though the temperatures are mild, your roof is still sensitive to environmental damage from debris, winds, and even the occasional freeze. When temperatures fluctuate around freezing, your roof can become degraded as water and moisture freezes and unfreezes, tearing small holes in your roofing materials and leaving you susceptible to leaks.
The cooler weather may also reveal insulation and ventilation problems, and you may notice that all the warm air from your heater is escaping through your poorly insulated roof. Indeed, winter is a great time to schedule your annual roof inquiry and to perform yearly maintenance!
Myth #3: Annual Maintenance Is All You Need
Suppose you're registering yearly inspections of your roof, good job! You're already ahead of the game. Routine maintenance with a professional is one of the greatest things you can do to take care of your roof. However, this is not all it takes to keep your roof in good condition. Over the year, your roof takes a beating, especially during monsoon season. It is necessary to remain informed of what is going on with your roof and perform ongoing maintenance.
Things you can do between annual maintenance visits are:
Visually inspect your roof, looking for missing or broken shingles, damaged flashing, and other signs of problems. Check areas around chimneys, skylights, and other roof installations for damage, corrosion, and other issues.
Keep your roof clear of debris, such as leaves and branches Trim surrounding trees and plants, especially those that overhang your roof.
Make sure roof drainage pathways are clear and unobstructed Remove moss and other plant growth During monsoon season, small problems with your roof may crop up, like small leaks. The heavy rains and high winds can put significant stress on your roofing system. If you notice any problems after a storm, reach out to a roofing specialist to schedule an inspection.
Myth #4: You Should Never Walk on Your Roof
Homeowners have informed us that they are hesitant to perform necessary roof maintenance because they have heard that you should never walk on your roof. The question of whether you should walk on your roof is more complex than a simple yes or no. If you have excessive leaf buildup or need to make a swift repair, you may have no choice.
What you do not want to do is make a habit of walking on your roof. Asphalt shingles can suffer granular loss and can become dislodged. Clay and concrete tiles are also susceptible to cracking and splitting. A good rule of thumb is to only go up on your roof when required, and if you are unsure, call a professional roofer for guidance.
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