Important Issues To Assess Before Commencing A Residential Roofing Project
Posted on: 3 August 2021
Most residential roofs can last between 20 and 50 years, depending on the material. However, it's common to find roofing structures that barely make it past one decade. This underperformance occurs when a roof is installed without regarding the factors that affect the structure's durability. These elements change depending on your location; thus, a roofing material may perform differently in two different areas. Therefore, to maximize your roof's performance, here are the crucial issues to assess before commencing the project.
Weather and Climate of Your Area
The weather and overall climate of your area can make or break your new roofing structure. Therefore, these factors should be a major determinant of your preferred roofing material, color, and design. Without paying attention to the weather and climate of your area, you may invest in a structure that won't stand the test of time. Therefore, consider the following issues as they pertain to the climatic conditions in your location.
Solar heat
Do you experience sweltering summers in your area? Extreme heat is one of the greatest enemies of a roofing structure. It causes some materials to blister, fade, or weaken due to continuous expansion and contraction. If you live in a hot climate area, you need to take the following steps when installing your roof:
- Choose materials such as terracotta, ceramic, concrete, metal, or rubber, as they hold up well in extreme heat.
- Invest in energy-efficient or cool roofing materials to minimize heat gain.
- Choose lighter roofing colors over dark ones to reflect UV radiation.
- Install adequate roof insulation to keep your home cool.
These measures will enable your roof to last several decades despite the unfavorable climate.
Heavy rainfall
If your area experiences heavy rainfall in the wettest months of the year, you need a roof that can properly discharge the water. Roofing designs such as flat roofs and low slopes can present problems in the future, especially if you don't take measures to waterproof the structure. Therefore, choose a high roof pitch to allow the structure to dispel rainwater fast. If you have to install a low-slope roof, invest in quality waterproofing to prevent leaks and water damage.
Roof Installations
Before choosing your roofing materials, consider any future installations you may want to undertake on the roof. Do you ever intend to install solar panels in your home? Where will you place your central heating and cooling equipment? A standard roof may not withstand the weight of heavy equipment such as solar panels and heat pumps. Over time, the structure may fail and start to leak. Therefore, consider future installations and use roofing materials that will withstand the extra weight.
Consider the above factors when planning a roofing project. For professional guidance, consult a residential roofing contractor.
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