Roof maintenance is important in keeping your roof in good condition and reducing the risk of needing costly repairs or premature roof replacement. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about roof maintenance, which can cause homeowners to make poor decisions about their roof’s upkeep leading to costly issues down the road.
In this article, solar roofing contractor LePage and Sons Roofing LLC discusses six common misconceptions about roof maintenance and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: As long as you do not see any leaks, your roof is in good shape.
If your roof is not leaking, it should be fine, right? Wrong. It is possible that your roof has suffered extensive damage during a recent rainstorm, but the warning signs have not started to materialize yet. Certain forms of damage like dark-colored stains on the ceiling only appear when enough water has collected in certain areas of the roof. And by the time you notice signs of moisture-related problems, it is likely too late to mitigate damage to the roofing structure.
That is why it is crucial that you let a certified roofer conduct a thorough inspection of the roof once or twice a year. Through routine assessments, roofers can spot and address relatively minor issues before they start to compromise other parts of your home.
Myth 2: It does not matter who inspects, repairs or replaces your roof.
It is absolutely essential to vet your roof replacement and repair contractor before hiring them. In addition to proper licensing and insurance, they need to have the necessary experience to be able to detect the warning signs of early roofing damage. For example, are there buckling or curling shingles that need to be replaced? Are the nearby tree branches scratching off the protective coating of the roof? Is there any loose flashing that may allow water to leak into the home?
Furthermore, unqualified roofers are more likely to make costly repair errors, such as failing to install drip edges or using the incorrect style and length of nails, which can decrease the performance of the roof. Usually, the number of years a roofing company has been in the industry should give you a good idea of the roofer’s level of expertise.
Myth 3: Gutters are not related to roof maintenance.
Your roof and gutters go hand in hand in protecting your home from weather conditions. In fact, failing to attend to your gutter system can present a host of water-related issues in no time. The rainwater or snowmelt that runs off your roof goes directly to the gutters and downspouts. If these components are not firmly secured or the drip edge is not properly installed, you could end up with a flooded basement, eroded soil or damaged foundation. Overflows can also cause lingering problems, such as discoloration, warping or rot, according to a solar roofing contractor.
Make a point to clear out your gutters at least twice a year. Depending on the type of foliage you have near your home, you may want to attend to your gutters more frequently.
Myth 4: The more insulation your attic has, the better.
Insulation helps reduce the transfer of heat from the conditioned spaces of your home to the outside. When you are running your cooling unit on a hot summer day, attic and siding insulation ensures cool air does not seep out, allowing your home to stay cooler longer. The insulation in your roof and attic is generally recommended to have an R-value between 30 and 49, or 60 in colder climates.
While attics with inadequate insulation are a common issue that many roofers encounter, particularly in older residences, it is also possible to over-insulate these spaces. Too much insulation in the attic does not only interfere with the healthy circulation of air, but it will also trap moisture and create a damp environment where mold and mildew grow, potentially resulting in the need for emergency roof repair.
Myth 5: Power washing is the best way to clean your roof.
While power washing may work to get rid of mold or algae from a tile roof, it can promote long-term complications, such as etching the surface of the tile and cutting through sealants. If you have composition shingles, do not ever pressure wash them. Too much pressure on the shingles can loosen the ceramic-coated granules and cause premature wear and tear. Instead, opt for a brush-off solution — a milder option for removing undesirable vegetation — or let a professional do it.
Myth 6: There is no difference between cheap shingles and quality shingles.
Contrary to what some may believe, the quality of roofing shingles is not some marketing trick. Instead, it directly impacts the durability and weather resistance of your roof replacement. For example, standard asphalt shingles normally last up to 20 years, whereas higher-grade asphalt shingles can last up to 40 years.
A cheaper price tag might be an appealing option, especially if you are working with a tight budget. However, when it comes to making an investment like a roof, it is critical that you put an emphasis on the quality of the products you are purchasing as well as the additional features that can help you maximize your return on investment. If you are not too familiar with the quality of different brands, it is best to opt for reputable brands like GAF. When installed by Master Elite® contractors, GAF roofing systems are eligible for exclusive warranties that offer great value for your money. The Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty by GAF provides coverage for material defects for up to 50 years and workmanship defects for 25 years.
Contact Us for All Your Roof Maintenance Needs
When it comes to top-quality residential roofing services in Massachusetts, GAF Master Elite roofer LePage and Sons Roofing LLC is the name to trust. Our skilled team can handle everything from solar roof installation to emergency roof repair and routine maintenance — all with the assurance that comes from years of experience. Give us a call at (508) 295-6483 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment with one of our roofing experts.