Myth Busting 101: Fact-Checking 7 Rampant Roofing Fallacies
Regardless of your home’s size, all property owners would know the significance of a well-maintained roof. This essential building component protects you and the inhabitants against the elements, especially if you live in an area experiencing adverse weather conditions. It can also significantly impact the property’s aesthetic appeal and comfort.
However, its constant exposure to the world will make it vulnerable and cause damage, prompting immediate roof repairs. Although many assume DIY procedures can help them, they can cost homeowners more because of possible mistakes and voiding warranties. For those reasons, you should work with professional contractors, educate yourself on costly misconceptions, and carefully plan your roofing project.
If you’re ready to protect your roof and property, this article will debunk the rampant misconceptions surrounding roofing projects.
Myth 1: Your Roof Is in Good Condition If You Don’t See Leaks
Other homeowners assume they don’t need to schedule professional roof repairs if they don’t see leaks dripping from their ceilings. Unfortunately, that’s a costly mistake. There could be underlying damage that hasn’t yet caused visible warning signs, like water stains on your ceiling. Waiting until you notice these signs means the damage has progressed significantly, and it may be too late to prevent further harm.
You can avoid this by letting a professional roofer inspect your roof regularly. It will allow them to identify and fix minor issues before they escalate into costly mistakes that affect other areas of your home.
Myth 2: More Roof and Attic Insulation Is a Good Idea
In regions with moderate climates, attic insulation prevents the house from losing hot or cold air. Contractors recommend that the roof and attic insulation should have an R-value ranging from 30 to 49 (60 in colder areas). Insufficient insulation in attics is a prevalent issue in older homes.
However, you should also know that excessive insulation can cause problems because it can obstruct proper airflow in the roof and attic, accumulating moisture and creating a suitable environment for mold and mildew growth.
Myth 3: You Can Hire Anyone to Repair or Install Your Roof
You can adequately vet roof contractors and know their expertise level by evaluating their years of experience in the industry. If you’re inexperienced with roofing, you may notice the early signs of damage. You should also know that less experienced contractors are more likely to commit errors during installation that can harm your roof.
Myth 4: You Can Install a New Roof above the Old One
A roof with multiple layers is more susceptible to damage caused by moisture than a single-layer roof. It happens because the fasteners and nails used in the installation aren’t long enough to secure the new shingles to the old ones and wooden sheathing, quickly displacing the new shingles and significantly reducing the new roof’s longevity.
Therefore, removing the old roof before installing a new one is more logical and cost-effective.
Myth 5: Roof Repairs Are the Same for All Climates and Areas
All homeowners must know there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to home improvement projects, including roof repairs. Contractors must always consider the local building codes and the area’s climate. Therefore, you should hire professionals familiar with these factors near your location.
Myth 6: It’s Okay to Choose Cheap Shingles
Many homeowners wrongly believe that the quality of shingles is just a marketing ploy. However, the quality of shingles plays a significant role in determining your roof’s longevity. For example, while asphalt shingles typically last 20-30 years, high-quality shingles can last up to 40-50 years.
Although opting for cheaper shingles can be tempting, you must prioritize quality when making a significant investment, like replacing your roof or siding.
Myth 7: You Do Not Need to Replace Roof Flashing When You Get a New Roof
Flashing is installed at roof and side wall junctions, elevation changes, skylights and chimneys on your roof that can loosen and deteriorate over time weakening the roofing system. Professional Roofing Contractors always make every effort to replace all flashings when replacing a roof.
Conclusion
Professional Roofing Contractors can help inspect, repair, or replace your roof, but you must also educate yourself about your property. You can be more enlightened by getting the facts right and working with reliable roofers.
If your home needs professional roof repair in Columbia, MD, call Columbia Roofing! We’re ready to help homeowners enjoy a safe and comfortable property with our high-quality services. Contact our local team now!
