The two most important structural parts of your home are the foundation and the roof. The foundation supports the walls, floor joists, and beams. If the foundation is faulty, your home may begin to experience cracks, shifting, or worse.
The other most important structure is the roof. The roof protects everything inside your home. Without a solid roof, your house would eventually fall apart and crumble. The roof, like the foundation, provides structural support.
The roof protects the home from inclement weather, protects from the heat in the summer and cold in the winter. Besides, when selling a home, one of the first things prospective home buyers have checked is the roof. Buyers may fall in love with a home, but if the roof is in ill repair, they may keep on looking. That is unless the homeowner agrees to have it replaced or fixed.
Do You Need a Roof Inspection?
How Often Should A Roof Need to Be Replaced?
If you have had a recent storm that blew off some shingles, it is time to replace them. Often a little caulk, flashing, and new shingles can do the job. If leaks are coming from the roof through the ceiling, it is time to consider replacing the entire roof. According to Consumer Reports, if your roof is out of warranty and is more than 20 years old, it is probably time to get a new roof. While replacing a new roof is costly, it is a critical part of your home and should not be overlooked.
What is the Right Roofing Material for Your Home?
When choosing the type of roof best for your home, there are many factors to consider. Roofing materials can last for 15 years, 30, and some more indestructible options can last up to 50+ years.
Here are some of the most common types of roofing materials:
- Metal roofing: Metal roofing is appealing because of its longevity, as it can last over 50 years. As it ages, copper gets a greenish patina that many find appealing. Also, if professionally installed, it can sustain winds up to 140 miles an hour. It is impact resistant will not corrode or crack. According to State Farm, they are up to two to three times more expensive and noisy during rain and hail. Also, some metal components can rust.
- Asphalt shingles: Asphalt roofs are the most popular types of roofing today. There are a variety of different asphalt shingles that last different periods of time. According to building expert Bob Villa, they usually last at least 15 years, but many will last 50 years or longer. Asphalt longevity also depends on materials and craftsmanship.
- They are durable and protect from UV rays, wind, and rain.
- Faux slate shingles: Real slate shingles can be expensive, but those made of plastic, polymer, clay, and rubber can look great. They can also last at least 20 years. One thing to be aware of, according to Consumer Reports, they can crack and fade upon impact.
- Cedar shake roofs: Professionally installed cedar shake roofs can last 20-35 years. They last longer because they are thicker, but they can be affected by humidity, quality of installation, maintenance, and proximity to saltwater. If you are close to water, you need protection against decay by having it chemically treated.
- Slate roofs: According to the New York Times, a slate roof may outlast you! It is very sturdy, but also expensive. Many homeowners forgo the real thing and opt for fake slate shingles.
How Will My Roof Stand Up to Storm Damage?
No matter what type of material your roof is made of, nothing can prevent it from storm damage, such as a tree falling on it or damage due to extremely high winds and severe hail. Each roofing material can withstand normal wear and tear. Every type of roof can potentially be damaged in a tornado and hurricane-level winds.
After a severe storm, it is wise to have your roof inspected to see if there has been any damage that is not visible to the naked eye and schedule the repair.
How Do You Know if Your Roof Needs Replacing?
Here are some signs that you need to replace your roof:
- Signs of drooping and sagging can be a sign of rotting wood and requires replacement.
- Damaged or missing shingles need to be replaced or repaired, but you may not need a new roof.
- If there is water coming in through the ceiling, you need a professional to check the entire roof.
Replacing Your Roof:
You want a qualified roofer to install or repair your roof. That is why Elysian Construction is the go-to resource for Minnesota residents hit storm damage. They are experts when it comes to roof replacement and repair. They are experts that will never compromise their reputation, will work with the customer, and complete the job on time and on budget. They receive accolades for their professional service and knowledge.
If you have concerns about your roof, contact us today, you will be pleased with the results.