Owning a home is a milestone that many people dream of attaining. When you bought your home, you probably thought about all the family gatherings and holiday dinners you were going to host at your house. With the milestone of buying a home, though, comes a lot of responsibility. In order for your home to last many decades, you have to maintain it. Having a good roof is necessary in maintaining your home. This is why it is important to have great shingles.
Why Do You Need a Good Roof?
Serves as Protection
The purpose of your roof is to protect your home from the outside world. When you have a good roof, it prevents snow, rain, and debris from getting into your house. A leaky roof can cause mold and mildew to develop in your home. Just one small leak can cause major water damage in your home.
Improves Curb Appeal
When you have a good roof, you are increasing the value of your home. If you have a saggy roof that has moss growing on it, this signal to others that you do not maintain your roof or your home. Should you decide to sell your home, a good roof will tell a potential buyer that the rest of the house is also in good shape. This can mean that you are able to sell your home for even more money.
Helps With Energy Efficiency
Having a structurally sound roof with the right ventilation and insulation will prevent your house from having massive air leaks. The lack of air leaks will allow you to run your air conditioner at a higher temperature without feeling hot. Your bills for heating and cooling your home will also decrease.
What to Know About Shingles
In the United States, roughly 90% of houses have composite asphalt shingles. This is because shingles tend to be durable, easy on the wallet, and fairly simple to install. It costs around $8,000 to shingle a roof. Shingles are made by mixing asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral composite. Known for being low maintenance, they last three decades. They can then be reused to construct pavement. The great thing about shingles is you can buy them in a variety of colors. However, you want to keep in mind that the sun can fade them over time. Shingles hold up in most climates.
Architectural
Architectural asphalt shingles tend to be thicker than three-tab. The installation process allows you to have a layered texture. It is made from higher quality materials which means that is costs more money. When compared to three-tab, the installation process also takes longer. These shingles are weather resistant and last between 15 and 30 years.
Three-Tab
Three-tab asphalt shingles are faster to install. It kind of looks like a brick pattern once it is installed. These shingles are thinner than architectural ones. They do not do very well in high winds. Typically, these shingles last between 7 and 15 years. They are an affordable roofing option, though.
What About Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are known for durability which is why many homeowners choose them. These shingles are built to last even in the most trying weather conditions. The fact that they are affordable and widely available could play a part in why so many people swear by them. On average, an asphalt roof lasts 25-40 years, provided they are installed properly. When you compare them to metal and flat roofs, you will find that asphalt shingles are easy to install. You get the best value with asphalt because, not only are they affordable, but they can keep up with the more luxurious roofing options.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Roof?
You may be wondering what the condition of your roof is. The best way to find out is to have it inspected by a professional roofer. That being said, here are some telltale signs that you may be due for a new roof:
- If your shingles are damaged or missing, it could mean your roof is worn out.
- Curls and cracks in the shingles as well as loss granules will not protect your roof from the elements.
- Light from the sky coming into your attic could mean that your roof has holes. Have it checked out immediately.
- Staining could indicate moss damage. Unchecked, this can lead to water damage.
If your roof is approaching the 20-year mark, set up a roof fund. In the event that it fails, you will have the money you need to replace it.