What’s over your head matters a lot-. That’s right, the roof. If it resonates, you’re likely one of those thinking ahead about the overall quality and durability of your roof. But among the myriad material options available, asphalt stands as one of the most popular in North America.
Why is this important? By understanding asphalt roofs and their benefits, you can protect your investment effectively.
Asphalt Roofing in General
Roofing made from asphalt comes in rectangular panels known as shingles. These shingles are lightweight, simple to install, and adapt to many different architectural styles, which makes them an ideal choice for millions across the globe. Ranging from basic three-tab shingles to substantial architectural styles, these offer varying degrees of thickness, durability, and lifespan.
Benefits and Importance
You might wonder why there’s a need to focus on asphalt roofs specifically. Among its numerous benefits, cost-effectiveness, beauty, product versatility, and durability stand out clearly.
Particularly if you ponder on the question – how long does an asphalt roof last? The answer lies usually between 15-30 years! A lot depends on maintenance routines and climatic conditions, though.
Asphalt Shingle Basics
Asphalt shingles dominate two primary categories- dimensional and three-tab (also known as strip) shingles. Three-tab types cost less but appear flatter with less thickness, while dimensional shingles possess a textured appearance and tend to last longer due to increased thickness.
Different Types Available
When choosing between different types of shingles for your home, consider factors like design elements of your house along with a set budget. You could opt for luxury or premium styles that mimic natural slates or shakes, sans their maintenance issues. Remember, roof replacement is one of the ways to add value to a home, so the materials you choose are important.
Durability of Asphalt Shingles
The lifespan of these roofing materials heavily relies on many factors, such as installed quality, roof pitch, and the region’s climate. For instance, asphalt shingles tend to wear out faster in areas that experience harsh weather conditions.
Lifespan Factors
More than mere aesthetics, dimensional shingles offer greater durability and are better at shedding water, hence delivering longer lifespans. Consistent routine maintenance also plays a pivotal role in extending the lifespan.
Weather Resistance Qualities
Hail storms have cost insurers billions of dollars over the years, so strong roofing materials are crucial. Asphalt roofing holds excellent weather resistance capabilities. It can withstand storms, hail, and other extreme weather effects due to its fire-resistance and wind-resistance qualities, thus serving your home with strong, robust protection over the years.
Maintaining Asphalt Roof
Maintenance doesn’t necessarily mean climbing onto the roof every week! Scheduling periodic checks to identify early signs of damage or issues due to weather, ensures maximum life expectancy of your asphalt roof.
Regular Inspection Needs
About the inspection – typically, semi-annual inspections along with after-storm checks can be enough under normal circumstances. This seems like a workable solution for many homeowners.
Expert vs. DIY Checks
While simple checks for missing shingles or visible leaks can easily form part of your DIY list, more thorough troubleshooting should be left to professional roof inspectors who come with the right knowledge and equipment for comprehensive inspections.
Enhancing Asphalt Roof Durability
To enhance the durability factor of your asphalt roof, consider installing additional protective layers, such as underlayment between shingles and roof deck, which add more resistance against elements of nature.
Installing Roof Underlayment
Underlayment provides a secondary water-shedding surface that aids in preventing leaks. It also shields your house from gust-driven precipitation while providing necessary ventilation for your home. Leaks can lead to different types of water damage, which can be costly, so underlayment cannot be ignored.
When to Replace Shingles
Is a damaged shingle always asking for a replacement? Not necessarily. But too many damaged ones might call for a full roof replacement. In such cases, ensure to bring in professional roofing inspectors for an accurate analysis.
Cost Efficiency & Value
Along with up-front costs, consider the long-term value of asphalt roofs both in terms of durability and property’s resale value. High-quality asphalt roofs can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your house, leading to potential increases in property values. In fact, there is a 61.1% ROI on asphalt shingles as well as the aesthetic value.
Initial Installation Costs
Though costs vary depending on local regulations and the complexity involved in installing, asphalt roofs usually feature lower installation costs compared to other alternatives, making it a budget-friendly choice for many householders.
Choosing the Right Professionals
The importance of hiring qualified professionals cannot be emphasized enough when discussing roof installation or maintenance jobs. They are well-trained and come equipped with the necessary knowledge required for handling diverse roof issues seamlessly, delivering fool-proof outcomes.
To Conclude
Asphalt roof’s durability has successfully earned them the popular status they enjoy today. But remember, it’s not a simple set-and-forget system. Regular maintenance, including professional roof inspections and timely repair interventions, stands key to its longevity.
