If you are looking for an economical option in roofing your home, you may be wondering what a roof's lifespan is. While you do not want a cheap roof that will not last, there are some things you can do to extend the life of your roof.
Rubber Roofing: While rubber roofing has its advantages, it is not a good choice for any roofing project. Rubber does not stand up well to a lot of weather, so it is not a good option for roofs that are likely to be exposed to the elements in high winds or snowstorms. Additionally, rubber shingles tend to shrink over time, reducing their effectiveness. Rubber roofing has an expected lifespan of around ten years, but asphalt shingles typically last between twenty and thirty years.
Modified bitumen (ASTM): These types of roofing materials are more effective than regular asphalt shingles, especially when it comes to resisting moisture and sunlight. They are also easy to install, making them a good choice for people who are handy with tools and do not mind the extra work involved. Although they are slightly more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, they can still be quite affordable and offer a great value.
Tar Roofing: Tar roofs are durable and can last up to 30 years or more. This is a good choice if you are looking for a roof that will remain intact in the most severe weather conditions. Tar roofing tends to come in two different grades: standard grade and advanced grade. Advanced grade tar roofs are more costly because they are tougher and require more maintenance.
Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingle roofs, also known as tar roofs, are exceptionally durable, but they are also expensive. They are relatively inexpensive but will cost more in the long run. They have a good lifespan and can last anywhere from fifteen to twenty years depending on the type of asphalt they are made from and how often you apply them.
Aluminum Roofing: This is a type of roof that is used as a substitute for traditional roofing materials. They are a better choice for environmentally conscious homeowners who do not have many concerns about toxic roofing materials. However, aluminum shingles require regular cleaning and may crack over time.
Slate Roofing: Slate roofs are also popular, especially among builders and contractors because of their versatility. Slate is used to make all
types of roofs including asphalt, rubber, and tar roofs. Slate roofs are not as durable as their other counterparts but may be able to withstand harsher climates.
No matter what type of roof you choose, be sure to ask the contractors about the amount of maintenance needed for your roof. If you do a little research before hiring them to do your roof, you will know exactly what you need to do to prolong the life of your roof.
One of the most basic things that you should keep in mind is cleaning the tiles every three months. If the tiles are old, they may begin to rot over time and cause a lot of damage to the roof. If you do not clean the tiles regularly, you may start to see leaks all the time and have water damage in your home.
When you use a trowel on the tiles, make sure to use a mild soap that will not be damaging to the tiles. If you spill something on the tiles, scrub it off as soon as possible.
If you are using tar roofs, always remember to always use a protective cover when you work around the tar. Never wear gloves while handling the tar and never use your bare hands.
Protect your car from harsh UV rays that can discolor the paint job on the windows and make them fade over time. It is also important to protect any items that are on the roof from harmful chemicals, such as cleaners and pesticides. Make sure you
hire a roof contractor Atlanta at least once every six months. To prolong your roof's lifespan, you should also check it periodically for leaks.