The best type of roof for your home significantly depends on your geographic region and exposure to harsh weather. Some roofing contractors may be more upfront and transparent about which materials are better equipped to support solar panels. If you ever intend to go solar, speak in depth with your roofing company about how to make this possible. Here are the United States’ most popular roofing materials. Asphalt Shingles Found all throughout the East Coast and Midwest, the asphalt shingle is the most common material a roofing company will be asked for. These shingles are infused with fiberglass and are waterproof. Their layers on any roof are designed for water to bead and roll off into the gutters. If you have a concern about water damage or gutter clogs, talk to your roofer about gutter guards or different shaped gutter devices. Metal Sheets These roofing materials are best equipped to support solar panels. They are also flame retardant and retain heat far better than other roof styles. Consequently, they are often in high demand in the northern states which receive heavy amounts of snow each winter, as they can support the most weight of any roof material, and keep the house warm. Metal roofs have a lifetime warranty of at least 30 years. Clay Shingles These shingles are found in the American Southwest and West Coast as well as Mexico. They are part of the Spanish Style homes and are remarkably durable in climates that receive little rain. These materials can be flat or rounded to promote water runoff. Their warranty has yet to be bested: Clay shingles have a life expectancy of over 100 years. Regardless of roofing material, roofing contracting companies recommend that your roof be professionally inspected twice a year, after the warmest and coldest days of the year (per Facilities.net). It makes sense that every region has adopted a roofing style that best fits the climate and culture. California is heavily influenced by Mexico, its neighbor to the south, and Minnesota by Canada to the north. If you haven’t had an inspection for your roof in quite some time and you’re in the Treasure Valley area, contact Little Buckaroo Construction today for an estimate and assessment!
The roof is one of the most important parts of your house for keeping you and your family safe. It’s also typically the most expensive to replace if it gets damaged, so it pays to keep an eye on any signs that indicate impending problems. Here are some telltale signs that suggest your roof needs work done soon. 1. Leaks If water is dripping through the ceiling of your home, there’s a good chance it’s coming from your roof. If you see signs of leakage or even notice water stains on the walls or ceilings in certain areas, this could be a problem with your roof. Never wait for leaks to get worse before having them fixed. Water damage is one of the most expensive problems to fix. 2. Damaged shingles If you notice small or large gaps between your shingles, this is a sign that there is an issue. Also, look for loose and curling shingles as these will need to be replaced soon. Remember that if just one section of the roof needs work, it may only be a matter of time before other areas need attention. 3. Missing or Damaged Flashing Flashing is the thin metal sheeting or rubber that goes around vent pipes, chimneys, and skylights to keep out water. If you notice any of these areas are damaged, missing flashing, or are letting in moisture, call a roofing contractor to take a look. 4. Sagging Roofing If you notice your roof is sagging, this could signify that the structure below it has weakened. This can be caused by excessive weight on the roof or damage to the supports below it. Both could be signs of bigger problems with your roof. It’s very important to call roofing services right away to prevent further damage. 5. Physical Damage If a branch from a tree has fallen against your roof or hail damaged it, this is a good indication that the roof should be inspected by a professional. Just one area of damage can cause serious problems elsewhere on the roof, so don’t wait for more issues to develop. 6. Age of Roof If your roof is more than 25 years old, it’s time to start thinking about a roof replacement. According to LinkedIn, roofing replacements account for up to 94% of the overall volume in North American roofing projects and 91% of the value of roofing projects. Roofing services are essential to ensure that your roof stays in top condition. Even when roofs look fine, certain issues may develop over time. If you notice any of the above signs, contact us for an inspection.
