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Understanding Your Roof: What Every Homeowner Should Know

By
Real Estate Agent with Rise Up Local & Lead Generation Experts

The roof is considered one of the most important aspects of the home. However, most homeowners have little knowledge about the roof and all the maintenance needed. Learning more can help you to understand the importance of this component, learning more about proper care and maintenance as well as when to replace it.

Major Investment

When having a new roof installed, it’s a major investment. Thousands of dollars will be spent to ensure your new roof lasts 20 to 30 years, providing you with quality coverage of the home. The roof consists of several parts. The rafters are what start the structure of the roof, followed by sheathing and underlayment. The shingles are then added to create the rooftop. Additional components of the roofing can include flashing, ridge, hips, fascia, the eave, soffit, and the gutter.

All of these components work together to ensure that your home is protected. The roof keeps the home clear of the elements including freezing and hot temperatures, rain, sleet, snow, and hail. 

Understanding Roof Coverings

When having a new roof installed, you have several choices of covering materials. For most homeowners, the choice is to stick with traditional shingles. However, there are so many options available today, it is important to figure out what will work best for your budget as well as your home. 

Slate: This option is one that costs anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per 100 square feet. This is the most expensive, but the slate tile roof life expectancy is 40 to 175 years. The material is durable and visually appealing but can require structural support due to weight. 

Concrete Tile: This option costs $150 to $250 per 100 square feet and has a lifespan of 20 to 25 years.

Clay Tile: $200 to $600 per 100 square feet, with a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. This material requires little maintenance but may need structural support due to weight. 

Metal: With metal roof tile, you have a cost of $100 to $300 per 100 square feet, with a strong material that is lightweight and durable, able to last 20 to 25 years. 

Wood Shake: With a cost of $100 to $250, this material has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, requiring a great deal of maintenance and care. 

Asphalt Shingle: A common choice among homeowners, this shingle type will cost around $50 per 100 square feet, with a lifespan of 7 to 15 years. 

Architectural Shingle: With a price point of $60 to $80 per 100 square feet, this type is also affordable and can last from 12 to 17 years. 

What Causes Roof Damage?

A roof can easily be damaged by the elements or other natural factors. Wind, rain, snow, ice, and even the sun can cause damage to roofing. In case your roof has any leaking or damage it's best to get in touch with a roof leak repair contractor as soon as possible as this could lead to even more damage later on.

"Trees, algae, and moss are other contributing factors. A roof needs to be installed properly to be able to withstand the elements as well as have proper ventilation. With ventilation needs considered, the airflow within the attic space will help to prevent any structural damage that can be caused by moisture." - Jeff Guthrie, Phoenix Roof Repair Specialist

John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Hello Matt Lee very good report for understanding and what every homeowner should know about roof.

Jan 20, 2021 02:39 PM