Expert tips for roofing

The roof over your head is one of the most important parts of your home. It shelters your possessions, protects your loved ones, and enhances the overall aesthetics of your property. That is why regular maintenance and upkeep is an important and worthy investment. In this article, we’ve gathered tips from experts on all things concerning your roof—from designing and maintaining your roof to selecting your contractor.

Tip #1: Avoid Designing Valleys in Your Roof

As a prominent feature of your home’s exterior, your roofing system can significantly affect the overall beauty and therefore value of your property. When designing your roof, the construction of peaks and valleys create the overall profile of the building. Experts recommend avoiding valleys when designing your home’s roofing system. Valleys are areas on your roof where the slopes meet forming a V-angle. Roofing contractors understand that these areas are some of the most problem-prone areas of the roof. If you are replacing your roof, consider avoiding this roofing design in order to preserve the integrity and therefore longevity of your roof.

Tip #2: Research Your Roofing Materials

It is advisable to familiarize oneself with various roofing materials available on the market before selecting an option. If cost is your greatest concern, asphalt shingles are the most popular material in the United State and they are both affordable and easy to install. If you’d like to place an emphasis on the durability of your roof, metal roofing is an attractive option. Some other aesthetically pleasing options for your roof include wood and slate, both of which enhance the curb appeal and resale value of your property. You can contact professional companies, like Team Roofing, for more information and advice for choosing the best material for your roof.

Aside from complementing your home’s architectural style with the color and texture of your roofing materials, you should also compare the energy efficiency of your options. Roofing that reflects the sun’s energy and releases it into the surrounding air keeps a property cooler meaning that less energy is required for air conditioning. In fact, ENERGY STAR certified roof products are capable of lowering the roof surface temperature by up to 50°F. This capacity is in part determined by the color of your roof which affects how much heat will be absorbed by your house. If you’re looking at darker roofing materials, you may want to reconsider.

Tip #3: Inspect and Maintain Your Roof Biannually

Twice a year in the spring and fall perform a comprehensive visual inspection of your roof. Some key problem areas to look out for include missing shingles, water spots, sagging gutters, exposed fasteners, and missing flashing. It is also important that you regularly clean and maintain good gutters. Gutters clogged with leaves and other debris lead to water damage and invite pests into the interior and exterior of your home. Another good practice is to trim the trees that line your property in the event a storm may send the branches crashing down into your roof. Other measures you should take to maintain your roof include re-caulking the flashings and checking the insulation. Check out for more tips here on how to maintain the health of your roof.

Tip #4: Select Your Contractor Wisely

The most important part of maintaining your roof is getting the job done right the first time. This is where you’ll need a licensed, professional roofing contractor who will stand behind their craftsmanship. The State of Indiana has adopted standards for licensing roofing contractors and only those who meet the standards through testing qualify for a state license. When selecting your contractor, try to choose someone who is well established. A professional roofing contractor like Roofing Chattanooga TN will have a permanent place of business, a tax identification number, insurance, and a business license. Additionally, you will want to check the customer reviews on your contractor to make sure they have a history of being committed to safety and good craftsmanship.

Well there you have it—four expert tips on roofing to make you a better homeowner. If you are currently designing the roof to your dream home, try to avoid creating valleys in the structure and select your roofing materials carefully. A good contractor can help create the vision you’re looking for with your house and once you’re happy with your roof, make sure you inspect it twice a year to keep it in good condition.

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