Roofs are one of the most essential parts of a building, yet they’re often overlooked. They protect us from the elements and keep us safe and dry, but how much do we really know about them? In this article, we’ll explore 10 interesting roofing facts that you probably didn’t know before. From the materials used to the importance of ventilation, and even the impact on resale value, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and learn more about the roofs over our heads!
#1 – Your Location Determines the Roof You Have
It’s no secret that the roof you have is largely determined by where you live. For example, if you live in the desert, chances are you’ve got a clay or ceramic roof. If you’re in the Pacific Northwest, you’ll probably find yourself with a shingle roof. But if you’re somewhere in the middle, you can thank your lucky stars that you get to sport a shingle roof! Of course, there’s more to it than just style, as the right kind of roof is essential for insulation, deflecting the sun, and standing up to the elements. So don’t just go picking roofs based on their looks, choose wisely!
#2 – There’s More to a Roof Than Just Shingles and Wood
When you look at a roof, you may think all you see is shingles and wood. But if you take a closer look, you’ll find there’s plenty more that goes into the construction of a roof. For starters, there’s a deck that supports the weight, an insulator barrier to protect from rain and snow, metal flashing to guide water off the edges, and a drip edge to finish it up. And don’t forget about the ventilation system, without which the roof would be a disaster!
#4 – You Can’t Just Put One Roof on Top of Another
Sure, it might sound like an easy cost-cutting measure, but don’t be fooled. Covering one roof with another can be quite dangerous. Not only could it cause the existing issues to remain, but it can also add extra weight and potentially cause the whole thing to collapse.
#5 – Roofs Aren’t DIY Projects
DIY construction projects are awesome, but a roof is definitely not one of them. A roof must be installed with precision and meet strict structural standards in order to meet building codes and function properly. So if you’re thinking of taking on this task yourself, you may want to think twice.
#6 – Roofs Need to Vent
Ventilation is key when it comes to roofs. Airflow helps to keep temperatures down and to keep the moist air out. This helps the wood withstand the test of time and keeps the shingles and flashing strong and intact.
#7 – Roofs Can Be Environmentally Smart
Not only can you get roofs that look good, but you can also get roofs that are good for the environment. Materials that trap heat in the winter, deflect solar energy, and reduce stress on your HVAC system are all great ways to conserve power and help out mother nature.
#8 – There are Professional Roof Cleaners
Cleaning a roof is no small task, and it can be quite intimidating. But luckily, there are professional, certified roof cleaning companies that have the right tools and products to do it right. So don’t be afraid to call in the professionals!
#9 – Bad Roofs Affect Resale Value
A bad roof can really put a damper on your home’s curb appeal, and it can drastically reduce your resale value. In fact, it can even lead to your home being condemned by inspectors if it’s in really bad shape.
#10 – Roofs are (Almost) Immortal
If you get a roof with the right materials, you can expect it to last a very, very long time. Some materials can last up to a century if you don’t put too much stress on them. So if you want a roof that will live on for generations, you know what to do!