There are many things which can cause your roof to fail. From the wayward falling branch from your neighbors yard to a hail storm which produces large hail on your home. While some of these things can not be avoided such as Mother Nature, there are factors that can influence just how long your roofing in Ann Arbor Michigan will last. And while there really isn’t anything you can do about the weather these other factors are something that should be considered to help your roof last longer.
Factors That Can Make Your Roofing in Ann Arbor Michigan Fail Sooner Than Later
Having a roof leak on your home may seem like a small problem but it can quickly turn into a costly disaster. As water enters the home through a roof leak it can start to cause damages almost immediately. One way to prevent these leaks is to ensure your roof is in good shape. Taking care of any problems that arise with the roof and having a proper maintenance routine can certainly do a lot to prevent these damages. Here are just some of the factors that can cause a roof to fail prematurely and what you can do about it if it does.
Is the Roof Installed Correctly
The very first thing you will need to know is if the roof is installed correctly. Having a qualified roofing contractor that is fully licensed and insured is a must when getting a new roof. If your home’s roof was installed by a roofer that isn’t experienced or qualified it may not even be installed correctly. This can lead to all sorts of problems even if the roof is fairly new. That’s one reason why it’s always best to skip the low-budget contractors and use a quality company to install your roof.
The Type and Quality of the Roofing Installed
Some roofing materials are designed to last for many years. Usually the best way to determine just how long a roof should last means you’ll need to look at the warranty on the roof. Most roofing materials will last between 10 and 30 years depending on the type of roofing. Three tab shingles typically don’t last as long as architectural shingles. However, no matter what type of roofing you have installed it should last at least the warranty period.
Clear Gutters on the Home
One thing that can lead to damages on the roof is clogged gutters. Keeping your home’s gutters clear and making sure water is not backing up on the roof can prevent problems. This is especially true during the fall of the year and right before temperatures drop below freezing. Clogged gutters can then help to promote roof ice dams which can damage your roof.
Trees Around the Roof
The trees around your home will also play a factor in how long your roof lasts. The biggest problem when it comes to trees is the leaves fall on the roof and collect in valleys which can prevent the roof from draining as it should. Wet leaves and debris piles on the roof can cause the shingles on your home’s roof to become discolored and may even start molding and algae growth. It you notice any type of debris that sits on your roof for longer periods of time be sure to have them removed. The other problem with trees is that branches can break and fall onto the roof which can lead to damage. It’s also a good idea to make sure none of the branches are scrubbing the roof as well.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections on the Roof
One of the most important factors that will have an impact on your home’s roof is whether you properly maintain the roof. This also includes regular inspections. Although inspections won’t prevent anything from happening it can stop further damage if something is going wrong. Regular inspections can mean the difference between a simple roof repair and a complete new roof installation. At least once per year it’s important to get a qualified roofer such as Ann Arbor Remodeling Contractor to come out and inspect the roof of your home for problems. It can prevent many damages and roof leaks from occurring. Call them today at (734) 619-1271 to schedule your roof inspection in Ann Arbor Michigan.