It goes without saying that proper roof maintenance is important for the life of your roof. Unfortunately, there are some few myths and poor practices out there about roof maintenance and repair that make it complicated for homeowners to learn the best ways to take care of their roof. For example, not all homeowners know that power washing can damage their roof.
Here we have debunked such myths.
Modern Roofs Need No Maintenance:
Modern day’s roofs are stronger and durable than before.
However, that doesn’t eliminate the need of roof maintenance in any manner. Keep in mind that all roofs, if it’s new or old, need maintenance.
Another fact is that more than 80% of commercial roofs are replaced even before their age as they aren’t maintained.
That’s way preventive roof maintenance is downright important. Getting your roof maintained will keep it in top shape and lowers the issues down the road.
More Insulation Means Bigger Saving on Energy:
Well, that is just a baseless myth. Brining excessive insulation is not good. This is because it blocks ventilation openings at the soffits and eaves. Even it can lock moisture, thereby leasing to rotting, warping and mold.
There is No Connection between Gutters and Roof:
Apparently, gutters and roof have nothing to do with each other. But they share a connection. Gutter plays a vital role in keeping a structure free from water damage. If you don’t take care of them, they can affect your roof.
Let’s understand this.
What is the roof’s function?
It diverts water from your home to the gutters. This way, it doesn’t let the water getting into exterior walls and foundation as well.
The endpoint of the water coming from the roof is gutter. Clogged gutters cause leaks behind exterior walls as well as ice damming. Therefore, get your gutters cleared frequently.
One Asphalt Shingle Can be Used for All Conditons:
Shingles are known for adding durability. Coming with the warranty of 50 years, they can resist up to 130 mph wind. But not all shingles are the same. Some shingles are used for specific purpose.
In humid conditions, some roofs are vulnerable to black mold. To cope with this concern, algae resistant shingles are installed. They are made from copper and zinc. These materials turn into algaecides once they come into the contact of roof water. Some shingles are also available in metal and slate option.
Power Wash Takes Care of Your Roof:
Most homeowners believe that pressure wash makes the roof amazingly clean. Well, this is true. But this benefit often comes with the risk of damage. Using power wash frequently can weaken your roof, requiring you to get it repaired sooner or later. Sometimes, the damage reaches beyond to underlying sheets of plywood from shingles.
Material Warranties for All Roof Problems:
Material warranties are for covering the defects in the material only. The defects make up just less than 1% of roof failure that is triggered by poor installation, severe weather and lack of maintenance. Material warranties won’t cover these things. In fact, extended warranties won’t do any good for you in this scenario.
The Sun Won’t Affect the Roof:
While roof protects you from harsh sun exposure, it is not immune to the harsh sunrays. Sun can age roof shingles as the UV rays breakdown the molecular structure of a roof gradually over time.
Luckily, you can slow down the decline of your roof by opting for regular roof maintenance, such as keeping drains open.
So these are some common misconceptions about roof maintenance you shouldn’t believe anymore. Do you have more myths to share? Just drop them to the comment box given below.