If you’re thinking about having a new roof installed on your North Carolina and South Carolina home, it is important to keep in mind that there are dozens of different brands and numerous materials available to today’s homeowners. The more research you do before your project gets underway, the more confident you will feel with your final product decision.
This brief guide will help you understand some of today’s most popular roofing materials and how to care for your brand new residential roof once it is installed.
Roof materials.
Asphalt – Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material nationwide in the United States. There are a variety of colors and styles available, including basic, budget-friendly three-tab shingles and higher-end architectural asphalt shingles, which are often designed to look like some of the pricier materials you’ll learn about below. This material generally lasts for 20 to 30 years.
Wood shakes – Wood shakes are an excellent choice for homeowners who are looking for a rustic, authentic home decor look. They are perfect, for instance, for those who reside in cabins or in cabin-inspired homes. Wood shakes are often made from Cedar or Redwood, and they frequently include 50- or 60-year warranties.
Clay tiles – Clay tiles are one of the more expensive roofing options on the market today, but they are perfect for Mediterranean-inspired residences, and they offer a huge visual impact. Furthermore, there are many styles of earthen clay tiles available to consumers – some feature scalloped edges, for example – and no two tiles are exactly the same.
Roof care.
Taking care of a new roof is nothing to be nervous about. With proper maintenance, your home’s roof should keep your family safe and secure for decades to come! The following tips will help you take the best possible care of your investment.
Inspect your roof frequently – Roof inspections do not always have to be formally scheduled with an expert – though this is important at least once a year or following a severe storm – but it is important to understand that you can visually inspect your roof for missing shingles, leaks, or other issues anytime you want to. The inside of your house can even offer clues as to the state of your roof. Cracks in the ceiling, for example, can be indicative of a serious problem.
Schedule semi-annual gutter cleaning – Having your gutters cleaned twice a year is an important part of roof maintenance. Clogged gutters can lead to a variety of roof issues, including water damage and even interior structural damage.
Keep foliage trimmed – Tree branches falling on your roof can cause serious damage, so it is important to make sure all foliage is kept neatly trimmed to avoid problems. While tree trimming is something certain homeowners feel comfortable doing on their own, it is important to remember that there are professional tree trimming services throughout the Carolinas as well.
If you are serious about investing in a new roof soon, the Hatch Homes experts are here to help. Contact our office at your convenience to discuss all of the roofing products we can install, and to schedule a time for your free quote.