As one of the key elements of anybody's house, roofs have been serving mankind since the dawn of time. This tradition has undergone many changes: from the materials we use to manufacture roofing material to the techniques and tools for building a durable, high-quality roofs. People often do not see the amount of significance their roofs mean for their houses, and the effort put in preserving and maintaining the roof is usually not enough. Here are some of the most basic properties of your roof that influence not only your house and your daily life but also your surroundings and the environment.
The Roof's Main Purpose is Protection
No other structural element of a house is more vital to its protection than the roofing system – and it's perfectly understandable. The weather is your biggest obstacle when it comes to successfully maintaining your house and shielding your assets from climatic elements. That's why the right choice of material plays
the biggest role here.
Asphalt, being a relatively affordable option, provides sufficient protection, but nothing beats naturally occurring materials, such as slate or clay, which will not require frequent maintenance once installed. Metal is also a solid option, and, along with slate and clay, will last almost a hundred years if treated with care.
The importance of the roof's integrity is also something worth mentioning – if a roof has suffered any damage, you should have it repaired immediately, even if it's only a single tile that needs replacing. Regular inspections and consultations with your trusted roofing contractors will frequently find something that requires your immediate attention, and you will be thankful for it.
A Good Roof is Energy-Efficient
Making your energy costs significantly lower by modifying some of the elements of your roof is to be taken seriously, and there are several crucial aspects to your roof that make it energy-efficient.
Firstly, there's the temperature of your roof. Dark-colored roofs, such as asphalt or wood shingles, usually add up to the roof's temperature by absorbing the sun's energy and heat. On the other hand, light-colored roofs, such as metal or clay, reflect sunlight, thus saving more energy. If you have a dark roof, and you don't have the time or means to replace it for a lighter version, consider having it covered with a cool roof coating, which will greatly lower your energy costs.
Secondly, the insulation also affects the amount of energy you need to regulate the temperature in your house. Sometimes a well-insulated roof can even render the air-conditioning unnecessary in hot, arid climates.
If you are only now deciding on your new roofing system you wish to install, make sure you choose the proper material that suits the climate you live in, and be sure to select a qualified, professional roofer to avoid any liabilities – by inspecting your house, they will often determine what's best for you.
Beauty Also Plays a Key Role
The appearance of your house is frequently determined by the looks of your roof. The outer qualities of certain materials can make your house more beautiful. People often cite slate and clay as one of the most aesthetically appealing materials for any house because they offer a rustic, Mediterranean charm.
If you want your house to stand out among others, choose a roof that will rejuvenate its appearance. Even though it may seem trivial, the right choice of the roof's style, color, and shape can genuinely influence the final outcome when it comes to the image of your house, and, subsequently, its value on the market.
Your Roof Influences the Environment Too
Not only does your roof influence your life, but it also has an impact on the environment too. It is very important that you choose a roof that meets local, federal, and national standards of environmentally friendly roofs.
The question of using recyclable, bio-degradable products is a hot one today, and the roof is no exception. According to Ecohome.net, the choice of eco-friendly material is a priority when thinking about installing a new roof. Asphalt shingles are not the best material, while light metals are the option to go with. The color is also a factor – darker roofs are responsible for the so-called 'heat island effect' of high temperatures in big cities.
Conclusion
Although it may seem your roof only plays the role of protecting the insides of your home, it has a much bigger purpose than just being an umbrella. It has an impact on your energy costs, the outer appearance of your house, and the environment. The list could go on and on, as the roof is one of the most important elements of your house.