Getting a new roof on your home is a big step. There are many different aspects of getting a new roof and it’s important to know some of these things so you can make a more informed roofing decision. It will also help you understand your new roof and some of the choices that you will be given during the roofing installation. A good roofing contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan will help you make the right decisions and also explain each decision to you letting you know exactly how the project is going and the pros and cons of each decision.
Must Know Elements of Good Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan
Even if you have a roof installed already these tips can help you better understand just what your roof is to perform and protect your home. Having a roof that doesn’t protect you from the water that could end up leaking in your home may mean one of the components in the roof has failed and getting roof repair done quickly is a must. The following items are all elements of the roof and each one can fail for a variety of reasons. Making sure they are installed correctly by a qualified roofing contractor in Ann Arbor is a must.
Roofing Material Choice
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material choice in Ann Arbor Michigan with metal roofing coming in second. Both materials can protect your home from weather and both come in a variety of styles and colors. They can even come in several different qualities as well. The best way to determine the quality of the material is by the manufacturer’s warranty that is offered on the product. Obviously, longer warranties will mean the roofing material is of a higher quality. Keep in mind also that maintenance costs of each roofing material over the years. Typically, most roofing materials are designed to last about 20 years.
Underlayment Choice for Your Home’s Roof
Materials are typically placed underneath the roofing being installed. This is used most commonly with asphalt shingle roofing but may also be used with metal roofing. This protective barrier serves two purposes. The first is to offer an additional layer of waterproofing for the roof and the second is an insulating factor. The underlayment can be made of synthetic materials or organic materials with some roofing manufacturers offering a special blend of underlayment for better protection. Typical asphalt roofing felt comes in different thicknesses as well. Usually 15 and 30 pounds although both perform the same function on the home’s roof.
Typical asphalt roofing felt comes in different thicknesses as well. Usually 15 and 30 pounds although both perform the same function on the home’s roof.
Gutters and Ridges on Your Roof
Two areas of your roof that are usually the most noticeable is the valleys and ridges. This area can also be a place where leaks form especially in the valleys of the roof. This is where flat surfaces of the roof join together. Metal is usually used to help support this area and seal off any leaks. For higher quality roof finishes this area may have copper added for more protection or even additional layers of metal to seal it properly. These areas are also very noticeable if there are mistakes on the roof or if things are not lined up properly.
Other Problem Areas on Your Home’s Roof
Once you’ve chosen the type of roofing material that will be used on your home’s roof and also made decisions on the ridges and valleys then it’s time to look at other areas of the roof that may cause problems. Many roof leaks don’t occur because of the roofing surface materials but actually from areas that are sealed and penetrate the roof. These items can include skylights, chimneys, and plumbing or ventilation pipes. Make sure all of these items are using high quality materials and inspected at least annually to keep your roof in good shape.
Use a Qualified Roofing Contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan
If you’re not using a qualified roofing contractor all the warranties of your roofing materials that are offered by the manufacturer may not apply. Always use a certified and licensed roofing contractor in Ann Arbor Michigan to do your roofing repairs or replacement.
