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What Factors Affect The Lifespan Of My Roof?

What Factors Affect a Roof's Service Life?It is impossible to overstate the importance of the roof that protects any residential or commercial building. A sound roof shields the people and things inside from the elements, but the roof is also essential for protecting the entire building’s structural components. A total roof replacement can be costly and inconvenient. Still, you may be able to avoid being surprised by the end of your roof’s practical life if you understand the various factors that can contribute to its lifespan.

Does the Choice of Material Impact a Roof’s Lifespan?

The material that you choose can have a direct on your roof’s longevity. Metal roofs tend to have longer life spans than asphalt shingles, but the asphalt shingles’ quality cannot be discounted. Three-tab asphalt shingles are typically the most economical, but they also have much shorter lives than higher-quality shingles. If you are installing asphalt shingles, be sure to ask your roof contractor to quote your material costs separately from the labor costs. You will often notice that the material costs account for virtually all of the difference in price between a three-tab style and a heavier top-end shingle that could last two or three times longer than the cheaper option.

Does the Choice of an Austin Roofing Contractor Influence the Longevity of a Roof?

Always deal with a reputable roofing contractor with extensive experience in the type of replacement roof you need. If the contractor cuts corners or fails to install the roof correctly, your roof will likely fail prematurely. A roof is more than just the top layer that you can see. Underneath your roof covering are several layers that comprise an entire system, including your roof deck and underlayment. Unless a contractor makes sure that all roofing system components are sound and properly installed, your roof covering can have a shorter life.

How Does Weather Affect the Life of a Roof?

Weather plays a critical role in the life of Austin roofing. A severe hailstorm can inflict widespread damage on asphalt shingles, but it can also crack the flashing that seals roof penetrations against water penetration and may even crack the decking. High winds can remove shingles, tiles, or panels, and they can also bring down tree limbs or hurl objects onto the roof that could inflict damage. However, your roof is not impervious to the effects of typical weather. Over time, even rain and sunlight can damage your roof.

Can Maintenance Affect the Life of a Roof?

A professional maintenance program can often help you extend your roof’s life by identifying and correcting minor issues before they can progress to severe damage. At least once every year and again after a severe storm, you should have a reliable Austin residential roofing contractor conduct an inspection of your roof and make any necessary roof repair. Seemingly small issues, including broken or bent flashing, exposed fasteners, vegetation growing on or scraping against your roof, and loose or damaged shingles, can lead to damage that may extend far beyond your rooftop.

Can Poor Attic Ventilation Shorten the Life of a Roof?

Ventilation is so critical that most roofing materials manufacturers will not honor a warranty if a contractor or homeowner installs their products over an attic with inadequate ventilation. Poor ventilation traps heat and moisture in the attic space, and both heat and humidity can shorten the lives of roofing products and components above the attic.

Why Should I Call Alpha Roofing?

Alpha is a highly respected company providing residential and commercial roofing services in the Austin metropolitan area. Our roofing services include asphalt shingle and metal roof installations, chimney repairs, flat roof replacement, flashing repairs and installations, emergency roof repair, moss removal, maintenance plans, and skylight installation. We are headquartered in Round Rock and serve customers throughout Austin and the surrounding area. Our reputation for craftsmanship, professionalism, and customer service is unmatched, but our rates are highly competitive. If you would like to request a free roof inspection or quote, either submit the online form or call 512-777-1086.