There are many roofing myths propagated by those who do not fully understand how roofing works. Ultimately, these myths hinder NJ homeowners from looking seriously at re-roofing their homes with materials that they want. These misconceptions hurt the roofing industry and those who work hard on roofs each day.
Here are ten roofing myths that you can ignore in the future, brought to you by your trusted roofing contractor.
Roofing Myth #1: It is possible to re-roof over existing shingles. The short response to this statement is, “No you can not.” New roofing materials require a new seat and sheeting. Covering old shingles with new materials is a terrible and costly mistake.
Roofing Myth #2: Anyone can re-roof or repair their own roof. This is one of many roofing myths that is flat out not true. Botched roofing jobs cause roof failures. Expert roofers have experience and knowledge to repair a roof the first time, leaving homeowners safe and secure inside their home investment.
Roofing Myth #3: Metal roofs stop ice formations and dams. Unfortunately, a metal roof is not any better at preventing ice than asphalt is. Unless, of course, you prevent excess heat from reaching it on the inside. Proper attic ventilation and insulation prevents ice dams, not roofing shingles.
Roofing Myth #4: A metal roof means your home will be warmer. When a home is insulated professionally, and hot air is blocked as intended, your home is no more warm with a metal roof than with an asphalt roof. Don’t be fooled by this roofing myth!
Roofing Myth #5: All asphalt shingles are the same. Sorry. Again, this statement is not true. Principally, asphalt shingles are made from similar materials; this much is true. However, asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of textures, colors, and brands. In fact, many factors separate asphalt shingles from one another, just talk to a roofing contractor for further details.
Roofing Myth #6: Metal roofs reduce a home’s resale value. Not only is this myth absurd, but it is also wholly untrue. In fact, metal roofs can increase your home’s resale value substantially. One expert even argues that a metal roof will add back almost half of the initial installation cost.
Roofing Myth #7: New roofs do not need maintenance for a long time. False. New roofs are prone to problems like any other roof. It is important to have annual roofing inspections done on freshly installed roofs and older roofs alike. In fact, if you want your new roof to last even longer, annual roof inspections should be scheduled right away.
Roofing Myth #8: No leaks means that there is nothing wrong with a roof. Because a leak is just one of the many problems a roof can have, it is not a barometer for its health. Roofs with extensive damage sometimes don’t leak at all. The only way to tell if your roof requires repair is to allow an expert roofing contractor to take a closer look.
Roofing Myth #9: There was no real snow this winter, so my roof is probably fine. Unfortunately, a lack of snow over the winter is not a valid way to tell if a roof is in disrepair. While it is true that heavy NJ snow puts undue stress and pressure on a fragile roof, sometimes the extra snow insulates the roof instead.
Roofing Myth #10: A roofing contractor costs too much money for light repairs. This statement is untrue. Much like dentistry, when you catch a problem early on, it is corrected without an issue. On the other hand, when a roof problem is left to decay and fester, the problem can grow out of your control and lead to costly repairs.
In the end, it is important not to listen to those who do not know the facts. Roofing myths often lead homeowners to believe false information. Instead, always trust a roofing professional to assess and repair your roofing issues.
Please feel free to contact us today to discuss how we can help you with your roofing repair needs.