3 Reasons Why Your New Roof Could Fail (and How to Prevent It)

Installing a roof is a big project for most property owners. A new roof presents the opportunity of realizing energy savings, giving your property's exterior a new look, and creating additional space in the attic. However, what many people don't anticipate when installing a new roof is the structure's failure. A new roof can fail to deliver on functionality and aesthetics, and having this in mind can help you take the right measures to prevent the problems. Here are some of the top reason why your new roof can end up failing and the steps you can take to avoid the catastrophe.

Wrong choice of materials

Just because you find asphalt shingles, metal, or slate roofs on the market doesn't mean that they are all the same. Some materials are of poor quality and will end up leaking and developing other issues within a short period. Make sure that you invest in high-quality materials that are resilient to weather elements and can last for decades.

You may also end up with a material that isn't suited for your location. For instance, if you live in the coastal regions, installing a metal roof may not be a great idea. Exposure to salt can cause the metal to rust. The strong winds coupled with corrosion will shorten the lifespan of the roof. If you have to go for metal, choose alloyed steel that has a zinc coating to prevent corrosion.

Inadequate ventilation

A poorly ventilated roof will not only fail, but it can cause condensation problems in your attic space and the rest of the home. Inadequate ventilation during the summer can cause the heat to damage the roofing structure and shorten its lifespan. Additionally, it encourages moisture formation in the interior part of the roof, and this can promote mold growth in the attic. When installing a roof, ensure that adequate ventilation is provided. This will facilitate a smooth flow of air in and out of the home and eliminate excess moisture in the attic.

Use of caulk instead of flashing

When a roof is installed, there are natural gaps that will be left around the skylight, corners, and edges. These spaces should be sealed to prevent rainwater from entering the home. Flashing is the best material that should be used to seal these gaps in the roof. However, some people end up using caulk for the project. Caulk is not as durable as flashing, and when exposed to the weather elements, it can wear away fast. The result will be roof leaks which can cause significant damage to the home. Use flashing to seal the gaps on your roof as it is durable and resilient to water, snow, and other elements.

Finally, even with the right materials, poor installation can cause your roof to fail. Hire a qualified contractor for the installation work so that the roof can last for decades and withstand the elements.