Many people think that strong winds and thunderstorms are all that age their roofs in the summer. What surprises many is that the heat of the summer and the sun can lead to a prematurely aging roof. In fact, no matter how well our roofs were installed or what material or shingle type, eventually you will need a roof replacement in Winston-Salem.
The Sun Ages Everything
Just like the sun ages our skin, it ages our roof’s shingles. Between the heat and UV rays, the sun takes its toll on a roof. Have you ever been on a roof on a sunny day? The roof’s surface temperature can be more than 150 degrees! And it’s not just the shingles. The boots (rubber rings around your vents and other roof protrusions) dry out. As they dry out and crack, they no longer protect your home from the water they’re meant to keep out. Finally, the sealant used on flashing at the chimney and dormers dry out just as the boots. Your boots and sealant should be checked every few years during your routine roof inspections. They will likely need replacing a few times during the life of your roof.
Trees & Shrubs Do Damage Too
You may think because you have a few lovely shade trees hanging over your home that your roof is better protected from aging. However, when those tree branches rub against the shingles, they rub off the granules. This weakens them. Of course, in strong winds where limbs and branches come down of your roof, there is more significant damage which may lead to an insurance claim roof replacement in Winston-Salem. And, when you don’t keep your gutters clear, they back up and cause issues from decaying roof decks and fascia to damaged shingles. All of these prematurely age a roof.
Aging Happens from the Inside Out Too
Although we talk about shingles a lot, your roof is more than just shingles. It’s a system that works together to protect your home. When your roofing system is properly installed and maintained, your roof lasts somewhere between 15 and 25 years depending on the type of shingles. In important part of your roofing system is the ventilation system. Your soffits let cooler air in and the box or ridge vents let the hot air out. If you don’t have proper ventilation, heat builds up. That heat in your attic can more rapidly age your shingles. Talk to your roofing contractor about the ventilation in your attic and whether it’s sufficient next time they’re out. If you’re considering a roof replacement in Winston-Salem and have box vents on your roof, ask about ridge vents and if they are an option during your new roof installation.
Trust Cooley Roofing for Your Roof Replacement in Winston-Salem
As a locally owned and operated roofing company in Clemmons, NC, we service the Winston-Salem and Triad with a variety of services. Although we’re best known for our roofing services, we also replace siding and windows. And, we offer financing for our services through Hearth Financial. Call us today for your comprehensive roofing inspection and repair or replacement estimate at (336) 766-6488 or fill out our contact form.
