Your roof is one of your home’s most important assets, going through several stages during its lifetime. From that first nail hammered in during installation to the final shingle pried up during replacement, you want to understand your roof experiences so you can care for it properly. Read on to find out the main stages in the lifecycle of a roof, as explained by our Atlanta roofing contractors.
Installation
Installing a new roof is a big undertaking that requires proper planning and execution. What kind of roof do you want – asphalt shingles, metal, tile, slate, or wood shakes? Your choice depends on appearance, durability, fire resistance, and cost. Your roofing material depends on your needs, priorities, and budget. Asphalt or composite shingles are popular, affordable, and available in many styles.
Once you’ve selected a material, it’s time for installation. Shingles or panels are layered from the bottom up and secured according to the product specifications. Flashing is added around chimneys, vents, and edges to prevent leaks. Gutters and downspouts may also need to be rehung to channel rainwater away from the foundation properly.
Maintenance
Once your new roof has been installed, it’s important to maintain it to maximize its lifespan properly. During the first 3-5 years, your roof will experience normal weathering as it settles into place. Minor issues like loose or missing shingles, granule loss, and small cracks may appear.
It’s best to have a professional inspect your roof annually to check for problems and perform necessary repairs. While minor issues can often be addressed through regular maintenance, a professional roofer should inspect more significant problems.
Call a roofer immediately if you notice sagging, water stains on walls or ceilings, daylight showing through the roof, or shingles frequently blowing off during strong winds.
Restoration
As your roof ages into its teenage years, around 15 to 18 years after installation, it’s common to see signs of deterioration and damage. Shingles may start cracking, blistering or losing granules. Staining or bald spots may appear.
At this point, you have a choice to make, perform extensive repairs to restore your roof or replace the roof altogether. The first step is having a professional roof inspection to determine the extent of the damage and whether restoration is a viable option.
If only minor issues like a few cracked shingles or minor leaks are present, repairs and restoration can extend the life of your roof for several more years. However, if there are major structural issues, replacing the roof is best to avoid future headaches.
Replacement
Replacing your roof is a big project, but after 15-20 years, it’s typically time for a new one. Investing in a complete replacement is best once your roof shows signs of damage beyond repair or restoration.
The existing shingles or other roofing materials are pried up and hauled away. The roof deck, or base layer under the shingles, is checked for any water damage or weak areas that need fixing. Any damaged sections are replaced to give the new roof a solid foundation.
The new roof installation typically takes a few days for an average-sized home. Shingles or panels are layered from the bottom up and secured according to the product specifications. Flashing is added around chimneys, vents, and edges to prevent leaks. Gutters and downspouts are reinstalled to channel rainwater away from the foundation.
Consult a Professional Roofer about the Lifecycle of a Roof
A new roof is a serious investment, so you must ensure it’s done right. Hiring a professional roofer is the best way to ensure a quality installation and peace of mind for most homeowners. Professional roofing contractors have extensive experience installing and repairing all roofing systems.
To understand and expand the lifecycle of a roof, trust the professionals at Atlanta Roofing. We have over 20 years of experience installing high-quality, long-lasting roofs in Atlanta. Call us today at (843) 203-9855 to schedule a free estimate with one of our roofing experts.