The life expectancy of one's roof depends on a number of factors; type of roofing, top quality of material, and exposure to harsh weather elements among the top. With normal upkeep and normal weathering elements, a roof can survive anywhere from ten - 100 years.
Common roofing material such as built up roofing generally lasts 12 - 20 years, metal roofing 15 - 40 years, wood shake or shingles ten - 40 years, asphalt shingles 15 - 20 years, and specialty material like slate as much as 100 years under good conditions.
Leaks commence as small cracks in roofing material that may not be visible; water could collect in an adjacent area. To detect such damage, a close inspection from the roof might be required.
A certified roofing contractor could be known as to stay away from further damage towards the roof, or personal injury to the homeowner caused by attempting to inspect it his or her self. A roof inspection must be performed annually; continuous weathering by sun, heat, rain, snow, hail, wind, and cold can trigger roofing material to break down. A certified roofing contractor will know what to look for.
A roof and soffit method should be effectively vented to stop over-heating and moisture retention, two elements that will trigger a roof to break down prematurely.
Choosing a Qualified Roofing Contractor
A certified, knowledgeable contractor offers numerous services. From entirely tearing off an old roof and replacing it having a new one, to inspecting and "certifying" an current roof. The latter is a process in which the roof is inspected and "guaranteed" to function effectively for a particular time frame; generally 2 years. The contractor takes responsibility for any required roofing repair throughout that period.
A certified contractor is knowledgeable of roof program kinds, supplies, and installation procedures very best suited to each project, and will make certain there is adequate venting.
Ask prospective roofing contractors questions like regardless of whether or not they are licensed and bonded. What liability insurance coverage they carry, and whether it's as much as date. Ask which roofing product manufacturers they may be licensed and approved by, for installation of products and warranty purposes. Also ask if they are a member of any regional or national trade organizations.
A number of resources are available to locate a certified roofing contractor; referrals, local government licensing agencies, and web web sites that offer contractors for employ, or perhaps a list of contractors that are licensed and bonded.