How to weatherproof a roof

Many people assume that a roof covers the entire surface of their house. The truth is that a roof can be more than a flat piece of material on top of a house. A roof protects your house and family from weather elements such as rain, snow and hail. We will be showing you how to weatherproof your roofing system with some quick tips.

Check the Climate In Your Area

Most roofs are designed according to the climate in the region where they will be installed. Roofs built for humid climates won't be able to cope with dry conditions. This is due in part to the "R" value, or how insulation works. Roofs with cold climates (Northern), have lower R values, while roofs with warmer climates (Southern), have higher R-values. New roofing materials may be required if your home is on the warm side.

Install a Roof Vent

Install a roof ventilation to prevent snow and precipitation from accumulating on your roof. A Roof Vent is just a small exhaust fan placed on your roof close to the place it meets your home. Roof vents have a chimney effect, which draws cool air in from outside and pulls heat away from the inside of your home. Roof vents are great at keeping moisture out of your home. Consider installing two or three roof vents in areas with very cold winters to allow for warm, moist air and light to escape.

Don't be afraid of replacing old Shingles

Shingles can become worn over time and break down or fall off during storms. Even though it might not seem that important, small pieces of shingles could blow into ventilation systems or roof gutters, causing damage of hundreds of dollars. You should immediately contact a Roofer if your shingles start to lose their shine.

Aeration-ventilation System

Make sure your Roof stays dry by installing an aeration/ventilation system. This is one the most subtle, yet effective, ways to weatherproof your Roof. An Aeration-and Ventilation Systems is a fan with power cables, which run into your attic space (where you have insulation). These fans blow warm air on the areas that snow accumulates and prevent it from forming. The fan keeps these areas sufficiently warm so that icicles don’t form or freeze. This prevents dangerous Roof situations where your Roof might collapse.

Metal flashing is a good choice

Roof Shingle Roof or Roof Shingle Roof contractors will often see holes in places where two Roofs meet, such as between the Roof and the gutter. These holes are caused over time by water damage due to storms and freezing temperatures. Flashing can be applied around the hole to prevent future damage. Flashing can be bought at hardware shops and home improvement centers. Make sure your roofer installs the flashing correctly if he sells you metal flashing. Metal flashing can easily be attached to two Roofs with screws or nails. They should "butt up" against the other without any gaps. Water won't be able to penetrate the Roof and cause additional Roof damage.

Install an Ice & Water shield around your chimney

Install an ice and/or water shield around the chimney to protect it from the elements. Roof Contractors can inspect the Roof and chimney for possible cracks that could occur if the Roof is very old. Roofing Contractors will recommend you get an ice &/or water shield kit for your chimneys. Ice & Water Shields are a type if metal membrane contractors use to wrap around metal buildings like chimneys. Even though it is difficult to install, ice and water seals will protect your Roof from leaks in severe storms.

Purchase a Roof Built with Stronger Materials

If you live in a stormy area or have experienced Roof damage from past storms then consider getting a roof made of more durable or heavier materials than regular Roofs. Roofing Contractors will offer a variety of Roof materials so you can discuss your options with these professionals before deciding the right Roof material for your home.

Roof flashing replaced

Roof flashing can be damaged by water. A Roofing Contractor should replace it with a piece of new metal flashing. Roof flashing can be installed on any Roof by Roofers and is made to withstand severe weather conditions. Be careful not to use caulk or any other materials for your Roof. This can cause cracking and even break down. Roofers will insist that roofers use roofing flashing made from roofing metal. You should contact your Roofer if you're concerned about a Roof leaking from improper flashing.

Your Roof should be resealed

Roof leaks can often be caused by damaged or leaky shingles. Roofers will often perform Roof repairs to address Roof leaks, Roofing damage, or other issues before installing your new Roof. This is because it is usually cheaper to fix the Roof rather than replacing it. You can have a Roofing contractor inspect your Roof and fix any large leaks. If they are installing your Roof, some roofing contractors may also be able to repair it. In other cases, Roof leak repairs can be covered by the Roof warranty.