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Stacey's Gallery

3 Things to Consider When Updating Your Home's Roof   by Cynthia Jay

The primary purpose of your roof is to protect your home from the elements, whether this means snow, hail, rain, or even sunlight. If you are new or long-term homeowner, and are considering updating your roof, there are a few things you should consider.

1. Drainage System. The type of drainage system you need varies based on the climate you live in. If you live in an area that experiences frequent snow or rain, your roof will most likely be sloped, preventing heavy water and rain from collecting on the roof.

Your roofing company should consider the proper placement of the drainage system. The goal is to also move water away from the foundation of your home. In many cases, local regulations and building codes will play a deciding factor in how you approach your roofing drainage. If you are considering a Do-It-Yourself project, make sure to check local codes for potential violations.

2. Aesthetics. Just because your roof serves a practical function doesn't mean it has to look dull. There are many styles to choose from, which you can use to match the rest of your home. Roofs can be flat or lower pitched, while incorporating surface mounted drains. Spanish and Mediterranean style homes often have this type of roof.

3. Materials. The choice in roofing materials will affect how sturdy your roof is. This should be an investment that you place plenty of thought into. Available options include asphalt shingles, slate, steel, or clay. Most Americans use the popular three-tabbed asphalt shingle. Technology has come a long way.

Most roofing materials come with a 20 or 30 year guarantee. It is not uncommon for a roofing company to offer additional service warranties, either as a complementary service or at a cost. For homeowners who chose to not do repairs themselves, this is a convenient way to make sure the roof continues to perform optimally.  Most homeowners pay no attention to their roofing until there is an issue. These repairs can be costly.