Did you know that the Boston and Greater North Shore areas have an average of 137 days of rain? Did you know we get more than 44 inches of snowfall a year? This type of extended weather pattern can be very volatile to a home’s shingles and roof infrastructure. Here are a few things you can look for during an inspection after a storm to see if your home suffered damage.
Types Of Roofing Tiles And Repair Needs
Your roof is your home’s first defense from dangerous environmental elements. The material you choose must be sturdy to complement your home’s infrastructure and hold up well regardless of the weather outside. Here are a few of the most common shingles to choose from.
- Asphalt
Roofs covered in asphalt shingles are affordable and durable. They are also energy-efficient as they help to keep your home warm or cool depending on the season. This type of shingle is coarse and lasts anywhere from twenty-five to thirty-five years. While asphalt shingles hold up well over normal wear and tear, it is during intense winds and stormy weather that pieces can detach and clog your gutters. You should also check for missing pieces, curling shingles, or rising corners as they are indicators you need repairs. Do not forget to ask about the sealant.
- Metal Roofs
Homeowners choose roofs made of aluminum, galvanized iron, steel, or copper. This roofing may last as long as fifty years, but it is also a noisy material that can be bothersome during storms. Because of the type of material, rust will always be of an issue during rainy or snowy seasons. You will want to check for loose seams, attachments, perforations, or caulking issues.
- Clay Roofing
Clay roofs are available in terracotta or sand material. Terracotta creates an attractive aesthetic, but sand can come in a wide array of beautiful colors. With proper maintenance and repair, this material has a long-lasting reputation. They often endure damage during high winds, hail, or weight from homeowners walking on the roof. It is best to use binoculars to look for absent tiles.
- Wood Shakes Or Shingles
You should also tread lightly on wooden shakes or shingles as they are cut, sawed, and tapered. Weather is one of the most common reasons why they sustain damage. Over time, wood also tends to rot, break, or warp. You need to monitor this type of roof to know if you need to repair a few tiles or replace the entire area when too many are damaged during intense weather patterns.
What Else Should I Look For When Checking The Roof?
- Damaged Or Defective Mortar Joints
- Chimney Caps
- Vent Stacks
- Water Damage
- Improperly Installed Satellite Dishes, Solar Panels, Or Antennas
- Debris From Trees Or Wind-Blown Articles
- Condition Of Your Home’s Gutters And Drainage Pipes
While looking at the tiles, it is important to check your infrastructure, gutter, and drainage pipes. When you notice roof or water damage, you can call us at 978-977-3816 or locate us on Facebook. Repairing minor issues now will prevent the need for major replacements later.
