Fact or Fiction? Common Roofing Myths

The roof is your home or business' first line of defense against sun, rain, snow, or wind...but it is often forgotten about until there is a problem.  As a homeowner, you will probably only purchase one roof in your lifetime.  It is crucial that you make educated decisions on this protective barrier to avoid moisture problems and structural damage.  

There is a lot of information out there about roofing, but not all of it is true.  (You really can't believe everything you read on the internet????) Here are the most common myths about roofing and why they are just that, myths:

Myth #1: All asphalt shingles are the same.

All shingles are not the same.  There are a wide variety of shingle types to choose from, and they all have their own advantages and disadvantages.  They are rated by durability and wind resistance, and some shingles are created to protect against specific issues such as black mold and algae.  An important point to remember is that the price of the shingles is not always an indicator of their quality.  Some inexpensive shingles are very reliable while other expensive shingles are known to have problems.  At Bill White Roofing and Specialty, we will be able to help you determine the best shingles for your particular roofing needs.

Myth #2:  You don't need to replace the flashing

Flashing is the metal material put in place to divert water away from roof openings.  Because it is made of metal, most people think that it is indestructable.  As time progresses, however, it can become loose or knocked out of place, become rusted, crack, or break.  If your flashing is compromised, you will have major roof problems.  It is best to inspect it twice a year to catch any damage at an early stage.  

Myth #3:  Pressure washing won't damage the roof materials

While you may think pressure washing is a great way to clear your roof of dirt and grime, it can actually harm the roof and cause its lifespan to shorten.  High pressure washing will force water underneath the shingles and behind the siding, resulting in mold and mildew.  It will also damage the texture of the shingles, causing them to deteriorate pretty quickly.  

Myth #4:  Insulation in the attic saves energy and aids in roof performance

While insulation in the attic is exremely important, it must be executed properly.  Adding more than the necessary insulation will block ventilation and possibly trap moisture, resulting in mold and mildew growth and damage to the roof decking.  It is best to consult with a qualified roofing contractor to determine the appropriate levels of insulation necessary for your roofing system.

Myth #5:  Gutters are not part of the roofing system

Gutters are actually a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to diverting water from your structure, which is what your roof is designed to do among other things.  The gutter system prevents water from dripping down the exterior walls and onto the foundation of the building.  If the gutters are damaged or full of debris, water will build up and cause serious problems such as leaks and rotting wood in the fascia boards, soffits, and decking.  You should have your gutters cleaned out frequently and inspected for damage to avoid costly problems.

We can't stress enough the importance of regular roof maintenance.  Be sure to contact a reliable roofing company like Bill White Roofing and Specialty to help keep your roof in prime condition.  It is one of, if not the, most important aspects of your building.