Your entire roofing system goes well beyond just what you see from the outside of your home when you look up at your roof. The way a roof is assembled involves many different components working together. And a number of those important components can extend the lifespan of asphalt shingles if you have proper ventilation and insulation.
Proper Ventilation and Insulation Work Together to Extend your Asphalt Shingles
Proper ventilation and attic insulation are vital not only to your home, but also your roof. Without both, problems will quickly arise. For instance, heat can build up around the roof line which will create all sorts of problems. One of the first noticeable issues will be moisture accumulation, and from here, unhealthy, destructive mold will develop. Leaks will likely develop as well.
Ventilation installed in a roof system isn’t just to allow warm air to escape and keep a home comfortable. It also provides a way for air to circulate in this tightly enclosed space and prevents moisture from building up.
Insulation in an attic under a shingle roof provides a barrier between the home’s attic air space and the cold or hot roofing substructure. Insulation will supply an attic and roof with a more balanced temperature base so ice dams won’t build up on shingles, moisture won’t occur from unregulated hot and cool air, and extreme temperatures won’t harm the asphalt shingles.
Extending the Life of an Asphalt Shingle Roof
Hot and cold air can unnecessarily damage an asphalt-shingled roof over time. Modern roof systems are designed to give a home the best possible lifespan. Roof installations are best when proper ventilation is also part of the installation or repair plan, and an attic has proper insulation in place.
A roof will see enough environmental abuse over its lifespan. Doing what is possible to keep your roof in good shape in ways you can control is a significant step to prolong the life of your roof and save money as a homeowner.
When a roof has ventilation that was improperly installed, damage from heat under a roof will break down roofing shingles and wear them out prematurely. Cracking, peeling, and curling can develop on an asphalt shingle, and that will quickly pose a threat to a home.
Having adequate insulation installed under the roofline in the attic will prevent those nasty ice dams that can cause leaks. Insulation can be either rolled form or a spray version to contribute significantly to the prevention of volatile temperatures under a shingled roof.
What is the Typical Life Expectancy of a Roof?
An asphalt shingle will often need replacement after an extensive storm. Otherwise, the typical life expectancy of a roof is anywhere from 18-20 years. Asphalt shingles are designed to be durable and affordable for most homes. At the same time, your roof should be well taken care of and inspected on a regular basis to help keep your roof performing well and holding up.
What Makes an Asphalt Roof Last Longer?
Addressing problems with roof ventilation will contribute significantly to the performance and durability of a home’s roof. Tying in proper insulation placement, and your roof will last considerably longer than a roof without these important components.
Also, taking the time to review your roof after a large storm or once a year will help you avoid problems that could go unnoticed otherwise.
Your Local Austin Area Roofing Professionals
We strive to bring you the best in roofing for the Austin, Texas area. We deliver decades of roofing experience, training, and knowledge in this area’s needs. We are a prominent roofing company in residential roof repair and roof replacement. We will not ask for a deposit on labor or materials as a dependable way to stand out from the competition while bringing you the best product and service in Austin.
When we inspect, install, or repair your roof, we want to provide you with the best options for your roof design, components, and ventilation. We are Master Elite Contractors bringing you the latest in roofing technology, and a member of our local area Better Business Bureau, so you know we take pride in our work and our community.
Contact us by phone or email to schedule your FREE roofing inspection and quote today.
