| Roof Replacement Options for Your Home |
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| Written by Tom Burrell |
| Monday, 11 August 2008 12:43 |
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Most homeowners are surprised to learn that major elements of their home are not designed to last as long as the rest of the home. One example is the roof over your head. Some roofs will last 80 years while some will only hold out for 15. When considering the number of years different roofs might last, it is vital to keep in mind that while materials and other issues certainly play a role, the biggest issue is the impact of the power of nature. When you think about it, a roof lasts an amazingly long time. It expands every day when the sun beats down on it and then contracts when night comes. It takes all the wind can give, gets pummeled by rain and even holds up snow many feet thick. If you really want the roof on your home to last, there is only one choice. Slate roofing can last 70, 80 or even 100 years. Like rock in nature, it can take a beating and keep performing. The only downside is it is expensive to purchase and put up. On the other end of the range, we have the wood shingle roof. Depending on the type of shingle, you can expect it to last anywhere from 10 to 25 years. It is important to understand that these shingles basically come from left over wood pieces with all that implies. An additional concern with wood shingles is obviously the fire issue. Wood and fire are a bad mix. If you must go with wood shingle roofing, make sure you get a fire retardant treated shingle set. It will not stop them from catching on fire, but will make it more difficult. If you like tiles, I have good news for you. One of the best roofing choices you have from both a financial, aesthetic and fire resistant point of view is the tile roof. They will last between 30 and 40 years as well so long as you consistently replace any broken shingles. What about new roofing developments? The solar shingle roof is a system that is getting a lot of interest. Instead of big, bulky solar panels, these solar cells are actually embedded in the shingles. They look like normal roofing shingles. There are a couple of really cool things about these shingles. First, they are essentially solar panels. They will generate electricity for your home, which can do some major cutting to your utility bill. They also come in many colors, so they can match most homes. Having a roof over your head is important, but only if it actually keeps the elements out. If yours is failing, take a look at the different roofing systems available. They can change the entire look of your home and even provide power. About the Author: Tom Burrell is with 866FixMyRoof.com, a certified, licensed Southern California roofing contractor providing roof repair and replacement services. Kindly provided by LJ-Marketing.dk You are welcome to use this article on your own website, if you include the link just before this text. |