Most roofs are designed with the plan that they will last for thirty years or so. The better quality the materials and the more experienced the installers, the higher the odds are that the thirty-year mark will be met. However, a wise homeowner keeps an eye on the roof looking for indications that it might be the time to repair it or replace it. The primary function of the roof system is to protect against and manage the weather elements, particularly precipitation, thereby protecting the interior and structural components of the home. For the purposes of a home inspection, the roof system consists primarily of roof coverings, flashings, and chimneys.

In addition to protecting the interior elements of the home, the roof components should also be designed with both gutters and downspouts to direct rainwater and runoff away from the foundation area. These fundamental components reduce the potential for soil erosion, compaction, and water entering the basement. The important functions this system provides demand its condition be assessed regularly, and maintenance provided as needed.

There are two basic types of roof construction, sloped (also called pitched) and flat. Most sloped roofs are covered with individual pieces of shingling and material overlapped to prevent water penetration. Flat roofs are basically watertight membranes that should have just enough slope to allow water to run off. The slope of a roof can be a factor in the life expectancy of the roofing material. The life expectancy of a roof covering is also dependent upon the type of material used, the quality of workmanship, exposure to sun and war from tree branches, snow/ice, and wind. For example, south and west roof faces have a higher wear factor than north or east exposures, highly reflective shingles tend to have a longer life expectancy, and cement or slate roofs last much longer than standard asphalt shingles (and cost a lot more!) Other types of coverage for sloped roofs include asphalt roll roofing, concrete or clay tiles, wood shakes and shingles, and slate shingles.

There are also fiberglass shingles, metal shingles, and metal sheet roofing systems. Flat roofs are built up with layers of molten asphalt and felt, or covered with a membrane of modified bitumen or asphalt base, or plastics, most of which are heat-sealed, and some are glued. Any company that does roofing in South California can handle roof repairs or installations, therefore it is important to choose the best local roofing company in your area. Contact us for more info.

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