Debunking Common Roofing Myths

Before you start your roofing job it’s important that you have a clear idea of what needs to be done, and to some extent how it should be done. Roofing jobs can be costly and concern the structural integrity of your home, so it’s important that going into it you’re well informed. Like all professional fields, construction is just as susceptible to bad information becoming commonplace within the industry, so in this article we’re going to run through some of the information that a homeowner ought to look out for. Let’s get started;

Myth 1: It Is Okay to Put a New Roof on Top of an Old One

This one has a grain of truth in it. In some circumstances, with some very specific types of shingles and processes, you can place new shingles over the old. However, the reason we have this listed as a myth is that in almost every circumstance this is going to create more trouble in the long term. The next time your roof is damaged, or you want another re-shingling, you’ll have to pay more for a “double-tear-off” in which your contractor will be required to take off both layers. 

Likewise, roof repairs are liable to be far more difficult in the event a roof has been over-shingled. In the meantime, the functionality of your roof may be compromised, less capable of keeping out the cold and wet. This owes to the ways in which shingles are generally designed to be installed, meaning in a single layer stacked. 

Myth 2: No Leaks, No Problem

Keeping water out of your home is a very basic function of your roof. Once water has actually penetrated deep enough into your living space for you to have noticed it, a pretty big problem has already occurred. Aside from this, roofs are designed to create an environment in which the temperature of your home is regulated - cooler in the summer, warmer in the winter. 

More than just maintaining a comfortable temperature, having a well-insulated home can save you money, and prevent damp and mold from taking root. On top of this, a roof should have been installed in such a way as to maximize its lifespan, meaning the value of your home remains stable. If you are unsure of how to carry out routine checks or maintenance yourself, it may be time for a professional roof inspection . 

Myth 3: New Roofs Do Not Need Regular Maintenance 

This is probably the most common misconception when it comes to roof maintenance. Very commonly once a roof has been installed, the homeowner will neglect to inspect or regularly check it for issues or potential problems. Even the most recently (and correctly) installed roofs can fall prey to storm damage or any of the usual pitfalls that your home will endure year to year. Loose shingles, flying branches, among other things can all cause unnoticed damage to your home during the stormier seasons. Left untreated it can lead to costly problems and repairs later on.

So why wait? If you’re looking for one of the most well-respected roofing companies in the Whitby, Ontario area, then why not get in touch with Limestone Construction and Excavating? With an exclusive network of multi-disciplinary sub-contractors and agents, we have the expertise and breadth of knowledge to help you complete your project quickly and on time.

Contact us now by telephone at 905-431-9924, email at quote@limestonece.com , or via the form on our website for a free quotation.