Protect Your Investment: A Guide to Roof Coverings
When it comes to home inspections, roof coverings play a significant role in safeguarding your property. Whether you’re looking at a Columbus, Ohio home built over a century ago or a newer property, the roof remains the first line of defense against the elements. Choosing the right material and ensuring its condition during a home inspection can mean the difference between a home that’s well-protected or vulnerable to damage.
In this post, we’ll break down the different types of roof coverings, their advantages, and the common issues homeowners and investors might face. Let’s dive into how inspecting a roof thoroughly can make or break your investment.
The Evolution of Roof Coverings: From History to Modern Day
In Ohio, you can find homes ranging from brand new builds to historic ones that date back 100 years or more. Roofing materials have evolved greatly over time. Early settlers in Ohio often used natural materials like wood shakes or slate due to availability and durability. These materials were excellent at repelling rain and snow, which are common in the state.
Fast forward to today, and we have a much broader selection of roof coverings. Modern options now include everything from asphalt shingles and metal panels to more eco-friendly choices like solar tiles. Each has its pros and cons, and not all roofs are created equal in terms of longevity, appearance, and energy efficiency.
Modern Roofing Materials: A Breakdown
If you’re considering what roof covering is best for your property, or just curious about what you’re living under, here’s a list of the most common options:
- Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice across the U.S., including Ohio. They are affordable, easy to install, and come in a variety of styles and colors. Modern architectural shingles even mimic high-end materials like slate or wood for a fraction of the cost. - Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their longevity and energy efficiency. Standing seam metal roofs, made from steel, aluminum, or copper, can last 50 years or more. In addition, they are fire-resistant and ideal for harsh weather conditions like those experienced in Ohio. They tend to reflect sunlight, keeping homes cooler in summer, which is an added energy-saving perk. - Slate
Known for its durability, slate roofing can last over 100 years when properly maintained. While it’s beautiful and extremely resistant to weather, it’s also one of the more expensive options and requires professional installation due to the weight of the material. Slate roofs are typically found on historic homes or high-end custom builds. - Wood Shakes or Shingles
Wood roofing is another classic option, often made from cedar, redwood, or pine. While wood roofs offer a natural, rustic aesthetic, they require frequent maintenance to prevent mold, rot, and insect infestations. Not as common in Ohio due to wet conditions, but wood roofs still offer charm and appeal. - Clay or Concrete Tiles
While not as common in Ohio as in warmer climates, clay and concrete tiles can offer great durability and fire resistance. They’re heavy and require a strong roofing structure to support them, but they also resist rot and insect damage. In addition, their longevity (up to 50 years) makes them a good choice for certain architectural styles. - Solar Tiles
For the eco-conscious homeowner, solar roof tiles are a newer technology combining solar panels with roofing material. While they cost significantly more upfront, they generate electricity, potentially paying for themselves over time. In Ohio, this might not be the most common roof type, but as energy prices rise, they could become more popular.
Common Roof Defects Found in Home Inspections
No matter what material covers your roof, regular home inspections are essential to ensure the structure is sound. Here’s a quick look at common roof issues an inspector might find during a roof inspection:
- Shingle Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles naturally lose their granules over time. Heavy loss can indicate aging or poor-quality shingles, leading to leaks or other water-related issues.
- Cracked or Warped Shingles: Temperature extremes common in Ohio can cause shingles to crack, warp, or buckle. This makes it easier for water to infiltrate the roof system.
- Rust on Metal Roofing: Metal roofs are incredibly durable, but corrosion can occur, especially in areas with frequent rainfall. Inspecting for rust early can prevent more significant damage.
- Trees, Vines, and Foliage: Trees and other growth can make contact, add excess weight/impact/pressure, and trap water against a roof surface, severely and rapidly increasing the rate of deterioration. We recommend trimming at least 6-10 ft. away from a roof or siding.
- Moss or Algae Growth: This is common in humid environments. Moss traps moisture against the surface, which can lead to rot, especially on wood or asphalt roofs.
- Improper Flashing Installation: Flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations can be a weak point if not properly installed. Water can seep in through these areas, leading to leaks and structural damage.
- Sagging Roof Structure: If you see a dip or sag in the roofline, this can be a major structural issue. Often caused by water damage, sagging roofs need immediate attention to prevent collapse or further damage.
- Pooled Water: Flat or low-pitched roofs can suffer from water pooling. If water doesn’t drain properly, it can cause leaks, mold growth, and even structural damage over time.
- Multiple Layers: While allowed in many areas, there are some serious downsides to adding a second layer of roof covering to an existing roof.
- Missing, Loose, or Damaged Shingles: Shingles can become damaged due to installation error, weather, and variety of other reasons, which will make your home prone to leaks.
Why Your Roof Covering Matters for Your Home Inspection
When buying a home or investing in property, the roof is a significant part of your purchase. Home inspections are critical for assessing the health of the roof and ensuring it will protect your investment. Each roof material has different lifespans, maintenance requirements, and costs, so understanding what’s over your head is key to making informed decisions.
For example:
- Older slate or tile roofs may require a more in-depth inspection to ensure they’re not cracked or degraded.
- Asphalt roofs, especially those 20 years or older, will often need closer evaluation for wear and tear.
- Metal roofs could develop rust, but they’re generally very low maintenance once installed correctly.
If you’re planning to sell your home, having a certified inspection report on your roof’s condition can be a powerful tool to reassure buyers. If you’re buying, catching any roofing issues early on during the inspection could save you thousands in repairs down the line.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment with Trusted Home Inspections
In Columbus, Ohio, where weather extremes can be rough on homes, it’s crucial that your roof is in top condition. Regular inspections, particularly before buying or selling, give you peace of mind about your investment. Whether it’s made from asphalt, metal, slate, or something else, your roof covering should be regularly checked for any defects that could compromise your home.
Trusted Home Inspections understands the importance of a well-inspected roof, which is why our experienced team knows how to spot both common and hidden issues. Don’t wait until it’s too late — make sure your home is protected from the top down.
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