Even though they are essential to protect our homes, and everyone and everything we care about, we tend to take our roofs for granted.
Yes, our roofs serve a basic purpose, but how much do we really know about them and how they work?
Today, we present some facts that are both essential and interesting that will hopefully enrich your understanding of the roof that you rely on every day.
1. Many Roofs Have Valleys
If the peak of your roof is like a mountain, the spot where two different roof planes join is the valley.
It’s important to know about valleys and what they are called because they are among the most vulnerable areas of a roof. Not all roofs have valleys, but many modern roofs on homes do have them. These areas need extra flashing beneath the shingles to help prevent leaks.
2. The Earliest Roofs Were Thatch
Thatch is a straw-like material that prehistoric people, and some historical people, used to cover their roofs.
When gathered together and angled well, thatch was a great way to keep moisture out of homes in most climates. On the other hand, thatch was a big fire risk, so one of the earliest technological advances in roofing was moving from thatch to a less flammable material. It was usually clay tiles.
3. Black Streaks are a Sign of Algae
If you notice black streaks on your roof or on a neighbor’s roof, it’s not a dye running off the shingles or something left over from someone walking on the roof.
Most commonly, black streaks on the roof are a sign of algae growth. This particular kind of algae is common on roofs in humid environments. The algae actually eat the materials in shingles. You can get treatments for the algae if it undermines the good looks of your roof.
4. You Can Get Look-Alike Shingles
When you’re looking at some of the most elegant homes in your city or historic buildings, it’s likely they are adorned with interesting roofing materials.
Copper roofing, slate roofing, and wooden shake roofing all look lovely, but they can be cost-prohibitive for your own home. Plus, many of these older materials simply do not perform as well as more modern options.
But, if you love the look of these old roofs, you’ll be happy to hear that you can get architectural shingles which mimic their look.
Who knew roofs are so complex? We do!
The Len Roofing & Remodeling Difference
When we say that we’re a top-quality home remodeling and roofing company that
serves the North Shore and surrounding Chicagoland area, we back it up. We do more
than simply cover the basics: we show up on time and nail it. For more information or to
schedule a consultation, call 847-768-6000 or visit our contact page.
