A FEW FACTS ABOUT ROOFS...
LIFE EXPECTANCY: ASPHALT shingle roofing is normally 15-20 years. Generally longer with higher grade shingles, shorter in areas of extreme sun, heat build up and/or lack of proper roof ventilation. Roll roofing for low pitched roofs perform similarly.
SLATE has a typical life expectancy of 100 years or more.
FLAT ROOFS can be rubber membrane (preferred and longest lived, except under trees.), built up hot tar - with or without gravel (but has shorter life span and ongoing maintenance later in life than rubber.)
FLASHINGS: Copper flashings (life expectancy about 80 years) are considered the highest quality along with lead (for certain applications). Aluminum is next, galvanized steel lesser in quality.
CHIMNEYS: Raincaps are generally a good idea. Mortar joints need re-pointing every few decades. TV antennas should not be attached to chimneys, as they can cause wind strain.
GUTTER SYSTEM: Wood gutters usually need bi-yearly cleaning and oiling to remain sound. Aluminum is lower maintenance and far less expensive (seamless, rather than sectional is best) but more susceptible to snowslide and ice dam damage. Downspouts of aluminum are longer lived than galvanized steel. Downspouts should be extended away from the foundation, to help keep cellar dry. Often they clog with leaves and debris, at which time frequent practice is to flush them out or bypass them.
* If you would like more information or are experiencing problems with your roof, call Lakes Region Roofing to schedule an estimate with a credentialed Shingle Master for an honest and thorough evaluation of your situation.
Lakes Region Roofing
Farmington, NH
(603) 755-6980
Vist us on the web @ www.lakesregionroofing.net
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