As you may know, your home's roof can help increase energy efficiency, property value, and aesthetic appeal. It protects your house and everything inside it, including your family. Are you up to par with your knowledge of roofing systems? It's important to know the basics, especially when it comes to your own roof. Here's the truth about some common myths we hear regarding roofs.

1. New Roofs Don't Need Maintenance

Many homeowners believe that new roofs don't require maintenance. This myth often results in homeowners not scheduling inspections or checking for leaks because they assume everything will be fine with the roof for years. However, even new roofs can get damaged under certain unfortunate conditions. It's common to see more damage after severe weather, even on new roofs. If we experience any hail storms, be on the lookout for roof damage.

2. New Roofs Can Be Placed Over Old Ones

Another common myth is the belief that a new roof can be put on top of an old one. While it's technically possible, we highly recommend against simply laying another layer of shingles over your current installation. In our experience, this decreases the life of your roof. You're also likely to void your warranty. To make matters worse, this method tends to lead to leaks. At Neill and Son Roofing, we tear off existing shingles before repairing the sheeting underneath. We offer comprehensive reroofing services because we believe in providing our clients with quality roofing systems that last.

3. Roof Replacements Take a Long Time

Most people want to lay one layer of shingles on top of another because they think a roof replacement will take several weeks. However, this depends on the roofing contractor and the job itself. Larger crews can get a roof replacement done more efficiently. The timeline also depends on the weather, the condition of the old roof, and any other work that must be done. Reach out to providers near you to find out when the optimal times for replacements are.

4. Leaking Roofs Always Need Replacing

As a roofing contractor, we frequently hear homeowners declare that a leaking roof always needs to be replaced. However, that's not entirely true. Several variables determine whether it's time for a replacement. For example, the age of your roof is one factor to consider. Most roofs leak after a severe storm because a shingle or two blew off. It's also common for roofs to have wear and tear over the years. That said, it's usually bad news if the leak is severe enough to be noticeable from inside the home. A thorough inspection can tell you if it's time for a roof replacement.

5. Annual Inspections Waste Money

Inspections are necessary for preventative maintenance and can save you money in the long run. A thorough inspection by an experienced roofing contractor will spot problems before they become more significant. Did you know that, according to a survey by the Roofers Guild, it costs $8,000 on average to replace a roof? An inspection service can reveal signs of aging, such as granule loss on asphalt shingles. Professionals will also be able to determine if minor maintenance needs to be completed, like if your gutters need to be cleaned.

6. Dark Roofs Always Make Houses Hot

Dark colors attract heat, but dark roofs don't always make houses hotter. The roof's material is a significant factor to consider. Metal roofs are known for reflecting UV rays into the atmosphere instead of absorbing heat, which can help keep your home cool. Insulation is another crucial factor in determining whether a roof will make your house hotter. A professional roofing contractor will discuss various materials to help you select the most energy-efficient options.

7. All Roofing Materials Are the Same

The primary difference homeowners notice regarding roofing materials is the price. Aside from that, there's a common belief that all materials are about the same. However, every material has its advantages and disadvantages. We recommend reaching out to professionals near you to talk over the best options for your property.

We hear several myths a day when working with individuals regarding their roofs. However, homeowners need to be informed. That's why we always stay current with the latest information in the industry. Give our team at Neill and Son Roofing a call to learn more about our services!