Help With Asphalt Roofing

Types

• Selecting the right asphalt roofing for a house may require some help. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, there are several types of asphalt roofing to choose from. The most common asphalt roofing is strip shingles, typically 1-by-3 feet in size.

  Others include the decorative, dimensional architecture asphalt shingles and interlocking shingles that snap together, forming a leak-resistant barrier over the roof. These types are available in an array of colors that pick up the color palette of a house and its surrounding features.

Installation

• Asphalt roofing tiles are installed in rows that overlap, starting from the base of the roof and working up. The overlap protects the nail holes and forms a barrier that channels water off of the roof. Professional installation of asphalt roof tiles ensures the longevity of the barrier the roofing material forms between the weather elements and the house.

  Inspect the quality of the asphalt roof’s shingles, flashings and gutter work, looking for any leaks, loose parts, gaps or dips in the roof. The proper or corrected installation of the asphalt roofing saves the homeowner in the long run from extensive damage to the roof’s foundation.

Cleaning

• Exposed to the elements, the asphalt roof is bound to collect debris and a buildup of salt deposits, especially on coastal properties. When a roof is covered by a tree, the tree becomes shade for the area of the roof that algae, moss or mold may form on. Roof cleaning formulas that tackle these problems will do wonders to spruce up the roof’s appearance.

  Add an extension hose to the garden hose, and attach a spray nozzle to it for cleaning the roof. A power washing machine set to its standard pressure may do more damage to the roof than it is worth. Wash the roof with bleach or a roof cleaning solution to remove collected debris, algae and mold that could otherwise cause damage over time.

Repairs and Maintenance

• Discovering a problem in the roof is no fun for a homeowner, but periodic inspections can help her offset the damage with a quick and simple repair. Cut back any overhanging tree branches that block the sun from shining on the entire roof.

  Inspect the roof for breaches in the caulk and sealants used to prevent water flow into the house. Look for rust around roofing nails and the other metal parts. For loose tiles, apply roof cement under the tiles to adhere them to the surface beneath.