The 4 Most Common Reasons Roofing Systems Fail

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. However, there are several things that can prevent it from doing it’s job and, in some cases, cause them to fail. 

Northwest Construction, your trusted roofing contractor, lists the usual reasons why roofing systems fail below: 

  1. Your Roof Is Made of Materials Not Suited to the Local Climate 

No matter how durable your new roof is, it won’t last long if it’s made from materials not suited to your local climate. Remember: there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach in home improvement projects, and roofing projects are no exception. If you’re planning a roof replacement, most contractors in the state would recommend asphalt shingles, which are cost-effective and durable enough to withstand a wide range of climates. 

Here’s a tip: to learn more about the best roofing options for the climate in your area, it’s best to consult a local roofing contractor. Since they’re familiar with the local climate, not to mention the local building codes, they can make better recommendations. 

  1. Poor Attic Ventilation 

Without adequate ventilation, warm, humid air is trapped in your attic. Trapped heat is a problem because it can shorten your roof’s lifespan. As a general rule, there should be a square foot of roof vent for every 300 square feet of ceiling space if your roof has a vapor barrier or every 150 square feet if it doesn’t have a vapor barrier. 

  1. Infrequent Maintenance 

Routine maintenance is vital to keeping your roof in good condition. Through routine inspections and maintenance, your roofing contractor can detect underlying roofing issues and conduct roof repair before roofing issues affect other parts of your home. 

  1. Shoddy Installation Work 

Always vet a contractor before hiring them to make sure they’ll install your roof correctly. Ask them how long they’ve been in business and if they have any certifications. Certifications are essentially a vote of confidence from a manufacturer or independent non-profit that the contractor won’t compromise on the quality of their work. 

Northwest Construction, a contractor with an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®, offers a wide range of professional exterior services as well as quality gutters. To request an estimate, call us at (313) 277-7676 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in West Bloomfield, Dearborn and Taylor, MI, as well as their surrounding communities.