Over the course of thousands of years, an incredible number of advances and discoveries in roofing alone have occurred, and these are just a few of our favorite facts for your enjoyment.
1. Thatch, stone, and clay comprise some of the most ancient roofing materials in the world, with thatch dating to somewhere between 5000 and 1800 B.C., while clay tiles can be found as old as 12,000 years ago.
2. Thatched roofs, thanks to the reeds used in their construction, are inherently waterproof, and the bundles that make up their construction sheds water away like no other, as well as snow and sleet in colder climates.
3. In the Pacific Northwest, the most classical types of roofing are consistently considered to be red and white cedar shingles.
4. While the use of natural materials holds sentimental appeal with many people, because of the risk of fire, some insurance companies will increase the charge to cover a home made of such, or even deny insurance at all.
5. Wood shingles are often heavier in their weight than materials made of metal.
6. Even though little over a century old, asphalt shingles are easily the most popular roofing in the United States of America.
7. “Green” or eco-friendly roofing materials last longer than asphalt shingles.
8. Traditional green roofs, with plants growing directly on them, will never leak if properly installed. The plants and soil protect against temperature variance and damage from the sun, and as along as the water barrier remains intact, a green roof will keep the rain out for years ahead.
9. Generally, water travels before it visibly drips through a roof, and a leak can sometimes come out twenty feet or more away from the source in the roof.
10. The weakest parts of your roof are the areas that require protection in the form of flashing, but damage shingles or damaged waterproofing can also be a common source of leaks. While you may not need to replace your entire roof, a prolonged leak without maintenance, dry rot (or simply a very old roof) may indicate that it is time for a full replacement. Do not hesitate if your roof needs inspection or maintenance. At Tuscaloosa Roofing Pros, our team of trustworthy and experienced professionals are at your service. Remember that estimates are always free, and financing is available.
