The roof on your home in Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, or Tacoma is an intricate system that is fascinating. Let’s talk about five roof facts we think you should ponder.
Flat roofs aren’t flat
All roofs need to be able to shed water, that’s why flat roofs aren’t actually flat. Instead, they have a slight slope of at least ¼ inch per foot.
Roofs need to breathe
Okay, we know - your roof isn’t taking a breath, but your roof does need air to circulate. Roof ventilation provides the necessary flow of air to the underside of a roof deck, which is one of the most critical aspects of the whole roof system. Roof ventilation allows warm, moist air to escape and cooler, drier air to come into the attic. Without ventilation, condensation will build up in your attic, which can damage walls, wood, and insulation.
A clean roof will last longer
Like most things around your home, a roof will last longer if you take care of it. In the Pacific Northwest, residential roofs are most susceptible to moss growth, which tends to accumulate after a year or two.
When removing moss from your roof, it’s important to not damage any shingles. We recommend you gently remove the moss using baking soda, powdered laundry detergent or Moss Out for Roofs, and then use a leaf blower to push away any debris.
Finish by applying a Zinc treatment to your roof to kill any moss that may remain, and to help keep future growth at bay. Zinc is safe, and it won’t harm your pets, children, or your lawn.
Your roof can be eco friendly
An environmentally friendly is more accessible than you might realize. In the Pacific Northwest, the following are some of the most beneficial:
Cool Roofs
With cool roofs, the roof itself is lighter in color so it reflects the sun’s heat rather than absorbing it. This keeps the roof cool, and subsequently the interior of your home.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rain barrels are a great way to make your roof more environmentally friendly. They help to reduce stormwater runoff that carries pollutants to Puget Sound and divert water away from your foundation.
Solar
While they aren’t the cheapest option, solar panels can greatly reduce your home’s energy consumption by powering your home. We have a blog that discusses what you should consider if you’d like to add solar panels to your home.
Asphalt Shingles aren’t your only option
When it comes time to replace your roof, you have many options to choose from – not just asphalt shingles. Some of our favorites include composite or fiberglass shingles, metal roofs, or wood shake roofs (like cedar or pine). Learn more about these in this blog post: Our Top Three Roofing Materials for the PNW Climate.
If you’re ready to talk about getting a new roof, give us a call today. We look forward to helping you find the right option for you.