Know Your Roof
Because your roof is constantly exposed to the elements, it makes sense that it will age. To make sure you spot potential problems early, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends you inspect your roof several times a year for damage and wear.
 
What Causes a Roof to Deteriorate?
Sun
Heat and ultraviolet rays cause roofing materials to age, especially on surfaces facing west or south.

Rain
Water that gets underneath shingles or other roofing materials can cause the decking (base) and rafters to rot, threatening a home's structural integrity. Moisture entering a house can damage walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems.

Wind
High winds can lift shingles' edges and force water and debris underneath.

Snow & Ice
Melting snow often refreezes at a roof's overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. This blocks proper drainage into the gutter and allows water to back up under roofing materials and seep into the interior.

Condensation
Moisture in poorly ventilated attics can lead to condensation that promotes decay of roof decking and rafters.

Trees & Leaves
Tree branches touching or falling onto a roof can damage the roofing materials. Leaves on the roof and in gutters retain moisture and could cause rot and poor gutter drainage.

Missing or Torn Shingles
When shingles are missing or torn off, a roof's structure and your home become vulnerable to water because the remaining shingles can be easily ripped or blown off.

Shingle Deterioration
When shingles are old and worn out, they curl, split and allow water to leak through. Damage and deterioration only get worse with time.

Flashing Deterioration
Good, tight-fitting flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights and wall/roof junctions is essential to creating a secure, watertight roofing system. Flashings should be checked as part of your spring and fall roof inspection and gutter cleaning.
 
Importance of Attic Ventilation
An attic that "Breathes" will extend the life of your roof! 
If you want your roof to last; you need an attic that "Breathes." The problem is an estimated nine out of 10 homes don't have a properly balanced attic ventilation system in place. As a result, the average roof lasts only 10 to 12 years, even though most roofing shingles are made to last 25 years or more. In fact, the number-one reason for premature roof failure is inadequate ventilation.

What most homeowners don't realize is that without proper ventilation, most manufacturers' shingle warranties are void. That means those same nine out of 10 homes may never have had warranty protection on their roofs.

Solution - Replace those shingles with a lifetime of protection,
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