When it comes to roofing, there are a lot of misconceptions that can lead homeowners to make costly mistakes. Whether it's believing that a new roof never needs maintenance or assuming all roofing materials are the same, these myths can impact the longevity and performance of your roof.
In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common roofing myths and provide homeowners in the Greater St. Louis area with the facts they need to make informed decisions about their roofs.
Many homeowners assume that as long as there’s no visible water damage inside their home, their roof is in good shape. However, roof damage often starts small and isn’t always immediately noticeable. Missing shingles, minor cracks, and weak flashing can allow moisture to seep in over time, leading to costly structural damage.
Fact: Routine inspections can catch minor issues before they turn into major repairs. A small fix now can prevent a costly roof replacement later.
Not all roofing materials offer the same level of protection, durability, or energy efficiency. Some homeowners choose roofing materials based on price alone, without considering factors like lifespan, weather resistance, and maintenance requirements.
Fact: Asphalt shingles, for example, vary in quality, with architectural shingles offering more durability than basic 3-tab shingles. Other materials like metal or slate may be a better investment in the long run, depending on your home’s needs.
Some homeowners believe that adding a second layer of shingles over an existing roof is a cost-effective way to replace a roof. While this may seem like an easy shortcut, it can cause more harm than good.
Fact: Layering shingles adds extra weight to the roof structure, potentially leading to sagging or premature failure. It also makes it harder to inspect for hidden issues, such as water damage or mold growth beneath the old shingles. A complete tear-off and replacement is the best way to ensure long-term performance.
Many homeowners assume that their roof warranty will cover all potential damage, but that’s not always the case. Manufacturer warranties typically cover defects in materials, while workmanship warranties cover installation issues. However, neither will cover neglect, storm damage, or improper maintenance.
Fact: Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to keeping your warranty valid. If you fail to maintain your roof, you could end up paying out of pocket for repairs that could have been prevented.
A newly installed roof may look perfect, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. Weather, debris, and normal wear and tear can still affect its performance.
Fact: Even a new roof needs regular inspections to ensure it remains in top condition. Checking for loose shingles, clogged gutters, or flashing damage can help extend the life of your roof.
Regular roof maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs. Schedule an inspection at least once a year to catch small issues before they turn into major problems.
Whether you need a routine inspection, repairs, or a full roof replacement, Bade Roofing is here to help homeowners throughout the Greater St. Louis area. Our team has decades of experience and a deep understanding of the local climate’s impact on roofing.
Contact us at 314-892-1331 or visit baderoofing.com to schedule a consultation and keep your roof in top shape.
