Home Improvement – Roof Upgrades

When you think of home improvement, do you consider roof upgrades?

While you may have considered a new gourmet kitchen or new tile flooring, you may not  have considered a new roof as a home improvement. Yet experts tells us that a new roof offers the best ROI of any home improvement you can undertake. So what are some of the roof upgrades which may make your home more valuable and more energy efficient?

Roof Upgrades to Improve Your Home

There are several ways which you can improve your home through roof upgrades.

A great first step is to have a licensed and insured roofing professional to perform a roof inspection. No matter how you decide to upgrade your roof, it will be important to understand its current condition. This not only pertains to the roofing materials themselves, but the underlying roof structure – the roof deck, eaves, framing and underlayment.

• Update Roofing Materials: Many traditional Sarasota homes have asphalt shingle roofs. As these roofs come to end of life, residents will have a choice to either re-shingle over the existing tiles, replace with a completely new shingle roof, or replace with a new material, such as tile. Clay tile, metal or stone roofs are all considered to be longer-lasting and more aesthetically pleasing than shingles, and may boost your home’s value. Keep in mind that because these materials may be heavier than the shingle, you should ask your roofing contractor to assess the overall structure of your roof deck and if it needs reinforcing.
• Apply Coatings for Added Protection: One of the ways that you can improve the efficiency of your home without a major roof project is to apply UV coatings to your existing shingles or tiles. These coatings can reflect UV rays and keep your roof cooler, allowing your HVAC unit to operate more efficiently, saving energy. Coatings can also protect your shingles or tiles from the devastating effects of harsh sun and driving rain, and may extend the life of your roof. Be sure to ask your contractor if a roof coating will be beneficial in your situation.
• Air Vents: Many older homes do not exhibit the efficient ventilation systems now available in contemporary construction. By having your ventilation system evaluated and if necessary, retrofitted, you can significantly improve air flow in your attic. This will cool your attic space and your home, and help your home to be more energy efficient.
• Skylights and Solar Panels: The addition of a skylight can flood the home below with natural light, decreasing the need for artificial light during daylight hours. Strategically placed skylights are not only beautiful, but they can save you money on your power bill each and every month.
• New Gutters and Downspouts: Although not officially a part of the roof, having a gutter system which is operationally sound will go a long way to protecting your roof and your home. Gutters direct water away from the structure of your home, in order to avoid pooling on the roof and foundation of your home. When water is blocked, it will find the path of least resistance – meaning that clogged gutters can result in roof leaks, foundational cracks, and even intrusion into the living space of your home.

Because we can’t see much of our roof, we often forget just how important it is. Roof upgrades will not only protect your home, but may increase its value. If you are looking for home improvements which will increase your ROI, look up! The answer is the roof over your head. Call Avery Roof Services today for more information on how to improve your roof and home.