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Tile roofing has been around for a long time. Though sources disagree on exactly when these roof designs emerged, they all agree that some of the earliest civilizations used them. Mesopotamia and China boast some of the earliest uses.

With tiles being some of the oldest roofing types in history the question arises of why they’ve endured for so long. What is it about tile roofing that has made it stand the test of time?

It turns out there are a lot of benefits to having a tile roof. We’ll talk more about some of these advantages in the paragraphs below.

1. Lifespan

Roof tiles easily outlast most other roof designs. Depending on the material you use, tile roofing can last anywhere from thirty to even 100 years. Among the best materials to use is clay. It’s a natural material with very few weaknesses.

Keep in mind that even the most durable tiles will require a bit of maintenance. You may occasionally need to replace a damaged tile, and you should replace the layer beneath the tile every forty years at least.

Not only do shingles last years, but you can also recycle them. If you’re the type who’s passionate about the environment and wants your house to be more eco-friendly, roof tiles may be the way to go.

2. Resistance

Tile tends to be very resistant to the elements. Clay tile is great at keeping out water and is very wind-resistant, which means you’ll have fewer problems with weather. 

It’s not just water that tiles are great at keeping out either. Roof tiles are tremendously fire-resistant, which means that they’re designed to be unlikely to catch fire and to burn slowly when they do. This allows homeowners more time to escape on the off-chance that a fire does catch.

Roof tiles are often made of concrete or a mixture of clay and other materials. Both clay and concrete are amongst the most fire-resistant materials used in construction.

One thing to note about clay tile is that it’s not very resistant to cold weather. Clay tile has become popular in warmer areas because freezing temperatures can cause them to crack and break.

If you live in a cooler climate, you could use concrete tiles. Concrete doesn’t last as long and isn’t as water-resistant, but it’s better at enduring the cold.

3. Insulation

Tile can’t just save your life. It can save you money as well.

Tile is often a great insulator, which means that it traps heat and cold. Air from the outside is less likely to get into the house, making it easier to heat or cool down as the case may be.

Since you don’t need to run your heater or air conditioner as much, your bill will be lower, and that’s something everyone can appreciate.

The Benefits of Tile Roofing

Tile roofing has stood the test of time largely because of the many benefits it offers. We’ve mentioned some of these in the paragraphs above, but there are many others out there. We encourage you to do more research on your own.

If you want to know more about roofing please visit our site. We can tell you how to find a leak in your roof.

Roofing is a $47-billion-dollar business in the United States. Why? Because the roof is one of the biggest and most important parts of your home. 

How can you keep your home’s roof in good condition? One way is through regular gutter maintenance. 

You might not give your gutters much thought, but you should! Leaky or even rotting gutters can clog and cause damage to your roof. 

Your foundation is even at risk if your gutters are loose or leaking. 

Keep reading for everything you need to know about basic gutter maintenance. 

Keep Your Gutters Clean

Clean your gutters at least twice a year. By the end of autumn, your gutters are full up with leaves. Make sure you clean them after the bulk of the trees shed their leaves.

Clean them again in the spring before the spring rains. If you notice a lot of debris in the gutters at any time of the year, get them cleaned. 

Gutter guards help keep debris out of your gutters but gutters will still need maintenance and even cleaning. 

Cleaning the gutters yourself? Be careful! Watch out for power lines and cables while climbing up the ladder. 

Wear gloves for hand protection and safety glasses for your eyes. 

Inspect the Downspouts

Check for clogs in your downspouts. The water runs down the gutters into the downspout and away from the house. A clogged downspout backs up onto the roof and spills over the sides of the gutter. 

Wondering how to check if the downspout is clogged? Put a pressure nozzle on your garden hose and aim it down the spout. If the water runs through, there’s no clog. 

Use a drain snake for difficult clogs. Put it down the spout and move it around. This frees up leaves and twigs. 

Use the pressure nozzle on the hose when you’re done to make sure the spouts drain freely. 

Inspect the Gutters

Inspect the gutters for signs of wear and tear. Gutters last a long time but eventually, they all need replacing. 

If you have some simple pinholes, you can repair them yourself with roofing cement. Make sure the area is clear of debris and dry. 

Use a wire brush and clean the holes. Using a putty knife, apply some roofing cement over the holes. Smooth the area so water and debris flow without snagging. 

Inspect your gutters every three months. Is it raining? That’s a good time for an inspection. 

Get out your umbrella and walk around the house. Are there spots where the rain is dripping down the side of the house? There’s probably a gutter leak in that area. 

Water should flow through the gutters, not down the sides of the house. 

The Importance of Gutter Maintenance

The importance of gutter maintenance can’t be overstressed. Leaking or clogged gutters can cause damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. 

Inspect the gutters every few months. Clean them at least twice a year. Make sure they’re carrying the water down and away from the roof and home. 

Need help with your roof or gutters? Please give us a call. 

If you’re getting a new roof, the shingles play a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements.

Aside from looking beautiful, the best asphalt shingles also have several other features that distinguish them between varying quality levels.

Read on to discover five tips that will help you choose the best asphalt shingles for your new roof.

1. Wind Resistance

Different asphalt shingles have different wind ratings, and if you live in an area prone to storms, you’ll need a shingle that can handle the changing weather. Generally, three-tab shingles have a sleek profile but can’t stand up to winds over 80 miles per hour. If you’re in a hurricane-prone area, you’ll need the best asphalt shingles that won’t fly off in strong winds.

2. Color Selection

While the shingles on your roof are important for protection, the way they look can have a huge impact on your curb appeal. Try asphalt shingles offered in a range of colors so you’ll find something that adds to the aesthetic of your home. Shingles come in a range of colors like grays, browns, and even green or red depending on your preference.

3. The Best Asphalt Shingles Include a Good Warranty

If you’re getting a new roof, ask your installer about the warranty for the shingles. A good warranty should last for at least 30 years, while some cover you for a lifetime. All warranties have their own terms and conditions, so read the fine print carefully before you decide on new shingles.

4. Durability 

Wind resistance is just one thing that makes a shingle high-quality. Find out about your asphalt shingles and make sure they can also handle things like extreme temperature changes and long-term exposure to moisture.

Quality shingles should be able to withstand heavy loads, such as snow without bending or curling. One reason asphalt shingles are so durable is that they have a vent that releases trapped heat or moisture which can help keep your home comfortable and safe.

5. Stain-Resistance

Some asphalt shingle manufacturers now include a special treatment that helps the shingles resist stains and discoloration. Exposure to water and sunlight can cause your shingles to fade and become discolored over time. Look for asphalt shingles that have this special treatment if this is a concern.

Find the Best Asphalt Shingles for You

From protecting your home to making it look beautiful, the best asphalt shingles should be durable, long-lasting, and include a quality warranty. Research several manufacturers to find out which shingles are best for your home.

If you live in an area with high winds and frequent storms, ensure that your new shingles are rated for high wind speeds. A wide color selection and stain-resistant treatments are other properties that will ensure your shingles remain beautiful for years to come.

Visit our website to learn more about our roofing and restoration services and contact us today or call us for a free in-home inspection and estimate.