As one of the most important building components protecting a home or business, roofing systems tend to be surrounded by many misconceptions in the public’s mind. However, when it comes to maintaining or replacing roofs, it’s important to separate roofing facts from fiction.
Being in the industry for over 25 years, the experts at C&M Roofing and Construction have heard their fair share of common myths about roof repairs and roofing materials. In this article, we’ll explore some prevalent misconceptions and set the record straight.
Myth: Waiting until there is a leak to repair a roof is okay.
Fact: Quite simply, this is never a good idea. By the time roof issues are actively leaking inside a building, the damage underneath is already spreading. It’s always wiser to be proactive in scheduling routine inspections and addressing any potential problem areas before leaks emerge. Neglecting maintenance greatly increases repair costs down the line too.
Myth: Temporary roof sealants can fix worn shingles.
Fact: Products claiming to rejuvenate old or cracked asphalt shingles are usually nothing more than a short-term band-aid. Over time, sealants may accelerate deterioration by holding moisture against the shingle surface. The only true fix is replacing aged material with new impact-rated shingles installed by a qualified roofing contractor.
Myth: All roof materials have the same lifespan.
Fact: Different roofing products vary significantly in expected durability and warrantied lifespan depending on grade, materials used, installation quality, weather exposure, and more. Premium architectural shingles may last 50+ years versus economy grades at 15 years. Standing seam metal outlasts most other options. Proper material selection by a pro increases your roof’s service life.
Myth: Ice damming is unavoidable and not a big deal.
Fact: While ice dams form naturally to some degree, severe cases that penetrate roofing are preventable. Large, persistent ice dams collapse roof decks over time from prolonged interior leakage. Installing proper ventilation, insulation, and heat tracing solves the underlying issues generating excess meltwater buildup before it causes serious damage.
Myth: To save money, I’ll install my roofing materials.
Fact: DIY roofing projects typically prove more expensive in the long run due to a lack of proper training, permits if needed, safety equipment, and material warranties that require professional installation. Plus any workmanship defects could void roofing manufacturers’ guarantees. Leave installation to experienced, licensed roofing contractors for fully bonded, code-compliant new roofs.
Myth: All roof leaks can be temporarily patched.
Fact: In severe instances of structural cracking, improper flashing installation, or where water damage has advanced past exterior sheathing, patching is ineffective. Total roof replacement remains the lone solution to completely remedy deep-seated problems. Licensed inspectors from C&M Roofing help determine if patches will last.
Myth: It’s okay to defer gutter cleaning indefinitely.
Fact: Failing to clear built-up roof debris clogging gutters can back rainwater up under shingles, compromising your roof’s integrity over time. Aside from increasing chances of internal leaks, neglected gutters often pull away from fascia boarding due to excess weight and trapped moisture too. Annual cleaning extends gutter and roof performance for many years.
Myth: Metal roofs don’t need maintenance.
Fact: While metal roofs require far less service than other options, annual inspections catch any loose fasteners from normal expansion/contraction or breaks in non-commercial coatings sooner. Standing seam panel replacements may be warranted after 25-50 years too depending on materials. Periodic cleanings using non-abrasive methods also maintain the finished appearance.
Myth: A small roof leak isn’t worth fixing immediately.
Fact: Moisture is any roof’s enemy, and even minor roof penetrations allow damage to spread if ignored. Each leaking spot strengthens over time with increasingly destructive downpours. Immediate patching prevents unnecessary costs down the line from repairs expanding into surrounding roof decks and walls. C&M’s team provides prompt leak response services too for peace of mind.
While roofing remains a specialized trade requiring professional knowledge, hopefully dispelling some of these common myths empowers homeowners to make informed choices regarding their roof’s health. As always, partnering with licensed experts at C&M Roofing and Construction ensures top-quality roof maintenance, repairs, and installations for commercial or residential properties of any size.
