Having shingles that are resistant to algae can improve the appearance of your home. Shingles that are able to withstand high winds and hail are important for areas prone to get more intense storms. Picking the shingle that is right for your home is a key to maintaining curb appeal.
What exactly causes those ugly black streaks that appear on lighter-colored pitched roofs,
such as a Cape Cod-style home?
Those are actually algae streaks caused by moisture and heat combining on the roof. And they don't even have to be caused by improper ventilation or drainage on your own roof. Algae particles from a neighboring roof can go airborne and land on your roof, causing the same ugly streaks to form.
While the streaks do not impact the strength and durability of your roof, they definitely do make for an unsightly covering on your home and may make your home appear much older and worn than it actually is. The streaks can be an eyesore and make your home tougher to sell as it loses its curbside appeal. Oftentimes, roofs are replaced not because of structural damage or shingle problems, but because of algae streaks giving the home a lesser appearance.
When considering re-roofing your home, consider shingles that help fight the progression of algae. Ask a roofing contractor for advice on products he or she recommends for curbing algae streaks. Keeping such streaks at bay can add to your home's value as your roof can look great for years.
Many shingles are built with algae-resistant properties built right into the product and should definitely be considered when any roofing project is being considered.
Another common problem with roofs is hail damage. When hail damage is sustained, it can have an immediate impact on the appearance, as well as the strength, of the roof. It can also have a longer-term effect as that area may be more worn and more susceptible to leakage.
You can't help when hail happens, but if you have quality shingles you can rest easy knowing that hail won't damage your roof. One of the best steps you can take to avoid damage from hail is long before the storm ever hits. By having shingles installed that are meant to make it through hail storms, you are taking a major step in keeping your home and family safe when storms hit.
When roof-shopping, you want shingles that provide high performance and durability. Before agreeing to a type of shingle, ask your roofing contractor what the shingle's impact-resistance rating is. Class 4 is rated the highest protection.
Also an issue for roofs is high winds. Wind, like hail, can cause considerably damage to a roof. Before choosing any shingle, check the wind-resistance rating. The higher the rating, the more likely your shingles will make it through a storm with high winds unscathed. Wind-resistance ratings can range from 60 mph to 110 mph; and the shingles will cost you more as you increase protection levels.
The wind-resistance factor is something to weigh when making your decision about shingles. If you are in an area prone to tornadoes or hurricanes, a higher wind-resistance rating is important. If you are in an area with more moderate weather, a lower wind-resistance factor may be possible to reduce project costs.
