A roof is one of the most important parts of the home. It is the first line of defense against the elements. Roof systems need to be properly maintained to remain fully functional over their lifespan. There are a lot of things that go into managing a roof properly and it all depends on what stage the roof is in.
Some homeowners choose to save money by skipping roof maintenance, but homeowners should not forget the level of stress and anxiety that comes from having a roof in disarray. The damage that a leaking roof can cause to the structure and safety of a home is immense. Moisture damage is one of the biggest fears of any homeowner as it weakens the home and can spur the growth of dangerous mold and bacteria.
There has also been an increase in roof repairs due to poor craftsmanship and roofing scams, which has led to an increased demand for roof warranties and certifications. That’s why it is important now more than ever for roof contractors and inspectors to be properly trained and certified. A certification backed by the NRCIA brings confidence to homeowners who request the services of these certified contractors.
The integrity and credibility of the roofing industry are at the heart of the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association’s mission. Roofing services can be complex enough, even when done properly and the NRCIA is there to ensure that there’s a high level of professionalism and standardization within the roofing industry.
What Homeowners Need to Know
A homeowner needs to understand all components of their home. Homeowners need to understand the age of their roof and the maintenance schedule it follows. This is the best measure they can take to keep a roof system healthy and functional. Preventative maintenance is always cheaper than reactive repairs.
Homeowners need to ensure that they partner up with the right roofing contractor. Preferably, a contractor that follows a standardized procedure to help clients maximize their roof system’s lifespan.
Maximizing a Roof’s Lifespan
A roof’s lifespan depends on the roofing material used. Composite, asphalt or wood shingles/shake can last between 12 to 25 years with the proper maintenance, with asphalt shingles able to last up to 30 years. Copper or Slate roofs can last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained, meaning all the homeowner should be concerned about is keeping it waterproof and free of leaks. There are additional factors that determine a roof’s lifespan: the product used, the quality of the installation, and maintaining a proper maintenance schedule. That’s why it’s critical to work with a roofing contractor certified by NRCIA who can provide the LeakFREE® guarantee.
Additionally, more insurance companies are requesting these types of certifications and warranties before offering policies. Some insurance companies will even give homeowners a discount on their insurance premium if the homeowner’s roof has a LeakFREE® Roof Certification. Without certifications or warranties, loans and policies can be considered riskier which translates to higher premiums or higher mortgage rates.
The NRCIA Guarantee
NRCIA wants to help take out the guesswork of choosing a good roofing inspector and/or contractor. Instead of going with a recommendation from a friend or neighbor, trust a recommendation from the NRCIA whose sole purpose is to bring exceptional confidence and credibility to the roofing industry.
Homeowners can rest assured when they see the NRCIA Certified badge on their inspector’s shirt or business card. They will be working with roofing inspectors who know exactly what to look for when assessing the structure’s roof system.
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