Whatever its age, square footage or design, the roof forms the crux of your shelter, sheds rain and snow, shades from the sun, and otherwise acts as a buffer between you and the elements. Throughout architectural history, the consistent elements in the design of a roof are the material, the construction, and the durability. Up until recently, the available natural resources determined the material. In some parts of the world, roofing materials could consist of banana leaves, seagrass, mud, glass, aluminum sheeting or precast concrete.
Until as late as the 19th century, many homes in the United Kingdom had thatch or sod roofs. In the early American colonies, thatched roofs were also common. They eventually fell out of favor in more populated areas because of the obvious danger of fire (we all recall what happened to the little pig who built his house of straw don’t we?), as well as the maintenance required.
Perhaps like “pre-rusticated” designer jeans, in recent years thatched roofs have become a sign of wealth and status in some European countries. In the U.S., however, we have a little thing called the Homeowners Association to put the kibosh on such frivolities. While everyone loves a Hobbit on the big screen, when the tell-tale thatched roof appears next door in your cul-de-sac, property values plummet, and there goes the neighborhood.
Thank goodness, we now have many durable, low-maintenance, modern materials to choose from. The durability of a roof is a matter of concern because the roof is often the least accessible part of a building for purposes of repair, while its damage or destruction can have serious effects. Thus, a weather-tight roof is fundamental in the conservation of your home.
Speaking of durability, at Iron River Construction, we offer a 20-year guarantee on our material and labor, and some of our roofing suppliers provide a 50-year or lifetime warranty on their product. If you are ready for a roof replacement, or have recently been it by a storm, notice curling, and missing or discolored shingles and just need some routine maintenance, call us for your free, no-obligation inspection, or request a quote online today.
