Roof 101
More than just for show, your roof is the first barrier against the elements. Rain, snow, wind or sun attack your roof DAILY. Materials used in roofing (asphalt, tile, metal etc) are there to provide a barrier against the elements.
Roof layers
The frame of your roof is covered by sheets of wood to make it solid. This is commonly referred to the "deck". The deck is then covered with a waterproof layer called "underlayment" or "felt". This felt is usually a strong paper saturated with asphalt. Lastly the architectural asphalt shingle (or tile/metal) is what you see. Architectural asphalt shingles are the most common. The shingles are covered with a crushed stone material called "shingle granules".
Shingle Granules
The stone granules are treated with a ceramic process which gives them their color and further durability. The granules serve 2 functions: 1) they make your roof visually appealing 2) they protect the asphalt shingle underneath from exposure to the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays
UV Rays
Light from the sun breaks things down. When the granules on your shingle are missing the vulnerable part of your roof is opened up to potential damage. Granules get knocked off by wind, hail and often times just normal weathering over time. Asphalt roofs have a 15-20 year lifespan.
Over time the damaged shingle will form cracks in the waterproof material. Once that happens it is only a matter of time until water finds its way into your home and you have a much bigger (and expensive) problem.
Take action early
Don't wait until the water is collecting above your ceiling and you get a drip coming from your drywall! Many times damage from storms is covered under insurance policies under standard dwelling coverage. Deductibles vary and it depends on your coverage type.
ACV vs RCV insurance
ACV stands for "actual cash value" which accounts for depreciation. Your roof loses value every year, so ACV won't cover the full cost of a new roof.
RCV stands for "replacement cost value" and is supposed to cover the full cost of a brand new replacement.
Too much?
Knowledge is power. The more you understand the better your position to protect your home.
Start with an AI roof scan. Our drones can give you a baseline. We are happy to share what we know :-)