Why Does My Roof Need An Overhang?

Have you ever wondered why your roof has that overhang? Is it just a décor thing or does it serve an actual purpose? Well there are many useful functions and purposes to the overhang on your roof and Dun-rite Roofing offers you a brief overview of what and why:

Water is kept off the Walls

This may be the most important function of roof overhangs. They won't keep the hard driven rain off 100%, but the difference in having an overhang versus not may surprise you. If your home was built with very narrow overhang, you will notice the paint, siding or stain will get damaged over time. Your home's doors and windows are protected with roof overhang as well.

Rain Is Directed Away From the Foundation

The wider the roof overhang, also referred to as the eaves, the better it keeps water away from the foundation, which in turn keeps your basement and crawlspace dry. Eaves also minimize splashback when it rains, which can cause damage such as rotting siding.

Windows Are Shaded

The eaves of your home also provide shade, which in this part of the country is a blessing during the hot summers.

Too Wide of an Overhang

Usually home builders will cut corners when it comes to the eaves however, it is possible to have them too wide. When the overhang is too wide, it darkens the house on the inside, making it gloomy looking. Even during the hottest time of the year, you want some sunlight coming inside. You also don't want the wider overhang to catch the high winds, which could rip the roof off.

Don't Forget To Winterize The Roof Too!

It may be August right now, but it is going to be time to put the Christmas lights up again soon. This also means that winter weather is on the way and while you are getting things ready for winter, like checking the doors and windows for leaks, getting your home's heat system checked out and all that, you should make sure your roof is ready too.

The winter we had in this area last year was a rough one with all the ice, rain, sleet, snow, and winds. Al that can wreak havoc on the roof that you may not even realize. Take the time to winterize your roof starting with a visual inspection. Do you see branches hanging out over and rubbing against the roof? Are the gutters clean of debris? You should climb up on the roof and look over all of it for loose or missing shingles, too.

If you don’t feel comfortable and safe about climbing up there yourself, a professional like Dun-Rite Roofing offers free inspections. A professional will know what to look for in the way of water damage caused by roof dams. Roof dams are created when there is inadequate ceiling insulation, poor soffits, or poor ridge ventilation.

As you start cleaning up and preparing the summer outdoor furniture for winter and throwing out the pool toys that are worn, keep your roof in mind. Finding issues now can save you headaches and pocket book stretches this winter.