Towards the end of the house construction, most homeowners must have already chosen the roof color, material, and shape of shingles. However, they do not even think about the roof design, and even worse, a roof overhang.
The edges or eaves of the roof extend a few inches beyond the house wall to form a roof overhang. Roof designers make overhangs to protect the windows, doors, and exterior walls of the house when it rains.
Roof overhangs have different lengths for various houses and can be measured. To install a roof overhang that matches your home’s design and style, you’ll need to hire a reliable roofing company like Roof Master to help you with the task.
While we prioritize giving you tips on measuring the roof overhang, our article also mentions the advantages or reasons to have a roof overhang. Let us start with the reasons to have a roof overhang.
Why Do You Need A Roof Overhang?
The most common reason homeowners install a roof overhang is to protect the house from climatic elements. However, choosing the areas to cover with this extension is also essential. For example, some homeowners want more protection around the doors while others wish to protect the house’s foundation. Let us look at the different areas.
1. Protecting The Doors And Windows
Your home’s doors and windows are essential because they provide security for the home and give the first impression to visitors. The extended edges shield the window and doors from water during heavy rains and cover the soffits and fascia.
Water causes damage to wood windows and doors. When the material soaks in the moisture, it swells and rots. Without the roof overhang, most of these doors and windows will rot and weaken even before their expiry dates.
The roof overhang also acts as a shed for visitors knocking on your door. They could shield themselves from rain or excess heat. Unfortunately, most homes do not have this vital part of the house because the homeowners are not aware of the importance.
2. Protects Your Wall From Rainwater
Keeping the walls clean and dry during heavy rains can be challenging. The raindrops hit the ground, and dirty water splashes on the wall, leaving aesthetically unappealing spots and wetness.
Also, moisture travels through the wall materials into the house, leading to moss and mildew growth. It is hard to protect the walls of a tall building, but having the overhang can reduce the wetness.
Besides, a damp room will be cold, increasing discomforts. The homeowner is forced to keep the heating system on, using a lot of energy which translates to higher energy bills.
3. Keeping The Foundation Dry
Your house’s foundation is an integral part of the house, like the roof and the doors and windows. It keeps the house’s base strong and maintains its durability. A roof overhang ensures water pouring from the roof lands further away from the foundation, keeping it dry and strong.
Fixing an already damaged and damp basement needs the expert to ensure they get everything right when correcting the problem. Unfortunately, that can cost you more.
What To Consider Before Measuring A Roof Overhang
Roof overhangs are important for the house since they provide shade for your doors and windows, as well as balance solar heat gain and the quantity of shade you need. However, measuring the roof overhangs allows you to determine whether they give adequate protection. These suggestions will be beneficial to you.
- The Architectural Design Of Your House
Homeowners have different tastes and preferences with their home’s structure. It also extends to the design of the roof, which dictates if you will have an extensive roof overhang and the shape to buy.
Most overhangs in modern architectural styles do not offer enough protection. Therefore, you could choose other building designs like curved or square and wide-angle. - Building An Exterior Wall
If your windows and doors do not get enough protection from the roof
overhang, increase the protection by building a thick exterior wall to cover these parts. Alternatively, you can cover each door with flashing to reduce direct water contact when it rains. - The Climatic Conditions
Roof overhangs are made to withstand other climatic conditions like upward winds. During construction, ensure it is long enough to withstand these winds. This is important for homeowners who live in areas affected by strong winds. - Ensure They Cover The Exterior Wall
Most house side’s premature rotting is caused by rainwater. When it rains in the sub-urban areas, the raindrops splash on the wall, and the droplets leave permanent and hard-to-clean stains.
When the walls become damp, mold and moss start growing, causing more permanent stains and reducing the home’s aesthetics. The mold could also spread inside the house and stain the curtains and carpets. Installing the right size of roof overhang will protect you from these problems.
Types Of Roof Overhangs To Install
Roof overhangs are mostly installed on the front doors, and they can be customized to meet the homeowner’s desire. However, most of them are 5 by 8 feet.
A bracket portico or a front door canopy adds aesthetics to your home’s main entryway. It is also easy to install, and it takes a shorter time for the roofing master to finish the job.
If your house has a traditional architectural design, consider the porch overhang. To match the rest of the home, paint it a bright color to bring peace and quietness. Also, ensure the frames are less complicated, and the rafters are entirely hidden.
Metal roof overhangs are another common choice. The material is resistant to harsh climates and has a longer lifespan. Besides, these overhangs are of good size because they measure up to 4 inches.
Gable-end overhangs have a triangular shape that adds beauty to the roof. It also increases the traditional touches and increases the home’s curb appeal. However, most homeowners are skeptical about choosing this roof overhang because it is less efficient.
Final Words
Roof overhangs are essential because they protect the house’s doors, windows, and walls from water damage. Homeowners should consider the architectural designs of their homes to ensure the overhang they buy perfectly fits the house’s structure.
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