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Wooden roofs require regular maintenance, are prone to rot and mold, and are frequently the target of insect infestations. Natural wood is also excellent at absorbing and storing moisture—not a positive. In climates where the weather shifts dramatically, the wood can also crack, split, or warp.

Roof underlayment usually lasts as long as the roofing material that covers it, as it’s not directly exposed to the elements. In most cases, roofing companies will replace the underlayment each time they install a new roof. In some cases, particularly with slate, clay, or certain metal roofs that can last 50 to 100 years, your underlayment may require replacement within that timeframe, especially if you start to notice roof leaks.

Generally, roof flashing is installed under the shingles to create a watertight seal and prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage. However, the exact placement can depend on the type of flashing. For instance, with step flashing, the shingles and flashing overlap each other, meaning the flashing is technically both over and under the shingles. Flashing also typically goes beneath the house siding and is often not visible from the ground.

Yes, replacing a roof is always a good investment if the current one is in poor condition. Not only will it preserve the structural integrity of the home, but it can also add value at the time of sale. The average return on investment for a new roof is between 48% and 61%. Prospective buyers are also more likely to purchase a home with a recently replaced roof since that means they won’t need to worry about that expense in the near future.