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Asphalt shingles blister when air gets trapped between building materials, either within the layers of the shingle itself or in adhesives on the undersides of the shingles. As the roof heats up in direct sunlight, the trapped gas expands and creates a bubble in the roof. Eventually, the bubble can pop, leaving an exposed area of decking and underlayment.

Yes, thatched roofs are legal in most areas in the U.S., but you should always check your local building codes to ensure there are no restrictions in your particular area before installing one. Even where they are legal, you’ll usually need to apply fireproofing to the roof to keep it up to code. Keep in mind that a new roof might not increase home value as much if you choose a thatched roof, as they aren’t common in the U.S. and might not be as desirable to many home buyers.

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.

You may become so frustrated with the look of moss on your roof that you contemplate whether to clean or replace your roof. Fortunately, you don’t have to go as far as replacing it. After cleaning the moss, you can use a chemical solution to keep it away. For further protection, trim branches that overhang the roof, as fallen seed pods and leaves on the roof allow moisture to collect, encouraging moss growth. Consider adding zinc-coated flashing to the roof, too. As rain washes across the zinc, it leaves zinc particles behind that inhibit moss growth.