Having a roof over one’s head is an important part of life. It offers security and safety, and it helps to build better communities.
Take a moment to appreciate the roof over your head, and consider those who don’t have one. Volunteer or donate to help those who are homeless.
What is a Roof?
A roof is the top covering of a building or other shelter that provides protection against rain, snow, sunlight and extremes of temperature and has tons of roof upgrade options. It can be flat, pitched or domed in form and constructed from a variety of materials. It may also include openings and windows to allow light into buildings, ventilation, access, and views. It may be a single or a group of overlapping elements that are joined together and is generally designed to suit the climate conditions, the building or architectural style, and other factors such as structural, aesthetic, and cost considerations.
The most common roofing material is asphalt shingles, which are relatively inexpensive, long-lasting and come in a wide variety of colors and styles. Other popular choices are tile, slate and wood shakes or shingles. Other features of a roof include: the ridge, where two sloping planes meet at the peak; the valley, which is a lower spot between adjoining roof faces and where water collects before flowing off the roof; and dormers, which are projections that add space and/or light to rooms inside the home.
Materials
A roof can be built out of a variety of materials including asphalt shingles, tile, metal and wood. A good roof also requires quality insulation, and a strong underlayment. A good roof is more than just protection from the elements, it is a symbol of security and safety for those without adequate housing. National Roof Over Your Head Day is a great time to give back by supporting organizations such as Habitat for Humanity who put roofs over the heads of families in need. Couillard Solar Foundation recently helped Habitat for Humanity save on energy costs by installing 4 rooftop solar arrays. EagleView measurement reports were used to increase efficiency in the estimating and planning stages of these projects.
Installation
A roof over your head is a privilege not everyone has. National Roof Over Your Head Day is an opportunity to show your gratitude for the roof you have, and to encourage those that don’t have one to continue working toward it. This day is also a reminder to be a good neighbor by lending your time or money to those in need. Non-profit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity are well known for putting roofs over the heads of families in need. Solar companies such as Couillard Solar and Solar for Good help them save on energy costs by donating solar arrays that reduce the carbon footprint of these homes.
Maintenance
Homeowners should regularly check their roof to ensure all of the components are functioning as they should. It is also recommended to trim any tree limbs that are growing too close to the roof to prevent damage during stormy weather. Lastly, a roof should be cleaned on a regular basis to remove any dirt and debris that could cause problems.
One of the ways to celebrate National Roof Over Your Head Day is by donating to Habitat for Humanity, an organization that puts roofs over the heads of families in need of housing. This organization has embraced solar energy as well to help reduce their carbon footprint while saving money that they can put back into their mission of providing adequate housing for those in need. They use EagleView measurement reports to help speed up the process of getting a new roof for their families.
