When you hear the word ‘church,’ what’s the first thing that comes to your mind?
If your response was along the lines of ‘worship,’ ‘prayer,’ ‘angels,’ and the like, you’re not alone. That said, the building is also quite helpful and open for community members beyond any congregations. Many meetings and gatherings are held in church basements. Architecture and photography enthusiasts are also often prone to visiting churches to look at the stained glass windows, walls, interior, and roof.
The roof of any structure is vital to protect the people inside. It’s particularly crucial when it comes to churches since nothing can be done in a church without a roof. Moreover, it plays a key role in protecting not just whoever’s inside, but the overall structure and every artifact there.
Church Roofs Can Be Complicated
You probably already know this, but the materials, pitch, age, and size of church roofs are the complete opposite of “one size fits all.” They are also entirely unconventional given their features, such as concealed gutters, steeples, and parapets.
Roof repair and maintenance when it comes to churches require professionals who have specific training. It can get pretty pricey, but that’s also because of how churches are built in the first place.
Churches are meant to withstand decades if not centuries of extreme weather and everyday wear and tear. Today’s oldest churches are relics of our time and are very well taken care of, rightfully so.
Materials Make A Difference
Before any repairs are done, church roofs need to be evaluated. It’s best to list every single material involved. There can be several materials on a church roof at any given time. This includes tile, copper, and slate. That said, should replacement be necessary, there are modern options available for church roofing. Very old churches may have materials that are tricky to replace, though. They are usually made with roofing materials which are long phased out, tough to find, or just hardly available as it is.
Regular Maintenance Is Key
A church that’s strong by default and has lasted for decades on end will still require maintenance and repairs. This plays a vital role in the structure’s integrity as a whole. Wind damage, leaks, and other issues can weaken roofs one way or another.
The good news is that roofs can be saved from significant damage with a regular roof inspection. The gutters have to be constantly debris-free as well. Sound familiar? That’s because it’s essentially what residential roof maintenance is like too.
No matter what kind of roof you have and whether the property is residential or commercial, regular inspection and maintenance are vital. Any issues that are spotted during these inspections need to be addressed immediately. This way, durability and structural integrity can be prolonged in the best possible way.
Conclusion
Church roofs are pretty complicated in that they’re usually made up of many different, often older, materials alongside unconventional features. They’re built with the intent to last for decades or centuries. That said, they need to be inspected regularly, and any issues should be addressed quickly.
Do you need help with church roof repair? Reach out to Cardinal Roofing! We’re happy to help install, maintain, and repair roofs in Middle Tennessee and Alabama.