With summer just around the corner, many people are looking into solutions that will make their homes a little bit cooler. Roof overhangs are not only a great way to combat and lessen the intensity of the summer heat, they also help protect your front door and windows from the harsh elements. If your house currently does not have one, adding a roof overhang will be a great addition.
Framing the roof overhang on your house is pretty much a straightforward task, but blending it seamlessly into your existing roof is where things can get a little bit tricky. Rest assured that a roof overhang is worth your investment as it serves to protect the exteriors of your home, including the front door.
How Overhangs Protect Your Front Door
Aside from their decorative function, roof overhangs are also functional. Here’s how they serve to protect your door:
- Prevent jamb rot- One of the most common door malfunctions is jamb rot. By having a roof overhang that will protect all parts of the door, there will be no need for you to frequently replace a rotting door jamb.
- Prevent warping, paint damage, etc- Moisture has a great impact on a door’s physical appearance. Your door can still be functioning, but if it is warping and its painting is peeling and fading, this could be due to the door’s constant exposure to sun and rainwater. The most affected part could be the bottom of the door as running water will pool all over it. Having an overhang installed will solve this problem as it will protect the door from unnecessary exposure to the moisture from the outside.
- Keep visitors dry while they wait for you- Not only do roof overhangs protect your home in the summer, they also serve as protection during the rainy season. A roof overhang is pretty convenient, especially if you have guests that come over even if it is raining. Rest assured they will remain perfectly dry while waiting for you to open your front door.
- Shade your door- If you have a glass door, having a roof overhang installed will be convenient for you. Overhangs shade your door from the summer sun. Not only does it keep the heat out, it also prevents the harsh and dangerous UV rays from the sun to come streaming inside the house.
- Prevent splash back- Having a roof overhang will keep the water from dripping down the eaves, thereby lessening the damage caused by a splashback. Splashback is usually one of the most common reasons why doors and sidings get damaged. Keep the eaves’ water drips away from the house with roof overhangs.
How Much Overhang is Needed?
Unfortunately, there is no standard formula for sizing roof overhangs. Because each house and each location is different, a size that worked in one particular house will not necessarily work in another. The size of the overhang will usually depend on the microclimate conditions of the house. It is best to consult with a professional architect to help you gauge the right overhang size for your home.
Make the Most Out of Your Roof Overhang
Sizing is important when it comes to choosing which roof overhang to install. If it is too small, it might not be enough to provide protection to your front door. What little shade it could provide might not be enough to protect the door from constant sun and wind exposure, and it might not sufficiently direct the water away from the door whenever it rains. Another thing that might happen is that the roof overhang will only allow the water to pool at the bottom of the door, causing premature rotting.
A roof overhang will definitely be a great addition to any home. Not only does it protect your front door from the harsh sun and water damage, it also adds a lot to your home’s overall aesthetics. It will increase its curb appeal and improve its resale value.
If you need more help when it comes to protecting your door, or if you need help with door repair or replacement, contact us today to receive a free consultation.