The roof is the most important part of a home and it protects the structure from rain, snow, sunlight, extreme temperatures and other weather conditions. A well-made and maintained roof can increase the value of a house.
Roofing assemble, install, repair and maintain a wide variety of practical roof types. There are 64 different types of roofing materials, each with its own pros and cons.
Roofing materials come in many different types and styles, allowing homeowners to choose the look that best suits their home. Most are designed to withstand different weather conditions and are durable enough to last for decades. Some are also recyclable, a plus for those who want to contribute to green living.
Rolled roofing is a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. It’s available in several colors and comes in rolls that are unrolled on the roof and then nailed into place. It’s best suited for low-sloped or flat roofs, but can be used on sloped roofs with proper framing. It’s not as good an insulator as other options and is prone to leaks.
Metal roofing is another option that’s long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. It’s durable against the elements and can help cut down on energy costs, especially in hot areas like Florida. It’s available in various colors and finishes, including galvalume, aluminum, and copper. It can be found in sheeting (including the predominant type known as standing seam metal roofs) or in shingles and shakes. It can even be made to mimic traditional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and slate.
Slate tiles add a classic, elegant touch to a roof and can be a great feature on historic homes or new constructions. They’re durable and non-combustible but require a high level of expertise to install and can be quite heavy. Authentic slate roofs are often expensive, but synthetic varieties offer the same beauty at a lower cost and weight.
Shakes are a rustic roofing option that can be made from a variety of different wood types to create a unique look. They’re resistant to rot, fire, and insect damage and can last for decades.
Composite shakes are an excellent choice for those who want the look of a natural roof but don’t want the hassle and expense of maintaining it. They’re a durable and long-lasting roofing material that can withstand the elements and can be made to look just like more traditional and expensive roofing materials. Most are manufactured with recycled materials and are recyclable after their useful life.
Roofing Systems
There are a number of roofing systems to choose from when having your roof replaced. Selecting a high-quality system can help to protect your property for decades to come while adding to its overall value and curb appeal. The right roofing system can also improve a building’s energy efficiency.
Roofing system design can vary by property and location, but there are some basic components that every roofing structure must have. The roof deck provides a solid foundation for the rest of the roofing system and is usually constructed using plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). The underlayment layer adds an additional layer of protection against moisture while providing insulation. Lastly, the roofing material is applied on top of the underlayment to protect against harsh weather conditions and sun exposure.
Many modern roofing materials are available in a variety of colors and finishes to fit the aesthetic preferences of the building. These options allow you to personalize your roofing to add character and charm while improving the performance of your roof. Choosing a flat roofing system with a seamless construction helps to eliminate the weak points of seams and joints that are common in traditional roofs.
Built up roofing systems, commonly referred to as BUR roofs, are a popular option for low-slope and flat commercial buildings. They are made up of multiple layers of ply sheets and asphalt that offer resistance against severe weather and heavy loads. A BUR roof is highly insulative and can be made even more energy efficient by adding a reflective coating.
The multiple layers of a BUR roof also keep heat conductivity between the interior and exterior of your building very low. This can help you save money on your heating and cooling bills.
Single ply membrane roofs are an alternative to traditional BUR systems and have gained popularity in recent years for their durability and watertight seal. They are available in a range of thicknesses and offer a waterproof barrier that can resist UV rays, extreme temperatures, and other damaging elements.
The newest roof systems are designed with green construction in mind. The solar reflectance of these roofs can help to reduce a building’s energy usage while also offering a cool environment for employees and customers. These roofing systems can be installed with ridge vents to keep air flow moving and prevent excessive heat buildup during the summer.
Roofing Installation
A roof is a structure that covers and protects a building’s occupants and contents from rain, snow, sunlight, wind, and extremes of temperature. It can be built flat, pitched, vaulted, domed, or in combinations as dictated by technical, economic, or aesthetic considerations.
A top-tier roofer will take the time to inspect your entire roofing system before beginning work. They’ll look at the flashing (the metal sheeting in your roof’s valleys and joints) and drip edges to determine if they’re in good shape or need replacement. If they’re rusted or dented, the crew will remove them with pry bars before installing your new materials. However, if they’re still in good condition, they’ll be left in place for now.
Felt paper or another waterproof underlayment will be installed to ensure your roof is completely watertight. It is usually laid in at least four courses (rows) across the roof. Once the underlayment is in place, a chalk line will be used to mark off shingle rows. Each shingle row will be overlapped by six inches and nails will be spread out further apart as you move towards the center of the roof.
The shingles themselves will be put into place in layers, staggered, and nailed down with either a hammer or nail gun. A good roofer will do this with careful precision so that your new shingles keep your home safe and secure. The final step is to add a piece of metal flashing called a z bar. This will cover any gaps between the ribs of the metal panels and the ridge of the roof, keeping water from sneaking in at those vulnerable spots.
Roofing Repair
Roofing repair is more affordable than a full re-roof in many cases. Roofing contractors can fix surface problems like sagging or missing shingles without disturbing the roof deck, and they may be able to extend the life of your existing shingles if they catch a problem before it gets out of hand. It’s also possible to replace the flashing, the thin metal pieces that line roof valleys and prevent leaks around features such as chimneys and skylights, without reshingling. If you’re tackling smaller repairs yourself, be sure to use a reputable product and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. You can also improve the look of your roof by adding a metal trim piece called a birdsmouth cut to the top of each shingle. This conceals the shingle nail and adds a decorative touch.