The roof is the top of a building, protecting it from rain, snow, sunlight, wind and extremes of temperature. It also directs water away from the structure and provides insulation.
A roofer’s work is physically demanding. They spend the majority of their day on a ladder, often in torrid heat or frigid cold.
Choosing the right roofing materials is an important part of any home improvement project. It affects the cost, durability, and appearance of the roof. A good roofing contractor will be able to help you make the right choice and provide advice on the different types of materials available.
The type of material you choose will depend on a number of factors, including your budget and the climate in your area. Some materials may be more suitable for certain styles of homes, while others may require a specific framing style or type of installation technique. If you live in a region with frequent hailstorms, it is best to look for impact-rated roofing materials.
Metal roofing is a popular option for homeowners. This is due to its high longevity and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. It also adds value to a home, and it is available in a range of colors and finishes to complement any building style.
Asphalt shingles are another popular roofing material for homeowners. This is because they are cheap, durable, and come in a variety of color shades. They are also lightweight and easy to install. It is also possible to purchase impact-rated asphalt shingles, which offer added protection from flying debris during storms.
Other types of roofing materials include clay tiles, wood shakes, and concrete shingles. Slate is one of the most durable and beautiful roofing materials, but it is also expensive and requires a sturdy frame to support the weight. It has a lifespan of 75 to 200 years and can add significant value to your home.
For a more affordable alternative, consider using composite shingles as your roofing material. These are made from a combination of plastic, wood, and asphalt and can mimic the look of other more expensive roofing materials such as slate and cedar shakes. They are also highly durable and can withstand extreme weather, and they are easily installed by a professional roofing company.
If you prefer a flat roof, you can opt for EPDM membrane or TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin). The former is the most common option for residential roofs because it is very affordable and has a long lifespan of 10-15 years. The latter comes in sheets and is glued to the roof surface.
Roofing Installation
Whether you have chosen asphalt shingles, metal panels, or another roofing material, the roof installation process starts with thorough preparation. This includes inspection of the existing roof deck to ensure it’s sturdy enough to support the new roofing system. It’s also a good time to check for any leak areas.
The next step is to remove any old shingles and underlayment. This exposes the roof deck, which is then treated with waterproofing chemicals or hot tar. A vapor barrier may be added for additional protection from moisture.
Flashing is installed around chimneys, vents, and joints, to prevent water from seeping in at these vulnerable points. A drip edge is also added to direct water away from the edges of the roof.
Roofers then start installing the new roof materials. They begin at the eaves, working their way up to the ridge of the roof. The shingles are laid in rows, with each row overlapping the previous one by about six inches. Nails are placed along the top edge of each shingle, with the nail pattern increasing towards the middle. Specialty tiles are laid on the ridge of the roof for extra protection and to create a nice aesthetic.
If you’ve selected a metal roof, panel seams are sealed with caulk to prevent moisture from seeping into the interior of the home. For safety, a fall harness is often used when workers are on the roof.
Finally, a ridge cap is installed on the peak of the roof. This is the only part of the roof that is visible from ground level, so it’s important to make sure it looks good as well as provides effective protection. Once all of the nails and remnants of the old roofing are cleared away, a final inspection is conducted to ensure everything has been properly installed. A quality roof not only protects the building from rain and snow, but it also adds curb appeal and improves energy efficiency.
Roofing Repair
A high-quality roofing contractor will take the time to assess the roof and make recommendations. Then they’ll repair the damage. For example, they might remove a shingle that’s come loose or replace one with a newer, more durable shingle. And they’ll fix leaks by replacing flashing, which is metal that’s bent to fit the application—usually around chimneys, wood stove pipes, along hip roof lines and in other places where water might enter or gather.
In addition to repairing existing materials, a professional roofer might add new vent holes and vent covers for increased attic ventilation, which can save you money on heating and cooling bills. They might also add or replace ridge cap shingles to protect the ridge from rain and sunlight.
Re-roofing is often the quickest way to restore a roof. It’s less labor-intensive than a full roof replacement, and it can cost significantly less. But it’s not without its drawbacks. Covering up damaged materials doesn’t address the underlying issues, and it can lead to further problems down the line.
If the underlying damage is severe, it may be better to replace the entire roof. It’s not always possible to predict how much longer a roof will last, and even an experienced professional may have difficulty giving an exact estimate. But if the damage is moderate, it might be possible to re-roof just a small area or section. This can be easier and more affordable than a complete re-roof, but it might not offer as long of a lifespan.
Roofing Maintenance
Keeping a routine schedule of roof inspections will prevent small, easily repairable issues from becoming large problems. These should be done on a biannual basis by trained roofing professionals. During this process the following items should be inspected and addressed:
Flashings: The majority of roof leaks come from these areas and must be carefully inspected for cracks, looseness and other defects.
Drains: The roof drains must be clear of accumulated debris and the down spouts must be properly directed away from the building.
Trees: Ensure that any tree limbs are trimmed so they don’t hang over the roof and cause damage in heavy storms or natural disasters.
Stairs, walkways and platforms: They should be structurally sound and free of deterioration that could make them slippery or unsafe to use.
Signs: The roof should be clearly marked with appropriate signage. This is especially important if there are electrical, harmful chemicals or extremely hot equipment on the rooftop. It should also be clearly marked with safety hazards, such as areas with standing water or falling debris.
Materials
Homeowners today have a wide range of roofing materials to choose from with varying lifespans and prices. Choosing a durable material that adds value to your home while ensuring longevity and weather resistance is crucial.
The most popular type of roof is the asphalt shingle, which provides an attractive appearance and a great value. It also offers good durability, able to withstand most weather conditions and elements.
Another popular choice is the tile roof, made of earthen clays molded into interlocking shapes and fired for hardness. Its durability makes it an ideal choice for hot climates and areas where salt air is prevalent, and it adds a high level of luxury to a home’s exterior.
A more expensive but extremely long-lasting option is the slate roof, which is a natural roofing material that offers a unique and elegant look to any home. Slate is available in a variety of colors and hues, and it is known for its strength and fire resistance. It is also a sound investment, as it can last for more than 100 years with the right conditions and maintenance.
Those looking for a more affordable roof should consider membranes such as Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). These membranes are flexible, making them resistant to punctures and tears. They are also easy to install and can withstand most weather types and conditions. Moreover, they are heat-resistant, which can lower your energy costs.
Rolled roofing is another option for low-slope roofs such as those on outbuildings like sheds or garages. It consists of large rolls of mineral-impregnated and asphalt-impregnated material that is topped with mineral granules. It is inexpensive and requires little maintenance, but it doesn’t offer much in the way of aesthetics.
Composite shingles are one of the newer roofing materials on the market that provide the look of traditional roofing tiles but at a more economical price point. They have the highest impact and fire ratings and can last up to 30 years. In addition, they are very easy to maintain and carry some of the best warranties in the industry.