A roof is one of the most important aspects of any home. It shields against harsh weather conditions and significantly impacts a building’s energy efficiency and aesthetics.
It’s vital to consult with professionals before choosing which roofing materials will work best for your climate and specific needs. Learn all about the process of constructing, installing, and maintaining your roof. Contact Erie Roofing now!
The roofs of commercial buildings and industrial facilities are usually flat or low-sloped, and there are several different types of roofing materials for these kinds of structures. The most popular options are single-membrane systems like EPDM and thermo-polyolefin (TPO). These membranes can be mechanically fastened to a cover board or insulation boards and have seams that are either glued or hot-air welded. Built-up roofing (BUR) is also an option for flat roofs. It’s made of layers, or plies, of felt or fiberglass that are coated with tar or asphalt.
Rafters or prefabricated trusses form the frame for most residential roofs, and sheathing is typically plywood or oriented strand board. Older homes may have tongue-and-groove or narrow 1-by-4 skip sheathing made of sawn lumber. These sheathing boards are used as a base for many roofing materials, including asphalt shingles and wood shakes.
Materials
A roof can be made of a variety of materials, and each offers unique advantages in terms of aesthetics, durability, cost, and longevity. Choosing the best roofing material depends on balancing your needs and budget with these factors. The cheapest option may not always be the best value in the long run, as cheap materials tend to require more frequent repairs and replacements. On the other hand, more expensive options can reduce your overall home energy costs and are generally more durable.
The most common roofing material is asphalt shingles. These shingles are available in a range of styles from basic 3-tab to architectural, and offer an excellent combination of affordability, ease of installation, and durability. Asphalt shingles are also fire-resistant, and provide good insulation in hot climates.
Membrane roofing is the other most popular choice for flat and low-pitched roofs, usually composed of EPDM or PVC synthetic rubber sheet materials. These roofs are very durable, resistant to weathering and puncture damage, and have sun- and UV-reflective properties to cut down on cooling expenses in warm areas. They do not have the lifespan of shingle or tile roofs, but can last 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance.
For homes with a more rustic and natural style, wood shingles or shakes can be an attractive and long-lasting roofing material. Typically made from pine, cypress, red cedar, or redwood, wood shingles are thin slabs of sawn wood, while shakes are thicker wedges that add a distinctive look and texture. These types of roofs are often not suitable for moisture-prone or wildfire prone regions, and require regular maintenance to avoid weathering and decay.
Clay and concrete tiles are an attractive and durable roofing option for dry climates. These roofs are characterized by their iconic raised ridges that lock into neighboring tiles, and they are often chosen for their ability to add a sense of luxury to the exterior of the house. While they are more expensive than other roofing materials, they offer an exceptional life span and minimal maintenance requirements.
Metal roofs are typically made of galvanized steel, aluminum-zinc alloy, or copper. Their durability, longevity, and resistance to impact damage make them a desirable choice for many homeowners. Known for their strength, they are suitable for many styles of architecture, and can be complemented by other roof elements like skylights or dormers.
Installation
When you hire professional roofing contractors, they will start the installation process by inspecting your roof and preparing it for construction. They will cover any landscaping or structures that are close to the roof with tarps, making sure they’re protected from debris. In addition, they will make sure that any existing gutters and ventilation systems are working properly before beginning work.
The next step involves removing the existing roof covering, which may include shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking. This can create a mess, but qualified roofing professionals will follow safety protocols to ensure that no one gets hurt. They will also know how to dispose of the materials correctly.
Once the roof is stripped down to the bare bones, the roofing team will install a new underlayment. This layer acts as a protective barrier against leaks and moisture. It’s particularly important for areas that are prone to water damage, such as valleys, wood stove pipes, certain vents, and along hip roofs.
Afterwards, the roofers will add a layer of shingle strips and cement them into place. Then, they will add any necessary flashing to protect the eaves from moisture and the elements. For example, they will waterproof the valleys, which are the areas where the slopes of your roof meet and form a V shape. They will use different methods for this, depending on the specific roof design and structure. They will also install ridge vents to help with attic ventilation and energy efficiency. Finally, they will clean up the work area and remove all debris, nails, and leftover materials.
Maintenance
Roofing is an essential component of any building, providing protection from the elements and helping to preserve its structural integrity. As such, it is important to maintain your roof through regular inspections, cleanings, and repairs. This will help to prevent any damage from escalating and prolong the life of your roof.
A thorough roof inspection should be performed each season to look for any signs of damage or unusual wear and tear. During this inspection, you should look for the following:
Missing shingles
Loose or missing shingles can expose your home to water leaks. Make sure to check the caulking around chimneys and vent pipes, as well as for any moss or algae growth, which can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration.
Underlayment
Your roof’s underlayment is a waterproof membrane that helps to protect against leaks, even if the top layer of shingles becomes damaged. If the underlayment is damaged, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Tree limbs
Large tree branches can easily break during heavy storms, causing damage to your roof and surrounding structure. Trimming trees near your roof can reduce the risk of damage by preventing branches from hanging over or touching it. It is also a good idea to inspect the growth of tree limbs on a regular basis to determine when they may need to be trimmed.
