Types of Roofing
Roofing is a complex and challenging form of construction. A roof protects structures from weather elements such as rain, snow, sunlight, and extreme temperatures.
There are many different types of roofing materials, from shingles to clay tile and wood shakes. These vary in price and aesthetics. Some are more durable than others. Contact Erie Roofing now!
During the early days of human civilization, people were often limited to roofing materials that were readily available in their environment. This included thatching, which involved using dried vegetation like reed or straw, as well as other organic materials like mud or woven fibers. In some areas, wood was also a popular choice, particularly in conjunction with another material like mud or straw, as with primitive houses such as wattle and daub huts. Today, wood is still a common option for roofs, as are many different types of metal substrates. Oriented strand board (OSB), which is similar to plywood, has become a popular alternative to other types of wood panels because it is less expensive and has good structural strength.
Materials
There are many different types of roofing materials available for homeowners, each offering a unique combination of cost, longevity, and aesthetics. Choosing the right one depends on a variety of factors, including budget, climate, and the architectural style of the home. It’s also important to consider how much maintenance is required for the chosen material.
Felt underlayment is commonly used to provide a water-resistant barrier between the roof deck and the roofing materials. This underlayment can be layered with other underlayment materials, such as synthetic rubber EPDM, to create a more effective water-resistant system.
Slate is a beautiful, natural roofing material that offers a timeless look for homes. It can be installed in tiles or shingles, and is resistant to chemicals, bacterial growth, UV radiation, and fire. However, slate is expensive, heavy, and requires a specialist to install and repair, which can drive up the overall cost of a roofing project.
Metal roofs are another popular option due to their durability and resistance to fire, wind, and hail. They can be installed in a range of styles, from standing seam to corrugated panels, and can be combined with other roofing materials, such as wood or tile, to offer a more diverse look.
Concrete roofing tiles are a durable option that can mimic the appearance of other roofing materials and are suitable for many climates. They are typically glazed or unglazed, and can be painted to match a house’s color palette. However, they are heavier than clay tiles and can become brittle in cold weather conditions, making them less suitable for some regions.
Asphalt shingles are an affordable and versatile roofing material that is a good choice for most climates. They are typically made from a mixture of recycled and new material and can be purchased in a wide range of colors and styles to suit the look of any home. In addition, asphalt shingles are highly durable and are relatively easy to maintain. However, they can become brittle over time and are not as reflective as other roofing materials. Some people may prefer a more energy-efficient roofing material, such as green or solar shingles.
Installation
The roof is an essential part of any building, protecting it from the elements and preserving the interior space. A commercial or residential roof must be installed properly to ensure its long-term performance and protection of the building’s inhabitants. When installing a new roof, contractors must also check for proper ventilation and insulation to preserve the integrity of the structure and reduce energy costs.
Roofing is a physically demanding job that requires a lot of time spent working with tools. Roofing contractors spend about 80% of their workday on the roof and have to deal with many different things that can go wrong during installation. The process starts with preparing the site, which involves clearing the area and covering surrounding landscaping or shrubs with tarps to protect them from debris. The contractor must also cover any open drains to prevent small pieces of debris from clogging them.
The actual installation process begins with putting down layers of underlayment. The shingles are then attached, starting with the bottom row and working up. The shingles are laid in courses, with each row being overlapped and secured with nails that are close together near the edge and spread out farther apart at the center. The final step is waterproofing the valleys, which are the areas where sloped sections of the roof meet each other.
There are a number of administrative tasks that must be handled by roofing contractors as well, such as managing supplies and equipment, negotiating contracts with suppliers, and dealing with accounting issues like payroll and taxes. These duties can take up a significant portion of the day, but they are necessary to keep the roofing company running smoothly.
Maintenance
A roof is a significant investment, one that requires proper care to preserve its life. Routine maintenance, performed by trained facility staff or a professional roofing contractor, reduces the risk of costly repairs and interior damage that may occur if a problem goes unnoticed and untreated. It also helps to ensure that the roof maintains its energy efficiency.
Typically, the first step in maintenance is to perform regular inspections. This allows early detection of problems, such as leaks or deterioration. A procedure for inspecting the entire roof, including a checklist to document conditions, should be developed and followed. The checklist should be tailored to each roof and include a category for each condition.
Debris, such as dirt, leaves and twigs, should be removed regularly from the roof to prevent moisture build-up that can rot or age surfaces prematurely and cause water to accumulate in the building. The drains should be cleared of debris as well, so that water flows freely and does not pond on the roof surface.
Other maintenance items might include patching holes and dents, and checking the sealant, especially around penetrations and flashings. It is also a good idea to inspect the structure for weakened beams or trusses, which could contribute to leaks and structural damage. If the roof contains skylights, they should be inspected to make sure they are properly sealed.
Signage should be posted to warn roofing personnel of potential hazards, such as electrical, harmful chemicals or extremely hot equipment on the roof. Also, any stairways, crossovers or platforms should be inspected and maintained for rust or loose parts that might pose a fall hazard.
A final item on the maintenance list is to check for deteriorating or missing shingles, and to replace them if needed. This can save money in the long run, as shingles that are worn or damaged by weather or other factors can become discolored or brittle and may break easily.
Some roofing contractors may also offer a variety of other services to their customers, such as cleaning and sealing gutters. Others might provide a warranty for their work or offer a free estimate of a roof’s condition.
