Roofing Baton Rouge takes an enormous beating from rain, snow, bitter cold, scorching sunlight and wind. That’s why it’s important to choose a material that’s durable, cost-effective and appropriate for your locale.
For example, terra cotta tiles look beautiful but aren’t recommended in areas prone to wild fires. Concrete tile is a better choice. Flat roofs require materials that come in large sheets to minimize seams and are bonded down with mechanical fasteners and glue.
Metal roofing has grown in popularity among homeowners because it is durable, long-lasting and offers a great return on investment. It is also non-combustible and is an excellent choice for those who live in areas with high wildfire risk. It also protects your home from snow, ice and other weather conditions that can damage asphalt shingle roofs. Metal roofs also add a high level of resale value to your home.
Unlike traditional roofing materials, a metal roof is lightweight. This means that it puts less stress on your roof support structures and can be installed with fewer supports. It also reduces installation time and labor costs compared to other types of roofs.
Another benefit of metal roofs is that they can be installed on older homes with existing asphalt shingles. However, it’s important to consult your local building codes to make sure that this is allowed in your area.
There are many different metal roofing options available, depending on your preferences and location. Steel, aluminum and copper are common choices for their strength, durability and attractive appearance. These are also eco-friendly, as they can be recycled at the end of their life cycle. The type of metal you choose may also be affected by your local weather and temperature, as some are more prone to corrosion than others.
You can also choose from a wide range of colors and finishes for your metal roof panels, so you can customize the look to fit your home. Some options even mimic the look of other roofing materials, such as clay tiles or wood. You can also find multi-layer factory finishes that will protect your metal roof from UV rays and other environmental factors.
It’s best to hire a professional for metal roof installation. This type of roofing requires specialized tools and techniques to install, and any mistakes made during the process can lead to expensive repairs or injury. If you decide to do it yourself, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, use a proper safety harness and take every precaution necessary for this type of job.
Shingle Roofing
When it comes to roofing materials, shingle roofs are the most popular choice. They are rectangular, flat pieces of asphalt, composite, or wood that cover a roof to keep water out. The type of material used determines the shingles’ appearance, durability, weight, cost, and property value.
The most common roofing material in the States is asphalt shingle. It is also the most affordable shingle option. It is important to understand the different shingle types available, as they differ in their performance and longevity.
Three-tab shingles, or strip shingles, are a common choice in central Florida homes due to their affordability and simplicity. They have a uniform look that features the appearance of three different shingles, but they are generally less durable than architectural shingle options.
Architectural shingles, or laminate shingles, are a thicker choice in roofing that delivers a more textured and complex appearance to your home. They are a bit more expensive than three-tab shingles, but they can last up to twice as long and protect your home from leaks and weather elements.
Premium architectural shingles are an excellent choice for homeowners who want to add value to their property with increased curb appeal. They are significantly thicker than regular architectural shingles and have a granular look that creates added definition and boosts your home’s overall curb appeal.
Wood shingles are a good choice for those wanting a natural or historic style in their roof. These are crafted from cypress, redwood, or Western red cedar and may be hand-split, quarter-sawn, or kiln-dried. They must be treated with a weatherproofing stain or paint to prevent them from bleaching to a grayish color over time.
Felt is an inexpensive, but not very strong, shingle option that is best used for sheds or other small structures like garages and gazebos. It is easy to install and can be used in combination with other shingle types. However, it is not recommended for use on a home because of the potential damage from high winds. It is a good idea to inspect your shingle roof on a regular basis and replace it as needed.
Tile Roofing
A tile roof adds a touch of elegance to any home. These roofs have been around for centuries and come in many shapes and colors. Typically made of clay or concrete, tile can be designed to mimic the look of shingle or slate roofs for Craftsman, rustic, or log homes, and they also look right at home on sleek modern abodes.
Unlike traditional shingles, which have to be regularly replaced, tile roofs can last up to 100 years. They have a high capacity for enduring sustained winds and are not susceptible to insect damage. They also do a better job of regulating the temperature in a home, which can cut down on energy costs over time.
Like all roofing types, a tile roof needs to be properly maintained. It will require more frequent cleaning and treatment to prevent issues such as moss growth, mildew, or mold. In addition, because it is made of wood, a cedar tile roof will require maintenance to prevent warping and moisture infiltration. These issues can be prevented by having the roof inspected and maintained by a professional on an annual basis.
A tile roof requires specialized skills to install. The process starts with underlayment and battens, which are nailed to the sheathing and provide a secondary layer of protection from water and wind. The tiles themselves are then loaded onto the roof by a specialized crew. This is a day-long project and requires the use of tools that are typically not available to DIYers.
Because of their thickness, tile roofs can add a lot of weight to a structure. It’s important to have the structure inspected prior to installation to make sure it can handle the additional weight and potential pressure points. It’s also a good idea to have the roof inspected to determine whether it needs fire-resistant materials.
Tile is also more expensive than shingles, but it’s a worthwhile investment for those with the budget and taste for a high-end look. It’s important to work with an experienced roofing contractor for the best results. Because these roofs are so heavy, they’re not a good fit for do-it-yourself projects.
Flat Roofing
Flat roofs are commonly found on commercial buildings but they are becoming more common on homes as well. They offer many benefits over other roofing types, including lower maintenance costs and greater energy efficiency. In addition, the flat roof design allows for equipment such as air conditioning units to be installed more easily. The low profile also allows for the installation of a rooftop deck or patio, which can provide a pleasant view and extra living space.
A flat roof can be made from a variety of materials. Modern flat roofs often use single large sheets of factory-made membranes such as EPDM synthetic rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO). They can be held down with either fasteners and gravel or glued down with hot or cold seaming techniques. The quality of the one-piece membrane plays a key role in its durability and performance.
Because they do not have the benefit of a roof slope, flat roofs must be designed with drainage in mind. Most often, a slight slope is added to the roof to help water run off into designated areas of the roof. In some cases, this is a major challenge for builders and engineers who must make sure that the drainage system will not cause water leaks or structural problems to the building below.
If the drainage system is not adequate, the roof may experience ponding water which can lead to the collapse of the entire roof. Often this occurs because of inadequate maintenance, when gravel or debris blocks the water outlets (either spigots, drains or gutters). It is important to perform regular inspections and maintenance to prevent these problems from occurring.
Another common issue with flat roofs is the deterioration of the waterproof membrane due to normal wear and tear. This is accelerated by the sun, weather and foot traffic. Depending on the material, this can cause the membrane to crack or puncture. This is why it is important to regularly inspect your flat roof and perform repairs as soon as possible. This will help to extend the life of your flat roof.
