Roofing is constructing or replacing the covering on a building or structure. It includes various materials and protects the interior from rain, snow, sunlight, and other elements.
Whether you’re looking to replace your existing roof or are building a new home, the type of roofing material you choose will have a big impact on your long-term costs and maintenance. For more information, visit https://andersonroofingpa.com/.
When it comes to your home’s roof, there are many roofing materials available. Some are more aesthetically pleasing than others, while some may be better suited for certain climates or conditions. Choosing the right roofing materials can greatly add to your home’s value while ensuring your roof is safe, sturdy, and durable.
Wood roofs include shingles or shakes and can be crafted from pine, red cedar, cypress, or redwood. Shingles offer a clean, crisp look that is milled into uniform length and thickness while shakes have a more rustic textured appearance and are made from split pieces of wood. Both are fire-resistant and can withstand high winds, hail, and temperature changes, but wood is not as durable as other types of roofing materials, and it may not be an ideal choice in areas prone to wildfires or landslides.
Slate roofs are an incredibly durable material that lasts 60 to 150 years and can withstand storms, extreme temperatures, and abrasion. Typically found on luxury homes, this type of roofing is heavy and requires special framing.
Concrete or clay tile roofing are an option that can be glazed with a variety of colors. This roofing is a great option for homes with Spanish, French, or Scandinavian design elements and can be manufactured in a number of different shapes and sizes. These roofs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also long-lasting, costing $12 to $18 per square foot for materials.
Metal is another long-lasting roofing material that can be purchased in a wide variety of colors and styles. It is a popular choice for those looking to save money and reduce their energy costs, and it can be used in low-sloped or flat roofing. Metal shingle roofs are a popular alternative to asphalt shingles and are made from pre-painted galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper.
Those interested in green roofing may want to consider a single-membrane treatment such as EPDM rubber, PVC plastic, or TPO thermoplastic polyolefin. These materials are generally installed on low-sloped roofing and can be installed with a smooth or granular finish.
Installation
Roofing involves constructing and installing the uppermost part of a building or structure. It protects the interior from rain, snow, and sunlight and provides a finished look. It also includes flashing, which is installed around chimneys and where roofing planes meet to prevent leaks. Roofing can also involve other exterior elements, such as gutters and drains. Roof installation requires significant climbing and can be dangerous for untrained individuals, so it is usually best left to professionals.
Before laying any shingles, contractors will install a layer of underlayment. Depending on your home, this may consist of plywood or OSB boards attached directly to the rafters or trusses that form the skeleton of your roof. The underlayment will be nailed in a pattern that alternates between close nails along the edges and nails spread out more towards the center of the sheet.
Maintenance
Roofing involves the construction and repair of the protective covering that is placed over the uppermost part of a building or structure. It protects the interior from weather and sunlight, adds a finished appearance, and helps to direct rainwater away from the building. Keeping the roof in good condition is vital to prevent water and air from entering the interior and causing damage such as leaks, mold, or mildew. Regular inspections should be conducted by trained roofing professionals on a biannual basis to ensure that small problems are addressed before they become serious issues. This includes inspecting the skeleton of the roof (sometimes called the roof deck), checking for seals around all roof penetrations such as skylights, vents and chimneys, and trimming any branches that overhang the roof to prevent debris from scraping against the surface.
Repairs
Like painting a room or refinishing cabinets, roof repair is a major home improvement project that requires substantial time and materials. One of the most important things to consider is whether re-roofing is actually the best option for you. Without removing the existing shingles, you can’t know what kind of damage exists underneath. Plus, re-roofing doesn’t last as long as roof replacement, and it can void the warranty on your new shingles.
Start by going up in your attic or crawlspace and inspecting the inside of the roof. Look for damp spots, stains or any sign of leaks. Also, examine the flashing. It should be fixed to the roof with either nails or sealant. If it’s nailed, make sure that the nails aren’t exposed to water. If the flashing is sealed, check for cracks or other signs of wear. If needed, re-seal it. To do this, use roofing cement or tar.
