Roofing protects your home’s interior from weather and harmful UV rays. It comes in many varieties, from asphalt shingles to steel panels and clay tiles.
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Choosing the right roofing materials for your home is a crucial step in the process of roof installation. Several factors must be considered, including weather conditions, durability, maintenance requirements and aesthetic compatibility with your home’s architectural style. In addition, it is important to consider the cost of the material and its installation as well as its long-term energy efficiency benefits.
A variety of roofing materials are available, from asphalt shingles and polymer shingle options to clay tile and stone-coated steel. Each requires its own set of tools, supplies and safety equipment to ensure proper installation. Having the proper roofing materials and installing them correctly is key to protecting your home from water damage, leaks and other potential problems.
Asphalt shingles are a common roofing material due to their durability and affordability. These shingles are typically installed over plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) for added stability. Before laying shingles, roofers must inspect the decking and replace any soft spots that may cause moisture or air leaks. They also install drip edges to help prevent water leaks in the eaves, valleys and around penetrations such as chimneys and skylights.
Another popular roofing option is wood shakes. Made from split logs of cedar or redwood, these natural-looking shingles add to the overall aesthetic and value of the home, but they do require more maintenance than other roofing materials. They need to be treated regularly to protect against mold, mildew and fire.
Metal roofs are becoming more popular, as they provide a modern and sleek look. They can last 50 to 100 years and are resistant to fire, moisture and wind. However, they can be heavy and may require special framing. If you are considering a metal roof, be sure to choose a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer.
Finally, a proper ventilation system is critical to your home’s health and comfort. Roof vents keep the attic cool and dry, reducing overheating and moisture build-up that can lead to ice damming or damage to the roof. A professional roofer will recommend the best option for your home and install it properly.
Underlayment
Roofing underlayment provides an important layer of protection against water infiltration while roof construction takes place. The material is installed over the sheathing and framing of a home’s roof and is typically made from asphalt-saturated felt or synthetic materials. Underlayment catches moisture during rain events and sheds it so that the sheathing and framing don’t become damp or rotted. Depending on the type of roofing and the climate, the underlayment may also serve to provide an extra level of insulation for the roof.
Felt underlayment is the most common and affordable choice for most roofing projects. It’s been around for decades and often meets local building codes. However, it can be prone to tearing during the installation process and doesn’t perform well in areas where snow is often found. Felt is also a thick, heavy material that’s difficult to carry up a ladder and can increase labor costs for a professional installation.
Another option is rubberized or self-adhering membrane underlayment, which usually features either a butyl- or rubberized asphalt adhesive mounted on a polyethylene carrier sheet. This underlayment can be installed much faster than felt because it’s easy to cut and peel, which speeds up the installation process. It’s also more durable than felt underlayment and better able to resist UV rays and moisture. However, this type of underlayment doesn’t perform well in cold temperatures and isn’t as helpful as ice dam protection.
A third type of underlayment is shingle underlayment, which is typically a lightweight fiberglass mat with a non-woven, non-slip surface. This underlayment is often used in steep-slope roofs, where it offers greater protection against water leaks than low-slope underlayments. It’s also useful in areas where penetrations and valleys occur, as it helps to prevent moisture damage from the inside out.
Regardless of the type of underlayment you choose, it’s important to install it in accordance with local building codes and to use high-quality materials to ensure that your roof lasts for decades. For the best results, hire a licensed and insured contractor to install your underlayment and new shingles. The most common tools for roofing installation include a nail gun, hammer and small pry bar, and a caulk gun for applying roofing caulk to raw edges.
Flashing
The final step in roofing installation is installing the flashing, which is the thin metal material that keeps water from leaking into spots like chimneys, walls and joints. A top-tier roofer will install this with precision to protect your home.
When you’re looking at the finished product, roof flashing will look a little different from other parts of your home. It will likely be made of a shiny, brushed metal that’s been galvanized. This helps it resist corrosion caused by the elements.
There are several kinds of flashing, but all serve the same purpose: to direct rainwater away from vulnerable areas of a roof, including seams, joints and holes. The type of flashing installed depends on the location and design of the roof feature that’s being protected.
Corner flashing is used to protect the corners of a roof where it meets a wall or other vertical surface. This is created by cutting a usual piece of flashing into its center fold and then bending it around the corner to form a 90-degree angle. It’s then sealed with waterproof roof cement and nailed in place.
Valley flashing is a special kind of flashing that’s installed to waterproof the area where two slopes of the roof meet. This is a particularly critical spot for water to flow, so it requires extra protection. It can be hidden under shingles or left exposed in open valleys.
Pipe flashing is used to protect the areas where pipes penetrate the roof. It can be one piece or several overlapping pieces that create a channel for water to run through and into the gutters. This type of flashing is also used for skylights, vents and chimneys.
Headwall flashing is a kind of flashing that’s used to waterproof the joint where a roof meets a wall. It’s a bent piece of flashing that’s placed behind the siding and over a course of shingles. It’s often made from lead because of its durability, but it can be made from other materials as well. The most important thing is that it’s properly installed so it will last and keep water from seeping into the home.
Shingles
The shingles on your roof provide a water- and impact-resistant barrier between your house and the elements. They can be made of many materials, including asphalt, wood, clay, and slate. They’re typically arranged in overlapping rows, with each shingle resting on and bonded to the layer below it. The type of shingle you choose will depend on your budget and aesthetic preferences.
There are three basic types of shingles: Three-Tab Shingles: This is the oldest and most basic type, with a single layer of fiberglass felt that is coated with asphalt and granules. It’s inexpensive and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. This shingle can last 15 to 20 years, but severe weather like high winds and hail can shorten its lifespan.
Dimensional Shingles: These are thicker and more durable than three-tab shingles. They come in a wide range of color options and designs, allowing you to create a unique look for your roof. They can last 25 to 40 years, though extreme weather conditions can shorten their lifespans.
Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common shingles used on homes today. They consist of a durable base layer that is covered with colorful, stone granules to give your roof a distinctive appearance. They can also include a solar reflective coating to help lower your energy bills. Asphalt shingles are fire resistant, and most carry an impact resistance rating that indicates how well they can withstand hail.
Premium/Designer Shingles: These are more expensive than asphalt shingles but have a luxurious design and color option that can mimic the look of other types of roofing. They can be designed to look like shake, tile, or slate roofing and are available in a wide range of colors and shapes. Many of these shingles can also offer an organic option by using recycled plastics.
Before installing your shingles, check with the manufacturer to make sure you use their recommended nailing pattern and roofing nails. You’ll want to ensure the shingles are installed correctly to prevent leaks and other problems. You should also complete the installation of the valley flashing before you install the shingles.
