Roofing is one of the most complex construction industries. It involves many individuals working year-round in the torrid heat and frosty cold.
The skeleton of a roof comprises rafters or trusses, which are attached to boards called the roof deck. These can be plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). They are also known as roof sheathing. Contact Ellingson Roofing LLC now!
Roofing is an integral part of the construction process, and its materials play a significant role in a building’s durability, cost, and aesthetics. Residential roofing options vary in material, with asphalt shingles being the most common due to their low price and simple installation. Still, other choices like tile, slate, or metal can offer distinct looks and superior durability.
Insulation can also be a good option for homeowners and is typically installed during the roof construction or replacement process. It helps keep a home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, improving energy efficiency. In addition, it can help reduce the risk of serious structural damage from high winds and hail.
If you’re looking for a roofing material that stands up to weather conditions, consider clay tiles, which are made from earthen clays molded into rolled or interlocking shapes and fired for durability. These are a popular choice for homes in hot climates and are known for their longevity. They can withstand high-speed winds, earthquakes, and fire. However, they’re a heavy roofing material, so your structure may require extra reinforcement before installing.
Other durable roofing materials include wood shingles and shakes, which have a more rustic appearance and are commonly used for houses in moderate climate zones. They can last up to 30 years and are an affordable roofing option with a long lifespan. Membrane roofing is another option, using durable ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) or thermoplastic sheets to make a watertight seal. This is a great roofing option for flat or low-slope areas and is frequently seen on commercial buildings. It can be hard on a roof, though, so regular maintenance is recommended to prolong its life.
Slope
The slope of your roof plays a key role in its functionality, water drainage, and aesthetics. Without a properly functioning roof slope, your home is prone to leaks and water damage that can compromise the integrity of your structure. In addition, improper slope can lead to a buildup of moisture that can cause mold growth and wood rot. The ideal roof slope is determined by a variety of factors, including climate, design, and roofing materials.
Roof slope, also referred to as pitch, is measured by the ratio of vertical rise to horizontal run, expressed as a decimal or fraction. A roof with a 6:12 slope, for example, has a rise of 6 inches for every 12 inches of run. Measuring your roof’s slope is a relatively simple process and can be done safely from inside your attic using a tape measure and level.
Your roof’s slope can affect how much space is available for attic storage and living areas, as well as the type of interior design you choose. A steeper roof slope may limit attic space, while a low-slope roof provides more usable attic or upper floor space. Choosing the right roof slope is also important when selecting roofing materials, as some materials have specific slope requirements to ensure proper installation and function.
For steel building designs, the 2:12 roof pitch is ideal for its versatility and durability. This slight incline, resulting in a 2 inch rise for every 12 inch span of the building, allows for easy maintenance and is a good balance between water and snow shed, aesthetic flexibility, and structural support. This type of slope is commonly found in modern and minimalist designs, but can complement traditional architectural styles as well.
Flashing
A roofing system isn’t complete without flashing, which directs water away from vulnerable areas. It works just like a gutter, diverting water from walls, valleys, and roof penetrations so it doesn’t damage the building envelope or cause leaks. Flashing is typically made of a metal material, such as copper, galvanized steel or zinc coated steel, lead or another weather resistant material, and it’s installed along critical areas of the roof where leaks are common, such as in the valleys or around dormers and chimneys.
Leaks often occur in these areas because they’re not protected by the shingles or roofing materials. When a roof leaks, it can allow water to get beneath the structure and into the attic, where it can cause mold and mildew. Water can also corrode or weaken the metals of a roof and cause further problems. Flashing helps prevent these leaks by sealing the seams and gaps where different elements of a roof meet.
There are many types of flashing, including step flashing, which seals the joint where a sloped surface meets a vertical surface; valley flashing, which seals the area where two slopes of a roof meet in a V-shaped channel; counter flashing, which covers and protects a base flashing; and drip edge flashing, which helps prevent water from entering the fascia along the edges of the roof.
When installing flashing, it’s important to measure and cut the pieces correctly so they fit properly. Afterward, they’re secured in place with a waterproof sealant. Because of the complexities involved with flashing installation, it’s a job best left to a professional. Flashing is an integral part of a quality roofing system and should be inspected and maintained yearly to ensure it’s performing its job well.
Underlayment
The underlayment is the first layer of protection between your roof deck and your roofing materials. It provides a smooth surface on which to install your roofing shingles and increases the lifespan of your roof. It also helps the shingles resist damage from wind-driven rain and snow, which can otherwise cause water damage to your home.
The type of underlayment you choose depends on your roof structure and climate, as well as your budget. There are a variety of options available, from traditional asphalt-saturated felt to rubberized asphalt and synthetic underlayment. The type you select will also affect your roof’s ability to achieve a certain fire rating.
Traditional roofing underlayment is made of a combination of natural plant fibers and asphalt to help protect your roof from moisture. It also acts as a vapor barrier, which is important in some climates. However, it can be susceptible to tearing and is less resistant to UV exposure than other types of underlayment.
Some underlayment materials are designed to be more durable and more effective than others. For example, a number of asphalt-saturated felt products are now available that have been enhanced to offer better durability and resistance to tearing, even in high winds. These materials are also formulated to resist wrinkling when exposed to heat, and to prevent deterioration caused by volatile compounds and UV exposure.
Other underlayment options are manufactured from polypropylene or polyester and are more lightweight than felt. Some are designed to withstand the wear and tear of installation, and many have adhesive on one side that helps them adhere easily to the wood sheathing. These types of underlayments are sometimes referred to as non-bitumen synthetic underlayment.
Shingles
Shingles are the final piece of the puzzle that is your home’s roof. They are typically made of different materials depending on the roof type, and each shingle is designed to create an effective barrier against water, heat, and UV rays.
A shingle is a flat, rectangular piece of building material that is layered together to form an overlapping row. It is often covered with a protective layer of granules that helps to reflect the sun’s heat and limit the amount of solar energy that is absorbed by the house.
Asphalt shingles are the most common shingle roofing material. They are inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors to complement any architectural style. They also offer durability and longevity, lasting up to 50 years.
3-Tab shingles are the oldest basic type of asphalt shingle. They have a uniform appearance and are the least expensive option. Dimensional shingles, also known as architectural or laminated shingles, are thicker than 3-tabs and have a more substantial, three-dimensional look. They are available in a number of styles, including those that mimic the look of natural materials like shake, tile, and slate while providing a higher level of wind resistance and other performance attributes.
Luxury shingles, also known as designer or premium shingles, are the most expensive shingle options. They have a high-end aesthetic in various shapes and color options that are intended to add an architectural flair to your roof. These shingles are often intended to imitate the look of slate tiles and can be quite heavy.
If you are considering a shingle roof, make sure to choose a durable product with a long expected lifespan and a strong manufacturer’s warranty. Most shingle manufacturers offer warranties of up to 50 years for their products when properly installed and maintained.