Roofing is the exterior covering of a building that protects against rain, snow, sunlight, and temperature extremes. It can take on many forms, from flat to pitched to vaulted.
The foundation of a roof is rafters or prefabricated trusses and sheathing, typically plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). Older houses may use tongue-and-groove 1-by-6 or narrow 12-skip sheathing boards of sawn lumber.
When re-roofing your home, the type of material you choose is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make. Not only will it affect the look of your house, but it’ll also impact the overall durability and longevity of your roof. There are many different types of roofing materials to choose from, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
Metal roofing is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and stylish roof. It’s available in a wide variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect look for your home. It’s also highly resistant to weather damage, making it a great choice for areas that experience frequent storms or high temperatures.
Tile roofing is a classic roofing option that can add a beautiful aesthetic to your home. It’s made from a variety of materials, including clay, concrete, and slate, and can last a lifetime. However, it’s important to note that this type of roofing is best suited for warm climates, as it can become extremely hot and humid in colder regions.
Flat roofing is a type of roofing that’s found on commercial and residential buildings with low slopes. It requires regular maintenance to ensure that water doesn’t pool in low spots and cause leaks. In addition, it’s important to keep the roof clear of leaves, limbs, and debris to prevent buildup that can lead to mold or moss.
Low-slope roofing materials are primarily designed for use on buildings with less than a 2:12 slope. These include rolled roofing and galvanized steel sheets that are coated with zinc via a hot-dip process. The latter are often covered with a polyester paint that’s available in a range of colors. They’re typically used for low-cost applications, such as sheds and outbuildings.
Slate roofing is a more expensive option that’s available in a variety of natural colors. It’s been in use since the 1700s, and offers superior fire resistance and durability. However, it’s important to note it can require significant structural support, and may need to be reinforced in some cases.
Roofing Substrate
The roofing substrate serves as the foundation upon which a roof covering is installed. While it may seem like a minor detail, the substrate is vital to the overall durability and performance of the roof.
Roof substrates are available in a wide range of materials. Some are more durable than others, while the type of substrate you choose depends on a number of factors, including your budget and the climate where you live. In addition, some building codes require specific types of substrates.
Generally, roof substrates are constructed of a solid material such as plywood or concrete. However, some are made of a more durable and resilient material such as fiberglass or even foam. These products are then covered with a waterproof membrane to serve as the base for a roof covering such as shingles.
Some roof substrates are also used as a temporary working platform for construction activities such as carpentry, painting and glazing. This means that a good quality roof substrate must be tough enough to withstand the foot traffic and other impacts from the construction site. It should also be able to resist moisture from the construction process.
Another consideration when choosing a roof substrate is whether you will be using a single-ply membrane or a fully-adhered system. While ballasted systems can be a cost-effective solution, they are subject to slope limitations. Additionally, there are a number of other factors that may limit their use, such as the availability of suitable ballast and proximity to shorelines and other high wind zones.
In contrast, a fully-adhered roof system is more expensive but has the benefit of not being limited by slope restrictions. It is also more likely to provide a watertight seal due to the fact that the membrane is applied directly to the substrate.
A roof substrate can be either wood or metal. If you choose a wood substrate, it must be treated to ensure that it will resist the elements. This treatment is called preservative treatment. If you choose a metal substrate, it is important to ensure that it is galvanized. The difference between galvanized and non-galvanized substrates is that the former will have a higher level of corrosion resistance.
Roofing Flashing
Roofing flashing is the layer of impermeable metal that protects the roof from leaks and other types of damage. It is a highly important part of the entire roofing system. It prevents water from penetrating the building through seams, joints, and gaps in the roofing materials. It is especially important in areas where the roof meets other structures, like chimneys, vent pipes, skylights, and walls. Roof flashing can be made from a wide variety of materials, such as copper, galvanized steel, and aluminum, and is designed to fit the specific needs of the project.
Typically, flashing is installed in steps, with each piece being covered by the next course of shingles. It is best to have a professional handle the installation of flashing to ensure that it is done correctly. A skilled roofing professional, like Cloud Roofing, will also be able to inspect the flashing for any signs of leaks or other problems.
The first type of flashing is called base flashing, and it is used to protect hard-to-waterproof features on the roof, such as chimneys. This is typically an L-shaped piece of metal that attaches to the roof and rests against a counter flashing piece, which is embedded into the masonry of the chimney or wall. This allows for some expansion and contraction of the flashing without damaging it or the shingles above it.
Another type of flashing is called ridge cap flashing, which is installed at the peak of the roof to prevent water from seeping under the shingles and into the structure. This is usually a small metal cap that covers the top of the roof, and it creates a waterproof seal at the highest point of the roof.
Finally, there is plumbing vent flashing boots, which are used to cover the protruding pipe from a plumbing vent that sticks out of the roof. These are typically metal fittings that have a base that integrates with the roof material and an upward-extending sleeve that fits over the vent pipe. The sleeve of the flashing is bowed outward to direct rainwater away from the pipe opening.
Roofing Underlayment
The underlayment is a crucial layer of roofing materials, installed on the roof deck prior to the application of any other roof cladding. It provides a protective barrier against moisture and helps to prevent leaks and other damage. The underlayment also provides insulation and can help to reduce energy costs by lowering the building’s heating and cooling requirements.
There are many different types of roofing underlayment, each with its own unique benefits and applications. Typically made from felt, asphalt saturated felt or modern synthetic materials, the underlayment can be found in various thicknesses and weights. The choice of underlayment depends on the type of roof and environmental conditions, with some roofs requiring specific features. For example, tile and metal roofs require a waterproof underlayment, while shingle roofs need an underlayment that is moisture resistant.
Felt underlayment is commonly used in residential construction and is available in both 15-pound and 30-pound thicknesses. It is an economical option that offers good water resistance and durability. It is also a lightweight material, making it easier for roofers to handle and install. Felt underlayment can be purchased with or without asphalt and a variety of coatings. It is typically available in a wide range of colors to match the color of the roof cladding being installed.
While traditional tar and gravel underlayment is still commonly used, more durable and environmentally friendly options are becoming increasingly popular. Synthetic underlayment has a similar thickness to felt, but it is less likely to rip or tear and provides better insulation. This type of underlayment is also a great option for roofs that are at risk for ice dam formation, as it is designed to keep the roof deck free of ice and snow.
Another type of underlayment is self-adhered, which offers superior protection against leaks. It is often used in roof valleys, which are frequently the site of water leaks and other problems. This type of underlayment is usually constructed from a lightweight synthetic material that resists fungus, mold, and sun damage, as well as UV rays and heat. It is available in a variety of colors and is easy to cut with shears.