Roofing refers to the covering over the top of a building. It includes all constructions and materials used to support the roof and protects it from the weather. Roof forms can range from flat to domed and vaulted or in combination. The type of roof chosen depends on aesthetics, economy, and technical considerations. The roof of a building has two primary purposes: to protect the building from the elements and to provide shelter.
Roofing materials are made of different materials, such as asphalt, shingles, and metal. Roofing shingles are curved or flat tiles that interlock to channel water off the roof. These materials vary in price, durability, color, and architectural style. In general, shingles are the most attractive type of roofing for most homes. Roofing contractors use several different materials, and the choice depends on the budget, climate, roof pitch, and desired look. Roofing professionals can help you choose the right roof for your home.
Asphalt-based materials come in several styles and are commonly used for low-slope roofing. Most of these roofing materials require professional installation. Asphalt-based systems consist of layers of asphalt-soaked fabric. For more durable roofing, peel-and-stick modified bitumen sheets have replaced the hazardous torch-down installation method. Liquid-applied fiberglass and acrylic roofing materials may not contain embedded fabric. Generally, they are lightweight and put less stress on the roof than plywood.
While asphalt-saturated felt was popular until about 15 years ago, it has since been replaced by synthetic materials. Asphalt-saturated felt, also known as tar paper, is composed of varying blends of bitumen, polyester, and natural plant fibers. Asphalt-saturated felt is not waterproof but is ideal for steep-sloped roofs. However, it cannot be used for flat roofs. These are some of the most common roofing materials.
Thermoplastic roof membranes are great for low-slope roofs. They are flexible and resistant to punctures and tears. They also resist bacterial growth and standing water. This material can last anywhere from fifteen to forty years, depending on the climate and weather conditions. In addition, thermoplastic roof membranes are the fastest growing roofing materials on the market today. Their unique look and high-temperature tolerance make them an excellent choice. Roofing systems made of thermoplastic roof membranes are also highly energy-efficient.
There are several methods for reroofing. It is preferable to tear off the old roof and replace it with new materials in most cases. This process is also called bridging or butting up. The butt is the part of the shingle exposed to the air. A cant strip is used to break right angles in a low-sloped roofing project. A cap flashing or roof-flashing prevents water from entering behind the base flashing. Generally, cap flashing is not changed during a reroofing job.
When choosing a type of roof, it is important to consider the weight and dead load of the structure. The dead load is the total weight of the structure and all permanent objects on the roof. The average asphalt shingle roofing system has fifteen pounds of dead load per square foot. For heavy materials like clay tile, this number increases dramatically. The same applies to flat roofs. They can even have living spaces in them. Depending on the style, a timber roof can support upward winds of twenty-four pounds per square foot.
The roof’s skeleton is primarily made of rafters and trusses, and they are 16-24 inches apart. Roofers often use plywood or oriented-strand board as a layer of sheathing between the rafters. Sheathing gives the shingles a stronger base to adhere to. While most roofers use OSB, oriented strand board is a lighter-weight alternative. If the roof is to be completely reroofed, sheathing is necessary.
The lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof varies, but most will last for fifteen to twenty years. Some roofing materials, like slate and cedar shakes, can even have up to 100 years. Composition shingles are the most common type of shingles in some states. They are essentially heavy tar paper mixed with small pebbles or large sand. They also come in a wide range of colors and weights.
