The most basic function of a home is to provide shelter, and the roof is the uppermost level of that shelter. It provides insulation from the elements, including weather and precipitation, noise pollution, and a barrier to critters like birds and squirrels.
To protect and shelter a building, the roof must also allow drainage of rain, snow, and melted ice in a manner that guides the runoff to the ground. It must keep it from seeping into your home and running down the walls, eventually compromising the structure’s integrity. Properly installed gutters move the water away while still allowing proper home or business ventilation. Choosing the right roof for your establishment should not be taken lightly. Here are a few points to consider.
Roof Types
There are many different types of roofs. For example, a flat roof, more likely to be found on a commercial building, is one of the simplest roofs to build. They are durable and strong, cost-effective, and require little maintenance. Hip roofs have four sloping sides from a central point or ridge. They are relatively easy to build and are often found in residential areas. A gable roof, also common in residential areas, has two sloping sides that rise to meet at a ridge. When deciding on a roof, a style compatible with the style of the building should be used.
Materials Used for Roofing
Although the goal of protection remains constant, the materials of the actual roofing can vary greatly. Asphalt shingles are a common roofing choice. They often cost less and are durable and resistant to harsh weather. If there is unforeseen damage, an advantage of this type of roof lies in the fact that specific shingles can be replaced, saving the cost of an entire roof repair. Clay tiles are often used in hot, dry climates and can last for more than one hundred years. Unfortunately, they are sometimes too heavy for some structures to support. Metal is a low-maintenance choice that seems to be making a comeback. They can last up to eighty years but require a unique skill set for installation, so they should be approached with caution. No matter what material you choose, consider its longevity, the climate, the strength of the structure and framing of the roof, the house style, local ordinances and codes, and of course, the cost.
Roof Deck Protection
Professionally installed roof deck protection will ensure the well-being of your home. This is a layer that creates a barrier from the elements. If not installed correctly, it might not perform in the manner in which it was intended. What’s more, it could cause unsightly bumps and lumps in your roof when installed by someone without the proper skills.
Leak Barriers
Certain areas of your roof are more vulnerable and need more protection. Leak barriers can be installed at the peaks of roofs, along edges, and in any other at-risk areas. This can reduce the odds of roof damage in the future.
Shingles
In roofing, it is important to nail the shingles down properly. The first row of shingles will serve as a template or guide for the remaining shingles, so it is imperative that they are installed in a straight row, as well as securely fastened. When inclement weather arrives down the road, you will be grateful for an exacting approach now.
Flashing
Flashing is a thin material that prevents leaks around openings and cracks in a roof: for example, flashing would be used around the roof vent pipe. It is made from a variety of metals like copper or aluminum.
Taking a DIY approach to home repair and maintenance can be tempting. Unfortunately, the money you may save can be lost in repair costs to a poorly installed or repaired roof or even the cost of remediating structural damage caused by a leaky roof. For roof installation, repairs, and maintenance, find a reputable roofing contractor. They will not only have access to the right materials for the job, but they also have the knowledge and skill set to do the job as it should be done. A pro will be able to assess your needs and address them correctly. They will have the tools necessary to complete any roofing job safely and competently. What’s more, they will be able to stand behind their work if there is trouble after their installation. You may feel you are spending unnecessary money but may, in all likelihood, be saving money when you look at the big picture.