Roofing is the challenging and exciting occupation of making, fixing, and replacing roofs. Roofers work with a significant variety of practical roof types, 64 to be exact.
Shingles, for instance, are available in a wide range of colors and styles to suit any architectural design. They also shield lower layers from rain, snow, and sunlight. Click here to Learn More.
A building’s roofing material serves to protect the structure from natural elements. Roofing materials range from natural products such as thatch or slate to commercially produced sheeting and tiles. Depending on the type of roofing, some materials are better suited to specific climates than others.
Wood shingles or shakes give a beautiful and traditional look to any home. They are available in many styles, including cedar and redwood. These materials offer natural resistance to rot and insect infestation. They are also environmentally friendly, although they can’t provide as much insulation as other options. A good quality wood roof should last 25-30 years.
For flat or low-pitched roofs, membrane roofing is a popular choice. Most often made of EPDM, this material is reliable, affordable, and lightweight. It also offers good solar reflectivity, reducing cooling costs in hot climates.
Other types of roofing include concrete and clay tile. These materials are highly durable and resistant to fire. They are heavy, however, so they may require extra support. They are also more expensive than other roofing types, but they can last a long time with little maintenance.
Asphalt shingle or roll roofing is usually built up from multiple layers of fabric and bitumen. It’s a great choice for flat or low-pitched roofs, but it has its drawbacks. It can be noisy in windy conditions, and it may leak if the underlying sheathing is damaged.
BUR was a popular roofing option before single-ply membranes became more common. It offers excellent protection against water, UV rays, and weather. But it has its downsides, including a long installation process and the potential to release hazardous fumes during the application.
Ice and water shield is a specialized membrane that helps prevent leaks in vulnerable areas, such as roof valleys, or around penetrations. It’s typically installed in cold climates, and it can help prevent damage from ice dams and water intrusion. It can be installed over existing roofing material or under a new roof.
Installation
The roof is an essential part of any building, providing a protective barrier from the elements. When it comes to residential or commercial roofing, there are many different options for materials and installation processes.
Before starting the actual roofing process, a contractor must prepare the work area. This involves covering any landscaping or outdoor furniture with tarps to protect them from debris and ensuring that the area is clean and safe for workers. Depending on the type of roof, this may include removing existing shingles or underlayment and replacing them with new material.
After completing the initial preparation steps, roofing contractors will install the underlayment. This material is placed over the decking and nailed down using a nail gun or stapler. It is also important to add flashing around any dormers, valleys or other structures on the roof. These components help to prevent water from seeping through the roof and into interior spaces.
Once the underlayment is in place, roofing contractors will begin installing shingles. They will overlap each shingle with the one before it by four to six inches. This helps to ensure that there are no gaps in the shingle material. Then, they will secure each shingle with a nail or staple every eight to ten inches. As they continue to install shingles, the contractor will check for proper ventilation and insulation.
Throughout the installation process, a roofing contractor will need to manage various other aspects of their business. This includes negotiating deals with suppliers, managing inventory and ordering new supplies as needed. It is also important to handle accounting tasks, such as invoicing and payroll. In addition, roofing contractors will need to plan marketing and promotional strategies.
Maintenance
Most people think of roofing as a job that involves working with tools, but it actually requires a lot of other management and administrative work. Owners need to make deals and orders with suppliers, choose what equipment to rent or purchase, and train employees. They also need to plan marketing, schedule jobs and deliveries, and deal with accounting issues like payroll.
Roofs should be inspected on a regular basis to look for signs of wear and tear, and damage that can be repaired before it gets worse. A comprehensive inspection includes looking at shingles to see if they are loose, cracked, or missing; checking the integrity of the caulking around chimneys and vent pipes; and noting any areas where there is moss or lichen. Inspections should be done at least once a year, but ideally twice a year.
The flashing that is installed in places like chimneys, vents, and skylights prevents water from leaking into a home. The flashing should be inspected on a regular basis, but especially after a storm or major weather event. Flashing can rust and start to leak, and if it’s not replaced, water will get into the house. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), about 80% of roof leaks can be traced back to flashing problems.
Other maintenance tasks that should be completed on a regular basis include the removal of debris, like twigs, leaves, and dirt, which can collect moisture and cause damage to a roof. It is also important to clean out drains to keep them clear of debris that can block the flow of water and cause ponding, which can eventually lead to roof collapse. In addition, large trees near a building should be trimmed on a regular basis to avoid having their branches fall onto the roof in a storm.
Repairs
When a roof is in need of repair, the most effective strategy is to hire a professional. Skilled roofers can identify underlying issues and replace worn out materials like shingles, tar paper and flashing. They can also address weakened areas of the structure that are susceptible to damage or leaks. This prevents small problems from developing into larger issues that could cost a homeowner more in the long run.
The cost of repairing a roof can vary significantly depending on the extent of the work. For example, longer valleys require more shingles and are generally more expensive. Additionally, steeper roofs are more difficult to access and often require the use of specialized safety equipment. Finally, the type of material used will play a role in the final price.
Roofing repairs typically begin with a visual inspection of the entire roof to locate damaged or missing shingles. This also helps the roofer identify any other problems that need to be addressed. For example, a roof with poor ventilation or ice dams may need to have gutters installed or repaired in order to eliminate the buildup of water and ice.
Another common roof repair is to fix a pipe collar. These are metal pieces that help vent household appliances and water heaters. The repair process begins by removing the shingle and siding around the affected area. This is done with precision to avoid damaging unaffected shingles and to ensure the flashing is properly aligned to prevent future leaks. The next step is to install the new flashing and shingle. The roofer will then ensure it channels water away from the wall and into the gutter system.
Finally, a new rain cap and storm collar are installed, and a special seal is added where the gutter meets the roof. This will prevent water and ice from building up in the gutter, which can cause a clog or even a roof collapse.
