Roofing is a complex and challenging construction form requiring knowledge in many areas. Understanding some basics will help homeowners make better decisions about the materials and designs they select for their roofs.
The most common roofing material is asphalt shingles, which are reasonably priced and easy to install. Other types of roofing include tile, which comes in mission and Spanish-style round-topped varieties, as well as flat styles. Contact Arthur’s Roofing now!
The roof is the weather-proof covering on the top of a building that shields against precipitation, sunlight, and temperature extremes. It may be flat, pitched, vaulted, or a combination of these styles. Roofing materials vary from thatch, seagrass, or split bamboo to wooden shingles and boards. Those made of cut turf (modern ones called green roofs, traditional ones known as sod roofs) have good insulating qualities.
The structure that supports the roof is known as the framing. It may be rafters or trusses, either built on site from lumber such as 2x10s or prefabricated from webs of lumber assembled in a factory and craned into place. A king post truss has a central king post, with struts (also called braces) that extend from it to prevent the two principal rafters from falling in on themselves. A scissor truss is also used for long spans, with purlins that sit perpendicular to the rafters.
The framing also includes collar beams, ridge board and rafters. Sheathing is usually plywood or oriented strand board, although older houses use tongue-and-groove sheathing that consists of narrow 1-by-6-skip boards of sawn lumber.
Materials
There are many roofing materials from which homeowners can choose, and finding the right one is more than just a matter of cost. The best material for your home will depend on several factors, including longevity, aesthetics, and the ability to withstand weather extremes.
Asphalt shingles are one of the most common roofing materials for homes across North America, and come in a variety of looks. They are typically made from a fiberglass base topped with mineral and asphalt granules. The most popular shingle styles include 3-tab, dimensional and luxury asphalt shingles. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these shingles are easy to install and offer an excellent level of protection for most types of home roofs.
Another great option is a metal roof. Metal shingles and shakes are fabricated from stamped metal and finished with either a high-quality baked-on coating or mineral granules. They can be crafted to look like traditional asphalt shingles, wooden shakes, slate or clay tiles. These roofs can last 30 to 50 years and are a good choice when appearance is a priority.
Flat roofs are a challenge for most roofing professionals, as they require unique installation techniques and often have different requirements than sloped roofs. Depending on the roofing type, flat roofs can be built from single-membrane systems such as EPDM rubber roofing, PVC roofing or thermo-polyolefin (TPO) roofing. Other popular roofing options include built-up roofs (BUR) and modified bitumen membranes.
Natural roofing materials like clay or slate are beautiful and durable, but they can be quite expensive. These materials also need a substantial amount of maintenance to keep them looking beautiful and functioning properly.
Wood shingles and shakes are a more affordable option that offers a beautiful, rustic look. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be cut to fit nearly any type of roof. However, these roofing materials are not suitable for areas prone to moisture or wildfires, and they may require extra support due to their weight. In addition, they can be difficult to work on and may not provide adequate insulation for colder climates.
INstalling
Whether replacing an existing roof or installing a new one, the first step is to prepare the job site. This includes tarping the surrounding areas to protect landscaping and other structures from roofing debris, covering windows and doors with tarps to prevent them from being damaged during construction, and hauling in roll-off dumpsters to accommodate the construction waste. It is also a good idea to cover any open drains to prevent small pieces of debris from getting trapped and blocking the drain.
Once the jobsite is ready, the roofing contractor will begin removing any existing materials from the roof. This is usually done by hand, but can also be accomplished with a roofing shovel or pry bar. It is important to remove the old material carefully so as not to damage the underlying structure. Then the installation process can begin.
In addition to shingles, the roofing contractor will install any vents and/or insulation. These are important to keep the attic and other spaces cool, as well as to help with energy efficiency. Vents can include gable vents, ridge vents, and attic ventilators. Insulation may include foam board, mineral wool, or spray-in foam.
Other important elements of a good roof include flashing and valleys. These are the areas that connect the slopes of a roof and form a “V” shape. They need to be waterproofed using underlayment and felt paper. The roofer will also add flashing around chimneys, wood stove pipes, certain vents, and along hip roofs.
Roofing is dangerous work, so the installation process should be carried out by qualified, experienced professionals. It is also a good idea to use proper safety equipment, including rubber-soled boots or shoes, gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat. Finally, it is recommended that a multi-layered approach to fall prevention and protection be implemented on roofing projects, including safety plans, ladder safety mobile applications, infographics, tipsheets, toolbox talks, and more.
Maintenance
A building’s roof plays a vital role in preserving its structural integrity and ensuring the safety and comfort of those inside. However, the harsh elements and frequent exposure to sun and rain can deteriorate even the sturdiest materials, leading to leaks and energy inefficiencies. A well-structured roofing maintenance program can identify these issues and prevent them from escalating into more extensive repairs.
The first step is preparing the roofing system for the season ahead. This includes cleaning the roof and removing any environmental debris, such as dirt, plant growth, and leaves. Accumulated debris can clog drain lines, and excess moisture can damage or rot a roof surface. Additionally, fallen tree limbs can pierce a roof membrane and damage the structure below.
During the inspection, it is also important to note any visible signs of wear and tear on the shingles, such as cracks, bare spots, and missing areas. Additionally, it is important to inspect the flashing – the thin material that is installed to direct water away from a roof’s edges and corners.
An effective roofing maintenance program requires detailed records of inspections, repairs, and other maintenance activities. This information can help a contractor forecast future needs and plan budgets accordingly. In addition, a comprehensive database can provide valuable insights that can drive more efficient and effective roof repairs.
It is also important to consider the safety of those who will be performing rooftop tasks. Proper equipment, such as a sturdy ladder, non-slip shoes, and protective gear, can ensure the safety of workers and prevent accidents from occurring. Lastly, it is important to prepare the working area by removing any obstructions and clearing stairs, crossovers, platforms, and railings of any potential hazards.
Finally, the program must be measurable and accessible to all stakeholders. Regular feedback from building managers and occupants can provide valuable insights that can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the maintenance program. A robust feedback loop will help to identify issues and trends, as well as improve communication between the client and the roofing contractor. This will ensure that the maintenance program is responsive to the unique needs of each client, maximizing its impact on a property’s performance.
