Roofing is an essential component of any building. It shields against rain, snow, sunlight and extremes of temperature. It also enhances the visual appeal of a structure.
Various materials can be used for roofing, depending on climate and architectural design. Asphalt shingles and metal sheets are durable and suitable for most climates. Slate, on the other hand, is fire-resistant and has a long lifespan. Contact Erie Roofing Company now!
Roofing is one of the most vital structural features of any home. It protects people and utilities from the elements, so it’s important that it not only looks great but is also strong.
The earliest roofs were made from whatever materials happened to be available. Humans retreated into caves or natural shelters to escape inclement weather, but these types of structures were not practical when man began to travel long distances in search of food and other resources. The need for a permanent, sturdy shelter was born, and early civilizations developed roofing systems using animal skins, branches and sticks.
Once people settled in place and started building homes, the need for a strong, reliable roof became even more pressing. As a result, roofs have become an important part of the architectural style of many buildings.
As time went on, early builders refined their roofing system by standardizing the individual pieces used to make it. This streamlined the process for creating roofs and reduced the need for skilled individuals to act as jack-of-all-trades. Instead, talented builders could specialize in a particular type of roof or material.
Tiles became an increasingly common roofing material. This technology was first used in Asia, but it spread rapidly throughout Europe and North America. As a durable and attractive material, clay tile was favored by many. While it was relatively inexpensive and easy to use, it was still vulnerable to rot and insect infestation.
In the 19th century, wood shingles were widely used as a roofing material. These shingles were often treated with pine pitch and linseed oil to improve their durability. This added an extra layer of protection against sun, rain and other elements that could prematurely deteriorate the shingles.
Sheet iron was introduced to America by the Revolutionary War financier Robert Morris, who rolled metal at his mill in Pennsylvania and used it for the roof of his Philadelphia mansion in 1794. He also replaced the slate at Princeton’s Nassau Hall with iron in 1804. When galvanizing with zinc was patented in France in 1837, it allowed manufacturers to produce tin-plate roofing that was more affordable than the traditional shingle. It was also available in larger sheets, which meant fewer joints and less supporting framing.
Materials
A building’s roof is its outermost layer and must provide shelter from the elements. Roofing materials vary from thatch or slate to commercially produced asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and concrete and clay tiles. Typically, the roofing material is placed over a secondary water-resistant material called underlayment.
Clay or concrete tiles are a popular choice in areas prone to tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes as they can withstand high winds and other natural disasters. They are also a good choice for areas that experience heavy snowfall as they can help prevent the formation of ice dams.
Asphalt shingles are a popular and inexpensive choice for residential homes. They are available in many colors and shapes. Some types are designed to look like traditional shingle, slate, or wood shakes and can last 30 to 50 years.
Another roofing material that is becoming increasingly popular in areas prone to wildfires is standing seam metal. This type of roofing consists of large sheets of metal (usually steel or aluminum) that are joined together to form a roof. Metal roofs are very durable and fire-resistant and can withstand a wide range of weather conditions.
Metal shingles are an alternative to traditional asphalt shingles and are made from stamped metal that is then finished with a protective coating or mineral granules. They are available in a variety of styles to suit any architectural design. They are lightweight and can often be installed without the use of a support system on low-sloped roofs. Metal shingles are long-lasting and can be very cost-effective.
Some other types of roofing include concrete shingles that are formed from a mix of cement and aggregate, rubber shingles that are made from recycled tire-derived rubber, and tile shingles that are manufactured from clay or concrete. Some modern roofing materials reflect solar heat rather than absorbing it, which reduces energy bills and prolongs the life of the roof.
Other roofing materials include membranes, such as EPDM, TPO, and PVC single-ply roofs. These are generally applied in large sheets that limit the number of seams where leaks can develop. They are also flexible, puncture-resistant, and resistant to chemicals, bacterial growth, and UV radiation.
Installation
A roof’s material and installation play a critical role in protecting a building or space from the elements. Whether it’s an asphalt shingle roof, metal roof, tile roof or flat roof covered with rubberized membrane, each type has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, longevity, fire resistance, and energy efficiency. Professional roofing contractors know the appropriate installation protocols for each type of roofing, and can help homeowners weigh their options in light of local weather conditions and building codes.
Before starting on the actual roofing, a contractor will prep the property by covering landscaping with tarps, and positioning garbage cans so that debris from the roof doesn’t fall in them and block drains. They will then remove any existing roofing, and begin installing the new one.
During the installation process, the roof is reinforced with underlayment and felt paper that protect against leaks and moisture infiltration even if the top layer of shingles sustain damage. Then, shingle courses are installed, with each course slightly staggered to offset the joints and breaks of the shingles beneath it. They are then trimmed to give the roof a streamlined look. Finally, the valleys are waterproofed using a special membrane.
Maintenance
As the main shield that protects a residential or commercial building from the elements, roofing requires regular inspections and cleaning to prevent leaks and damage. The goal of this blog is to help homeowners understand the various aspects of their roof and its role in keeping their home or business comfortable and secure.
Loose shingles or those that are cracked, curled, or missing can indicate potential leaks. Shingles that are losing their protective granules expose the asphalt layer and increase their vulnerability to water damage. Moss or algae growth can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration. Check the flashing around chimneys and vent pipes, as well as the caulking at any penetrations. Look for blisters or cracks in the membrane, and in cold climates look for ice dams that form at the eaves and block drainage.
Trimming tree limbs that hang over the roof or could break during a storm can prevent debris buildup. Keep gutters clear of clogs, and regularly clean out downspouts to avoid overflowing that may damage fascia boards. A thorough inspection by a professional can identify any problems that may need repair before they become more serious. Performing these routine maintenance tasks can prolong the life of your roof and help you save on utility costs in the long run.
