What are roofing systems?
While many people don’t think to look past the outer covering of their roof, roofing systems are far more complex than just a few shingles. We’ve come a long way in terms of protecting ourselves from the elements and it’s important for homeowners to familiarize themselves with all the components that go into securing their homes against the weather.
What goes into a good roofing system?
The strength of a good roof starts with its structure. The rafters, supported by collar beams, slope upwards to the ridge board that forms the peak of the roof.
The sheathing goes on top of the roof structure and is made up of solid decking which is often crafted from plywood. The outer surface of the decking is covered with an underlayment that provides a nice layer of insulation and is sealed off with materials such as sheet metal or shingles.
The roof’s overall structure is supplemented with flashing in the form of metal joints that protect against water and leaks. Gutters that make optimal use of the roof’s slope will top everything off for the best possible moisture resistance.
What are some popular roofing materials?
Roofing materials come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, all of which have different pros and cons that should be weighed against your personal priorities. Some of the most popular roofing materials to finish off the outer covering of your system include slate or clay tiles, asphalt or wooden shingles, and metal sheeting.
Much of the time, there’s also a bit of flexibility in terms of what kind of underlayment you can choose, with different focal points such as waterproofing or insulation against extreme temperatures.
How should I go about finding a good roofing contractor?
A good roofing contractor will help you determine what type of system should make up your roof based on your environment and your priorities. They’ll be able to help you determine how you want to handle airflow in spaces such as attics while also advising you on the best way to guard against common local problems like hail or ice sheets.
When shopping around for a good contractor to offer you the best services for your home, don’t forget to think about the long-term and look into their warranty coverage. Opt for contractors that cover labor and materials in the event that something goes wrong, even if that means accepting a shorter warranty period.
What should I consider while choosing ideal roofing components?
The first things you’ll want to consider while choosing your ideal roofing system are the usual weather conditions where you live. Roofing optimized for hot, dry weather is going to be quite different from roofing that’s optimized to hold up against ice, sleet, and snow.
While a skilled roofing contractor will be able to point you in the right direction, you’ll still need to choose between options such as different surfacing materials and levels of slope. As a result, it pays off to think about what you desire most from your roof system in the long-term, such as temperature insulation, energy conservation, or moisture resistance.
Remember:
Everyone needs a great residential roofing system, and it’s a great idea to take a well-rounded approach to making the best of yours. Pinpoint what you want most out of your roof in the long-term and compare that with the variety of different materials available to you. Consider your local environment, and look for a contractor who will do the same while providing a good warranty to cover any potential future issues.